I know we are winning, Robert, but it’s exasperating! These R’s are not lawmakers and I refuse to call them that. They are thieves. They think no one is watching them? But we are. I, for one, am grateful for Marc Elias and his team because when these states make the slightest wrong move, his team plus the ACLU and NAACP, plus others, are right there with him. The R’s are scared as rabbits but at the same time, they inflict such harm that keeps opening so many wounds. Annoying, obnoxious, and depleting.
Interesting. They are suckers They have played the fool. That will be hard to admit at this late stage. They are trapped--held hostage and can only escape by admitting the truth.
Robert, Possibly they are hostages and possibly they are indifferent as to whether or not we preserve our constitutional republic so long as their self-serving impulses are met.
I dare say it doesn’t seem right to give a like to this launching of weekend comments. Perhaps it would be better to scream into a bag with frustration at the continuing nonsense of Republicans who are desperate to hold power.
Of course, the best alternative is to make plans to whip them in every race and make it happen. But before doing so, a good scream would feel great. 😱 🙀
It’s not “nonsense.” They are deadly serious. The ensuing “chaos” will be used as a pretext for taking further control over the election process to systematiclly strip the voting rights of this segment of the population. The long-term goal is to gradually criminalize all opposition to their rule, as happened in Germany in the ‘30’s.
Please share summaries of Biden administration successes since 2021. I want to share facts with family and friends who don’t think Biden is doing a good job.
Help me rebut misinformation and lies with the truth about our progress nationally and globally.
Thanks to everyone who shares. As Robert says, we need to be on offense.
You are all better people than I am. I would honor the gop requests (votes) not to "waste " money on these programs in their states/districts and not fund any new Biden programs there.
These net takers of federal funds could then feel like they are making a positive difference for their constituents. Perhaps future votes would be less political and more reasoned, or, they would be gone. A win either way.
Great idea, Neil, but...not happening! In the meantime, the rest of us want to be the loudest in the room by making sure credit is being given where it is due. Again, probably not happening, but we still will be saying.
Simon Rosenberg’s Hopium Chronicles focuses on this. He has a substack with tons of info domestically.
Biden’s leadership in foreign affairs is unmatched with NATO The recent agreement between South Korea and Japan, the US Improved standing in the world and the return to the Paris Climate Accords.
Thanks for sharing this list of Biden’s accomplishments. No wonder the Republican grinches are so eager to suppress this. It’s positive, intelligent policy making that works for everyone.
This is why it is important for everyone to be on twitter (X) and LinkedIn. Repost, repost, repost. Open with intriguing soundbite that gets others to actually read the newsletters and the posts of all the Biden is doing for everyone. Most won't listen or read, but some might, and that is worth the time and energy.
Here is a summary of Biden's accomplishments from Heather Cox Richardson's Letters from an American. The first paragraph is from Ms. Richardson herself, who was focused on the Camp David accord with Japan and South Korea. The second is from a comment from a reader. Note these do not include Biden's accomplishments in Europe from restoring the U.S. reputation to saving NATO to supporting Ukraine.
Biden’s Accomplishments - From Heather Cox Richardson
Since then, the Biden administration has emphasized cooperation with countries in the region. It has featured cooperation with the “Quad,” the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, consisting of the U.S., Australia, India, and Japan; AUKUS, the trilateral pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., formed in 2021; the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), an economic and political union of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, whose population is more than 600 million people; the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), formed in May 2022 and including the U.S., India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam; and the Pacific Islands Forum, an intergovernmental organization of Pacific Island nations. (Remember when Biden had to cut short a trip to Papua New Guinea to deal with the Republican refusal to raise the debt ceiling? That would have been the first visit ever by a sitting U.S. president.)
From a reader's comments in Ms. Richardson's daily substack.
In only 2–1/2 years, Biden has already set a record for the most jobs ever created in a single presidential term. We have the lowest peacetime unemployment since before the Great Depression, and workforce participation is rising for the first time since Clinton was President. His Rescue Plan launched the fastest economic recovery in history, and the “Biden Boom” led to record consumer spending, record corporate profits, rising home values, record low childhood poverty, the best GDP growth in forty years, and a banner year for the Dow. Despite deliberate sabotage by his predecessor, he brought an end to America’s longest war with a near-record low number of American casualties. He has already cut the record deficit he inherited by half, making record cuts his first two years, and is on track to become only the second President to reduce the deficit every year of his administration. He passed a historic investment in our infrastructure that was budget neutral and that is projected to create as many as 19 million new jobs. Domestic oil production is at a record high and is expected to increase again next year. He brought microchip manufacturing to the US, cut prescription drug prices for seniors, capped insulin prices, and signed a bill to protect our elections from future coup attempts. The biggest challenges in his Presidency so far have been global inflation exacerbated domestically in part by record economic growth on the heels of crippled supply lines due to his predecessor’s failure to address the pandemic and his ill-advised trade war. All of this occurred during the heavy drubbing by a Republican Party that actively tries to sabotage good government.
This is the kind of positive stuff we need to flood the airwaves with. With TFG sucking all of the oxygen out of the atmosphere daily, and solely for his own purposes, the contrast couldn't be more stark.
And let’s not forget Biden’s foreign policy successes, most notably building an alliance that has supported Ukraine as it fights off invasion by Russia. Sweden and Finland are joining NATO.
He’s built a network of southeast Asian and Pacific nations that will offset China’s economic and other encroachments.
He brought Korea together with Japan (historical antagonists, dating to 1895) with the US in a cooperative agreement.
This, and more, after Trump’s unraveling of American influence abroad and cozying up to Putin.
Hopium Chronicles is full of positive messages and facts. Perhaps you have seen but if not, and you check out Simon’s work you will have succinct talking points and more. His Substack is the most helpful one in my view. Being a paid member gets you to regular Zoom calls and more. Each minute of the Zooms is a gift in my view. Hopium saved me prior to 22 midterms with “no red wave” data. https://open.substack.com/pub/simonwdc/p/my-august-political-briefing-and?r=536qh&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=post
Robert, the examples you offer, that expose the devious, desperate tactics the said Republicans are using, should be seen as an opportunity for the Democratic Party members to , as the saying goes, "make hay while the sun shines!" Democratic folks in leadership roles in the Party need to produce material in written form, video form, use of media devices ,rallies,etc. to let the voting public see the dishonesty and divisiveness that is occurring in their own back yards. We owe it to all Americans who truly value the democratic ideals of America to see reality and offer them options and opportunities, through education, and ultimately the ballot box,to get this country back on track. The numbers are on our side. In the coming months we need to see a groundswell of unity and support throughout the country. Leadership , like what Robert Hubbell offers is vital for our Party to connect with those who are fed up with the misdirection we are experiencing.
Meanwhile, in Raleigh,Republicans are readying themselves to redraw district maps to eliminate at least two Dem lawmakers, and rid the western part of the state of a Dem congressman. I am weary of this home room mess.
Rep. Jeff Jackson is a breath of fresh, honest, compassionate air. Congress and our country will suffer if Jeff loses his NC seat. I follow him on Tiktok and have learned so much about how the House functions. I live in GA so can't vote for him. 😥
Thanks for this info. My daughter is moving to NC this week for her first job out of college. We’d both like to learn about NC state politics. She’ll be another blue vote in the state.
The latest Ms magazine has an article about Anderson Clayton, 25 years old, who was recently elected as the Democratic Party chair in NC. She sounds amazing, and I'm sure she could use your assistance!
I hope she gets involved. Young people are so important to the future of our country! My 19 year old great nephew just started college and is getting involved as a liberal. Hooray!
Jim, I'm in Raleigh as well since 1988. I believe both Berger (R) and Moore (R) were each elected in their gerrymandered districts by somewhere around 30,000 total votes AND THEY RUN OUR STATE of over 9 million people. BS
I know! Unfortunately, in Greensboro, real estate issues and interests on City Council keep most things locked in a “Chamber of Commerce mentality”, as Rupert Vance used to call it.
We may have Republicans on the run. Catching and defeating them, though, requires our work, our energy, and our resources. Time spent writing postcards to get out the vote, donations to candidates who help us gain Democratic majorities or limit Republican majorities. We undertake this effort for ourselves and our grandchildren, for a country that values equality and opportunity and freedom. The Republicans demonstrate how little they care for freedom when they suppress the vote, suppress speech, and suppress women's rights to make decisions about their lives.
These points are valid but the MAGA contingent is so solid in the cult following of Trump nothing will break the spell and they will follow him as he goes to prison (one can only hope). Yes there are good signs for Democrats but work must continue to get people registered and out to vote. I love talking points always pointed out by Robert and I read a wonderful article describing the motto MAGA as racist in its own right. Making America Great Again just emphasizes the fact Republicans want to push back all the progress made by everyone except White Males. Where were the great times for women (no right to vote), blacks (slavery) and other minorities exploited to build our railroads and not able to own land or vote (Chinese). Get out and tell our story and what the MAGA world really looks like.
I think the white working class can be won back; it is essential that we do so. Attacks on White males are counterproductive. I would do better to highlight and celebrate the white males who have contributed to social progress in our country. Men who support women and children.
And we wonder why young people are full of anxiety! Not only must they face the direst threat to human life on our planet, but they must also live with a shaky democracy that is under persistent attack by an entire political party. I grew up under the illusion that our democracy was unshakable. Not so the young people of today. I really feel for them.
Well said. We just spent many summer weeks with our four kids, ages 18-22, and saw and spoke with their friends as well. You are correct about the epidemic of anxiety they are dealing with. All of these young folks are doing well overall, attending or just graduated from college, pursuing summer jobs and internships. We spoke in an open way about how every one of them is grappling with considerable anxiety.
I often think social media is a major factor as it amplifies so much that our generation didn’t have to contend with. But it also serves as a positive force as it allows the heretofore marginalized voices to be heard and elevated.
Recognizing the damage to our country due to the death spiral of the GOP is another major factor in anxiety that we all may be feeling.
I start most mornings reading Robert and Heather Cox Richardson. Sometimes, they are on different topics, and sometimes, like today, they seem to mesh together in a way that makes me see new things. HCR puts the Republican effort to suppress minority votes into historical perspective, while Robert shines a light on just how extreme it is right now.
I agree with Robert that the extremity we are seeing is the frantic thrashing of a beast that is wounded and fears death. The cautionary thought I would add, though, is that that is exactly when a monster is at its most dangerous. Is it the case that they may lose power, and that the whole minority power structure they have built may come tumbling down? Indeed it is, but they see it, and will put every last resource and bit of strength into fighting to hold on. We can feel that we are slowly gaining power, but we must overmatch them with our own efforts and not be inclined to take any victory laps or even rests. Onward, postcarders, door-knockers, phone-bankers, voter-registers and check-writers all!
I just watched Oliver Anthony's video regarding the use of his song ¨Rich Men North of Richmond at the opening of the republican debate.¨ I encourage everyone here to watch that video and also, after watching, to watch his song on YouTube, read the responses from people world wide. If that doesn't cause you to understand hopelessness..........
Gailee, thanks for sharing. I hadn't been aware of the song, of it's impact in the last few weeks and – as I didn't watch the debate – the shameless misappropriation and usurpation by playing it at the opening of the debate.
I just spend two hours watching Anthony's video, his song and then many clips with reactions. The song is powerful, went viral and though Anthony made it quite clear that he meant all politicians and "it was funny to see my song being played at the presidential debate because I wrote that song about those people" it will be abused by the Republicans.
The song as well as the sentiments expressed in it should be taken very seriously by Democrats. And yes, you put it very well, 'there is a world in pain beyond sub stacks..'
Thank you, Stefan. I have tears reading your message. Yes. For me, it truly shows how the Democrats have failed at getting all that Biden has been tirelessly working for out there to the rural communities and the people in the impoverished areas of the cities. Many don't have internet. Many only have local papers owned by Sinclair which is a right wing corporate paper that keeps them uneducated. The very Magats who voted against his bills are taking credit for them. It is such an uphill struggle, but it must continue.
I not sure I agree with you. The Democrats before Biden abandoned blue collar workers and Hillary lost an election because she ignored them. The song was not written about either party but represents how some people are feeling. They get “ shit pay” for many reasons and lack of skills is one of them and the reference to welfare and overweight people is a racists statement directed towards people of color. Many people today want to blame others for their misfortune but ask yourself how have Republicans helped this demographic and show me programs that provide that support. Many of the challenges lest fortunate people are experiencing are because Republican state legislators have refused to support and provide badly needed benefits.
This is what I don't understand. Republicans, especially Trump, have done nothing for the poor and those who are struggling. Why don't these anti-democracy see this? And as you say, Republicans are obstructionists and are busy taking away the help that exists.
I think Biden's foreign accomplishments are extremely important; however, we need to highlight the benefits of his domestic programs also. Some of the effects of his two big bills are just now reaching cities and states. We must shout these things to the rooftops!
Absolutely Kathleen. It is the only reason I post on twitter and LinkedIn and send emails everywhere regarding all President Biden is doing. Even then, there are those who laugh and call the truth lies.
I don't have personal experience with the Democrats abandoning blue collar workers. I remember my shock when I first heard this because all the democrats I knew were working for Everyman and not the rich. I had thought that it was the Republicans who supported the rich. Those I knew were like that. On both sides.
Hilary won the popular vote. Few seem to remember that. It was the Electoral College that fucked that.
Where in the world do you see ¨overweight people¨ as racist? He actually talks about how those with little money can't afford healthy food and are almost forced to eat cheap which has become a health hazard for Americans of all colors. People in Europe who go to the U.S. are shocked by the immense obesity there. All many can afford is fast food. You may see racism. That is your right. I see those Americans I see at Stop and Go, Walmart, etc..
Really pay attention to the words. He is lamenting the state of poverty in American. No matter the color.
You would have to talk to him or whoever wrote the lyrics that I took from a page. My assumption was he was referring to miners in foreign lands who are mining for minerals that wealthy countries like the U.S. need. Not a clue. Maybe you text him and find out?
From the songs author. “ Rich Men North of Richmond’ singer Oliver Anthony slams its use at the @GOP debate, saying that the song is not about @JoeBiden, but that he wrote it about “those people on the stage.”
Thanks for posting this. I recently heard an interview with Ronan Farrow about his New Yorker piece on Elon Musk (I haven't read the piece). What struck me is that much of the poisonousness of Musk now seems to be related to feeling rejected and dismissed by liberals, while adulated and welcomed with open arms by the white nationalists. I'm sure he may have been predisposed to some of those views as the heir to a white South African fortune, but still, it's not where he was.
We are in a time of emergency as far as democracy goes, and there is a terrible rift that needs bridging in our country. We must find ways to make allies of those with whom we share at least some views. It is clear that Oliver Anthony doesn't see himself really as either right wing or left wing, and what good do we do if we drive him into the embrace of the neo-confederacy by making assumptions about him?
Thank you Ellen! Interesting. My first thoughts were that it is easy to create a response like Bragg did, sitting in Bragg's chair. I think that from the position of poverty, or just barely getting buy as so many are, there aren't unions in those areas and in the areas where there are, they are mightily trying to take them down in the U.S.. Those with little education don't have Bragg's sophistication which was developed through his successes in life. And, the welfare system in the U.S. is taken advantage of.
It's a messy, messy country. A messy, messy world. For me, trying to find a way to use theatre and film as a communications bridge is the only thing I got. And lately, that doesn't seem to even be enough.
TC, I respectfully disagree with you. I listened to his entire video, and I found him to be truthful and extremely articulate. His music is a commentary on the very sorry state of affairs for our institutionalized poor.
There is a truly great book called "Toxic Charity" by Robert Lupton. The poor serve an very important purpose for the rich. This book changed my thinking completely. It is absolutely on point, based on my 40 years of work in the self-serving nonprofit world.
I was very impressed with Oliver's carefully considered and insightful comments. His music is his weapon of choice, and I sincerely hope he continues to write from his heart. He now has a very large audience and megaphone.
I noticed how he kept saying he was a nobody (or words to that effect). I'm thinking that opinion of himself came from somewhere, perhaps his parents. My point is when someone constantly tells you you're a nobody, you begin to take it on as fact.
I think it is collective consciousness. Music is an art, and art sees things first. There is a good book by an MD called 'Art and Science' which poses that artists see 'it' first.
There is a wit in his lyrics (video where he explains how many people there are who want to spin it like those on the stage of the debate, shows his intelligence.) Spin, indifference to the truth. Not a lot of people are wearing the glasses. He is.
Agree, Kelly. Also, it's easier for many of us plain folk to remember that which an artist sees and delivers; things such as "pave paradise, put up a parking lot!"
I know. His eyes were so pure and honest when he said it. For me, it isn't just his parents. It's class and society. It's the hopelessness of those who are no longer able to find work because their work is obsolete. This will grow with AI. It is independent farmers who are fighting against corporate farms. It is youth in the projects where it seems that the only answer is joining a gang or selling. There will come a time - actually Richard Nixon explored it - when everyone will receive $$ as an individual member of society because there will no longer be jobs for the millions of humans on the planet. When he talked of the music industry as being ¨dirty¨ I just heard the swarm from LA and Nashville pounding on his door, wanting to grab a piece of him. And when he spoke of hoping he wouldn't change, my heart thunked. I own that I am part of a class in our society who is uncomfortable around those who have not been as fortunate as I or have been given the opportunities that I have. At the same time, I somehow feel more at ease with many who are not in my social circle than those who are.
I suggest you study the poetry of the lyrics and reflect upon your comment. At first, I too thought this was a dog whistle to white racist southerners based on the title and words "north of Richmond." But this song swings hard at the wealthy, "trickle down" system and inefficient government controlled by personal and corporate greed (e.g. Citizens United). There is truth to what he sings - just as there is truth to what Bob Dylan sings. Frankly, we should embrace the pain embedded in this song and show how, despite intense Republican opposition, Joe Biden and Democrats are slowly addressing these issues. The Democratic party was once the party of the working class - we need to prove that we are still the party that can best help the working class by providing renewable energy jobs to those miners, protecting and educating our minors and improving our welfare and social security systems.
Exactly! Those ¨on the stage of the debate who shamelessly used his song without his permission and without knowledge of its meaning were the very people he is talking of. On both sides of the aisle. I love your words.
What was so uplifting for me was one of the posts on his YouTube song from an older man who has been a gold miner in Canada all of his life. Suffering depression because he is far away from his family constantly. Struggling to make a living. Because of this song, he has quit doing what he has been doing for decades to become a standup comedian.
Robert: Inspired by your daily messages, our SW Florida LTE Team is seeing letters printed in our daily papers, despite the red demographics of our area. Here's todays letter in the Charlotte SUN:
Internet Comes to Rural SWFL
As outlined in a recent Charlotte SUN article, thanks to bi-partisan legislation passed by the Biden administration, broadband internet service is coming to rural Desoto and Manatee counties.
On the heels of an internet usage survey conducted by a Desoto County Technology Planning Team, federal funds have been made available to install fiber optic lines and other internet infrastructure.
It is noteworthy that the Biden Administration’s commitment to citizens of the Desoto County area was not influenced by the fact that this part of Florida favored former President Trump in the 2020 election.
We are fortunate to have a President who works for all of us, not just those who voted for him.
I know the change is up to us, Robert, but I believe that one of the primary reasons that we have a Supreme Court is to balance the scales when a political party in power is taking extraordinary measures to be unfair and unjust. Your three examples demonstrate what I mean. None of these should be allowed in a civilized society. I do not for one minute believe the founding fathers (that’s the first real problem - it was only “fathers” writing this thing) intended to allow a domination by either party that would cross the lines of democracy. Their own supreme courts in these states are so partisan now that they are simply rubber stamping the most egregious acts of the GQP. How can anyone with a brain think that it’s fair to restrict the LARGEST county in a very large state and assign a questionable and partisan leader to be involved in elections???? The GQP shows no respect for the law, its own citizens, or our country’s ideals in their raw hunger for power. And then they insult us further by pretending to “love America”. What they love is their vengeful abuse of power. We have a monumental task to win in red states, with all the handcuffs and ankle bracelets they’ve put on us. I am shocked that they never consider “what if” the Dems are back in charge and they use these laws AGAINST us?????? I assume they just care about today, and get it while you can. I would like to see the DNC and others being more visible and aggressive in going after these crooks, and infiltrating rural areas to change some minds by any means before 2024.
I hope I'm wrong, but is Tommy Tuberculosis pulling a "McConnell?". By refusing to allow approval of military higher ups is he " stalling" in hopes TFG gets elected and will appoint those that will support him in whatever crazy scheme he dreams up?
I blame Schumer for the military being held captive by Tuberville 💯%. Day one he should have had each officer up for promotion being approved by the Senate. Tedious for sure, but not this ridiculously fake hostage situation we have now. We wouldn’t be as backed up as we are now approaching a serious situation in our military if Schumer had reacted to the Senator from Alabama (FL)? Oh who knows from where, making him look like an incompetent fool with no answers or choices. Of course Schumer had alternatives, he chose not to use them. Allowing the military, the senate and himself to be abused by one whose intellect has all the earmarks of “piece of toilet paper stuck to one’s shoe.” Tuberville is about as intellectually, educable as cat poop and a traitor, yet Schumer tolerates all his showboating and circus act nonsense.
I think all our earlier presidents, all of them, would be shocked at the lengths Trump has gone to and continues to go in the pursuit of a 2nd term. Based on the raised hands and loud audience, it appears there’s little Republican push back. Two impeachments, 91 indictments, three marriages, serial philandering, and multiple bankruptcies all speak to the man inside. I still can’t believe millions of my fellow Americans want to give Trump another chance to govern us ALL.
It’s a really interesting question. Why are all Republicans still supporting him? I’m baffled too. I think maybe a breakthrough in understanding this behavior. It’s a huge sample that looks to outsiders like us insanity.
I know we are winning, Robert, but it’s exasperating! These R’s are not lawmakers and I refuse to call them that. They are thieves. They think no one is watching them? But we are. I, for one, am grateful for Marc Elias and his team because when these states make the slightest wrong move, his team plus the ACLU and NAACP, plus others, are right there with him. The R’s are scared as rabbits but at the same time, they inflict such harm that keeps opening so many wounds. Annoying, obnoxious, and depleting.
Not so sure how scared they are because a majority still believe they can win with Trump.
Hmm. Or are they hostages?
Willfully ignorant
Interesting. They are suckers They have played the fool. That will be hard to admit at this late stage. They are trapped--held hostage and can only escape by admitting the truth.
Robert, Possibly they are hostages and possibly they are indifferent as to whether or not we preserve our constitutional republic so long as their self-serving impulses are met.
It is indeed. It is also a huge waste of energy, time, and money.
Follow Robert’s fine leadership and guidance. Never give up or give in to this tyranny. We are all in this together.
I dare say it doesn’t seem right to give a like to this launching of weekend comments. Perhaps it would be better to scream into a bag with frustration at the continuing nonsense of Republicans who are desperate to hold power.
Of course, the best alternative is to make plans to whip them in every race and make it happen. But before doing so, a good scream would feel great. 😱 🙀
I feel equally exasperated. But all we can do is to join these states and work like crazy to outsmart them. Go ahead and scream, though!
It’s not “nonsense.” They are deadly serious. The ensuing “chaos” will be used as a pretext for taking further control over the election process to systematiclly strip the voting rights of this segment of the population. The long-term goal is to gradually criminalize all opposition to their rule, as happened in Germany in the ‘30’s.
So agree with you, John. Thanks for your thoughtful comment!
🤯🤯Looking for hair on fire emoji. 😊
It would indeed.😊
Asking for help:
Please share summaries of Biden administration successes since 2021. I want to share facts with family and friends who don’t think Biden is doing a good job.
Help me rebut misinformation and lies with the truth about our progress nationally and globally.
Thanks to everyone who shares. As Robert says, we need to be on offense.
KenSB
Hey, Ken. Here's a sample of Republicans who think Biden is doing a good job:
https://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/white-house-republicans-infrastructure?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Gifted NYT article: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/18/opinion/joe-biden-achievements-president.html?
Letters from an American:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-25-2023?
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-27-2023
These are great, Lynell.
You are all better people than I am. I would honor the gop requests (votes) not to "waste " money on these programs in their states/districts and not fund any new Biden programs there.
These net takers of federal funds could then feel like they are making a positive difference for their constituents. Perhaps future votes would be less political and more reasoned, or, they would be gone. A win either way.
Great idea, Neil, but...not happening! In the meantime, the rest of us want to be the loudest in the room by making sure credit is being given where it is due. Again, probably not happening, but we still will be saying.
Lynell, I believe you also shared this great new Biden/Harris ad !
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbRY7MA1brk
❤️🤍💙
I took a look at the comments for this video.
Favorable comments had many, many likes. So heartening.
Unfavorable comments either had no likes or had just a few likes, in the single digits.
Let's go Brandon! https://shop.joebiden.com/dark-roast-mug/
I hadn’t seen this one...it's so good!!
Thanks, Kathy. I believe I did. Short-term memory loss!
Simon Rosenberg’s Hopium Chronicles focuses on this. He has a substack with tons of info domestically.
Biden’s leadership in foreign affairs is unmatched with NATO The recent agreement between South Korea and Japan, the US Improved standing in the world and the return to the Paris Climate Accords.
From The Hartmann Report (I shared this with The Bulwark readers, as well) https://hartmannreport.com/p/revealed-prebuttal-of-the-gops-debate-ea4?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
This one's a good one, Kathe!
Thanks so much for the link to the Hartmann piece!
Thanks for sharing this list of Biden’s accomplishments. No wonder the Republican grinches are so eager to suppress this. It’s positive, intelligent policy making that works for everyone.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/therecord/
This is exactly what I think the Biden Administration needs to highlight. It should be pushed out to all Americans.
This is why it is important for everyone to be on twitter (X) and LinkedIn. Repost, repost, repost. Open with intriguing soundbite that gets others to actually read the newsletters and the posts of all the Biden is doing for everyone. Most won't listen or read, but some might, and that is worth the time and energy.
Great summary off to the left, Gailee!
Here is a summary of Biden's accomplishments from Heather Cox Richardson's Letters from an American. The first paragraph is from Ms. Richardson herself, who was focused on the Camp David accord with Japan and South Korea. The second is from a comment from a reader. Note these do not include Biden's accomplishments in Europe from restoring the U.S. reputation to saving NATO to supporting Ukraine.
Biden’s Accomplishments - From Heather Cox Richardson
Since then, the Biden administration has emphasized cooperation with countries in the region. It has featured cooperation with the “Quad,” the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, consisting of the U.S., Australia, India, and Japan; AUKUS, the trilateral pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., formed in 2021; the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), an economic and political union of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, whose population is more than 600 million people; the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), formed in May 2022 and including the U.S., India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam; and the Pacific Islands Forum, an intergovernmental organization of Pacific Island nations. (Remember when Biden had to cut short a trip to Papua New Guinea to deal with the Republican refusal to raise the debt ceiling? That would have been the first visit ever by a sitting U.S. president.)
From a reader's comments in Ms. Richardson's daily substack.
In only 2–1/2 years, Biden has already set a record for the most jobs ever created in a single presidential term. We have the lowest peacetime unemployment since before the Great Depression, and workforce participation is rising for the first time since Clinton was President. His Rescue Plan launched the fastest economic recovery in history, and the “Biden Boom” led to record consumer spending, record corporate profits, rising home values, record low childhood poverty, the best GDP growth in forty years, and a banner year for the Dow. Despite deliberate sabotage by his predecessor, he brought an end to America’s longest war with a near-record low number of American casualties. He has already cut the record deficit he inherited by half, making record cuts his first two years, and is on track to become only the second President to reduce the deficit every year of his administration. He passed a historic investment in our infrastructure that was budget neutral and that is projected to create as many as 19 million new jobs. Domestic oil production is at a record high and is expected to increase again next year. He brought microchip manufacturing to the US, cut prescription drug prices for seniors, capped insulin prices, and signed a bill to protect our elections from future coup attempts. The biggest challenges in his Presidency so far have been global inflation exacerbated domestically in part by record economic growth on the heels of crippled supply lines due to his predecessor’s failure to address the pandemic and his ill-advised trade war. All of this occurred during the heavy drubbing by a Republican Party that actively tries to sabotage good government.
This is the kind of positive stuff we need to flood the airwaves with. With TFG sucking all of the oxygen out of the atmosphere daily, and solely for his own purposes, the contrast couldn't be more stark.
And let’s not forget Biden’s foreign policy successes, most notably building an alliance that has supported Ukraine as it fights off invasion by Russia. Sweden and Finland are joining NATO.
He’s built a network of southeast Asian and Pacific nations that will offset China’s economic and other encroachments.
He brought Korea together with Japan (historical antagonists, dating to 1895) with the US in a cooperative agreement.
This, and more, after Trump’s unraveling of American influence abroad and cozying up to Putin.
Hopium Chronicles is full of positive messages and facts. Perhaps you have seen but if not, and you check out Simon’s work you will have succinct talking points and more. His Substack is the most helpful one in my view. Being a paid member gets you to regular Zoom calls and more. Each minute of the Zooms is a gift in my view. Hopium saved me prior to 22 midterms with “no red wave” data. https://open.substack.com/pub/simonwdc/p/my-august-political-briefing-and?r=536qh&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=post
Me too. Supporting Simon is the best money I spend all month.
The challenge is many voters are uninformed and don’t care about the successes.
Lots and lots of accomplishments outlined here:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/therecord/
Robert, the examples you offer, that expose the devious, desperate tactics the said Republicans are using, should be seen as an opportunity for the Democratic Party members to , as the saying goes, "make hay while the sun shines!" Democratic folks in leadership roles in the Party need to produce material in written form, video form, use of media devices ,rallies,etc. to let the voting public see the dishonesty and divisiveness that is occurring in their own back yards. We owe it to all Americans who truly value the democratic ideals of America to see reality and offer them options and opportunities, through education, and ultimately the ballot box,to get this country back on track. The numbers are on our side. In the coming months we need to see a groundswell of unity and support throughout the country. Leadership , like what Robert Hubbell offers is vital for our Party to connect with those who are fed up with the misdirection we are experiencing.
Edward Cherlin
Agreed. It also helps that the Republicans are making themselves nastier and more irrelevant to most voters by the day.
Meanwhile, in Raleigh,Republicans are readying themselves to redraw district maps to eliminate at least two Dem lawmakers, and rid the western part of the state of a Dem congressman. I am weary of this home room mess.
Rep. Jeff Jackson is a breath of fresh, honest, compassionate air. Congress and our country will suffer if Jeff loses his NC seat. I follow him on Tiktok and have learned so much about how the House functions. I live in GA so can't vote for him. 😥
Thanks for this info. My daughter is moving to NC this week for her first job out of college. We’d both like to learn about NC state politics. She’ll be another blue vote in the state.
I hope she's willing to get involved in some way. North Carolina needs her!
The latest Ms magazine has an article about Anderson Clayton, 25 years old, who was recently elected as the Democratic Party chair in NC. She sounds amazing, and I'm sure she could use your assistance!
Thank you! I’ve relayed the info to my daughter who is now a registered NC voter.
I hope she gets involved. Young people are so important to the future of our country! My 19 year old great nephew just started college and is getting involved as a liberal. Hooray!
Jeff is terrific, and his newsletter is refreshingly free of political cant.
Jim, I'm in Raleigh as well since 1988. I believe both Berger (R) and Moore (R) were each elected in their gerrymandered districts by somewhere around 30,000 total votes AND THEY RUN OUR STATE of over 9 million people. BS
That’s why we need to get young college age students registered to vote.
I know! Unfortunately, in Greensboro, real estate issues and interests on City Council keep most things locked in a “Chamber of Commerce mentality”, as Rupert Vance used to call it.
Me too and I live in NC.
We may have Republicans on the run. Catching and defeating them, though, requires our work, our energy, and our resources. Time spent writing postcards to get out the vote, donations to candidates who help us gain Democratic majorities or limit Republican majorities. We undertake this effort for ourselves and our grandchildren, for a country that values equality and opportunity and freedom. The Republicans demonstrate how little they care for freedom when they suppress the vote, suppress speech, and suppress women's rights to make decisions about their lives.
These points are valid but the MAGA contingent is so solid in the cult following of Trump nothing will break the spell and they will follow him as he goes to prison (one can only hope). Yes there are good signs for Democrats but work must continue to get people registered and out to vote. I love talking points always pointed out by Robert and I read a wonderful article describing the motto MAGA as racist in its own right. Making America Great Again just emphasizes the fact Republicans want to push back all the progress made by everyone except White Males. Where were the great times for women (no right to vote), blacks (slavery) and other minorities exploited to build our railroads and not able to own land or vote (Chinese). Get out and tell our story and what the MAGA world really looks like.
I think the white working class can be won back; it is essential that we do so. Attacks on White males are counterproductive. I would do better to highlight and celebrate the white males who have contributed to social progress in our country. Men who support women and children.
And we wonder why young people are full of anxiety! Not only must they face the direst threat to human life on our planet, but they must also live with a shaky democracy that is under persistent attack by an entire political party. I grew up under the illusion that our democracy was unshakable. Not so the young people of today. I really feel for them.
Well said. We just spent many summer weeks with our four kids, ages 18-22, and saw and spoke with their friends as well. You are correct about the epidemic of anxiety they are dealing with. All of these young folks are doing well overall, attending or just graduated from college, pursuing summer jobs and internships. We spoke in an open way about how every one of them is grappling with considerable anxiety.
I often think social media is a major factor as it amplifies so much that our generation didn’t have to contend with. But it also serves as a positive force as it allows the heretofore marginalized voices to be heard and elevated.
Recognizing the damage to our country due to the death spiral of the GOP is another major factor in anxiety that we all may be feeling.
I start most mornings reading Robert and Heather Cox Richardson. Sometimes, they are on different topics, and sometimes, like today, they seem to mesh together in a way that makes me see new things. HCR puts the Republican effort to suppress minority votes into historical perspective, while Robert shines a light on just how extreme it is right now.
I agree with Robert that the extremity we are seeing is the frantic thrashing of a beast that is wounded and fears death. The cautionary thought I would add, though, is that that is exactly when a monster is at its most dangerous. Is it the case that they may lose power, and that the whole minority power structure they have built may come tumbling down? Indeed it is, but they see it, and will put every last resource and bit of strength into fighting to hold on. We can feel that we are slowly gaining power, but we must overmatch them with our own efforts and not be inclined to take any victory laps or even rests. Onward, postcarders, door-knockers, phone-bankers, voter-registers and check-writers all!
I just watched Oliver Anthony's video regarding the use of his song ¨Rich Men North of Richmond at the opening of the republican debate.¨ I encourage everyone here to watch that video and also, after watching, to watch his song on YouTube, read the responses from people world wide. If that doesn't cause you to understand hopelessness..........
There is a world in pain beyond substacks..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cv9uMXiY29s
https://youtu.be/sqSA-SY5Hro?si=08K-wcg69-q_plS2
Gailee, thanks for sharing. I hadn't been aware of the song, of it's impact in the last few weeks and – as I didn't watch the debate – the shameless misappropriation and usurpation by playing it at the opening of the debate.
I just spend two hours watching Anthony's video, his song and then many clips with reactions. The song is powerful, went viral and though Anthony made it quite clear that he meant all politicians and "it was funny to see my song being played at the presidential debate because I wrote that song about those people" it will be abused by the Republicans.
The song as well as the sentiments expressed in it should be taken very seriously by Democrats. And yes, you put it very well, 'there is a world in pain beyond sub stacks..'
Thank you, Stefan. I have tears reading your message. Yes. For me, it truly shows how the Democrats have failed at getting all that Biden has been tirelessly working for out there to the rural communities and the people in the impoverished areas of the cities. Many don't have internet. Many only have local papers owned by Sinclair which is a right wing corporate paper that keeps them uneducated. The very Magats who voted against his bills are taking credit for them. It is such an uphill struggle, but it must continue.
I not sure I agree with you. The Democrats before Biden abandoned blue collar workers and Hillary lost an election because she ignored them. The song was not written about either party but represents how some people are feeling. They get “ shit pay” for many reasons and lack of skills is one of them and the reference to welfare and overweight people is a racists statement directed towards people of color. Many people today want to blame others for their misfortune but ask yourself how have Republicans helped this demographic and show me programs that provide that support. Many of the challenges lest fortunate people are experiencing are because Republican state legislators have refused to support and provide badly needed benefits.
This is what I don't understand. Republicans, especially Trump, have done nothing for the poor and those who are struggling. Why don't these anti-democracy see this? And as you say, Republicans are obstructionists and are busy taking away the help that exists.
I think Biden's foreign accomplishments are extremely important; however, we need to highlight the benefits of his domestic programs also. Some of the effects of his two big bills are just now reaching cities and states. We must shout these things to the rooftops!
Absolutely Kathleen. It is the only reason I post on twitter and LinkedIn and send emails everywhere regarding all President Biden is doing. Even then, there are those who laugh and call the truth lies.
Hi Stephen,
I don't have personal experience with the Democrats abandoning blue collar workers. I remember my shock when I first heard this because all the democrats I knew were working for Everyman and not the rich. I had thought that it was the Republicans who supported the rich. Those I knew were like that. On both sides.
Hilary won the popular vote. Few seem to remember that. It was the Electoral College that fucked that.
Where in the world do you see ¨overweight people¨ as racist? He actually talks about how those with little money can't afford healthy food and are almost forced to eat cheap which has become a health hazard for Americans of all colors. People in Europe who go to the U.S. are shocked by the immense obesity there. All many can afford is fast food. You may see racism. That is your right. I see those Americans I see at Stop and Go, Walmart, etc..
Really pay attention to the words. He is lamenting the state of poverty in American. No matter the color.
Lyrics
Well, I've been selling my soul
Working all day
Overtime hours
For bullshit pay
So I can sit out here
And waste my life away
Drag back home
And drown my troubles away
It's a damn shame
What the world's gotten to
For people like me
And people like you
Wish I could just wake up
And it not be true
But it is
Oh, it is
Livin' in the new world
With an old soul
These rich men north of Richmond
Lord, knows they all
Just wanna have total control
Wanna know what you think
Wanna know what you do
And they don't think you know
But I know that you do
'Cause your dollar ain't shit
And it's taxed to no end
'Cause of rich men
North of Richmond
I wish politicians
Would look out for miners
And not just miners on an island somewhere
Lord, we got folks in the street
Ain't got nothin' to eat
And the obese milkin' welfare
But God if you're five foot three
And you're three hundred pounds
Taxes ought not to pay
For your bags of fudge rounds
Young men are putting themselves
Six feet in the ground
'Cause all this damn country does
Is keep on kicking them down
Lord, it's a damn shame
What the world's gotten to
For people like me
And people like you
Wish I could just wake up
And it not be true
But it is
Oh, it is
Livin' in the new world
With an old soul
These rich men north of Richmond
Lord, knows they all
Just wanna have total control
Wanna know what you think
Wanna know what you do
And they don't think you know
But I know that you do
'Cause your dollar ain't shit
And it's taxed to no end
'Cause of rich men
North of Richmond
I've been selling my soul
Working all day
Overtime hours
For bullshit pay
Tiny but quite significant typo: it's 'minors on an island somewhere'
You would have to talk to him or whoever wrote the lyrics that I took from a page. My assumption was he was referring to miners in foreign lands who are mining for minerals that wealthy countries like the U.S. need. Not a clue. Maybe you text him and find out?
From the songs author. “ Rich Men North of Richmond’ singer Oliver Anthony slams its use at the @GOP debate, saying that the song is not about @JoeBiden, but that he wrote it about “those people on the stage.”
Exactly
Thanks for posting this. I recently heard an interview with Ronan Farrow about his New Yorker piece on Elon Musk (I haven't read the piece). What struck me is that much of the poisonousness of Musk now seems to be related to feeling rejected and dismissed by liberals, while adulated and welcomed with open arms by the white nationalists. I'm sure he may have been predisposed to some of those views as the heir to a white South African fortune, but still, it's not where he was.
We are in a time of emergency as far as democracy goes, and there is a terrible rift that needs bridging in our country. We must find ways to make allies of those with whom we share at least some views. It is clear that Oliver Anthony doesn't see himself really as either right wing or left wing, and what good do we do if we drive him into the embrace of the neo-confederacy by making assumptions about him?
If you haven't seen it, I really recommend this Slate piece about Billy Bragg's response to Oliver Anthony's song: https://slate.com/culture/2023/08/oliver-anthony-rich-men-north-of-richmond-billy-bragg.html
Thank you Ellen! Interesting. My first thoughts were that it is easy to create a response like Bragg did, sitting in Bragg's chair. I think that from the position of poverty, or just barely getting buy as so many are, there aren't unions in those areas and in the areas where there are, they are mightily trying to take them down in the U.S.. Those with little education don't have Bragg's sophistication which was developed through his successes in life. And, the welfare system in the U.S. is taken advantage of.
It's a messy, messy country. A messy, messy world. For me, trying to find a way to use theatre and film as a communications bridge is the only thing I got. And lately, that doesn't seem to even be enough.
Thank you, Ellen. 💖
TC, I respectfully disagree with you. I listened to his entire video, and I found him to be truthful and extremely articulate. His music is a commentary on the very sorry state of affairs for our institutionalized poor.
There is a truly great book called "Toxic Charity" by Robert Lupton. The poor serve an very important purpose for the rich. This book changed my thinking completely. It is absolutely on point, based on my 40 years of work in the self-serving nonprofit world.
I was very impressed with Oliver's carefully considered and insightful comments. His music is his weapon of choice, and I sincerely hope he continues to write from his heart. He now has a very large audience and megaphone.
Thank you, Sheila. I will look for this book.
Shame on you
I noticed how he kept saying he was a nobody (or words to that effect). I'm thinking that opinion of himself came from somewhere, perhaps his parents. My point is when someone constantly tells you you're a nobody, you begin to take it on as fact.
I think it is collective consciousness. Music is an art, and art sees things first. There is a good book by an MD called 'Art and Science' which poses that artists see 'it' first.
There is a wit in his lyrics (video where he explains how many people there are who want to spin it like those on the stage of the debate, shows his intelligence.) Spin, indifference to the truth. Not a lot of people are wearing the glasses. He is.
Agree, Kelly. Also, it's easier for many of us plain folk to remember that which an artist sees and delivers; things such as "pave paradise, put up a parking lot!"
right on
I absolutely agree Kelly. With all you said. I love 'not all the people are wearing the glasses'.
I know. His eyes were so pure and honest when he said it. For me, it isn't just his parents. It's class and society. It's the hopelessness of those who are no longer able to find work because their work is obsolete. This will grow with AI. It is independent farmers who are fighting against corporate farms. It is youth in the projects where it seems that the only answer is joining a gang or selling. There will come a time - actually Richard Nixon explored it - when everyone will receive $$ as an individual member of society because there will no longer be jobs for the millions of humans on the planet. When he talked of the music industry as being ¨dirty¨ I just heard the swarm from LA and Nashville pounding on his door, wanting to grab a piece of him. And when he spoke of hoping he wouldn't change, my heart thunked. I own that I am part of a class in our society who is uncomfortable around those who have not been as fortunate as I or have been given the opportunities that I have. At the same time, I somehow feel more at ease with many who are not in my social circle than those who are.
I like being around children.
I keep my child within lit and still have a childlike wonder about the world around me, even as the darker side seems to grow. I believe.
All you say and more, Gailee. Sounds of "In the Year 2525."
I suggest you study the poetry of the lyrics and reflect upon your comment. At first, I too thought this was a dog whistle to white racist southerners based on the title and words "north of Richmond." But this song swings hard at the wealthy, "trickle down" system and inefficient government controlled by personal and corporate greed (e.g. Citizens United). There is truth to what he sings - just as there is truth to what Bob Dylan sings. Frankly, we should embrace the pain embedded in this song and show how, despite intense Republican opposition, Joe Biden and Democrats are slowly addressing these issues. The Democratic party was once the party of the working class - we need to prove that we are still the party that can best help the working class by providing renewable energy jobs to those miners, protecting and educating our minors and improving our welfare and social security systems.
Exactly! Those ¨on the stage of the debate who shamelessly used his song without his permission and without knowledge of its meaning were the very people he is talking of. On both sides of the aisle. I love your words.
He carves a way for so many young people.
What was so uplifting for me was one of the posts on his YouTube song from an older man who has been a gold miner in Canada all of his life. Suffering depression because he is far away from his family constantly. Struggling to make a living. Because of this song, he has quit doing what he has been doing for decades to become a standup comedian.
Robert: Inspired by your daily messages, our SW Florida LTE Team is seeing letters printed in our daily papers, despite the red demographics of our area. Here's todays letter in the Charlotte SUN:
Internet Comes to Rural SWFL
As outlined in a recent Charlotte SUN article, thanks to bi-partisan legislation passed by the Biden administration, broadband internet service is coming to rural Desoto and Manatee counties.
On the heels of an internet usage survey conducted by a Desoto County Technology Planning Team, federal funds have been made available to install fiber optic lines and other internet infrastructure.
It is noteworthy that the Biden Administration’s commitment to citizens of the Desoto County area was not influenced by the fact that this part of Florida favored former President Trump in the 2020 election.
We are fortunate to have a President who works for all of us, not just those who voted for him.
I know the change is up to us, Robert, but I believe that one of the primary reasons that we have a Supreme Court is to balance the scales when a political party in power is taking extraordinary measures to be unfair and unjust. Your three examples demonstrate what I mean. None of these should be allowed in a civilized society. I do not for one minute believe the founding fathers (that’s the first real problem - it was only “fathers” writing this thing) intended to allow a domination by either party that would cross the lines of democracy. Their own supreme courts in these states are so partisan now that they are simply rubber stamping the most egregious acts of the GQP. How can anyone with a brain think that it’s fair to restrict the LARGEST county in a very large state and assign a questionable and partisan leader to be involved in elections???? The GQP shows no respect for the law, its own citizens, or our country’s ideals in their raw hunger for power. And then they insult us further by pretending to “love America”. What they love is their vengeful abuse of power. We have a monumental task to win in red states, with all the handcuffs and ankle bracelets they’ve put on us. I am shocked that they never consider “what if” the Dems are back in charge and they use these laws AGAINST us?????? I assume they just care about today, and get it while you can. I would like to see the DNC and others being more visible and aggressive in going after these crooks, and infiltrating rural areas to change some minds by any means before 2024.
Just signed up for Ohio postcards through Indivisible.
I hope I'm wrong, but is Tommy Tuberculosis pulling a "McConnell?". By refusing to allow approval of military higher ups is he " stalling" in hopes TFG gets elected and will appoint those that will support him in whatever crazy scheme he dreams up?
Yes, he is. One person should not have enough power to hold up 351 appointments made by the military.
I blame Schumer for the military being held captive by Tuberville 💯%. Day one he should have had each officer up for promotion being approved by the Senate. Tedious for sure, but not this ridiculously fake hostage situation we have now. We wouldn’t be as backed up as we are now approaching a serious situation in our military if Schumer had reacted to the Senator from Alabama (FL)? Oh who knows from where, making him look like an incompetent fool with no answers or choices. Of course Schumer had alternatives, he chose not to use them. Allowing the military, the senate and himself to be abused by one whose intellect has all the earmarks of “piece of toilet paper stuck to one’s shoe.” Tuberville is about as intellectually, educable as cat poop and a traitor, yet Schumer tolerates all his showboating and circus act nonsense.
I think all our earlier presidents, all of them, would be shocked at the lengths Trump has gone to and continues to go in the pursuit of a 2nd term. Based on the raised hands and loud audience, it appears there’s little Republican push back. Two impeachments, 91 indictments, three marriages, serial philandering, and multiple bankruptcies all speak to the man inside. I still can’t believe millions of my fellow Americans want to give Trump another chance to govern us ALL.
It’s a really interesting question. Why are all Republicans still supporting him? I’m baffled too. I think maybe a breakthrough in understanding this behavior. It’s a huge sample that looks to outsiders like us insanity.
Further proof that what Harry Truman said in 1948 was right then and only more right today: "The only 'Good Republicans' are pushing up daisies."