Depraved Trump feeling deprived
(March 29, 2022)
To those who argue Trump knows in his tiny heart of hearts that Biden got more votes but is so fixated on regaining power to exact revenge that he falsely claims the election was stolen, I'm inclined to think otherwise.
Trump, in my opinion, truly does believe he was deprived of victory unfairly -- because Putin had assured him he would be returned to office.
Putin's failure in 2020 to deliver on his promise foreshadowed his Ukraine miscalculation, in thinking his state could accomplish whatever he ordered it to do.
The pandemic foiled Putin in the first instance.
Ukraine could prove his undoing with the second.
Idea for an editorial cartoon on Putin's ruthless land grab:
Biden walking boldly through the smoking rubble of a devastated Ukrainian city carrying a sign that reads: 'Stop the Steal!'
(March 29, 2022)
To those who argue Trump knows in his tiny heart of hearts that Biden got more votes but is so fixated on regaining power to exact revenge that he falsely claims the election was stolen, I'm inclined to think otherwise.
Trump, in my opinion, truly does believe he was deprived of victory unfairly -- because Putin had assured him he would be returned to office.
Putin's failure in 2020 to deliver on his promise foreshadowed his Ukraine miscalculation, in thinking his state could accomplish whatever he ordered it to do.
The pandemic foiled Putin in the first instance.
Ukraine could prove his undoing with the second.
Idea for an editorial cartoon on Putin's ruthless land grab:
Biden walking boldly through the smoking rubble of a devastated Ukrainian city carrying a sign that reads: 'Stop the Steal!'
Which is it?
(March 28, 2022)
Trump: Putin is a genius.
Biden: Putin cannot remain in power.
I know whom I'd vote for.
(March 28, 2022)
Trump: Putin is a genius.
Biden: Putin cannot remain in power.
I know whom I'd vote for.
Ginni, c'mon down!
(March 27, 2022)
Ginni Thomas should very much welcome the opportunity to speak to the Jan.6 committee, in order to present irrefutable evidence that the election was stolen and the mob was right to be angry.
Surely a woman of her immense intellect and sturdy devotion to the truth would have no problem providing the committee with rock-solid proof that a "heist" was committed.
If she's fearful she might be treated badly, the committee could put her mind at ease by following the example of the Republican senators who questioned Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson at her confirmation hearing.
(March 27, 2022)
Ginni Thomas should very much welcome the opportunity to speak to the Jan.6 committee, in order to present irrefutable evidence that the election was stolen and the mob was right to be angry.
Surely a woman of her immense intellect and sturdy devotion to the truth would have no problem providing the committee with rock-solid proof that a "heist" was committed.
If she's fearful she might be treated badly, the committee could put her mind at ease by following the example of the Republican senators who questioned Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson at her confirmation hearing.
Putin's headache
(March 22, 2022)
Idea for editorial cartoon:
[Putin is furiously rubbing his forehead, in obvious agony]
Russian general, off to one side, asks another: "Migraine?"
Second general: "Ukraine."
(March 22, 2022)
Idea for editorial cartoon:
[Putin is furiously rubbing his forehead, in obvious agony]
Russian general, off to one side, asks another: "Migraine?"
Second general: "Ukraine."
Ending the world's single greatest threat
(March 21, 2022)
There's no easy answer to Putin's evident willingness to obliterate Ukraine if necessary should it continue to resist. He's unmoved by the hardships his bloody obsession are sure to cause his own people in terms of food security, economic stability and global standing.
How much longer can the West stand by and not intervene militarily while thousands perish, millions flee, and cities are leveled? At some point self-interest in preserving international order will compel nations to act where the common bonds of humanity have failed.
If Putin were to employ a nuclear strike to achieve his abhorrent aims, the West would be excused for making every effort to eliminate the world's single greatest threat by the only means available: assassination.
It would certainly be justified when war has broken out without it ever being formally declared.
(March 21, 2022)
There's no easy answer to Putin's evident willingness to obliterate Ukraine if necessary should it continue to resist. He's unmoved by the hardships his bloody obsession are sure to cause his own people in terms of food security, economic stability and global standing.
How much longer can the West stand by and not intervene militarily while thousands perish, millions flee, and cities are leveled? At some point self-interest in preserving international order will compel nations to act where the common bonds of humanity have failed.
If Putin were to employ a nuclear strike to achieve his abhorrent aims, the West would be excused for making every effort to eliminate the world's single greatest threat by the only means available: assassination.
It would certainly be justified when war has broken out without it ever being formally declared.
Silver lining in those clouds
(March 16, 2022)
Will a nuclear war bring an end to climate change?
Maybe there is a silver lining in all those mushroom clouds appearing on the horizon.
Mind you, hundreds of millions of humans won't benefit from the 'fallout' of their slaughter -- a reduction in the consumption of fossil fuels by more than half globally.
(March 16, 2022)
Will a nuclear war bring an end to climate change?
Maybe there is a silver lining in all those mushroom clouds appearing on the horizon.
Mind you, hundreds of millions of humans won't benefit from the 'fallout' of their slaughter -- a reduction in the consumption of fossil fuels by more than half globally.
Dancing with the Tsars
[March 15, 2022]
Idea for an editorial cartoon:
Zelensky and Putin, both men battered and bruised, shown doing the tango on Dancing With the Tsars, to the music of Puttin' On the Blitz.
One judge whispers to another: "The old guy's stunned. He thought it was going to be a waltz."
[March 15, 2022]
Idea for an editorial cartoon:
Zelensky and Putin, both men battered and bruised, shown doing the tango on Dancing With the Tsars, to the music of Puttin' On the Blitz.
One judge whispers to another: "The old guy's stunned. He thought it was going to be a waltz."
The line that divides can also be a seam
(March 14, 2022)
Holy cow, I agreed with something Stephens wrote:
"Ukraine’s courage under fire ought to be a reminder that Republicans and Democrats should also show the courage to compromise and that there’s a lot to be said for showing good faith toward political opponents, including our beleaguered but well-meaning president."
Well said, sir.
The world might be saved yet when politicians and pundits don't see what sets two sides apart as a dividing line but instead look upon it as a seam that ties them together.
(March 14, 2022)
Holy cow, I agreed with something Stephens wrote:
"Ukraine’s courage under fire ought to be a reminder that Republicans and Democrats should also show the courage to compromise and that there’s a lot to be said for showing good faith toward political opponents, including our beleaguered but well-meaning president."
Well said, sir.
The world might be saved yet when politicians and pundits don't see what sets two sides apart as a dividing line but instead look upon it as a seam that ties them together.
Greed over principle
(March 10, 2022)
If the Biden administration were to allow the oil and gas industry free rein in the production and distribution of fossil fuels, the Republicans would then excoriate it for contributing to the climate crisis.
Crises demand all sides working together on a solution by lending a helping hand. Unfortunately, the Republicans reflexively respond by simply pointing a finger.
The GOP: Greed Over Principle.
(March 10, 2022)
If the Biden administration were to allow the oil and gas industry free rein in the production and distribution of fossil fuels, the Republicans would then excoriate it for contributing to the climate crisis.
Crises demand all sides working together on a solution by lending a helping hand. Unfortunately, the Republicans reflexively respond by simply pointing a finger.
The GOP: Greed Over Principle.
Saner minds must prevail
(March 8, 2022)
Imagine what would happen if the Russians were successful in eliminating Zelensky. Putin's problems would multiply immensely, and make it unlikely the hostilities would come to an end anytime soon, so great would be the desire of Ukrainians to avenge the death of their leader.
They would be in no mood to make any kind of deal with a monster who has the blood of thousands on his hands and is responsible for the forced evacuation of millions.
And Zelensky's martyrdom would surely stiffen the resolve of nations to tighten the screws on Putin and his oligarchs and show them no mercy.
Perhaps the United States and NATO should make clear in the coming days that any use of a nuclear device by Russia would trigger a vigorous response by the Allies using all the military resources at their disposal, short of nuclear warheads, while making clear their use would remain an option should Putin contemplate doing the unthinkable and persist in pushing the world toward Armageddon.
You just know that the idea of mutual assured destruction would be put to its severest test at some point. Perhaps that time is now.
If that's the case, our hope turns to saner minds around Putin prevailing, men whose sense of self-preservation and love of country is stronger than seeing their deranged president pursue a folly that threatens the world.
(March 8, 2022)
Imagine what would happen if the Russians were successful in eliminating Zelensky. Putin's problems would multiply immensely, and make it unlikely the hostilities would come to an end anytime soon, so great would be the desire of Ukrainians to avenge the death of their leader.
They would be in no mood to make any kind of deal with a monster who has the blood of thousands on his hands and is responsible for the forced evacuation of millions.
And Zelensky's martyrdom would surely stiffen the resolve of nations to tighten the screws on Putin and his oligarchs and show them no mercy.
Perhaps the United States and NATO should make clear in the coming days that any use of a nuclear device by Russia would trigger a vigorous response by the Allies using all the military resources at their disposal, short of nuclear warheads, while making clear their use would remain an option should Putin contemplate doing the unthinkable and persist in pushing the world toward Armageddon.
You just know that the idea of mutual assured destruction would be put to its severest test at some point. Perhaps that time is now.
If that's the case, our hope turns to saner minds around Putin prevailing, men whose sense of self-preservation and love of country is stronger than seeing their deranged president pursue a folly that threatens the world.
Giving credit where none is due
(March 7, 2022)
Trump deserves no credit for Operation Warp Speed. Unless you think no one in their right mind would throw money at finding a vaccine for a pandemic that threatened the health of hundreds of millions of Americans.
In which case, on second thought, Trump. whose mind is definitely not right, does deserve credit for choosing to do what EVERY OTHER person in his position would have done.
As for Stephens describing the wearing of masks as "appear(ing) to have done very little to stop the spread of Covid," I would have appreciated his bolstering his contention with some scientific evidence. That the virus spread has much as it has would "appear" to have been more the result of people refusing to get vaccinated or wear masks.
Speaking of "purely performative" exercises, the ones that most readily come to mind are furious Americans waving placards declaring their freedom to infect others while defending their right to do with their bodies what they will.
(March 7, 2022)
Trump deserves no credit for Operation Warp Speed. Unless you think no one in their right mind would throw money at finding a vaccine for a pandemic that threatened the health of hundreds of millions of Americans.
In which case, on second thought, Trump. whose mind is definitely not right, does deserve credit for choosing to do what EVERY OTHER person in his position would have done.
As for Stephens describing the wearing of masks as "appear(ing) to have done very little to stop the spread of Covid," I would have appreciated his bolstering his contention with some scientific evidence. That the virus spread has much as it has would "appear" to have been more the result of people refusing to get vaccinated or wear masks.
Speaking of "purely performative" exercises, the ones that most readily come to mind are furious Americans waving placards declaring their freedom to infect others while defending their right to do with their bodies what they will.
Shooting someone else's foot
(March 7, 2022)
Carlson belongs to that class of people who, every time they open their mouth, shoot someone else in the foot, which, more often than not, is attached to a non-white person.
(March 7, 2022)
Carlson belongs to that class of people who, every time they open their mouth, shoot someone else in the foot, which, more often than not, is attached to a non-white person.
Qualifications beyond dispute
(March 6, 2022)
Tucker's qualifications as a racist are beyond dispute. He offers up his crudentials every show.
(March 6, 2022)
Tucker's qualifications as a racist are beyond dispute. He offers up his crudentials every show.
If only He had been there!
(March 5, 2022)
Don't be so quick to dismiss Trump.
I'm sure if he were to find himself in a country that was under attack by a much stronger foe and the situation was dire, he would meet the challenge head-on.
After all, this is the same fellow who declared he would have acted heroically and confronted the gunman at Parkland unarmed -- if only he had been there!
From the Times, Feb. 26, 2018:
"WASHINGTON — President Trump asserted Monday that he would have rushed in to save the students and teachers of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School from a gunman with an assault weapon, even if he was unarmed at the time of the massacre."
I can see Trump on the battlefield, standing upright, bone spurs be damned, facing an oncoming tank, with only a slingshot in his hand.
"Excuse me, sir, you pull the rock BACK towards you, not AWAY from ... aw, never mind."
(March 5, 2022)
Don't be so quick to dismiss Trump.
I'm sure if he were to find himself in a country that was under attack by a much stronger foe and the situation was dire, he would meet the challenge head-on.
After all, this is the same fellow who declared he would have acted heroically and confronted the gunman at Parkland unarmed -- if only he had been there!
From the Times, Feb. 26, 2018:
"WASHINGTON — President Trump asserted Monday that he would have rushed in to save the students and teachers of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School from a gunman with an assault weapon, even if he was unarmed at the time of the massacre."
I can see Trump on the battlefield, standing upright, bone spurs be damned, facing an oncoming tank, with only a slingshot in his hand.
"Excuse me, sir, you pull the rock BACK towards you, not AWAY from ... aw, never mind."
It's a mad, mad, mad, MAD world
(March 4, 2022)
Charles, New York
What everyone should have seen coming was nations with massive nuclear arsenals and thus, because of MAD, hesitate attacks on each other. However, then precisely because of MAD, are hesitant to stop each other from attacking nonnuclear nations. It has come to this, that only the nuclear powers of this planet are safe. The rush is on. As Carl Sagan would say, "an ominous thought".
@Charles
MAD (magazine): "What, me worry?" *
MAD (Russian dictator): "You all should worry." **
* -- as espoused by the "usual gang of idiots"
** -- said by an idiot of one
(March 4, 2022)
Charles, New York
What everyone should have seen coming was nations with massive nuclear arsenals and thus, because of MAD, hesitate attacks on each other. However, then precisely because of MAD, are hesitant to stop each other from attacking nonnuclear nations. It has come to this, that only the nuclear powers of this planet are safe. The rush is on. As Carl Sagan would say, "an ominous thought".
@Charles
MAD (magazine): "What, me worry?" *
MAD (Russian dictator): "You all should worry." **
* -- as espoused by the "usual gang of idiots"
** -- said by an idiot of one
Biden gets crewed
(March 3, 2022)
Idea for an editorial cartoon:
Biden, a la Washington, standing resolutely in a boat headed for battle to preserve democracy, while half of those in the vessel poke holes in the hull -- when not rowing in the opposite direction.
(March 3, 2022)
Idea for an editorial cartoon:
Biden, a la Washington, standing resolutely in a boat headed for battle to preserve democracy, while half of those in the vessel poke holes in the hull -- when not rowing in the opposite direction.
More than one scenario to course of war
(March 1, 2022)
Scenario No. 4: The climate crisis will manifest itself in all sorts of severe weather events that will tip the scale against the Russian invaders. Add to that wildfires, a prolonged drought, and pestilence on a biblical scale, and the Motherland will end up fighting for survival on its home turf, as its ability to grow food and conduct business is severely degraded.
Mother Nature, paradoxically, could save humanity from itself. Well, in the short term.
(March 1, 2022)
Scenario No. 4: The climate crisis will manifest itself in all sorts of severe weather events that will tip the scale against the Russian invaders. Add to that wildfires, a prolonged drought, and pestilence on a biblical scale, and the Motherland will end up fighting for survival on its home turf, as its ability to grow food and conduct business is severely degraded.
Mother Nature, paradoxically, could save humanity from itself. Well, in the short term.
Also known as ...
(Feb. 28, 2022)
Putin -- a thug, wrapped in a bully, inside a nuclear-armed enmity.
Also known as a vipers nesting doll.
(Feb. 28, 2022)
Putin -- a thug, wrapped in a bully, inside a nuclear-armed enmity.
Also known as a vipers nesting doll.
A burning image
(Feb. 27, 2022)
I have this image of the Constitution slowly being consumed by a fire that started on the far right edge.
kirk, montana
@John Bellyful
There is nothing slow about it. It started with st ronnie and the welfare queen comments. Soon thereafter, dark money from the elites such as Koch created the 'Federalist Society' and they were off to the burning of the Constitution races.
Richard, Israel
@kirk It started with the John Birch Society and the right-wingers who claimed that Eisenhower (!) was a communist stooge if not an outright Commie, and accelerated with Goldwater's shellacking in the 1964 election. Reagan didn't represent the start of the process, only the beginning of the phase in which the right wing of the Republican party succeeded in taking complete control and making sure that there was no room for moderates of the Nelson Rockefeller - Lowell Weicker persuasion.
Sage, California
@John Bellyful
I have a similar image. Life gets more chilling and unbelievable in America everyday. Where to go is the question for me?
(Feb. 27, 2022)
I have this image of the Constitution slowly being consumed by a fire that started on the far right edge.
kirk, montana
@John Bellyful
There is nothing slow about it. It started with st ronnie and the welfare queen comments. Soon thereafter, dark money from the elites such as Koch created the 'Federalist Society' and they were off to the burning of the Constitution races.
Richard, Israel
@kirk It started with the John Birch Society and the right-wingers who claimed that Eisenhower (!) was a communist stooge if not an outright Commie, and accelerated with Goldwater's shellacking in the 1964 election. Reagan didn't represent the start of the process, only the beginning of the phase in which the right wing of the Republican party succeeded in taking complete control and making sure that there was no room for moderates of the Nelson Rockefeller - Lowell Weicker persuasion.
Sage, California
@John Bellyful
I have a similar image. Life gets more chilling and unbelievable in America everyday. Where to go is the question for me?
Americans weep the results
(Feb. 25, 2022)
"They sowed their seeds; now it’s time for them to reap the results."
While Americans in economic pain weep the results.
Democrats need to get their act together. Actually, they need to find a new act period. The one that got them elected, the one that promised social change and a halt in the drift toward authoritarianism, has devolved into a farce that has audience members tossing rotten tomatoes at the stage and fleeing the theatre. Many are set to buy tickets for a revival of the show that ran four years despite critical brickbats and calls for its end.
One is reminded of the movie Noises Off, with Biden as the director of a play that's going off the rails; the cast is in disarray and the set is chaotic.
The Biden administration is in urgent need of a script doctor or it will succumb to paralysis.
(Feb. 25, 2022)
"They sowed their seeds; now it’s time for them to reap the results."
While Americans in economic pain weep the results.
Democrats need to get their act together. Actually, they need to find a new act period. The one that got them elected, the one that promised social change and a halt in the drift toward authoritarianism, has devolved into a farce that has audience members tossing rotten tomatoes at the stage and fleeing the theatre. Many are set to buy tickets for a revival of the show that ran four years despite critical brickbats and calls for its end.
One is reminded of the movie Noises Off, with Biden as the director of a play that's going off the rails; the cast is in disarray and the set is chaotic.
The Biden administration is in urgent need of a script doctor or it will succumb to paralysis.
Trump: America's MVP
(Feb. 24, 2022)
I guess it shouldn't be surprising America's hardest-working former president has a fondness for CAPITOL letters.
How long before he starts bragging about being America's MVP (Most Voluble Politician)?
When Truman said "The buck stops here", he meant taking responsibility for decisions made. When Trump says the same, he means it literally.
(Feb. 24, 2022)
I guess it shouldn't be surprising America's hardest-working former president has a fondness for CAPITOL letters.
How long before he starts bragging about being America's MVP (Most Voluble Politician)?
When Truman said "The buck stops here", he meant taking responsibility for decisions made. When Trump says the same, he means it literally.
Use might to make right?
(Feb. 23, 2022)
Why, exactly, does United States have a $778 billion military budget if not to push back against belligerents who threaten the world order by crushing aspiring democracies?
Or is the reason the United States spends so much on firepower is that its weaponry and equipment require constant replacement? Is quality control an issue?
Angry Liberal, Ann Arbor
@John Bellyful
There are many reasons our US military budgets are so high (and we thus cannot afford the social safety net benefits some countries have). But a key reason is that we spend a great deal of our treasure to provide the security umbrella over many countries that spend so lavishly on their own social safety net that there is nothing (so they claim) left over to spend on their own security.
And at some level, that's OK; we are used to doing more than our share when it comes to security. But it does get a bit old to have to carry someone on your back and then be criticized for how you are carrying them...
@Angry Liberal
It might be the United States spends so much on its military because of the consequences it faces from, as Stephens points out, a history of invasions and interventions for ignoble reasons. The extra layer of protection America now requires to defend itself against nations it provoked by meddling in their affairs also provides some cover for allies for which we're grateful, the same as we would if offered a spot under the umbrella after its holder seeds the clouds, causing a downpour.
(Feb. 23, 2022)
Why, exactly, does United States have a $778 billion military budget if not to push back against belligerents who threaten the world order by crushing aspiring democracies?
Or is the reason the United States spends so much on firepower is that its weaponry and equipment require constant replacement? Is quality control an issue?
Angry Liberal, Ann Arbor
@John Bellyful
There are many reasons our US military budgets are so high (and we thus cannot afford the social safety net benefits some countries have). But a key reason is that we spend a great deal of our treasure to provide the security umbrella over many countries that spend so lavishly on their own social safety net that there is nothing (so they claim) left over to spend on their own security.
And at some level, that's OK; we are used to doing more than our share when it comes to security. But it does get a bit old to have to carry someone on your back and then be criticized for how you are carrying them...
@Angry Liberal
It might be the United States spends so much on its military because of the consequences it faces from, as Stephens points out, a history of invasions and interventions for ignoble reasons. The extra layer of protection America now requires to defend itself against nations it provoked by meddling in their affairs also provides some cover for allies for which we're grateful, the same as we would if offered a spot under the umbrella after its holder seeds the clouds, causing a downpour.
Bars and music and Trump
(Feb. 21, 2022)
Having the scales of justice weigh against Trump would be music to my ears:
Don, a fraud, a domineer
Ray of sunshine he is not
Me is all he thinks about
Far too long he's been corrupt
So, he shrugs, I've not been caught
Law he thinks of as his foe
Tee, it stands for you-know-what
That will bring us back to -- D'oh!
Don, a fraud, a domineer
Ray of sunshine he is not ...
Trump getting his just deserts is on the list of many people's favorite things.
(Feb. 21, 2022)
Having the scales of justice weigh against Trump would be music to my ears:
Don, a fraud, a domineer
Ray of sunshine he is not
Me is all he thinks about
Far too long he's been corrupt
So, he shrugs, I've not been caught
Law he thinks of as his foe
Tee, it stands for you-know-what
That will bring us back to -- D'oh!
Don, a fraud, a domineer
Ray of sunshine he is not ...
Trump getting his just deserts is on the list of many people's favorite things.
Waging war on the internet
(Feb. 20, 2022)
I wonder how well the United States would do if tensions between it and Russia escalated to the point where the two engaged not in armed combat but in cyber warfare. Russia has demonstrated repeatedly how frightening its capabilities are to infiltrate and disrupt the systems of its adversaries.
Can the U.S adequately defend itself against such attacks, and inflict so much economic and institutional damage in response that Putin would be forced to back down?
It seems inevitable that a conflict of this kind, which has been occurring in the shadows for some time, will erupt into an all-out digital war in the not-too-distant future, and events in Ukraine could very well precipitate that happening, should harsh sanctions be imposed.
That's not to say they aren't justified, but one of the possible outcomes, the U.S must know, is that it will then have to prove it holds the upper hand when waging war over the internet.
Pray that it does.
Without question Putin's a thug
Wielding power for him is a drug
Taking over Ukraine
Is like crack to his brain
The West must not react with a shrug
(Feb. 20, 2022)
I wonder how well the United States would do if tensions between it and Russia escalated to the point where the two engaged not in armed combat but in cyber warfare. Russia has demonstrated repeatedly how frightening its capabilities are to infiltrate and disrupt the systems of its adversaries.
Can the U.S adequately defend itself against such attacks, and inflict so much economic and institutional damage in response that Putin would be forced to back down?
It seems inevitable that a conflict of this kind, which has been occurring in the shadows for some time, will erupt into an all-out digital war in the not-too-distant future, and events in Ukraine could very well precipitate that happening, should harsh sanctions be imposed.
That's not to say they aren't justified, but one of the possible outcomes, the U.S must know, is that it will then have to prove it holds the upper hand when waging war over the internet.
Pray that it does.
Without question Putin's a thug
Wielding power for him is a drug
Taking over Ukraine
Is like crack to his brain
The West must not react with a shrug
AI beginning to look attractive
(Feb. 10, 2022)
The prospect of artificial intelligence increasingly taking control of our lives I find alarming but the Freedom Convoy has me looking forward to the day when all delivery of materials will be carried out by driverless trucks.
Witnessing the havoc that can ensue when they're operated by the thoughtless is putting AI in a more favourable light I find.
(Feb. 10, 2022)
The prospect of artificial intelligence increasingly taking control of our lives I find alarming but the Freedom Convoy has me looking forward to the day when all delivery of materials will be carried out by driverless trucks.
Witnessing the havoc that can ensue when they're operated by the thoughtless is putting AI in a more favourable light I find.
Joe and Mitch: a pair of Peanuts
(Feb. 7, 2022)
Biden and McConnell: the Charlie Brown and Lucy of American politics.
Every bill proposed by the Democrats is a political football in McConnell's hands.
And Biden makes it easy for McConnell to put him flat on his back. The president insists on wearing rose-colored glasses that have him taking the wrong approach to scoring points with voters.
Biden needs to stand up. Which he would be if the last panel showed him kicking McConnell through the uprights.
(Feb. 7, 2022)
Biden and McConnell: the Charlie Brown and Lucy of American politics.
Every bill proposed by the Democrats is a political football in McConnell's hands.
And Biden makes it easy for McConnell to put him flat on his back. The president insists on wearing rose-colored glasses that have him taking the wrong approach to scoring points with voters.
Biden needs to stand up. Which he would be if the last panel showed him kicking McConnell through the uprights.
Doodling could be his downfall
(Jan. 19, 2022)
Trump will come to deeply regret his doodling on the documents that have now been turned over, especially the drawing of Pence being hung and an airplane firing missiles at Biden
(Jan. 19, 2022)
Trump will come to deeply regret his doodling on the documents that have now been turned over, especially the drawing of Pence being hung and an airplane firing missiles at Biden
Riding a bumpy road in a jalopy
(Jan. 17, 2021)
Has an administration ever had to deal with as many speed bumps as this one has -- a pandemic, supply chain problems, full-bore GOP obstructionism, a torrent of lies and conspiracies from the far right, a mainstream television network that serves as a propaganda organ for Republicans, an oppositional Supreme Court, environmental havoc, higher-than-normal inflation, two party members more concerned with preserving the filibuster than democracy ... the list goes on.
No wonder Biden's agenda has stalled.
It hasn't helped the president is driving a jalopy with a rose-colored rear view mirror.
(Jan. 17, 2021)
Has an administration ever had to deal with as many speed bumps as this one has -- a pandemic, supply chain problems, full-bore GOP obstructionism, a torrent of lies and conspiracies from the far right, a mainstream television network that serves as a propaganda organ for Republicans, an oppositional Supreme Court, environmental havoc, higher-than-normal inflation, two party members more concerned with preserving the filibuster than democracy ... the list goes on.
No wonder Biden's agenda has stalled.
It hasn't helped the president is driving a jalopy with a rose-colored rear view mirror.
Motherhood and apple pie -- not so fast!
(Jan. 16, 2022)
The Democrats should put forward legislation to honor motherhood and apple pie so Americans can see the GOP's true colors when Republicans vote against the bill. I have no idea what objections they would raise but I have every confidence they would come up with something sinister and nonsensical.
(Jan. 16, 2022)
The Democrats should put forward legislation to honor motherhood and apple pie so Americans can see the GOP's true colors when Republicans vote against the bill. I have no idea what objections they would raise but I have every confidence they would come up with something sinister and nonsensical.
Not thinking things through
(Jan. 13, 2022)
Larry Segall, Barra de Navidad Mexico
I think Brooks has missed two huge issues. First, is income inequality, with half the country living paycheck to precarious paycheck and a handful of oligarchs raking in trillions while getting tax benefits. Second, is climate change which the under thirty generation understands is a real and existential threat. The government is so dysfunctional that it can barely agree to pay its bills.
He wonders why the public is depressed and angry. Anyone who is paying attention should be angry.
HJ, Maine
I doubt that when those people punched flight attendants they were thinking about climate change.
I'd go one step further and say I doubt they were thinking. Period.
Thinking is frowned upon these days. Smacks of elitism.
Slamming Johnson with his slangsake
(Jan. 12, 2022)
If Wisconsiners vote in Ron Johnson for another term, the state will have to change its motto from "Forward" to "Backward".
Johnson is a Johnson. A fact even he can't dispute.
(Jan. 12, 2022)
If Wisconsiners vote in Ron Johnson for another term, the state will have to change its motto from "Forward" to "Backward".
Johnson is a Johnson. A fact even he can't dispute.
Biden: a temporary antidote
(Jan. 10, 2022)
Biden is turning out to be a temporary antidote to Trump's madness. He restored sanity to politics but the poison he abated never disappeared and is once again threatening the body politic. The Democrats need a booster to elevate the remedy Biden initially provided, a dynamic figure who commands the public's attention and inspires trust. The Republicans have succeeded in capturing power by drawing on the entertainment industry to lead them to victory -- Reagan, Schwarzenegger, Trump. Is there no one the Democrats can turn to with a similarly high profile, a leader who exudes confidence and is principled? Biden is not going to win over Americans with his rhetoric. His party needs an orator that takes hold of peoples' imagination and makes them realize there is a far better way for the country to proceed than the one being served up by the GOP.
(Jan. 10, 2022)
Biden is turning out to be a temporary antidote to Trump's madness. He restored sanity to politics but the poison he abated never disappeared and is once again threatening the body politic. The Democrats need a booster to elevate the remedy Biden initially provided, a dynamic figure who commands the public's attention and inspires trust. The Republicans have succeeded in capturing power by drawing on the entertainment industry to lead them to victory -- Reagan, Schwarzenegger, Trump. Is there no one the Democrats can turn to with a similarly high profile, a leader who exudes confidence and is principled? Biden is not going to win over Americans with his rhetoric. His party needs an orator that takes hold of peoples' imagination and makes them realize there is a far better way for the country to proceed than the one being served up by the GOP.
Star-crossed fingers?
(Jan. 2, 2022)
I still have my fingers crossed the DOJ will ride to the rescue of America and announce it has put together an air-tight case and is charging Trump and his treasonous gang with multiple crimes related to the attempted insurrection.
I gotta tell you, though, my fingers are starting to cramp.
(Jan. 2, 2022)
I still have my fingers crossed the DOJ will ride to the rescue of America and announce it has put together an air-tight case and is charging Trump and his treasonous gang with multiple crimes related to the attempted insurrection.
I gotta tell you, though, my fingers are starting to cramp.
Balanced reporting -- covering multiple stories
(Dec. 17, 2021)
The NYT is well aware that democracy is under attack and has published numerous articles detailing how serious is the threat.
Apparently, though, one reader's opinion is that it publishes only four pages a day -- paper and digital -- and thus hasn't the capacity to expand its coverage to include subjects that also might be of interest to readers but lie outside the spectrum you believe should be its sole focus.
A confession: I read a fascinating Times story just yesterday about mosquiitofish preying on native Australian marine life. No mention was made of American democracy being assailed, but I suppose I could draw an analogy if pressed to satisfy the criterion you've set out as to what qualifies as proper journalism in these perilous times.
I can only imagine how much readership would drop off if EVERY news story was about one issue over and over again.
Non-democracy-under-siege stories provide somewhat a welcome relief from the drumbeat of doom without taking away from the seriousness of crisis gripping America.
Do you roll your eyes when another article pops up about climate change?
There are many immense challenges facing humankind, any one of which deserves intense scrutiny, but there is a limit to what the mind can bear when confronted with a relentless onslaught of facts without giving into despair.
There's also the matter of human curiosity, the need to learn more about a host of subjects. The Times does its best to satisfy that thirst and succeeds more often than not.
(Dec. 17, 2021)
The NYT is well aware that democracy is under attack and has published numerous articles detailing how serious is the threat.
Apparently, though, one reader's opinion is that it publishes only four pages a day -- paper and digital -- and thus hasn't the capacity to expand its coverage to include subjects that also might be of interest to readers but lie outside the spectrum you believe should be its sole focus.
A confession: I read a fascinating Times story just yesterday about mosquiitofish preying on native Australian marine life. No mention was made of American democracy being assailed, but I suppose I could draw an analogy if pressed to satisfy the criterion you've set out as to what qualifies as proper journalism in these perilous times.
I can only imagine how much readership would drop off if EVERY news story was about one issue over and over again.
Non-democracy-under-siege stories provide somewhat a welcome relief from the drumbeat of doom without taking away from the seriousness of crisis gripping America.
Do you roll your eyes when another article pops up about climate change?
There are many immense challenges facing humankind, any one of which deserves intense scrutiny, but there is a limit to what the mind can bear when confronted with a relentless onslaught of facts without giving into despair.
There's also the matter of human curiosity, the need to learn more about a host of subjects. The Times does its best to satisfy that thirst and succeeds more often than not.
Saving native fish populations
(Dec. 16, 2021)
If the intent is to mass-produce robot predators, thought should also be given to mass-producing poisoned prey that sickens mosquitofish so it learns to avoid certain species.
To be clear, the poisoned prey mass-produced would be robots not designed to compete for food or habitat. The only danger, I suppose, is that the real prey would become so taken with their simulacra that it would disrupt their mating habits and lead to a decline in the population.
(Dec. 16, 2021)
If the intent is to mass-produce robot predators, thought should also be given to mass-producing poisoned prey that sickens mosquitofish so it learns to avoid certain species.
To be clear, the poisoned prey mass-produced would be robots not designed to compete for food or habitat. The only danger, I suppose, is that the real prey would become so taken with their simulacra that it would disrupt their mating habits and lead to a decline in the population.
Trump's penchant could prove his undoing
(Dec. 15, 2021)
Trump has a penchant for overestimating his worth, intelligence, salesmanship, and sex appeal, and underestimating his moral obligations, civic responsibilities, and, we hope, the legal system in its ability to bring wrongdoers to justice.
(Dec. 15, 2021)
Trump has a penchant for overestimating his worth, intelligence, salesmanship, and sex appeal, and underestimating his moral obligations, civic responsibilities, and, we hope, the legal system in its ability to bring wrongdoers to justice.
Change that tune!
(Dec. 14, 2021)
The Democrats should ditch the Build Back Better nomenclature they've chosen for their bill and rename it Defend Democracy Decisively, to win the support of elected officials on both sides of the aisle who haven't a problem with excessive spending when it involves defence.
(Dec. 14, 2021)
The Democrats should ditch the Build Back Better nomenclature they've chosen for their bill and rename it Defend Democracy Decisively, to win the support of elected officials on both sides of the aisle who haven't a problem with excessive spending when it involves defence.
Don't underestimate Dunderhead constituency
(Dec. 13, 2021)
Mark Keller, Portland, Oregon
It was refreshing to read a column that was about actual races rather than being 100% "the sky is falling for Democrats" hand-wringing that is in fashion these days.
Yes, I am worried for our democracy, but Dems having a fighting chance -- especially now that Trumpist Dunderheads are going to run in primaries everywhere you look, and "normal" Republicans are mostly either trading in their souls for puppet costumes, or running for the hills.
@Mark Keller
The Dunderhead constituency might be much larger than you think, and their impact on elections will be given even greater weight as a result of voting reforms red states are implementing to further GOP interests.
There's no magic bullet to prevent that from happening -- unless sufficient numbers of the unvaccinated become unavailable to vote.
The Republicans would probably respond to that dire threat by setting up voting booths in intensive care units.
(Dec. 13, 2021)
Mark Keller, Portland, Oregon
It was refreshing to read a column that was about actual races rather than being 100% "the sky is falling for Democrats" hand-wringing that is in fashion these days.
Yes, I am worried for our democracy, but Dems having a fighting chance -- especially now that Trumpist Dunderheads are going to run in primaries everywhere you look, and "normal" Republicans are mostly either trading in their souls for puppet costumes, or running for the hills.
@Mark Keller
The Dunderhead constituency might be much larger than you think, and their impact on elections will be given even greater weight as a result of voting reforms red states are implementing to further GOP interests.
There's no magic bullet to prevent that from happening -- unless sufficient numbers of the unvaccinated become unavailable to vote.
The Republicans would probably respond to that dire threat by setting up voting booths in intensive care units.
Sheer pigheadedness
(Dec. 9, 2021)
Are we ready now to call these people deplorables?
How can you not when they think so little of others that they are willing to put the health of those around them at risk, while asserting their right not to bare arms.
Science cannot persuade them to act in their own best interest; pseudoscience convinces them other people's interests don't matter.
To them it's a private matter when, in fact, it's a public menace. Their obstinacy is filling intensive care units, taxing hospital resources, and driving health-care workers to quit their jobs.
The pandemic started when the coronavirus was transmitted from animals to humans.
Pigheadedness, on the other hand, has always been part of the human condition, and, as the last two years have shown us, is likely to remain with us forever.
(Dec. 9, 2021)
Are we ready now to call these people deplorables?
How can you not when they think so little of others that they are willing to put the health of those around them at risk, while asserting their right not to bare arms.
Science cannot persuade them to act in their own best interest; pseudoscience convinces them other people's interests don't matter.
To them it's a private matter when, in fact, it's a public menace. Their obstinacy is filling intensive care units, taxing hospital resources, and driving health-care workers to quit their jobs.
The pandemic started when the coronavirus was transmitted from animals to humans.
Pigheadedness, on the other hand, has always been part of the human condition, and, as the last two years have shown us, is likely to remain with us forever.
The filibuster is just not that important
(Dec. 9, 2021)
That two Democrat senators believe preserving the filibuster is more important than protecting democracy is absurd and frightening.
What sort of government do they believe will emerge should the Republicans regain power and begin implementing Trump's agenda to amass more power?
The filibuster will become a relic in an autocracy, having derailed the will of a majority of Americans and put them under one autocrat's thumb.
Manchin and Sinema will have a lot to answer for should that happen but they will never admit to having played a role in the republic's demise.
Nor will they suffer the consequences, as they will live out the remainder of their lives in comfort for having served their corporate patrons well.
(Dec. 9, 2021)
That two Democrat senators believe preserving the filibuster is more important than protecting democracy is absurd and frightening.
What sort of government do they believe will emerge should the Republicans regain power and begin implementing Trump's agenda to amass more power?
The filibuster will become a relic in an autocracy, having derailed the will of a majority of Americans and put them under one autocrat's thumb.
Manchin and Sinema will have a lot to answer for should that happen but they will never admit to having played a role in the republic's demise.
Nor will they suffer the consequences, as they will live out the remainder of their lives in comfort for having served their corporate patrons well.
Conservatives 'malignant whiners'
(Dec. 8, 2021)
"But now the transformation of American conservatism — the same movement that complains about liberal “snowflakes” — into a collection of malignant whiners seems to have reached apotheosis."
It's a virulent expression of emasculinity, wherein positive traits traditionally associated with the male have given way to wallowing in aggrievance.
Among Republicans elected to office, manliness has been replaced by meanliness, and virility by venality.
Baring it all
(Dec. 6, 2021)
The right to bear arms vs the choice to bear children (or not) vs the need to bare arms -- three issues that define the United States.
How the country ultimately deals with these controversies will determine its future. The odds are not good that the responses decided upon will undo the polarizing effects of hyper-partisan politics, as practised mostly by one side.
There was much talk once that the dumbing-down of America would prove its undoing. It's the grinding down of norms, rules and conventions that is greasing its slide into decrepitude.
(Dec. 6, 2021)
The right to bear arms vs the choice to bear children (or not) vs the need to bare arms -- three issues that define the United States.
How the country ultimately deals with these controversies will determine its future. The odds are not good that the responses decided upon will undo the polarizing effects of hyper-partisan politics, as practised mostly by one side.
There was much talk once that the dumbing-down of America would prove its undoing. It's the grinding down of norms, rules and conventions that is greasing its slide into decrepitude.
Not the Nine O'Clock News redux
(Nov. 30, 2021)
CNN should look at what would work best in the long term for Cuomo's time slot.
My suggestion is that it consider going in a different direction, and look to the past for inspiration. I'm thinking, of course, of Not the Nine O'Clock News, the short-lived British television sketch comedy show that ran roughly 40 years ago.
According to Wikipedia, it featured “satirical sketches on then-current news stories and popular culture, as well as parody songs, comedy sketches, re-edited videos, and spoof television formats.”
Other British shows have proved successful in crossing the Atlantic when Americanized for domestic audiences, and I'm confident an updated version of Not the Nine O'Clock News would be a hit – offering a livelier take on current events from what is peddled in prime time by other shows in cable TV news universe.
There would be ample source material to work with each day but shaping the content in a way that entertains and informs viewers could prove a challenge, given the short deadlines.
Perhaps most of the show, then, could be devoted to simply airing clips of politicians behaving badly or idiotically, and having a panel of comics, analysts and print columnists trade witticisms in response.
Showcasing the best of Twitter comments offered up in reaction to the day's events could be fruitful as well.
And if guests want to break out into song or compose limericks on the spot, by all means let them.
It's not a news show, after all.
(Nov. 30, 2021)
CNN should look at what would work best in the long term for Cuomo's time slot.
My suggestion is that it consider going in a different direction, and look to the past for inspiration. I'm thinking, of course, of Not the Nine O'Clock News, the short-lived British television sketch comedy show that ran roughly 40 years ago.
According to Wikipedia, it featured “satirical sketches on then-current news stories and popular culture, as well as parody songs, comedy sketches, re-edited videos, and spoof television formats.”
Other British shows have proved successful in crossing the Atlantic when Americanized for domestic audiences, and I'm confident an updated version of Not the Nine O'Clock News would be a hit – offering a livelier take on current events from what is peddled in prime time by other shows in cable TV news universe.
There would be ample source material to work with each day but shaping the content in a way that entertains and informs viewers could prove a challenge, given the short deadlines.
Perhaps most of the show, then, could be devoted to simply airing clips of politicians behaving badly or idiotically, and having a panel of comics, analysts and print columnists trade witticisms in response.
Showcasing the best of Twitter comments offered up in reaction to the day's events could be fruitful as well.
And if guests want to break out into song or compose limericks on the spot, by all means let them.
It's not a news show, after all.
So, Mark, who won the election?
(Nov. 30, 2021)
After Meadows swears to tell the truth at his deposition, the committee should immediately determine how sincere he is by asking him who won the election.
Somewhere in the U.S.A.,
@John Bellyful LOL - excellent.
(Nov. 30, 2021)
After Meadows swears to tell the truth at his deposition, the committee should immediately determine how sincere he is by asking him who won the election.
Somewhere in the U.S.A.,
@John Bellyful LOL - excellent.
An 'exciting' constitutional crisis?
(Nov. 26, 2021)
ChristineMcM, Massachusetts
"But in the end the race would be close, there would be some exciting constitutional-crisis possibilities in the aftermath, and if the Democrats pulled it out, well, their majorities would be slim and 2026 would be just around the corner."
I can't believe which possibility Mr. Douthat relishes more in 2024--the prospect of an "exciting" constitutional crisis with Trump or Democrats pulling it out so Republicans can gum up their governance.
Be careful what you pray for, Ross. Remember, Trump won't fail the next time, in destroying democracy. He's been quietly installing loyalists in every swing state election aparatus. And would you truly be happy watching Republicans obstruct federal initiatives?
I'm surprised you haven't mentioned how so many international think tanks now rank the US as a failing democracy---unless that explaiins why you wrote what you did.
@ChristineMcM
I, too, was shocked to read, in Douthat's opinion, that "there would be some exciting constitutional-crisis possibilities in the aftermath" of Trump being returned to the presidency.
Undoubtedly he would find it easier to whip up columns to entertain the masses if that came to pass. Pure conjecture but I imagined the prospect had him furiously rubbing his hands and licking his lips.
Democracy in flames, of course, grabs readers' attention far more than democracy putting out a trumpster fire ever would.
(Nov. 26, 2021)
ChristineMcM, Massachusetts
"But in the end the race would be close, there would be some exciting constitutional-crisis possibilities in the aftermath, and if the Democrats pulled it out, well, their majorities would be slim and 2026 would be just around the corner."
I can't believe which possibility Mr. Douthat relishes more in 2024--the prospect of an "exciting" constitutional crisis with Trump or Democrats pulling it out so Republicans can gum up their governance.
Be careful what you pray for, Ross. Remember, Trump won't fail the next time, in destroying democracy. He's been quietly installing loyalists in every swing state election aparatus. And would you truly be happy watching Republicans obstruct federal initiatives?
I'm surprised you haven't mentioned how so many international think tanks now rank the US as a failing democracy---unless that explaiins why you wrote what you did.
@ChristineMcM
I, too, was shocked to read, in Douthat's opinion, that "there would be some exciting constitutional-crisis possibilities in the aftermath" of Trump being returned to the presidency.
Undoubtedly he would find it easier to whip up columns to entertain the masses if that came to pass. Pure conjecture but I imagined the prospect had him furiously rubbing his hands and licking his lips.
Democracy in flames, of course, grabs readers' attention far more than democracy putting out a trumpster fire ever would.
The garbage scow that's Fox News
(Nov. 22, 2021)
So Goldberg and Hayes stayed on at Fox News as long they did because they thought the network would “right the ship.”
How delusional. The garbage scow that is Fox News has shown itself to be depressingly buoyant and in no danger of capsizing, despite delivering ever greater loads of trash to its viewers.
Having two crew members whose duties had been pared back now jump ship means little; only a mutiny will effect real change at the network without a conscience.
(Nov. 22, 2021)
So Goldberg and Hayes stayed on at Fox News as long they did because they thought the network would “right the ship.”
How delusional. The garbage scow that is Fox News has shown itself to be depressingly buoyant and in no danger of capsizing, despite delivering ever greater loads of trash to its viewers.
Having two crew members whose duties had been pared back now jump ship means little; only a mutiny will effect real change at the network without a conscience.
Building bridges in an ideal world
(Nov. 22, 2021)
Does the infrastructure bill include building bridges between the two parties? In an ideal world, the two sides would meet in the middle approaching from different directions. Which is not how it's done in the real world, and in politics, smacks of lunacy.
While the Democrats are trying to build back better, the Republicans are busy erecting an alternative reality. Their work is shoddy but they sure have a lot of admirers.
(Nov. 22, 2021)
Does the infrastructure bill include building bridges between the two parties? In an ideal world, the two sides would meet in the middle approaching from different directions. Which is not how it's done in the real world, and in politics, smacks of lunacy.
While the Democrats are trying to build back better, the Republicans are busy erecting an alternative reality. Their work is shoddy but they sure have a lot of admirers.
Irrationalists vs rationalists
(Nov. 20, 2021)
Why are the two camps called conspiracist and reformist?
Wouldn't it be more accurate to label them irrationalist and rationalist?
Reformist for many connotes someone who employs questionable means to bring about change and is intolerant of contrary views.
A rationalist, on the other hand, will follow the facts wherever they lead, to arrive at a better understanding of how the world works and what can be done to improve upon it.
Conspiracy theorists are not beholden to facts and will employ speculation and outright falsehoods where necessary to create a narrative that resembles the truth in a curved mirror sort of way.
What it purports to reveal is so distorted, however, that it cannot be taken seriously as an accurate representation.
The only good the irrationalist camp has ever achieved is to dispel the notion once and for all that there is such a thing as common sense.
Sonny For Life, South Lancaster, Ontario Canada
Without the support of the Media and the further support of Big Tech, the Democratic Party would be lost.
The Media curate the news. Anything bad about the Republicans is covered extensively. Anything bad about the Democrats is buried.
The Democratic Party has been sustained by this unfair and distorted coverage. At the top of the list: the NY Times.
The coverage of the Administration of former President Trump was uniformly (almost to the point of obsession) bad. With a rotating stable of opinion journalists, it should have been possible to hire at least one who favored the policies of the former Administration.
Each morning for 4 years, in the Beijing offices of the CCP propaganda ministry, the staff must have eagerly looked forward to the most recent NY Times. And they would have said to themselves "Our work is done - we can go fishing for the day. Nothing left for us to do in terms of attacking US leadership."
@Sonny For Life
You do realize the media is not monolithic, that Trump and Republicans have their propagandists on TV, radio and the internet, as well as in newspapers.
The influence they exert is far from small, and guess what, they feed their viewers, listeners and readers a steady diet of attack pieces on Biden and the Democrats.
But their obsession to do so is much more dangerous because there is widespread evidence that it gives rise to violent impulses.
You'd have more credibility if you had demonstrated an independent spirit and condemned the right-wing media for its many failings, using the same language you employed to denounce the Times.
I should be thankful, I suppose, the newspaper gave you the means to offer your thoughts to an international audience. Your comments are another reminder of just how much of an uphill battle the United States faces in trying to make a divided country whole again.
The suspicion, however, is that a growing number of Americans no longer share that goal if it means sharing power.
(Nov. 20, 2021)
Why are the two camps called conspiracist and reformist?
Wouldn't it be more accurate to label them irrationalist and rationalist?
Reformist for many connotes someone who employs questionable means to bring about change and is intolerant of contrary views.
A rationalist, on the other hand, will follow the facts wherever they lead, to arrive at a better understanding of how the world works and what can be done to improve upon it.
Conspiracy theorists are not beholden to facts and will employ speculation and outright falsehoods where necessary to create a narrative that resembles the truth in a curved mirror sort of way.
What it purports to reveal is so distorted, however, that it cannot be taken seriously as an accurate representation.
The only good the irrationalist camp has ever achieved is to dispel the notion once and for all that there is such a thing as common sense.
Sonny For Life, South Lancaster, Ontario Canada
Without the support of the Media and the further support of Big Tech, the Democratic Party would be lost.
The Media curate the news. Anything bad about the Republicans is covered extensively. Anything bad about the Democrats is buried.
The Democratic Party has been sustained by this unfair and distorted coverage. At the top of the list: the NY Times.
The coverage of the Administration of former President Trump was uniformly (almost to the point of obsession) bad. With a rotating stable of opinion journalists, it should have been possible to hire at least one who favored the policies of the former Administration.
Each morning for 4 years, in the Beijing offices of the CCP propaganda ministry, the staff must have eagerly looked forward to the most recent NY Times. And they would have said to themselves "Our work is done - we can go fishing for the day. Nothing left for us to do in terms of attacking US leadership."
@Sonny For Life
You do realize the media is not monolithic, that Trump and Republicans have their propagandists on TV, radio and the internet, as well as in newspapers.
The influence they exert is far from small, and guess what, they feed their viewers, listeners and readers a steady diet of attack pieces on Biden and the Democrats.
But their obsession to do so is much more dangerous because there is widespread evidence that it gives rise to violent impulses.
You'd have more credibility if you had demonstrated an independent spirit and condemned the right-wing media for its many failings, using the same language you employed to denounce the Times.
I should be thankful, I suppose, the newspaper gave you the means to offer your thoughts to an international audience. Your comments are another reminder of just how much of an uphill battle the United States faces in trying to make a divided country whole again.
The suspicion, however, is that a growing number of Americans no longer share that goal if it means sharing power.
Last hope is climate change
(Nov. 19, 2021)
The only thing that might save Americans from the scheming idiots who have seized control of the GOP is climate change.
Conditions will get so bad that even Republicans will be forced to do what's best for the country as a whole, and not remain fixated on grabbing power all for themselves.
Climate change is a growing crisis that warrants their attention now but they've got bigger fish to fry -- Democrats -- before the country gets fried. When not flooded or frozen.
(Nov. 19, 2021)
The only thing that might save Americans from the scheming idiots who have seized control of the GOP is climate change.
Conditions will get so bad that even Republicans will be forced to do what's best for the country as a whole, and not remain fixated on grabbing power all for themselves.
Climate change is a growing crisis that warrants their attention now but they've got bigger fish to fry -- Democrats -- before the country gets fried. When not flooded or frozen.
Guns should be goofy-looking
(Nov. 18, 2021)
Guns shouldn't be cool.
They should be goofy-looking and neon pink -- and have tassels. Anything but cool so Americans will think twice about buying one if it makes them look silly.
Those who truly think they need a weapon for their self-protection won't mind, it's function over form, right? And the people who don't like guns will appreciate being able to spot their owners from a good distance away.
And should they end up being anywhere near one of these Wild Westers, well, they can have a good chuckle over how ludicrous they appear. A good inaudible chuckle.
(Nov. 18, 2021)
Guns shouldn't be cool.
They should be goofy-looking and neon pink -- and have tassels. Anything but cool so Americans will think twice about buying one if it makes them look silly.
Those who truly think they need a weapon for their self-protection won't mind, it's function over form, right? And the people who don't like guns will appreciate being able to spot their owners from a good distance away.
And should they end up being anywhere near one of these Wild Westers, well, they can have a good chuckle over how ludicrous they appear. A good inaudible chuckle.
Selfish drivers and their rampage
(Nov. 17, 2021)
Lisa, NYC
Gee, as if I needed any more reason to hate on Suburban Assault Vehicles? The proliferation of these, and Jeeps, Dodge Rams, and all other forms of ridiculous large, purposefully threatening looking (extra large tires, high front ends, bull bars, tinted windows) vehicles, is revolting.
Here we are, in the climate mess that we are, and with increased pedestrian/cyclist deaths in NYC and other metro areas (which can be directly attributed to the higher front ends on these vehicles), but yet, entitled, selfish drivers continue to insist on their 'rights' to own such vehicles?
Yesterday I happened to be in Manhattan. I've not been there as much, since COVID, and while WFH. And I was struck, yet again, by all the vehicles. If you really pay attention...really study the vehicles and who is inside them, I'd say at least 80% of the (massive) vehicles contained just one passenger (the driver). Course, all of these drivers will have a litany of explanations for why they require their own personal form of 2-ton transport available to them 24/7, and to drive within a densely-populated city.
It is beyond perverted, how 'normalized' this has become. But just as we did with smoking (which was once normalized, and at the expense of everybody else who did Not smoke), so too must we reframe the idea of people's 'rights' to operate such deadly vehicles, taking over far too much public space, creating noise/air pollution, destroying the planet and killing pedestrians/cyclists.
@Lisa
Ever mindful of the needs of the market they serve, automakers will turn SUVs into amphibious vehicles able to navigate flooded areas their manufacturers help create by contributing to climate change.
They'll also be fully flame retardant to handle forest fires in their travels.
(Nov. 17, 2021)
Lisa, NYC
Gee, as if I needed any more reason to hate on Suburban Assault Vehicles? The proliferation of these, and Jeeps, Dodge Rams, and all other forms of ridiculous large, purposefully threatening looking (extra large tires, high front ends, bull bars, tinted windows) vehicles, is revolting.
Here we are, in the climate mess that we are, and with increased pedestrian/cyclist deaths in NYC and other metro areas (which can be directly attributed to the higher front ends on these vehicles), but yet, entitled, selfish drivers continue to insist on their 'rights' to own such vehicles?
Yesterday I happened to be in Manhattan. I've not been there as much, since COVID, and while WFH. And I was struck, yet again, by all the vehicles. If you really pay attention...really study the vehicles and who is inside them, I'd say at least 80% of the (massive) vehicles contained just one passenger (the driver). Course, all of these drivers will have a litany of explanations for why they require their own personal form of 2-ton transport available to them 24/7, and to drive within a densely-populated city.
It is beyond perverted, how 'normalized' this has become. But just as we did with smoking (which was once normalized, and at the expense of everybody else who did Not smoke), so too must we reframe the idea of people's 'rights' to operate such deadly vehicles, taking over far too much public space, creating noise/air pollution, destroying the planet and killing pedestrians/cyclists.
@Lisa
Ever mindful of the needs of the market they serve, automakers will turn SUVs into amphibious vehicles able to navigate flooded areas their manufacturers help create by contributing to climate change.
They'll also be fully flame retardant to handle forest fires in their travels.
A smart fella he ain't
(Nov. 15, 2021)
Smart Alec Jones isn't so smart, after all.
He took the em off empathetic and turned it into a career.
A career that has as its bottom line reaching the bottom no matter how many people you hurt along the way.
(Nov. 15, 2021)
Smart Alec Jones isn't so smart, after all.
He took the em off empathetic and turned it into a career.
A career that has as its bottom line reaching the bottom no matter how many people you hurt along the way.
Contagion threatens to destroy democracy
(Nov. 15, 2021)
My greatest fear is that the contagion of stupidity, prejudice, and lust for power that has overtaken a large part of American politics and threatens to destroy democracy in the United States will migrate across the border to Canada.
Those pernicious traits are to be found in every country but they are alarmingly growing in strength and number in a nation that many once saw as an exemplar of what can be accomplished when parties work together for the common good.
I suppose the civil exchange that takes place every Monday between Stephens and Collins, two people with differing points of view on many issues, offers hope that a dialogue of the same kind will eventually return on the national stage to stave off a chaotic and violent future.
Otherwise, Canada, with its own troubles, will live in fear that a similar fate awaits it. An unstable partner makes for a fraught relationship.
(Nov. 15, 2021)
My greatest fear is that the contagion of stupidity, prejudice, and lust for power that has overtaken a large part of American politics and threatens to destroy democracy in the United States will migrate across the border to Canada.
Those pernicious traits are to be found in every country but they are alarmingly growing in strength and number in a nation that many once saw as an exemplar of what can be accomplished when parties work together for the common good.
I suppose the civil exchange that takes place every Monday between Stephens and Collins, two people with differing points of view on many issues, offers hope that a dialogue of the same kind will eventually return on the national stage to stave off a chaotic and violent future.
Otherwise, Canada, with its own troubles, will live in fear that a similar fate awaits it. An unstable partner makes for a fraught relationship.
People whose numbers need reducing
(Nov. 11, 2021)
In the minds of the rich and the judges who serve their interests, America will never achieve a state close to perfection until labourers are replaced by machines who have no need of wages, pensions, benefits or rights.
Also on their list of people whose numbers need reducing are voters.
(Nov. 11, 2021)
In the minds of the rich and the judges who serve their interests, America will never achieve a state close to perfection until labourers are replaced by machines who have no need of wages, pensions, benefits or rights.
Also on their list of people whose numbers need reducing are voters.
Should we be worried?
(Nov. 10, 2021)
Being naturally anxious about what advances in technology could mean to society beyond productivity gains and lifestyle enhancements, I'm curious, will this latest extraordinary step forward in computer chip capabilities ultimately also prove of great value to those in the military, and authoritarian governments intent on surveilling its citizens 24/7?
(Nov. 10, 2021)
Being naturally anxious about what advances in technology could mean to society beyond productivity gains and lifestyle enhancements, I'm curious, will this latest extraordinary step forward in computer chip capabilities ultimately also prove of great value to those in the military, and authoritarian governments intent on surveilling its citizens 24/7?
Here I am!
(Nov. 8, 2021)
I had a cellphone strictly for emergencies but as I never used it I gave it up.
I figure if the government wants to know my whereabouts it can use the nano tracking system that came free with the vaccine.
(Nov. 8, 2021)
I had a cellphone strictly for emergencies but as I never used it I gave it up.
I figure if the government wants to know my whereabouts it can use the nano tracking system that came free with the vaccine.
A critical theory all their own
(Nov. 8, 2021)
Seeing how high the stakes are in next year's mid-terms, the Democrats had better develop a critical theory of their own that will help them win that election race. Surely they learned something from the 'Defund the Police' debacle. The Democrats need to come up with slogans (for sensible policies that resonate with voters) that prove every bit as persuasive as any the Republicans devise.
They should also have a strategy in place to deal with lies and misinformation about their platform that the GOP will surely propagate. Being reactive simply means being on the defensive. Never a good position. Democrats need to set the agenda.
It would help that those in the party elected to office or re-elected will have the same mindset as the president's, such that enough party members will be rowing in the same direction to prevent one or two from being a drag on the party's fortunes.
If they differ in any substantive way from what Biden has proposed, they need to make that clear during the primaries, so local Democrats will know where they stand, and can vote accordingly for the candidate they prefer to represent the party.
(Nov. 8, 2021)
Seeing how high the stakes are in next year's mid-terms, the Democrats had better develop a critical theory of their own that will help them win that election race. Surely they learned something from the 'Defund the Police' debacle. The Democrats need to come up with slogans (for sensible policies that resonate with voters) that prove every bit as persuasive as any the Republicans devise.
They should also have a strategy in place to deal with lies and misinformation about their platform that the GOP will surely propagate. Being reactive simply means being on the defensive. Never a good position. Democrats need to set the agenda.
It would help that those in the party elected to office or re-elected will have the same mindset as the president's, such that enough party members will be rowing in the same direction to prevent one or two from being a drag on the party's fortunes.
If they differ in any substantive way from what Biden has proposed, they need to make that clear during the primaries, so local Democrats will know where they stand, and can vote accordingly for the candidate they prefer to represent the party.
How to court the redneck vote
(Nov. 4, 2021)
The Dems might want to start courting the redneck vote by adopting 'Git 'Er Done' as their slogan and then proceed to live up to it by, you know, actually getting something done.
At this point, a $1 trillion infrastructure bill and a $1 trillion social spending plan, however modest in the eyes of progressives, might be enough to show here's a government that's acting in the best interests of citizens -- and is prepared to do so much more if more Democrats are elected to Congress next year.
It would be particularly sweet if enough of them were elected of like mind that Manchin and Sinema would no longer hold sway over the party's fortunes and the country's future.
(Nov. 4, 2021)
The Dems might want to start courting the redneck vote by adopting 'Git 'Er Done' as their slogan and then proceed to live up to it by, you know, actually getting something done.
At this point, a $1 trillion infrastructure bill and a $1 trillion social spending plan, however modest in the eyes of progressives, might be enough to show here's a government that's acting in the best interests of citizens -- and is prepared to do so much more if more Democrats are elected to Congress next year.
It would be particularly sweet if enough of them were elected of like mind that Manchin and Sinema would no longer hold sway over the party's fortunes and the country's future.
Bamboozle me once ...
(Nov. 3, 2021)
"Middle-of-the-road voters — the kind who still decide elections in purplish places like Virginia — sense they’ve been bamboozled." I pray middle-of-the-road voters will still be able to sense when they're being bamboozled when the mid-term elections take place next year and the Trumpiest of GOP candidates ask for their support. At the same time the Democrats need to coalesce and not collapse in the coming weeks, or they're headed for a debacle.
(Nov. 3, 2021)
"Middle-of-the-road voters — the kind who still decide elections in purplish places like Virginia — sense they’ve been bamboozled." I pray middle-of-the-road voters will still be able to sense when they're being bamboozled when the mid-term elections take place next year and the Trumpiest of GOP candidates ask for their support. At the same time the Democrats need to coalesce and not collapse in the coming weeks, or they're headed for a debacle.
Arsonists at work
(Oct. 29, 2021)
When Republicans yell fire in a crowded theatre when there isn't any, they're not uttering a falsehood, they're brazenly asserting intent.
They're determined to burn down the building and erect a new one that only they are fit to occupy.
(Oct. 29, 2021)
When Republicans yell fire in a crowded theatre when there isn't any, they're not uttering a falsehood, they're brazenly asserting intent.
They're determined to burn down the building and erect a new one that only they are fit to occupy.
Unleash the tax collectors!
(Oct. 25, 2021)
One can't help but think that the system is so complex and so entwined with policies that work to the advantage of the ultra-rich that it can never be reformed to make it truly fair, certainly not in a piecemeal fashion.
Surely, the urgency of the problem would be better addressed in the short term by beefing up the IRS to collect billions of dollars in taxes that aren't being paid.
That there is opposition to this notion tells you something about where such sympathies lie, and it's not with the good of the country.
Lance Iamnot, The Shire
Bezos paid 1% of his income, or $973 million in taxes. I just pulled my 2020 1040 and realized that I paid a lot more than Bezos' 1%, but I also paid a lot less that $973 million in taxes, in fact, almost $973 million less.
@Lance Iamnot
And if Bezos were made to pay 2% of his income, how much would he 'suffer' for it, and how much would the country be helped by the infusion of funds?
(Oct. 25, 2021)
One can't help but think that the system is so complex and so entwined with policies that work to the advantage of the ultra-rich that it can never be reformed to make it truly fair, certainly not in a piecemeal fashion.
Surely, the urgency of the problem would be better addressed in the short term by beefing up the IRS to collect billions of dollars in taxes that aren't being paid.
That there is opposition to this notion tells you something about where such sympathies lie, and it's not with the good of the country.
Lance Iamnot, The Shire
Bezos paid 1% of his income, or $973 million in taxes. I just pulled my 2020 1040 and realized that I paid a lot more than Bezos' 1%, but I also paid a lot less that $973 million in taxes, in fact, almost $973 million less.
@Lance Iamnot
And if Bezos were made to pay 2% of his income, how much would he 'suffer' for it, and how much would the country be helped by the infusion of funds?
Change is in the wind
(Oct. 25, 2021)
Climate change is changing the landscape of America. An event of similar magnitude is happening to the country's political landscape, with the winds of change being propelled by a blowhard. Failure to confront both with equal vigor will leave the country in ruins.
(Oct. 25, 2021)
Climate change is changing the landscape of America. An event of similar magnitude is happening to the country's political landscape, with the winds of change being propelled by a blowhard. Failure to confront both with equal vigor will leave the country in ruins.
Profiles in courage needed
(Oct. 23, 2021)
It would help calm one's fears about the future if the Times were to profile a prominent individual in recent times who stood up to purveyors of untruths and actually changed the trajectory of history with their brave stance. Yes, there are people who, in their testimony in the impeachment trials, for example, showed courage and integrity in bringing to light the evil machinations of Trump to hold onto power and continue his corrupt ways. But still the immense threat he poses to democracy remains as strong as ever and shows no design of diminishing. I'm looking for an example of where one person was responsible for good triumphing over evil in a large way to give strength to all those fighting to preserve what's best about America in the face of mounting odds. Colin Powell had all the qualities to take on such a role but in the end failed. What hope can there be then that another person so gifted will emerge and prevail where he couldn't?
(Oct. 23, 2021)
It would help calm one's fears about the future if the Times were to profile a prominent individual in recent times who stood up to purveyors of untruths and actually changed the trajectory of history with their brave stance. Yes, there are people who, in their testimony in the impeachment trials, for example, showed courage and integrity in bringing to light the evil machinations of Trump to hold onto power and continue his corrupt ways. But still the immense threat he poses to democracy remains as strong as ever and shows no design of diminishing. I'm looking for an example of where one person was responsible for good triumphing over evil in a large way to give strength to all those fighting to preserve what's best about America in the face of mounting odds. Colin Powell had all the qualities to take on such a role but in the end failed. What hope can there be then that another person so gifted will emerge and prevail where he couldn't?
Change the threshold
(Oct. 17, 2021)
Why not make the threshold for passing legislation 51 senators representing 60 percent of the votes cast for all 100 seats.
I ask this as an observer and not as one who's done the math to help the Democrats -- who could use all the help they can get, now and in the future.
(Oct. 17, 2021)
Why not make the threshold for passing legislation 51 senators representing 60 percent of the votes cast for all 100 seats.
I ask this as an observer and not as one who's done the math to help the Democrats -- who could use all the help they can get, now and in the future.
Breakdown of jobs, please
(Oct. 10, 2021)
I'd be curious to know the breakdown of the 194,000 new jobs just reported: How many were created in states with a high vaccination rate, and how many were in states with a low vaccination rate? Could those numbers be seen as a positive for Biden?
Whatever bills ultimately get passed, it needs to happen quickly so the Biden administration will be able to point to the positive impacts they are having on the economy and society before the mid-terms are held -- even if they won't be as large as he had hoped.
I'm so sick of reading about the filibuster being an impediment to legislation getting passed. Nothing good gets done because of it. Keeping it alive is what's strangling democracy in America.
(Oct. 10, 2021)
I'd be curious to know the breakdown of the 194,000 new jobs just reported: How many were created in states with a high vaccination rate, and how many were in states with a low vaccination rate? Could those numbers be seen as a positive for Biden?
Whatever bills ultimately get passed, it needs to happen quickly so the Biden administration will be able to point to the positive impacts they are having on the economy and society before the mid-terms are held -- even if they won't be as large as he had hoped.
I'm so sick of reading about the filibuster being an impediment to legislation getting passed. Nothing good gets done because of it. Keeping it alive is what's strangling democracy in America.
Brutally frank
(Oct. 6, 2021)
“I mean, I’m not going to be a complete asshole about it" -- Lindsey Graham.
Does that make the senator a moderate Republican?
(Oct. 6, 2021)
“I mean, I’m not going to be a complete asshole about it" -- Lindsey Graham.
Does that make the senator a moderate Republican?
Polygraphs for pols
(Oct. 6, 2021)
Everyone would agree that politicians believe it necessary to lie to obtain and hold office. Trying to sift fact from fiction is a herculean task for the average person who's inundated with fabrications by elected officials.
It would help immensely in any endeavour to get at the truth if presidents and members of Congress were required to be hooked up to the lie detector when addressing the nation, delivering a speech, or holding a press conference.
It would also help if the polgraph -- pol being short for politician -- were calibrated to show how egregious is the lie being said, ranging from fib to whopper to impeachable.
Alternatively, those politicians who profess to be God-fearing could make their statements while holding the Bible in their right hand at all times.
Should it come to pass they were found out to have told falsehoods, the churches to which they belong, rather than leave it to God to punish them for their wayward ways, would excommunicate them. (Regrettably, this might be a minor inconvenience more than a major deterrent for some offenders who have no sense of shame, and see the Bible more as a prop than a moral guide.)
(Oct. 6, 2021)
Everyone would agree that politicians believe it necessary to lie to obtain and hold office. Trying to sift fact from fiction is a herculean task for the average person who's inundated with fabrications by elected officials.
It would help immensely in any endeavour to get at the truth if presidents and members of Congress were required to be hooked up to the lie detector when addressing the nation, delivering a speech, or holding a press conference.
It would also help if the polgraph -- pol being short for politician -- were calibrated to show how egregious is the lie being said, ranging from fib to whopper to impeachable.
Alternatively, those politicians who profess to be God-fearing could make their statements while holding the Bible in their right hand at all times.
Should it come to pass they were found out to have told falsehoods, the churches to which they belong, rather than leave it to God to punish them for their wayward ways, would excommunicate them. (Regrettably, this might be a minor inconvenience more than a major deterrent for some offenders who have no sense of shame, and see the Bible more as a prop than a moral guide.)
Comparing presidents
(Oct. 6, 2021)
Ricardo,
Bret Stephens, don’t waste your time. The NYT readers response will always be “but Trump was worse”.
The left believed in the false false Russian collusion, pushed by Clinton with the complicity of the liberal press, while hiding under the rug Hunter’s emails
The left believed in the false false Russian collusion, pushed by Clinton with the complicity of the liberal press, while hiding under the rug Hunter’s emails.
I am firmly convinced that you have your column in this once prestigious newspaper just to pretend that the paper has a balanced editorial line. What a joke.
When 81 million people voted for one candidate, there was a reason they did so in greater numbers than for the guy he replaced.
Trump was bad, really bad, in so many ways, and it's against that standard, as low as it was, that his successor, understandably, will be measured, to see what progress is being made to restore the integrity and efficacy of the office.
That the two men should be compared in the performance of their duty makes perfect sense, unless your reading of history goes no further back than Jan. 6.
I wouldn't at all be surprised if you're keeping a tally of Biden's missteps. I would be shocked, however, if you had kept one of Trump's.
We'll leave it to historians who are honorable to argue which of the two presidents served their country better.
Judging by the recent past, it might well be that American voters in future will not choose their president by the promises he or she makes but which of the candidates isn't as likely to be as corrupt as the other.
(Oct. 6, 2021)
Ricardo,
Bret Stephens, don’t waste your time. The NYT readers response will always be “but Trump was worse”.
The left believed in the false false Russian collusion, pushed by Clinton with the complicity of the liberal press, while hiding under the rug Hunter’s emails
The left believed in the false false Russian collusion, pushed by Clinton with the complicity of the liberal press, while hiding under the rug Hunter’s emails.
I am firmly convinced that you have your column in this once prestigious newspaper just to pretend that the paper has a balanced editorial line. What a joke.
When 81 million people voted for one candidate, there was a reason they did so in greater numbers than for the guy he replaced.
Trump was bad, really bad, in so many ways, and it's against that standard, as low as it was, that his successor, understandably, will be measured, to see what progress is being made to restore the integrity and efficacy of the office.
That the two men should be compared in the performance of their duty makes perfect sense, unless your reading of history goes no further back than Jan. 6.
I wouldn't at all be surprised if you're keeping a tally of Biden's missteps. I would be shocked, however, if you had kept one of Trump's.
We'll leave it to historians who are honorable to argue which of the two presidents served their country better.
Judging by the recent past, it might well be that American voters in future will not choose their president by the promises he or she makes but which of the candidates isn't as likely to be as corrupt as the other.
On setting up the court
(Oct. 4, 2021)
My suggestion: Have the two parties each nominate five justices to the Supreme Court.
However, only the party that wins the presidency will have all five of its justices take part in making rulings; only four nominated by the losing side will participate in rendering decisions.
The fifth justice, the newest one, will not have a vote but will join in debates and assist in deliberations as an advisor.
Also, terms should be limited to 20 years.
(Oct. 4, 2021)
My suggestion: Have the two parties each nominate five justices to the Supreme Court.
However, only the party that wins the presidency will have all five of its justices take part in making rulings; only four nominated by the losing side will participate in rendering decisions.
The fifth justice, the newest one, will not have a vote but will join in debates and assist in deliberations as an advisor.
Also, terms should be limited to 20 years.
Need some help with that wall?
(Oct. 4, 2021)
Why not have the people who gather at the border assist in building the wall? Pay them minimum wage and grant them American citizenship when the wall is completed. The mobile work camps would include shelter, food, and classes for the children.
If offering immigrants employment to ensure fewer of their compatriots make it into the country in future, the U.S. could welcome them with open arms -- not firearms.
(Oct. 4, 2021)
Why not have the people who gather at the border assist in building the wall? Pay them minimum wage and grant them American citizenship when the wall is completed. The mobile work camps would include shelter, food, and classes for the children.
If offering immigrants employment to ensure fewer of their compatriots make it into the country in future, the U.S. could welcome them with open arms -- not firearms.
Take a look at the net
(Oct. 1, 2021)
Okay, we can see where this is going: a Republican loss automatically triggers a vote recount/audit/investigation, and ultimately an overturning of the election results if they are politically incorrect.
Democrats are worrying too much about the ship of state's safety net when it's the ship's election rigging that warrants their immediate attention because if it isn't addressed, democracy will set sail for uncharted but dangerous waters.
(Oct. 1, 2021)
Okay, we can see where this is going: a Republican loss automatically triggers a vote recount/audit/investigation, and ultimately an overturning of the election results if they are politically incorrect.
Democrats are worrying too much about the ship of state's safety net when it's the ship's election rigging that warrants their immediate attention because if it isn't addressed, democracy will set sail for uncharted but dangerous waters.
Divide and succeed
(Oct. 1, 2021)
The Democrats should come together to pass both bills, even if the dollar amount is far less than what progressives would like. The party needs to show that it can govern, that it can get things done. Better a deal made in the best interests of the country than to come up empty-handed and once again demonstrate how dysfunctional Congress is.
The progressives shouldn't look upon this as a defeat but a stepping stone to a better America that wasn't there when the party gained control of the White House, Senate and House.
It also opens the door to future legislation being passed that builds upon the foundation they're laying down now.
It would certainly improve the party's prospects of keeping the House and Senate in Democrat hands next year if it can point to initiatives that strengthen the safety net and address infrastructure needs.
The quicker an understanding is reached that results in the bills being passed, in whatever form, the more time and energy Biden and his allies in Congress will be able to devote to protecting the right of citizens to vote in a fair and secure election.
This is where Democrats need to start focusing their attention if they are to preserve democracy in the face of an all-out assault by the GOP and extremists on the right.
A war on truth, science and government for all, not just the favoured, is being waged, and many battles will be fought on different fronts.
Not all need be decisive victories.
Democrats, bite the bullet. Pass the bills.
(Oct. 1, 2021)
The Democrats should come together to pass both bills, even if the dollar amount is far less than what progressives would like. The party needs to show that it can govern, that it can get things done. Better a deal made in the best interests of the country than to come up empty-handed and once again demonstrate how dysfunctional Congress is.
The progressives shouldn't look upon this as a defeat but a stepping stone to a better America that wasn't there when the party gained control of the White House, Senate and House.
It also opens the door to future legislation being passed that builds upon the foundation they're laying down now.
It would certainly improve the party's prospects of keeping the House and Senate in Democrat hands next year if it can point to initiatives that strengthen the safety net and address infrastructure needs.
The quicker an understanding is reached that results in the bills being passed, in whatever form, the more time and energy Biden and his allies in Congress will be able to devote to protecting the right of citizens to vote in a fair and secure election.
This is where Democrats need to start focusing their attention if they are to preserve democracy in the face of an all-out assault by the GOP and extremists on the right.
A war on truth, science and government for all, not just the favoured, is being waged, and many battles will be fought on different fronts.
Not all need be decisive victories.
Democrats, bite the bullet. Pass the bills.
A national treasure buried
(Sept. 30, 2021)
Al Franken is a national treasure that political correctness buried. It's time he was unearthed so he can once again take on, in the proper forum (the Senate), the GOP's creepy-crawlies. They've been out far too long from underneath their rock.
(Sept. 30, 2021)
Al Franken is a national treasure that political correctness buried. It's time he was unearthed so he can once again take on, in the proper forum (the Senate), the GOP's creepy-crawlies. They've been out far too long from underneath their rock.
Very sad to watch what's happening
(Sept. 29, 2021)
Democrats are using the reins of power they were given by voters to strangle themselves, while the coach hurdles toward the abyss.
It's very sad to watch and oh so disheartening.
When you have a party that is clueless versus a party that is heartless, the country ends up losing no matter what.
(Sept. 29, 2021)
Democrats are using the reins of power they were given by voters to strangle themselves, while the coach hurdles toward the abyss.
It's very sad to watch and oh so disheartening.
When you have a party that is clueless versus a party that is heartless, the country ends up losing no matter what.
Breaking news: Vaccines enhance virility
(Sept. 29, 2021)
Would it help the fight to end the pandemic if word got out that preliminary research showed COVID-10 vaccines enhanced virility and slowed down the aging process?
It doesn't seem that hard to convince a large segment of society to do something they otherwise would not if you frame it properly. Or better yet, improperly.
You can lead a fool to water, but you can’t make him drink -- unless you convince him it's a beverage frowned upon by the elites.
(Sept. 29, 2021)
Would it help the fight to end the pandemic if word got out that preliminary research showed COVID-10 vaccines enhanced virility and slowed down the aging process?
It doesn't seem that hard to convince a large segment of society to do something they otherwise would not if you frame it properly. Or better yet, improperly.
You can lead a fool to water, but you can’t make him drink -- unless you convince him it's a beverage frowned upon by the elites.
Definitely differences
(Sept. 27, 2021)
The United States is not a democracy. It is a republic. There is a difference.
And there are definitely differences between Democrats and Republicans but when in the same room confronted with challenges that threaten the nation they're the very definition of political dysfunction.
Rather than identify elected officials by their party affiliation we should call every one of them what they truly are: Defuncts -- politicians who no longer serve a useful purpose in the running of their country.
(Sept. 27, 2021)
The United States is not a democracy. It is a republic. There is a difference.
And there are definitely differences between Democrats and Republicans but when in the same room confronted with challenges that threaten the nation they're the very definition of political dysfunction.
Rather than identify elected officials by their party affiliation we should call every one of them what they truly are: Defuncts -- politicians who no longer serve a useful purpose in the running of their country.
Votes and bills
(Sept. 25, 2021)
The most effective voter suppression law imaginable would be one that requires voters to be sane.
Voters should be given a choice on the ballot between:
1. This election is rigged, and I refuse to participate in a huge fraud by voting.
2. This election is not rigged. Please accept my vote for
Candidate (Democrat) __
Candidate (Republican) __
I don't understand why, given the obstacles, the $3.5 trillion spending bill can't be divided into smaller bills, with each one focused on one area in particular. We're told the proposals are popular with most Americans. If the Republicans block each measure, as seems likely, the Democrats will have an easier time pointing out the GOP's villainy in rejecting a suite of initiatives that would substantially improve the lives of citizens.
Voters would not be unanimous in finding every bill to their liking but whatever number they wanted passed that didn't become law would reflect poorly on the GOP and do harm to the party's bid to re-take the House and Senate.
The race is on: Which inexorable force will bring about America's ruin first, climate change or GOP politics?
My money's on the Republicans.
(Sept. 25, 2021)
The most effective voter suppression law imaginable would be one that requires voters to be sane.
Voters should be given a choice on the ballot between:
1. This election is rigged, and I refuse to participate in a huge fraud by voting.
2. This election is not rigged. Please accept my vote for
Candidate (Democrat) __
Candidate (Republican) __
I don't understand why, given the obstacles, the $3.5 trillion spending bill can't be divided into smaller bills, with each one focused on one area in particular. We're told the proposals are popular with most Americans. If the Republicans block each measure, as seems likely, the Democrats will have an easier time pointing out the GOP's villainy in rejecting a suite of initiatives that would substantially improve the lives of citizens.
Voters would not be unanimous in finding every bill to their liking but whatever number they wanted passed that didn't become law would reflect poorly on the GOP and do harm to the party's bid to re-take the House and Senate.
The race is on: Which inexorable force will bring about America's ruin first, climate change or GOP politics?
My money's on the Republicans.
Let's hear it for Canada
(Sept. 23, 2021)
One thing about living in a country, Canada, with multiple parties: It often results in a minority government, forcing the party in power to work with its rivals (for at least two years anyways).
In America, it's the do-nothing Republicans whose sole mission is to obstruct vs the can't-do-anything Democrats who self-destruct.
(Sept. 23, 2021)
One thing about living in a country, Canada, with multiple parties: It often results in a minority government, forcing the party in power to work with its rivals (for at least two years anyways).
In America, it's the do-nothing Republicans whose sole mission is to obstruct vs the can't-do-anything Democrats who self-destruct.
Look who's voting
(Sept. 20, 2021)
Ideas for editorial cartoons:
Coronavirus entering voting booth
Left panel: Trudeau being pelted with stones by mob
Right panel: O'Toole being pelted with marshmallows by conservative media
News announcer: “The votes have been tallied and it's clear a majority of Canadians are fine with a minority government. [Pause] Which I could have told you two months ago for six hundred bucks, not six hundred million.”
[angry people waving signs denouncing Trudeau, O'Toole, eg, 'Trudeau's a joke – but nobody's laughing', 'O'Toole's a tool']
People's Party of Canada: Canada's crabbygrassroots movement
[Frantic voice yelling from speaker in fire hall: 'This is the UN! Code Red! Code Red! Climate change approaching dangerous levels!'
Sleepy-eyed firefighters, with name tags that read U.S., China, Brazil, Russia, India, trudge toward pole, yawning]
News announcer: “The minority government announced today that it will defray the cost of the next election by allowing non-political advertising on ballots and selling naming rights to polling stations.”
(Sept. 20, 2021)
Ideas for editorial cartoons:
Coronavirus entering voting booth
Left panel: Trudeau being pelted with stones by mob
Right panel: O'Toole being pelted with marshmallows by conservative media
News announcer: “The votes have been tallied and it's clear a majority of Canadians are fine with a minority government. [Pause] Which I could have told you two months ago for six hundred bucks, not six hundred million.”
[angry people waving signs denouncing Trudeau, O'Toole, eg, 'Trudeau's a joke – but nobody's laughing', 'O'Toole's a tool']
People's Party of Canada: Canada's crabbygrassroots movement
[Frantic voice yelling from speaker in fire hall: 'This is the UN! Code Red! Code Red! Climate change approaching dangerous levels!'
Sleepy-eyed firefighters, with name tags that read U.S., China, Brazil, Russia, India, trudge toward pole, yawning]
News announcer: “The minority government announced today that it will defray the cost of the next election by allowing non-political advertising on ballots and selling naming rights to polling stations.”
No need to travel for this war
(Sept. 13, 2021)
Without a war overseas to wage, for the moment, will the military complex offer up its services to fight terrorism at home? The profits won't be as large but the money will remain stateside, and the efforts to suppress unrest will accelerate the transition to a fully evolved surveillance society.
(Sept. 13, 2021)
Without a war overseas to wage, for the moment, will the military complex offer up its services to fight terrorism at home? The profits won't be as large but the money will remain stateside, and the efforts to suppress unrest will accelerate the transition to a fully evolved surveillance society.
Should have spoken up sooner
(Sept. 10, 2021)
Biden was right to act as he has but it might have been better for him and America had he said weeks ago: "Okay, people, the ones who say they have the right to decide for themselves whether or not to get vaccinated, I'll give you a month to show your thinking is not hurting the country. If in that time the number of COVID cases go up, hospitalizations increase, ICUs are overwhelmed, and deaths continue to climb, I will have ample evidence, as if I need more, that what you're doing is wrong and that I have every right as your president to mandate vaccinations wherever I can."
"Your lack of respect for your fellow Americans is putting their health at risk and their lives in danger. If in 30 days the pandemic shows no signs of abating, I will hold the resisters responsible for allowing it to continue and to add to the death toll. People's lives cut short or made difficult by the virus will entirely be your doing, not mine, not when this administration has done its best to ensure that every adult and youth who is eligible gets vaccinated."
"Let me be clear: If the situation doesn't improve you will leave me no choice but to take your choice away. We can't stand by and allow your bad decisions to result in bad consequences for innocent people." "You have a duty as a citizen to behave responsibly, and a moral obligation as a human being to do no harm to another. It needn't be that difficult to do the right thing."
(Sept. 10, 2021)
Biden was right to act as he has but it might have been better for him and America had he said weeks ago: "Okay, people, the ones who say they have the right to decide for themselves whether or not to get vaccinated, I'll give you a month to show your thinking is not hurting the country. If in that time the number of COVID cases go up, hospitalizations increase, ICUs are overwhelmed, and deaths continue to climb, I will have ample evidence, as if I need more, that what you're doing is wrong and that I have every right as your president to mandate vaccinations wherever I can."
"Your lack of respect for your fellow Americans is putting their health at risk and their lives in danger. If in 30 days the pandemic shows no signs of abating, I will hold the resisters responsible for allowing it to continue and to add to the death toll. People's lives cut short or made difficult by the virus will entirely be your doing, not mine, not when this administration has done its best to ensure that every adult and youth who is eligible gets vaccinated."
"Let me be clear: If the situation doesn't improve you will leave me no choice but to take your choice away. We can't stand by and allow your bad decisions to result in bad consequences for innocent people." "You have a duty as a citizen to behave responsibly, and a moral obligation as a human being to do no harm to another. It needn't be that difficult to do the right thing."
Way to go, Texas!
(Sept. 9, 2021)
The silver lining in all this is that Texas will show the country the way to eliminate rape. The governor didn't provide details on how this is to be accomplished but the fact officers of the law -- and vigilantes? -- in Texas will be able to identify and apprehend men before they commit rape is truly revolutionary. I'm sure murder rates and robberies will cease to be a problem fpr the same reason as well. Presumably, Texas will use the money it saves on enforcement to adapt to climate change. Not.
(Sept. 9, 2021)
The silver lining in all this is that Texas will show the country the way to eliminate rape. The governor didn't provide details on how this is to be accomplished but the fact officers of the law -- and vigilantes? -- in Texas will be able to identify and apprehend men before they commit rape is truly revolutionary. I'm sure murder rates and robberies will cease to be a problem fpr the same reason as well. Presumably, Texas will use the money it saves on enforcement to adapt to climate change. Not.
Right to be harmed?
(Sept. 6, 2021)
"If Texas can authorize vigilante justice when it comes to abortion, then a blue state could conceivably do likewise with, say, gun rights."
Yeah, right ... a gun control vigilante is gonna bring the hammer down on an assault weapon owner who's defying the law. Well, I suppose he could try it once.
(Sept. 6, 2021)
"If Texas can authorize vigilante justice when it comes to abortion, then a blue state could conceivably do likewise with, say, gun rights."
Yeah, right ... a gun control vigilante is gonna bring the hammer down on an assault weapon owner who's defying the law. Well, I suppose he could try it once.
Fingers crossed
(Sept. 5, 2021)
The United States is in a death spiral, which it seems powerless to escape at this juncture, with the innumerable forces responsible for its precipitous decline gathering in strength.
Unfortunately, if this comes to pass, it will drag the rest of the world into the abyss along with it, because of the immense influence America wields in shaping events on a global scale.
Without its leadership, a void will be created that opens the way for chaos.
But if it is to avoid the fate that lies before it, the U.S. desperately needs a respite from being the world's cop and standard-bearer of democracy in order to focus on healing itself.
It's a mammoth task but, hopefully, enough of its citizens will come to their senses in short order and reverse the unsettling trends that are driving it to ruin.
A good number of nations have their fingers crossed the U.S. will be successful because as it goes so goes much of the world, and, ultimately, humankind.
(Sept. 5, 2021)
The United States is in a death spiral, which it seems powerless to escape at this juncture, with the innumerable forces responsible for its precipitous decline gathering in strength.
Unfortunately, if this comes to pass, it will drag the rest of the world into the abyss along with it, because of the immense influence America wields in shaping events on a global scale.
Without its leadership, a void will be created that opens the way for chaos.
But if it is to avoid the fate that lies before it, the U.S. desperately needs a respite from being the world's cop and standard-bearer of democracy in order to focus on healing itself.
It's a mammoth task but, hopefully, enough of its citizens will come to their senses in short order and reverse the unsettling trends that are driving it to ruin.
A good number of nations have their fingers crossed the U.S. will be successful because as it goes so goes much of the world, and, ultimately, humankind.
It's a thought ...
(Sept. 2, 2021)
Trump wanted to build a wall to keep out people.
Should Biden build a dike to keep out Mother Nature?
(Sept. 2, 2021)
Trump wanted to build a wall to keep out people.
Should Biden build a dike to keep out Mother Nature?
Well on their way
(Sept. 1, 2021)
It would be tempting to tell the lunatic lawmakers in Texas to go to hell but it appears they're already well on their way.
And taking the state along with them.
(Sept. 1, 2021)
It would be tempting to tell the lunatic lawmakers in Texas to go to hell but it appears they're already well on their way.
And taking the state along with them.
The ultimate vaccine
(Aug. 31, 2021)
A vaccine that halts the spread of hypocrisy and stupidity would go a long way to addressing the many ills that afflict America. Getting enough people to take it, however, would remain a problem.
Advertising the vaccine as a means to prevent the onset of liberal sympathies might do the trick.
(Aug. 31, 2021)
A vaccine that halts the spread of hypocrisy and stupidity would go a long way to addressing the many ills that afflict America. Getting enough people to take it, however, would remain a problem.
Advertising the vaccine as a means to prevent the onset of liberal sympathies might do the trick.
Why, Joe, why?
(Aug. 30, 2021)
If only Biden had stuck with Trump's evacuation strategy, the one where hundreds of thousands of Americans and their local allies are airlifted from Afghanistan with nary a casualty.
Biden needs to explain why he chose to deviate from his predecessor's 350-page (mostly photos) exit plan, which included settlement areas in the United States for Afghans Trump's team would have saved had he remained in power.
That such a document exists is open to question I grant you but it's the only interpretation that makes sense of Republicans' harsh criticism of Biden's handling of an indisputably messy withdrawal: Trump had to have a plan that was perfect and which his administration would have executed flawlessly.
If the military leaders who advised Biden foresaw a fiasco in the making and were unable to convince their commander in chief to reconsider the order he gave them, they should have resigned, rather than wait for a book deal post-retirement setting out the president's many faux pas.
(Aug. 30, 2021)
If only Biden had stuck with Trump's evacuation strategy, the one where hundreds of thousands of Americans and their local allies are airlifted from Afghanistan with nary a casualty.
Biden needs to explain why he chose to deviate from his predecessor's 350-page (mostly photos) exit plan, which included settlement areas in the United States for Afghans Trump's team would have saved had he remained in power.
That such a document exists is open to question I grant you but it's the only interpretation that makes sense of Republicans' harsh criticism of Biden's handling of an indisputably messy withdrawal: Trump had to have a plan that was perfect and which his administration would have executed flawlessly.
If the military leaders who advised Biden foresaw a fiasco in the making and were unable to convince their commander in chief to reconsider the order he gave them, they should have resigned, rather than wait for a book deal post-retirement setting out the president's many faux pas.
Getting to the bottom -- with bottom-feeders
(Aug. 28, 2021)
We can probably assume there will be dozens of Republicans clamoring they be part of any Congressional investigation to get to the bottom of how the tragedy of recent weeks has unfolded. Such is their love of country they will spare no effort to get at the truth so the United States can hold those responsible accountable and at the same time prepare to fend off future attacks by terrorists. Foreign terrorists; there is no other kind, right?
Naturally, their scrutiny will only extend as far back as Jan. 20. All before was peaches and cream, of course.
(Aug. 28, 2021)
We can probably assume there will be dozens of Republicans clamoring they be part of any Congressional investigation to get to the bottom of how the tragedy of recent weeks has unfolded. Such is their love of country they will spare no effort to get at the truth so the United States can hold those responsible accountable and at the same time prepare to fend off future attacks by terrorists. Foreign terrorists; there is no other kind, right?
Naturally, their scrutiny will only extend as far back as Jan. 20. All before was peaches and cream, of course.
Slaves to a twisted idiotology
(Aug. 28, 2021)
America's alt right extremists whose sympathies lie with the thugs now in control of Aghanistan should properly be identified as the Caliban -- “a savage and deformed slave in Shakespeare's The Tempest.”
They're slaves to a twisted idiotology in which they are brutes little concerned with the welfare of anyone who doesn't share their narrow points of view.
They believe their birthright – a country where they are the dominant force – is being stolen from them and they are coming together in ever-growing numbers to stir up a storm that, in wreaking havoc, will clear the way for them to re-assert their authority.
They think of themselves as being oppressed, when, in fact, it is they who are striving to become the oppressors.
(Aug. 28, 2021)
America's alt right extremists whose sympathies lie with the thugs now in control of Aghanistan should properly be identified as the Caliban -- “a savage and deformed slave in Shakespeare's The Tempest.”
They're slaves to a twisted idiotology in which they are brutes little concerned with the welfare of anyone who doesn't share their narrow points of view.
They believe their birthright – a country where they are the dominant force – is being stolen from them and they are coming together in ever-growing numbers to stir up a storm that, in wreaking havoc, will clear the way for them to re-assert their authority.
They think of themselves as being oppressed, when, in fact, it is they who are striving to become the oppressors.
Grifters and kooks, oh my!
(Aug. 24, 2021)
Calling Cyber Ninjas clowns, grifters and kooks won't bother them any but they are keen all the hard work they put into the audit be described as de-voted.
(Aug. 24, 2021)
Calling Cyber Ninjas clowns, grifters and kooks won't bother them any but they are keen all the hard work they put into the audit be described as de-voted.
Plenty of blame to go around
(Aug. 23, 2021)
Does a chaotic departure equate to a total disaster?
It's too early to make that categorical judgment. Let's wait a month to see what the final numbers are in terms of evacuees and casualties.
There will be reasonable arguments to make that a difficult situation could have been handled better but to what degree, given the pressing threat.
There is plenty of blame to go around for America's frantic withdrawal from Afghanistan. It shouldn't all fall on Biden's shoulders.
There is no single escapegoat.
(Aug. 23, 2021)
Does a chaotic departure equate to a total disaster?
It's too early to make that categorical judgment. Let's wait a month to see what the final numbers are in terms of evacuees and casualties.
There will be reasonable arguments to make that a difficult situation could have been handled better but to what degree, given the pressing threat.
There is plenty of blame to go around for America's frantic withdrawal from Afghanistan. It shouldn't all fall on Biden's shoulders.
There is no single escapegoat.
In event of defeat, do this
(Aug. 23, 2021)
The first order of business the next time the United States decides to engage a foe on its soil would be to make plans for a safe and expeditious withdrawal of troops, civilians and local allies in anticipation that it eventually will lose the war.
In preparing for a contingency that most assuredly will occur, the U.S would be wise to seek the counsel of the same experts who are highly critical of the Biden administration's current efforts. In pinpointing its many failures by their count, they have demonstrated a superior knowledge of what it takes to execute an exit with minimal loss of life and the secure extrication of Americans along with all those who provided critical assistance and now wish to leave their native land for a better future elsewhere.
Knowing a brilliant plan is in place – how could it not be given the stellar minds that put it together? -- military leaders could then focus on the mission they've been given without being distracted by niggling concerns about a chaotic departure. They will recognize the only shame in retreat is one that's badly mishandled.
Perhaps medals might be awarded to commanders who remove their forces from battle in a way that does not bring dishonor to the country that they serve.
(Aug. 23, 2021)
The first order of business the next time the United States decides to engage a foe on its soil would be to make plans for a safe and expeditious withdrawal of troops, civilians and local allies in anticipation that it eventually will lose the war.
In preparing for a contingency that most assuredly will occur, the U.S would be wise to seek the counsel of the same experts who are highly critical of the Biden administration's current efforts. In pinpointing its many failures by their count, they have demonstrated a superior knowledge of what it takes to execute an exit with minimal loss of life and the secure extrication of Americans along with all those who provided critical assistance and now wish to leave their native land for a better future elsewhere.
Knowing a brilliant plan is in place – how could it not be given the stellar minds that put it together? -- military leaders could then focus on the mission they've been given without being distracted by niggling concerns about a chaotic departure. They will recognize the only shame in retreat is one that's badly mishandled.
Perhaps medals might be awarded to commanders who remove their forces from battle in a way that does not bring dishonor to the country that they serve.
Peace in our lifetime? Nah
(Aug. 22, 2021)
Peace in our lifetime or an Arms-freegeddon?
Never underestimate humankind's capacity for self-destruction, even when there are no explosives involved.
Cyberwarfare might reduce the number of casualties initially but it will not slake nations' thirst for power, and as they grow more adept at waging digital combat, those who fail to keep pace technologically with their rivals will feel compelled to resort to conventional means to defend themselves.
And the temptation will grow to take cyberwarfare to the extreme and seize control of another country's infrastructure to wreak havoc, such as poisoning water systems, igniting forest fires, and interfering with the ability of governments to maintain law and order.
(Aug. 22, 2021)
Peace in our lifetime or an Arms-freegeddon?
Never underestimate humankind's capacity for self-destruction, even when there are no explosives involved.
Cyberwarfare might reduce the number of casualties initially but it will not slake nations' thirst for power, and as they grow more adept at waging digital combat, those who fail to keep pace technologically with their rivals will feel compelled to resort to conventional means to defend themselves.
And the temptation will grow to take cyberwarfare to the extreme and seize control of another country's infrastructure to wreak havoc, such as poisoning water systems, igniting forest fires, and interfering with the ability of governments to maintain law and order.
What happened to evacuation plan?
(Aug. 21, 2021)
I don't understand. Trump's "surrender agreement" must have included an evacuation plan, you know, where for every Taliban prisoner released 10 Americans/Afghan allies are provided safe passage to the Kabul airport. America's greatest deal-maker wouldn't have wasted that bargaining chip, would he?
(Aug. 21, 2021)
I don't understand. Trump's "surrender agreement" must have included an evacuation plan, you know, where for every Taliban prisoner released 10 Americans/Afghan allies are provided safe passage to the Kabul airport. America's greatest deal-maker wouldn't have wasted that bargaining chip, would he?
A horrible thought
(Aug. 16, 2021)
Here's a horrible thought: THere IS a God and His will IS being done.
(Aug. 16, 2021)
Here's a horrible thought: THere IS a God and His will IS being done.
A war too long
(Aug. 16, 2021)
Biden was right to dissolve America's presence in Afghanistan. It had become a futile cause, in large part, because it was never clear what the cause had evolved into, and how it was to be best pursued.
American military and political expertise proved sadly lacking in meeting a challenge that has confounded others who have tried and failed to tame a savage country that poses a menace to stability in the region -- and, most assuredly, the world as well.
America's exit was mind-numbingly disgraceful, however, given that more planning should have gone into safe removal of American personnel and key Afghan allies, and their families.
This is the shame the United States will have to bear for years to come but it must not overshadow the lessons the country needs to learn from the fiasco so as not to suffer another. Biden can set that effort in motion on the right foot by acknowledging his administration, like his predecessors, miscalculated and is deserving of rebuke. By taking such responsibility Biden will demonstrate a depth of character not to be found in those who oppose him on the right.
Perhaps an independent commission, not tainted by partisan sympathies, could be charged with finding out how things went so wrong in Afghanistan and how the United States can reset its conduct of foreign affairs so military might is put to use less often.
It needs to prepare for a world where its power no longer holds sway but can still be effective if judiciously applied.
(Aug. 16, 2021)
Biden was right to dissolve America's presence in Afghanistan. It had become a futile cause, in large part, because it was never clear what the cause had evolved into, and how it was to be best pursued.
American military and political expertise proved sadly lacking in meeting a challenge that has confounded others who have tried and failed to tame a savage country that poses a menace to stability in the region -- and, most assuredly, the world as well.
America's exit was mind-numbingly disgraceful, however, given that more planning should have gone into safe removal of American personnel and key Afghan allies, and their families.
This is the shame the United States will have to bear for years to come but it must not overshadow the lessons the country needs to learn from the fiasco so as not to suffer another. Biden can set that effort in motion on the right foot by acknowledging his administration, like his predecessors, miscalculated and is deserving of rebuke. By taking such responsibility Biden will demonstrate a depth of character not to be found in those who oppose him on the right.
Perhaps an independent commission, not tainted by partisan sympathies, could be charged with finding out how things went so wrong in Afghanistan and how the United States can reset its conduct of foreign affairs so military might is put to use less often.
It needs to prepare for a world where its power no longer holds sway but can still be effective if judiciously applied.
Turning 60 a big deal?
(Aug. 14, 2021)
It's pretty bad when you have to throw your own birthday party. Sheesh. Besides, what's the big deal about turning 60? Now if Obama had been turning 90, sure, that's reason to celebrate and hold a big bash. The guest list would be a lot shorter, too. And chances are, the pandemic would be over by then.
(Aug. 14, 2021)
It's pretty bad when you have to throw your own birthday party. Sheesh. Besides, what's the big deal about turning 60? Now if Obama had been turning 90, sure, that's reason to celebrate and hold a big bash. The guest list would be a lot shorter, too. And chances are, the pandemic would be over by then.
Or be less handy
(Aug. 11, 2021)
All politicians should be required to wear chastity mittens when in public or the workplace.
(Aug. 11, 2021)
All politicians should be required to wear chastity mittens when in public or the workplace.
Lower the threshold
(Aug. 10, 2021)
Replace the filibuster with the requirement that for any proposed bill to become law, it must be supported by 51 per cent of elected officials who, combined, received 60 per cent of the votes cast for their office. Or 55 per cent of elected officials who, combined, received 55 per cent of the votes cast. Surely these two options for passing legislation would produce results that comfortably reflect majority support among Americans for the actions taken by those they chose to represent them.
(Aug. 10, 2021)
Replace the filibuster with the requirement that for any proposed bill to become law, it must be supported by 51 per cent of elected officials who, combined, received 60 per cent of the votes cast for their office. Or 55 per cent of elected officials who, combined, received 55 per cent of the votes cast. Surely these two options for passing legislation would produce results that comfortably reflect majority support among Americans for the actions taken by those they chose to represent them.
Touchy-feely-creepy
(Aug. 9, 2021)
Cuomo's undoing will be that his reach was matched by his grasp. He would have been better off to keep his hands to himself, along with his thoughts. Just another example of the difference in notions men and women have of what it means to be touchy-feely.
(Aug. 9, 2021)
Cuomo's undoing will be that his reach was matched by his grasp. He would have been better off to keep his hands to himself, along with his thoughts. Just another example of the difference in notions men and women have of what it means to be touchy-feely.
A place to call home
(Aug. 9, 2021)
People thrown out on the street should take to the street and descend on Washington to draw attention to their plight. Having hundreds of thousands set up camps in short order might even be enough to persuade a sufficient number of Republicans that urgent action is required to address in the short term the homelessness crisis, and the critical need for affordable housing in the long term.
An alternative destination for those masses of Americans without a roof over their head or walls to surround them would be to stake out claims on the home properties of House members and senators. Politicians having to make their way through the downtrodden every time they ventured out the door would come to realize just how big an issue it is that needs their immediate attention.
At the very least the trespassers could expect to be provided temporary shelter in local jails.
Unfortunately, the GOP would likely see this as a solution to the problem and support the building of prisons for domicile delinquents.
But if they eventually end up in halfway houses, they're that much closer to finding a place they can call home.
(Aug. 9, 2021)
People thrown out on the street should take to the street and descend on Washington to draw attention to their plight. Having hundreds of thousands set up camps in short order might even be enough to persuade a sufficient number of Republicans that urgent action is required to address in the short term the homelessness crisis, and the critical need for affordable housing in the long term.
An alternative destination for those masses of Americans without a roof over their head or walls to surround them would be to stake out claims on the home properties of House members and senators. Politicians having to make their way through the downtrodden every time they ventured out the door would come to realize just how big an issue it is that needs their immediate attention.
At the very least the trespassers could expect to be provided temporary shelter in local jails.
Unfortunately, the GOP would likely see this as a solution to the problem and support the building of prisons for domicile delinquents.
But if they eventually end up in halfway houses, they're that much closer to finding a place they can call home.
The clock is ticking on democracy
(Aug. 5, 2021)
Is there a Doomsday Clock for Democracy? And is midnight Nov. 5, 2024 -- when Trump gets re-elected?
There's no getting around that date but it need not presage a frightening reality if America wakes up to the alarm being sounded every day now and takes steps to prevent it from happening.
America is worth fighting for, but the ones most engaged in battle are those who recognize a battle is even taking place. The side that's winning is intent on reinforcing the rights of one class of people over others. They have the upper hand because they control ao many state legislatures that are setting the terms of engagement for the next big conflict -- the mid-terms.
Those who oppose them are having to deal with internal division -- progressives vs moderates -- when a united front is what's needed to prevail in a clash between democratic principles and racist-infused autocratic impulses.
At this juncture it's not looking good for them, and the future of the United States.
Canada is watching with apprehension as events unfold and a nation unravels south of the border.
(Aug. 5, 2021)
Is there a Doomsday Clock for Democracy? And is midnight Nov. 5, 2024 -- when Trump gets re-elected?
There's no getting around that date but it need not presage a frightening reality if America wakes up to the alarm being sounded every day now and takes steps to prevent it from happening.
America is worth fighting for, but the ones most engaged in battle are those who recognize a battle is even taking place. The side that's winning is intent on reinforcing the rights of one class of people over others. They have the upper hand because they control ao many state legislatures that are setting the terms of engagement for the next big conflict -- the mid-terms.
Those who oppose them are having to deal with internal division -- progressives vs moderates -- when a united front is what's needed to prevail in a clash between democratic principles and racist-infused autocratic impulses.
At this juncture it's not looking good for them, and the future of the United States.
Canada is watching with apprehension as events unfold and a nation unravels south of the border.
Same sides of double-headed coin
(Aug. 3, 2021)
In many ways Cuomo and Trump are two sides of the same double-headed coin of sexual harassment.
Cuomo's smarter than Trump but no matter how many times you flip the coin, it always comes up tails for both, as they're losers when it comes to relations with the opposite sex. Or, as they would describe women, the opposing sex.
(Aug. 3, 2021)
In many ways Cuomo and Trump are two sides of the same double-headed coin of sexual harassment.
Cuomo's smarter than Trump but no matter how many times you flip the coin, it always comes up tails for both, as they're losers when it comes to relations with the opposite sex. Or, as they would describe women, the opposing sex.
Rise up, ye doctors and nurses
(Aug. 2, 2021)
I have to think DeSantis' ego and his political future would take a huge tumble if there were a mass exodus of healthcare professionals -- doctors, nurses, specialists, administrators -- who, exhausted by the pandemic and now facing another wave of infections worse than any before it, decide to flee Florida and offer their services to states that are on their side in trying to reduce case numbers and hospitalizations. Of course, they would give two weeks' notice, more than enough time for the brilliant DeSantis to devise a plan to keep Floridians safe.
The whole point, it seems, is to damage the economy and thereby ensure the GOP retake the Senate and House in the mid-term elections next year.
Yes, Republicans will die in the process by not getting vaccinated but that's how committed they are. They'll make the ultimate sacrifice to put the right party back in power.
GOP leaders egg them on, figuring the collateral losses are manageable, especially when fewer of the surviving supporters will be needed to win elections with the new rules being put in place that work in their favour.
(Aug. 2, 2021)
I have to think DeSantis' ego and his political future would take a huge tumble if there were a mass exodus of healthcare professionals -- doctors, nurses, specialists, administrators -- who, exhausted by the pandemic and now facing another wave of infections worse than any before it, decide to flee Florida and offer their services to states that are on their side in trying to reduce case numbers and hospitalizations. Of course, they would give two weeks' notice, more than enough time for the brilliant DeSantis to devise a plan to keep Floridians safe.
The whole point, it seems, is to damage the economy and thereby ensure the GOP retake the Senate and House in the mid-term elections next year.
Yes, Republicans will die in the process by not getting vaccinated but that's how committed they are. They'll make the ultimate sacrifice to put the right party back in power.
GOP leaders egg them on, figuring the collateral losses are manageable, especially when fewer of the surviving supporters will be needed to win elections with the new rules being put in place that work in their favour.
Freedom's just another word
(Aug. 2, 2021)
Here's what one singer-philosopher is saying about American rightwingers:
"Freedom's just another way to act real dumb and lose
The life I have -- because I'm vaccine-free.
Feelin' good was easy, Lord, to say no shot I'll choose
Yeah, buddy, you were right, it's lunacy
I've just been told this is the end of me.”
(Aug. 2, 2021)
Here's what one singer-philosopher is saying about American rightwingers:
"Freedom's just another way to act real dumb and lose
The life I have -- because I'm vaccine-free.
Feelin' good was easy, Lord, to say no shot I'll choose
Yeah, buddy, you were right, it's lunacy
I've just been told this is the end of me.”
Now that's commitment
(July 31, 2021)
You have to acknowledge Trump's supporters will go to amazing lengths to foil the Democrats and return him to power, going so far as to go unvaccinated, get infected, and burden the health care system in hopes of tanking the economy, just before the mid-term elections. That's commitment. Sure, there will be deaths along the way and untold suffering, but sacrifices are required for the greater good -- Trump's. You have to do what you got to do, when you're being led by the nose.
(July 31, 2021)
You have to acknowledge Trump's supporters will go to amazing lengths to foil the Democrats and return him to power, going so far as to go unvaccinated, get infected, and burden the health care system in hopes of tanking the economy, just before the mid-term elections. That's commitment. Sure, there will be deaths along the way and untold suffering, but sacrifices are required for the greater good -- Trump's. You have to do what you got to do, when you're being led by the nose.
An unfortunate fact
(July 20, 2021)
It's an unfortunate fact that Trump's servilians make others sick with their sycophancy. Who knew bootlicking could lead to the deaths of hundreds of thousands?
(July 20, 2021)
It's an unfortunate fact that Trump's servilians make others sick with their sycophancy. Who knew bootlicking could lead to the deaths of hundreds of thousands?
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
(July 19, 2021)
Does Tennessee have a lottery for people who get their shot, the way other states have done to boost the vaccination rate?
If not, the prize wouldn't have to be expensive, if elected officials are worried about the expense. It could be as simple as covering all the winner's costs to move out of Tennessee.
If Dolly were to re-write her song one more time, to keep her messaging current:
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Science's losing out in Tennessee
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Science can't defeat hypocrisy
Alternatively,
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Politicians owned by the filthy rich
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
They let their voters die, ain't death a bitch
(July 19, 2021)
Does Tennessee have a lottery for people who get their shot, the way other states have done to boost the vaccination rate?
If not, the prize wouldn't have to be expensive, if elected officials are worried about the expense. It could be as simple as covering all the winner's costs to move out of Tennessee.
If Dolly were to re-write her song one more time, to keep her messaging current:
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Science's losing out in Tennessee
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Science can't defeat hypocrisy
Alternatively,
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
Politicians owned by the filthy rich
Obscene, obscene, obscene, obscene
They let their voters die, ain't death a bitch
Monopolies have no social conscience
(July 13, 2021)
I'm all for breaking up monopolies that are contributing to the breaking up of America.
They have no social conscience. Patriotism is a marketing tool. They offshore jobs and tax obligations while offloading much of the burden that comes with supporting a nation onto the shoulders of citizens and workers.
The GOP holds a monopoly on conspiracy-infused lunacy. Time it was busted up as well so its fringe elements are ejected from the main party, which can then work on making itself and the U.S. whole again.
(July 13, 2021)
I'm all for breaking up monopolies that are contributing to the breaking up of America.
They have no social conscience. Patriotism is a marketing tool. They offshore jobs and tax obligations while offloading much of the burden that comes with supporting a nation onto the shoulders of citizens and workers.
The GOP holds a monopoly on conspiracy-infused lunacy. Time it was busted up as well so its fringe elements are ejected from the main party, which can then work on making itself and the U.S. whole again.
Newspapers wise to acknowledge their sins
(July 11, 2021)
What African-Americans have had to endure over the entire history of the United States is tragic, and must not be swept under the carpet, as the GOP would prefer to happen.
Newspapers recognizing and apologizing for the horrible role they played in demonizing Blacks and abetting their brutal treatment is a necessary step in setting the record straight for this generation and the ones to follow.
No American should grow up not knowing just how much their society has been deformed by racial hatred and was resisted by heroic men and women who fought injustice and too often paid for their courageous stand with their lives.
News organizations have confessed to their sins. Politicians who cling to notions of white supremacy need to do the same. But that will never happen so long as their stance, however subtly communicated, continues to harvest votes from a large segment of the population that sees its place in society threatened. Their answer to a changing landscape is scorched earth politics, and to leave everything in ruins if they can't get their way.
(July 11, 2021)
What African-Americans have had to endure over the entire history of the United States is tragic, and must not be swept under the carpet, as the GOP would prefer to happen.
Newspapers recognizing and apologizing for the horrible role they played in demonizing Blacks and abetting their brutal treatment is a necessary step in setting the record straight for this generation and the ones to follow.
No American should grow up not knowing just how much their society has been deformed by racial hatred and was resisted by heroic men and women who fought injustice and too often paid for their courageous stand with their lives.
News organizations have confessed to their sins. Politicians who cling to notions of white supremacy need to do the same. But that will never happen so long as their stance, however subtly communicated, continues to harvest votes from a large segment of the population that sees its place in society threatened. Their answer to a changing landscape is scorched earth politics, and to leave everything in ruins if they can't get their way.
Out of disorder comes chaos
(July 8, 2021)
I find it hard to believe that Donald "Make America Great Again" Trump would have done anything that undermined that promise to the nation.
Or that his willy-nilly trade policies were the product of a disordered mind that dwells on his personal and political needs.
This is not the Donald Trump I know ... when visiting that alternate reality he has constructed.
I never stay long or visit often, out of fear I might get trapped.
I also get the mindbends when I return.
(July 8, 2021)
I find it hard to believe that Donald "Make America Great Again" Trump would have done anything that undermined that promise to the nation.
Or that his willy-nilly trade policies were the product of a disordered mind that dwells on his personal and political needs.
This is not the Donald Trump I know ... when visiting that alternate reality he has constructed.
I never stay long or visit often, out of fear I might get trapped.
I also get the mindbends when I return.
Trump, the Rolf Nadir of modern politics
(July 8, 2021)
Unlike his rivals for ridicule, Trump is making the most of his post-presidency to further ruin his reputation -- and his country in the process.
So when it comes time to take another look at his ranking as an American leader -- and he's as rank as they come -- historians will also have to take into account what he did after he left office to arrive at a conclusion that's proper.
The evil he unleashed while in power continues to this day, aided and abetted by his self-serving machinations. It's a continuum that needs to be judged in its totality.
I have no doubt that when such a determination is made Trump will find himself at the bottom, in the muck, where his character resides.
(July 8, 2021)
Unlike his rivals for ridicule, Trump is making the most of his post-presidency to further ruin his reputation -- and his country in the process.
So when it comes time to take another look at his ranking as an American leader -- and he's as rank as they come -- historians will also have to take into account what he did after he left office to arrive at a conclusion that's proper.
The evil he unleashed while in power continues to this day, aided and abetted by his self-serving machinations. It's a continuum that needs to be judged in its totality.
I have no doubt that when such a determination is made Trump will find himself at the bottom, in the muck, where his character resides.
Loopholes and security gaps
(July 7, 2021)
Tax collection and cyber-security. One system has grown ever more complex at the expense of fairness for all in the sharing of costs to support services provided by governments. The other, a system that was cobbled together without sufficient regard to security in the sharing of data, is now such a behemoth that closing off all points of vulnerability would be a mammoth undertaking -- not unlike rewriting the tax code.
The challenge that both problems present in loopholes and security gaps is breathtaking, and there can be no confidence that they will be resolved, given the intransigence of Congress and the inertia of industry, who seem content to pay ransoms rather than press for change and work with the authorities to see that it happens.
If it isn't already the case, I wouldn't be surprised to see money paid to hackers built into future prices for goods and services.
The day of reckoning, in which America will complete its descent into a failed state, seems almost certain, barring a miracle turnaround in the thinking of business and political leaders, and a coming together in deciding what needs to be done.
A country that grows ever more divided as problems add up is ill equipped to handle mounting crises.
(July 7, 2021)
Tax collection and cyber-security. One system has grown ever more complex at the expense of fairness for all in the sharing of costs to support services provided by governments. The other, a system that was cobbled together without sufficient regard to security in the sharing of data, is now such a behemoth that closing off all points of vulnerability would be a mammoth undertaking -- not unlike rewriting the tax code.
The challenge that both problems present in loopholes and security gaps is breathtaking, and there can be no confidence that they will be resolved, given the intransigence of Congress and the inertia of industry, who seem content to pay ransoms rather than press for change and work with the authorities to see that it happens.
If it isn't already the case, I wouldn't be surprised to see money paid to hackers built into future prices for goods and services.
The day of reckoning, in which America will complete its descent into a failed state, seems almost certain, barring a miracle turnaround in the thinking of business and political leaders, and a coming together in deciding what needs to be done.
A country that grows ever more divided as problems add up is ill equipped to handle mounting crises.
What's with the hatred of experts
(July 2, 2021)
Dark Money = Dark Ages (a period "marked by economic, intellectual and cultural decline." -- Wikipedia)
Dark Money oligarchs want people to live in ignorance and to take pride in their lack of knowledge because it suits their purpose -- to grow ever wealthier and to augment their authority -- so well.
People willing to go along with this do so because it nurtures their feelings of resentment and hatred, a sense that their place in society is unappreciated, even reviled, while at the same time being threatened by fellow Americans with whom they feel no fellowship.
They loathe experts because they are, by their education, training and experience, superior, but in a particular field, not life in general, although this is how they frame their antipathy.
But it's experts who have helped them achieve a better life, a better workplace, by bringing about advances in virtually every area of human activity.
Would they want to work and live in a society where ignorance is king and expertise a pariah? Heaven help us if what they desire should come pass, but that's where the U.S. is headed should Trumpism prevail.
(July 2, 2021)
Dark Money = Dark Ages (a period "marked by economic, intellectual and cultural decline." -- Wikipedia)
Dark Money oligarchs want people to live in ignorance and to take pride in their lack of knowledge because it suits their purpose -- to grow ever wealthier and to augment their authority -- so well.
People willing to go along with this do so because it nurtures their feelings of resentment and hatred, a sense that their place in society is unappreciated, even reviled, while at the same time being threatened by fellow Americans with whom they feel no fellowship.
They loathe experts because they are, by their education, training and experience, superior, but in a particular field, not life in general, although this is how they frame their antipathy.
But it's experts who have helped them achieve a better life, a better workplace, by bringing about advances in virtually every area of human activity.
Would they want to work and live in a society where ignorance is king and expertise a pariah? Heaven help us if what they desire should come pass, but that's where the U.S. is headed should Trumpism prevail.
Worst ever!
(July 1, 2021)
Trump's angling for a second term so he can move down to the bottom of the heap and be declared the worst American president ever. In his topsy-turvy world, he'd see as a slap in the face of his leftwing detractors.
You speak of his distractions. Sadly, they seem to be working.
It's dispiriting that a man who's out of his mind can't stay out of ours.
(July 1, 2021)
Trump's angling for a second term so he can move down to the bottom of the heap and be declared the worst American president ever. In his topsy-turvy world, he'd see as a slap in the face of his leftwing detractors.
You speak of his distractions. Sadly, they seem to be working.
It's dispiriting that a man who's out of his mind can't stay out of ours.
If it's good enough for the Supreme Court
(June 21, 2021)
The Supreme Court, which has the final say on so many things, requires just a simple majority to make a ruling, 5-4.
Or, to put it another way, mathematically, 55 per cent of the justices have to be of like mind.
If the judicial branch can carry out its duties following this format, the legislative body should be able to do as well. Either way -- simple majority or 55 per cent of members -- is an improvement over what currently exists.
"If it's good enough for the Supreme Court it's good enough for us!" should be the rallying cry for getting rid of/modifying the filibuster.
(June 21, 2021)
The Supreme Court, which has the final say on so many things, requires just a simple majority to make a ruling, 5-4.
Or, to put it another way, mathematically, 55 per cent of the justices have to be of like mind.
If the judicial branch can carry out its duties following this format, the legislative body should be able to do as well. Either way -- simple majority or 55 per cent of members -- is an improvement over what currently exists.
"If it's good enough for the Supreme Court it's good enough for us!" should be the rallying cry for getting rid of/modifying the filibuster.
The centre of attention
(June 12, 2021)
Being the centre of attention is what Donald Trump craves
It's all about him, don't you know?
He cares not a whit that his influence on others depraves
So long as it feeds his ego.
(June 12, 2021)
Being the centre of attention is what Donald Trump craves
It's all about him, don't you know?
He cares not a whit that his influence on others depraves
So long as it feeds his ego.
Taxes and the death of democracy
(June 12, 2021)
What a sorry state of affairs is democracy.
America, its greatest champion, is being wracked by political turmoil from within and hounded by its enemies from without.
A tax system that overwhelmingly favours the wealthy robs the nation of capital it urgently needs and sows resentment that exacerbates division.
When so few of a country's people effectively control the levers of power, with more interest in preserving and enhancing their wealth than preserving and enriching the country that has enabled their life of luxury, eventually that country will become a husk of itself.
Beefing up the IRS is one of many steps that need to be taken to avoid going down that path.
If love of country won't persuade the rich to accept their fair share of the tax burden, let the fear of being caught out force them to change their way of thinking.
And to assist with that attitudinal adjustment effort, overhaul tax laws by closing loopholes that drain revenues America could use to rebuild its infrastructure, combat climate change, strengthen health care, bolster education, improve race relations, and restore trust.
Of course, the GOP (Greed Over Probity) will reflexively stand in the way of change but the Democrats should counter its resistance with all the energy they can muster. They need to be aggressive in asserting the rights of all citizens to be treated equally, with no one group enjoying advantages over another, especially those enjoyed by the well-to-do who do way too well.
(June 12, 2021)
What a sorry state of affairs is democracy.
America, its greatest champion, is being wracked by political turmoil from within and hounded by its enemies from without.
A tax system that overwhelmingly favours the wealthy robs the nation of capital it urgently needs and sows resentment that exacerbates division.
When so few of a country's people effectively control the levers of power, with more interest in preserving and enhancing their wealth than preserving and enriching the country that has enabled their life of luxury, eventually that country will become a husk of itself.
Beefing up the IRS is one of many steps that need to be taken to avoid going down that path.
If love of country won't persuade the rich to accept their fair share of the tax burden, let the fear of being caught out force them to change their way of thinking.
And to assist with that attitudinal adjustment effort, overhaul tax laws by closing loopholes that drain revenues America could use to rebuild its infrastructure, combat climate change, strengthen health care, bolster education, improve race relations, and restore trust.
Of course, the GOP (Greed Over Probity) will reflexively stand in the way of change but the Democrats should counter its resistance with all the energy they can muster. They need to be aggressive in asserting the rights of all citizens to be treated equally, with no one group enjoying advantages over another, especially those enjoyed by the well-to-do who do way too well.
For the People in smaller bites
(June 10, 2021)
It might be best if the For the People Act, H.R. 1 were divided into smaller pieces of legislation, to be voted on individually.
Each bill would target a particular flaw in the electoral system, such as gerrymandering, where the remedy, naturally, would include creating districts with the same number of voters without resorting to extraordinary efforts to divide them along political, religious, racial, or economic lines for partisan advantage.
The federal government should be able to set the terms for its own legislative makeup without having the process contaminated by corrupt intent at the state level.
This and other bills -- that make it easier to vote securely and to have the votes counted properly -- would be applied uniformly across the country to eliminate the patchwork of approaches that currently exist.
A voluminous bill is easier to reject than separate measures that are clear, focused and substantive, and which theoretically stand a better chance of winning support from both sides of the aisle as there's less room for contention.
However, should the Republicans continue to obstruct laws designed to fix particular problems without offering anything genuine in return that is fair, the Democrats could point to the GOP's failure of imagination or, worse, neglect of duty when campaigning next year for the mid-terms.
The party needs to make clear, at every opportunity, just how far their opponent will go to work against the best interests of Americans as a whole.
(June 10, 2021)
It might be best if the For the People Act, H.R. 1 were divided into smaller pieces of legislation, to be voted on individually.
Each bill would target a particular flaw in the electoral system, such as gerrymandering, where the remedy, naturally, would include creating districts with the same number of voters without resorting to extraordinary efforts to divide them along political, religious, racial, or economic lines for partisan advantage.
The federal government should be able to set the terms for its own legislative makeup without having the process contaminated by corrupt intent at the state level.
This and other bills -- that make it easier to vote securely and to have the votes counted properly -- would be applied uniformly across the country to eliminate the patchwork of approaches that currently exist.
A voluminous bill is easier to reject than separate measures that are clear, focused and substantive, and which theoretically stand a better chance of winning support from both sides of the aisle as there's less room for contention.
However, should the Republicans continue to obstruct laws designed to fix particular problems without offering anything genuine in return that is fair, the Democrats could point to the GOP's failure of imagination or, worse, neglect of duty when campaigning next year for the mid-terms.
The party needs to make clear, at every opportunity, just how far their opponent will go to work against the best interests of Americans as a whole.
A paradox that produces a conundrum
(June 9, 2021)
The Republicans are the party of No: no scruples, no compassion, no imagination, no to anything the Democrats propose.
And yet Trump is surrounded by Yes men (and women).
It's a paradox that has produced a conundrum for America.
Finding a resolution is well-nigh impossible and the situation grows ever more urgent with each passing day the Biden administration's agenda is stalled and its nominations held up.
It's no longer the United States but the Disunited Stasis.
The lifeblood that sustains democracy remains flowing in the body politic but barely. Paralysis is setting in; in fact, it's well advanced. Next stage: rigor mortis.
The Republicans haven't a problem with this, however, so long as they're the morticians.
(June 9, 2021)
The Republicans are the party of No: no scruples, no compassion, no imagination, no to anything the Democrats propose.
And yet Trump is surrounded by Yes men (and women).
It's a paradox that has produced a conundrum for America.
Finding a resolution is well-nigh impossible and the situation grows ever more urgent with each passing day the Biden administration's agenda is stalled and its nominations held up.
It's no longer the United States but the Disunited Stasis.
The lifeblood that sustains democracy remains flowing in the body politic but barely. Paralysis is setting in; in fact, it's well advanced. Next stage: rigor mortis.
The Republicans haven't a problem with this, however, so long as they're the morticians.
Boning up on democracy
(May 30, 2021)
I'm all for voter restriction laws.
No, not the kind that limit when and where and how you vote. Voting should be made as accessible as possible.
The limit I'd like to see put in place is restricting the federal vote to those who actually know something about the history of their country and how government works.
To 'qualify' for a ballot, citizens would have to pass a timed test that's posted online or made available at a library, school or municipal building (to be done on-site).
Testing people's fitness to vote someone into office would be done well in advance of an election, to give those who fail a second chance to be part of the electorate.
Two strikes and you're out of luck, you'll have to sit the election out and bone up on American history and governance for the next one.
The testing would be administered by the federal government. of course, to ensure uniformity.
(May 30, 2021)
I'm all for voter restriction laws.
No, not the kind that limit when and where and how you vote. Voting should be made as accessible as possible.
The limit I'd like to see put in place is restricting the federal vote to those who actually know something about the history of their country and how government works.
To 'qualify' for a ballot, citizens would have to pass a timed test that's posted online or made available at a library, school or municipal building (to be done on-site).
Testing people's fitness to vote someone into office would be done well in advance of an election, to give those who fail a second chance to be part of the electorate.
Two strikes and you're out of luck, you'll have to sit the election out and bone up on American history and governance for the next one.
The testing would be administered by the federal government. of course, to ensure uniformity.
Truly fair and balanced
(May 28, 2021)
I know the cable TV field is crowded, what with Fox, CNN, MSNBC, Newsmax and OAN vying for Americans' attention, but I'm confident another entry would capture a large audience: Facts First.
The programming would be divided into half-hour shows with the first 10 minutes devoted to straightforward accounts about issues or events around a certain theme -- police reform, climate change, the filibuster, cyber-security, etc -- and the second part given over to opposing views.
Each side would be allotted equal time to provide an analysis or interpretation without interruption, and the segment would end with the two sides engaging each other for five minutes.
Any participant who talks over the other or behaves badly would be immediately muted.
There would be regularly scheduled programs throughout the day dedicated to fact-checking what guests said and then setting the record straight.
Looking Back, on Sundays, would summarize where people got it wrong and why facts are so important to identifying issues and resolving problems.
The idea would be to do away with echo chambers and replace them with forums.
(May 28, 2021)
I know the cable TV field is crowded, what with Fox, CNN, MSNBC, Newsmax and OAN vying for Americans' attention, but I'm confident another entry would capture a large audience: Facts First.
The programming would be divided into half-hour shows with the first 10 minutes devoted to straightforward accounts about issues or events around a certain theme -- police reform, climate change, the filibuster, cyber-security, etc -- and the second part given over to opposing views.
Each side would be allotted equal time to provide an analysis or interpretation without interruption, and the segment would end with the two sides engaging each other for five minutes.
Any participant who talks over the other or behaves badly would be immediately muted.
There would be regularly scheduled programs throughout the day dedicated to fact-checking what guests said and then setting the record straight.
Looking Back, on Sundays, would summarize where people got it wrong and why facts are so important to identifying issues and resolving problems.
The idea would be to do away with echo chambers and replace them with forums.
No one's above the law
(May 26, 2021)
The principle needs to be made clear in law and practice that NO president is above the law, but will be made to answer for conduct injurious to the office or the nation where there is evidence of a transgression.
Any effort to interfere with the administration of justice and prevent it from coming to light must be resisted. The Barr memo should be released to identify how far the attorney general was prepared to go to defy this principle and for what reasons.
Perhaps out of all of this then will come a firmer understanding of what limits there are to a president's authority, and that is the duty of those who serve in the administration to ensure that the line is never crossed.
(May 26, 2021)
The principle needs to be made clear in law and practice that NO president is above the law, but will be made to answer for conduct injurious to the office or the nation where there is evidence of a transgression.
Any effort to interfere with the administration of justice and prevent it from coming to light must be resisted. The Barr memo should be released to identify how far the attorney general was prepared to go to defy this principle and for what reasons.
Perhaps out of all of this then will come a firmer understanding of what limits there are to a president's authority, and that is the duty of those who serve in the administration to ensure that the line is never crossed.
Hanging by a thread
(May 25, 2021)
Thanks to people who are misled
Democracy's hanging by a thread
The risk began with the Big Lie
Wielded by the former guy
Should he prevail and make the snip
The GOP's to blame – its leadership
Had they spoke up and touted facts
They would have stopped him in his tracks
Still, a reeling nation they can save
If enough of them prove they are brave
But chances are they'll toe Trump's line:
You can't stand up without a spine
(May 25, 2021)
Thanks to people who are misled
Democracy's hanging by a thread
The risk began with the Big Lie
Wielded by the former guy
Should he prevail and make the snip
The GOP's to blame – its leadership
Had they spoke up and touted facts
They would have stopped him in his tracks
Still, a reeling nation they can save
If enough of them prove they are brave
But chances are they'll toe Trump's line:
You can't stand up without a spine
Reagan got them hooked
(May 18, 2021)
A New York Times opinion writer asks why can't the GOP quit Donald Trump?
No great mystery: It's an addiction with the Republicans.
It started with Reagan, who was a gateway drug.
The constant need for a higher high -- bigger tax cuts and fewer regulations -- ultimately led them to Trump, the heroin of politics. He gave them more of what they got before but Trumpism -- its street name -- also really, really made them feel special, for being white. Users always knew they were superior but now they no longer had to hide it. They could flaunt it. Legislate it.
Getting them off their addiction won't be easy.
They can't quit cold turkey because the turkey is still very much alive and turning up the heat on those who are against him.
They could go to a clinic but the only one around set up for that, Congress, isn't very reputable. You're more likely to pick up new bad habits there than ditch old ones (unless they retire, lose a primary, or get caught up in a scandal).
No, the only answer is a substitute narcotic that weans them off the hardcore stuff and makes their withdrawal manageable.
That drug, of course, is methadrone -- street name: Boring -- being pedaled by Biden.
He keeps at it long enough, who knows, maybe by next year he'll have convinced them it's okay to be normal again, and there's nothing wrong with talking policy.
(May 18, 2021)
A New York Times opinion writer asks why can't the GOP quit Donald Trump?
No great mystery: It's an addiction with the Republicans.
It started with Reagan, who was a gateway drug.
The constant need for a higher high -- bigger tax cuts and fewer regulations -- ultimately led them to Trump, the heroin of politics. He gave them more of what they got before but Trumpism -- its street name -- also really, really made them feel special, for being white. Users always knew they were superior but now they no longer had to hide it. They could flaunt it. Legislate it.
Getting them off their addiction won't be easy.
They can't quit cold turkey because the turkey is still very much alive and turning up the heat on those who are against him.
They could go to a clinic but the only one around set up for that, Congress, isn't very reputable. You're more likely to pick up new bad habits there than ditch old ones (unless they retire, lose a primary, or get caught up in a scandal).
No, the only answer is a substitute narcotic that weans them off the hardcore stuff and makes their withdrawal manageable.
That drug, of course, is methadrone -- street name: Boring -- being pedaled by Biden.
He keeps at it long enough, who knows, maybe by next year he'll have convinced them it's okay to be normal again, and there's nothing wrong with talking policy.
A brazen attempt to recast history
(May 18, 2021)
On the bizarre audit of the votes cast in Arizona's Maricopa County last year that helped get Joe Biden elected:
The audit merits an audit
It doesn't deserve a plaudit
Republicans should have fought it
But instead they chose disgrace.
Principles they set aside
Along with any sense of pride
They did it for a man who lied
Railing he had won the race.
But not in first was where he came
And two recounts have said the same
The sham begun should bring them shame
And redden each and every face.
But facts are foes so tales they weave
And nonsense spout which they believe
They are that easy to deceive
The hurdle's low when you're Trump's base.
(May 18, 2021)
On the bizarre audit of the votes cast in Arizona's Maricopa County last year that helped get Joe Biden elected:
The audit merits an audit
It doesn't deserve a plaudit
Republicans should have fought it
But instead they chose disgrace.
Principles they set aside
Along with any sense of pride
They did it for a man who lied
Railing he had won the race.
But not in first was where he came
And two recounts have said the same
The sham begun should bring them shame
And redden each and every face.
But facts are foes so tales they weave
And nonsense spout which they believe
They are that easy to deceive
The hurdle's low when you're Trump's base.
It's an issue that's become rather urgent
(May 14, 2021)
It's an issue that's become rather urgent
Trump's party is clearly insurgent
Democracy's stain
Mustn't remain
Fair elections work well as a detergent
(May 14, 2021)
It's an issue that's become rather urgent
Trump's party is clearly insurgent
Democracy's stain
Mustn't remain
Fair elections work well as a detergent
Cruz taking heat after fleeing the cold
(Feb. 19, 2021)
So Cruz got a law degree at Harvard, eh?
He should have studied optics.
Having realized his mistake Cruz is trying to make amends.
He booked a flight to Cancun for Snowflake.
After being told he couldn't strap his pooch on the plane.
Texans weren't upset Cruz fled the state after a massive storm knocked out power.
They were mad he came back.
A senator whom many despise
For hypocrisy, servility and lies
Fled a storm when it struck
Shirking those who were stuck
He's Republican – he can't empathize
I'm starting a birther campaign and I'm hoping my fellow Canadians will give it their full support:
Ted Cruz was NOT born in Canada.
(Feb. 19, 2021)
So Cruz got a law degree at Harvard, eh?
He should have studied optics.
Having realized his mistake Cruz is trying to make amends.
He booked a flight to Cancun for Snowflake.
After being told he couldn't strap his pooch on the plane.
Texans weren't upset Cruz fled the state after a massive storm knocked out power.
They were mad he came back.
A senator whom many despise
For hypocrisy, servility and lies
Fled a storm when it struck
Shirking those who were stuck
He's Republican – he can't empathize
I'm starting a birther campaign and I'm hoping my fellow Canadians will give it their full support:
Ted Cruz was NOT born in Canada.
A juicy role awaits should he be so bold
(May 11, 2021)
So Matthew McConaughey is contemplating running to become the next governor of Texas. I'd support him from afar if he hired Aaron Sorkin to develop his platform and to write his scripts -- er, speeches.
Trump was a bad actor ("an unruly, turbulent, or contentious individual : TROUBLEMAKER") who did a lot of harm after he was elected.
Imagine what a good actor might accomplish if he had solid material to work with.
(May 11, 2021)
So Matthew McConaughey is contemplating running to become the next governor of Texas. I'd support him from afar if he hired Aaron Sorkin to develop his platform and to write his scripts -- er, speeches.
Trump was a bad actor ("an unruly, turbulent, or contentious individual : TROUBLEMAKER") who did a lot of harm after he was elected.
Imagine what a good actor might accomplish if he had solid material to work with.
Times are definitely different
(May 7, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/06/opinion/herd-immunity-us.html
I have every confidence a good number of Americans today would go to war if told the Nazis were engaged in trafficking children out of pizza joints and harvesting their blood to achieve immortality. (Provided they didn't have to travel too far out of state to do battle.)
I'm not convinced they would confront the same evil forces if their 'alleged' crime was simply to exterminate Jews, gypsies, the mentally disabled, and others considered subhuman -- even if they were shown actual evidence of a holocaust taking place.
Apparently, belief in the first set of 'facts' comes more easily when nothing even remotely resembling the truth is required to substantiate outrageous claims.
If the internet had existed in the 1940s, and with Goebbels as minister of propaganda, Germany surely would have the won the war. America would have decided not to get involved in Europe's 'problem'.
Votes that matter
(May 7, 2021)
Exercising one's right to vote is getting to be a heavy lift in Republican states.
Maybe the federal government should tie funding support it provides states for various programs to how many of their eligible voters cast a ballot.
So if only half of Florida's voters go to the polls, Florida gets half of the federal assistance it would have otherwise received had there been a full turnout. (The penalty probably should be capped at 25 to 30 per cent so as not to be overly harsh.)
If people care so little about participating in democracy and states, in turn, do their best to discourage citizens from voting, there should be severe consequences for undermining what keeps a nation strong.
(May 7, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/06/opinion/herd-immunity-us.html
I have every confidence a good number of Americans today would go to war if told the Nazis were engaged in trafficking children out of pizza joints and harvesting their blood to achieve immortality. (Provided they didn't have to travel too far out of state to do battle.)
I'm not convinced they would confront the same evil forces if their 'alleged' crime was simply to exterminate Jews, gypsies, the mentally disabled, and others considered subhuman -- even if they were shown actual evidence of a holocaust taking place.
Apparently, belief in the first set of 'facts' comes more easily when nothing even remotely resembling the truth is required to substantiate outrageous claims.
If the internet had existed in the 1940s, and with Goebbels as minister of propaganda, Germany surely would have the won the war. America would have decided not to get involved in Europe's 'problem'.
Votes that matter
(May 7, 2021)
Exercising one's right to vote is getting to be a heavy lift in Republican states.
Maybe the federal government should tie funding support it provides states for various programs to how many of their eligible voters cast a ballot.
So if only half of Florida's voters go to the polls, Florida gets half of the federal assistance it would have otherwise received had there been a full turnout. (The penalty probably should be capped at 25 to 30 per cent so as not to be overly harsh.)
If people care so little about participating in democracy and states, in turn, do their best to discourage citizens from voting, there should be severe consequences for undermining what keeps a nation strong.
Key differences
(April 28, 2021)
Here are the key differences between Biden and Republicans:
He's low-key, hokey, and won't stand for malarkey. When faced with a surfeit of problems upon taking office that required he take bold action, Biden rolled up his sleeves and said: “Okey-dokey.”
The GOP, on the other hand, is overflowing with Trump lackeys and flunkeys prone to making claims that are patently asinine (meat-based beer?). The question is, why isn't ITS mascot a donkey?
(April 28, 2021)
Here are the key differences between Biden and Republicans:
He's low-key, hokey, and won't stand for malarkey. When faced with a surfeit of problems upon taking office that required he take bold action, Biden rolled up his sleeves and said: “Okey-dokey.”
The GOP, on the other hand, is overflowing with Trump lackeys and flunkeys prone to making claims that are patently asinine (meat-based beer?). The question is, why isn't ITS mascot a donkey?
I have a gut feeling about Republicans
(April 27, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/27/opinion/republican-party-joe-biden.html
The Republicans in the main are nothing more than parasites -- organisms "living in, on, or with another organism in order to obtain nutrients, grow, or multiply often in a state that directly or indirectly harms the host."
They inhabit the body politic and their insatiable appetite for nutrients -- power and money -- is destroying it from within in myriad ways, from voter suppression to nativism.
Any efforts meant to mitigate their pernicious outcomes are reflexively met with hypocrisy and it works. Democracy is suffering as a result.
Thus it's a bit of a surprise to read in this column why Republicans haven't made "a concerted public argument against Democratic economic policies. One complication is that to do so would be to engage in hypocrisy so blatant and obvious that it would negate any impact."
Wow! Who knew sham has its limits. The GOP has never seemed to think so. Is this a pivotal moment?
The party is not about solving problems. Its strength lies in creating them for others -- using lies.
(April 27, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/27/opinion/republican-party-joe-biden.html
The Republicans in the main are nothing more than parasites -- organisms "living in, on, or with another organism in order to obtain nutrients, grow, or multiply often in a state that directly or indirectly harms the host."
They inhabit the body politic and their insatiable appetite for nutrients -- power and money -- is destroying it from within in myriad ways, from voter suppression to nativism.
Any efforts meant to mitigate their pernicious outcomes are reflexively met with hypocrisy and it works. Democracy is suffering as a result.
Thus it's a bit of a surprise to read in this column why Republicans haven't made "a concerted public argument against Democratic economic policies. One complication is that to do so would be to engage in hypocrisy so blatant and obvious that it would negate any impact."
Wow! Who knew sham has its limits. The GOP has never seemed to think so. Is this a pivotal moment?
The party is not about solving problems. Its strength lies in creating them for others -- using lies.
A hefty surtax might help?
(April 22, 2021)
The U.S. might want to consider imposing a hefty surtax on the sale of firearms and especially ammunition that would make plain the money raised would go into a fund to pay for the funerals and hospital bills of victims of gun violence.
The surtax would continue to rise until there is a drop from year to year in the number of people killed by firearms, including suicides. It would go back up again if the statistics show it's warranted.
In other words, gun owners might be persuaded, for financial reasons if not out of concern for others, that it's in their interests to have laws and regulations in place that lower the risk of people being killed or maimed.
Too bad there wasn't another amendment that read:
"A well regulated nation, being necessary to the security of its people, will do its level best to ensure the right of citizens to keep living shall not be infringed."
(April 22, 2021)
The U.S. might want to consider imposing a hefty surtax on the sale of firearms and especially ammunition that would make plain the money raised would go into a fund to pay for the funerals and hospital bills of victims of gun violence.
The surtax would continue to rise until there is a drop from year to year in the number of people killed by firearms, including suicides. It would go back up again if the statistics show it's warranted.
In other words, gun owners might be persuaded, for financial reasons if not out of concern for others, that it's in their interests to have laws and regulations in place that lower the risk of people being killed or maimed.
Too bad there wasn't another amendment that read:
"A well regulated nation, being necessary to the security of its people, will do its level best to ensure the right of citizens to keep living shall not be infringed."
The bear is a boor
(April 20, 2021)
Russia has contributed to civilization in the areas of classical music, literature and science but has it ever done anything to improve the lot of the common man through better governance?
What institutions has it ever put in place that gave voice and influence to the average citizen?
Czars and dictators, diktats, gulags and pogroms -- these are the things that have defined Russia over the centuries.
America is not without blame for the treatment of its people and those around the world but it has also advanced society in myriad ways, most notably in laws and institutions that provide for the sharing of wealth and the even application of authority.
It doesn't always hit the mark but the impetus is still there, pushed along at the grassroots level, to do what's best for the greater good (Republicans excepted).
Russia has never shown real concern at the top about what its people have to endure. Putin is a thug with a frightening arsenal, which makes managing relations with him all the more challenging.
Kowtowing to him as Trump did served no useful purpose; it did great harm, in fact, by emboldening Putin to engage in reckless behaviour.
Biden is right to set a course correction but any show of force in the coming weeks and months obviously must be in concert with NATO.
And in the same way Russia seeks to undermine its greatest rival with a relentless campaign of disinformation, the U.S. needs to hammer Russians with the truth to have them rise up against their oppressors.
(April 20, 2021)
Russia has contributed to civilization in the areas of classical music, literature and science but has it ever done anything to improve the lot of the common man through better governance?
What institutions has it ever put in place that gave voice and influence to the average citizen?
Czars and dictators, diktats, gulags and pogroms -- these are the things that have defined Russia over the centuries.
America is not without blame for the treatment of its people and those around the world but it has also advanced society in myriad ways, most notably in laws and institutions that provide for the sharing of wealth and the even application of authority.
It doesn't always hit the mark but the impetus is still there, pushed along at the grassroots level, to do what's best for the greater good (Republicans excepted).
Russia has never shown real concern at the top about what its people have to endure. Putin is a thug with a frightening arsenal, which makes managing relations with him all the more challenging.
Kowtowing to him as Trump did served no useful purpose; it did great harm, in fact, by emboldening Putin to engage in reckless behaviour.
Biden is right to set a course correction but any show of force in the coming weeks and months obviously must be in concert with NATO.
And in the same way Russia seeks to undermine its greatest rival with a relentless campaign of disinformation, the U.S. needs to hammer Russians with the truth to have them rise up against their oppressors.
Walk softly and carry a small computer stick
(April 19, 2021)
New York Times columnist Stephens makes a strong argument that it would be heartless and imprudent to abandon the Afghani people, whose lives are certain to be hellish under Taliban rule.
But then he concludes: "In the world as it is ... we have to find a way of advancing our interests without betraying our values and our friends."
He doesn't suggest what that way might be so I presume that will be the subject of his next column. Unless it's to continue "to provide Afghan forces with effective air power."
Which isn't a bad idea, as a war of this kind could be fought remotely, with the use of drones and satellites.
Likely, though, it would only delay rather than prevent the Taliban from seizing control.
America's best bet is to engage in cyber warfare, as it must on other fronts, if it is to fend off threats to its security from around the world.
There are limits to what military might accomplish. Best to use it strategically when American interests -- and those of the West -- face greater peril, Ukraine being the most obvious example.
Only a clear show of force by the United States and its allies in response to Russian aggression offers any hope of avoiding a larger conflict.
Which could still arise in the Arctic where Russia is flexing its muscles.
(April 19, 2021)
New York Times columnist Stephens makes a strong argument that it would be heartless and imprudent to abandon the Afghani people, whose lives are certain to be hellish under Taliban rule.
But then he concludes: "In the world as it is ... we have to find a way of advancing our interests without betraying our values and our friends."
He doesn't suggest what that way might be so I presume that will be the subject of his next column. Unless it's to continue "to provide Afghan forces with effective air power."
Which isn't a bad idea, as a war of this kind could be fought remotely, with the use of drones and satellites.
Likely, though, it would only delay rather than prevent the Taliban from seizing control.
America's best bet is to engage in cyber warfare, as it must on other fronts, if it is to fend off threats to its security from around the world.
There are limits to what military might accomplish. Best to use it strategically when American interests -- and those of the West -- face greater peril, Ukraine being the most obvious example.
Only a clear show of force by the United States and its allies in response to Russian aggression offers any hope of avoiding a larger conflict.
Which could still arise in the Arctic where Russia is flexing its muscles.
Ah, those gun-crazy Yanks
(April 19, 2021)
Because I am of the view, perhaps naively, that there is no imminent threat of a zombie invasion I fail to see the justification for Americans to include assault rifles in their household arsenals.
And speaking as a Canadian, I can assure you my country has no designs in taking over the U.S. with weaponry your Founders no doubt had in mind when they drafted the Second Amendment.
Further, I believe the average gun-toting American already possesses sufficient firepower to repel a burglar or a person in distress without having need of an AR-15 to dispose of unwelcome visitors.
You can see, then, why I am at a loss to understand this obsession with firearms of extraordinary lethality.
And why is so much more effort being put into ensuring the security of a voting process that's already secure than is spent on improving the security of people whose lives are put at risk when a nation allows itself to be awash with weapons?
If so many Americans have a compulsion to pull a trigger to achieve an end, why not satisfy that urge by turning the voting booth into a firing range and allow people to mark their ballot with a pistol ... at 10 yards?
Non-violent types, of course, could continue to vote the traditional way if they wish, even if it's boring.
(April 19, 2021)
Because I am of the view, perhaps naively, that there is no imminent threat of a zombie invasion I fail to see the justification for Americans to include assault rifles in their household arsenals.
And speaking as a Canadian, I can assure you my country has no designs in taking over the U.S. with weaponry your Founders no doubt had in mind when they drafted the Second Amendment.
Further, I believe the average gun-toting American already possesses sufficient firepower to repel a burglar or a person in distress without having need of an AR-15 to dispose of unwelcome visitors.
You can see, then, why I am at a loss to understand this obsession with firearms of extraordinary lethality.
And why is so much more effort being put into ensuring the security of a voting process that's already secure than is spent on improving the security of people whose lives are put at risk when a nation allows itself to be awash with weapons?
If so many Americans have a compulsion to pull a trigger to achieve an end, why not satisfy that urge by turning the voting booth into a firing range and allow people to mark their ballot with a pistol ... at 10 yards?
Non-violent types, of course, could continue to vote the traditional way if they wish, even if it's boring.
Fare thee ill, Taliban
(April 17, 2021)
Great Britain, Russia and the United States all tried to exert their power in Afghanistan for problematic reasons, and had their noses bloodied -- and much worse -- as a consequence.
Is there any way the West could lure China into making the same mistake?
And will the Taliban be satisfied with regaining control of Afghanistan and imposing its brutal will on the people, or will it also plot to inflict harm on the Americans as a matter of revenge? The sad truth is that it can strike anywhere, anytime.
The U.S. might consider setting cybernetic booby traps in key parts of the country's infrastructure that could be triggered remotely when the Taliban carries out an act of aggression.
(April 17, 2021)
Great Britain, Russia and the United States all tried to exert their power in Afghanistan for problematic reasons, and had their noses bloodied -- and much worse -- as a consequence.
Is there any way the West could lure China into making the same mistake?
And will the Taliban be satisfied with regaining control of Afghanistan and imposing its brutal will on the people, or will it also plot to inflict harm on the Americans as a matter of revenge? The sad truth is that it can strike anywhere, anytime.
The U.S. might consider setting cybernetic booby traps in key parts of the country's infrastructure that could be triggered remotely when the Taliban carries out an act of aggression.
Humankind's future is most dire
(April 16, 2021)
Humankind's future is most dire
Because of the -ups who are higher
If they don't mend their ways
Everyone pays
Our species without doubt will expire
Giving in to despair
(April 15, 2021)
I fear for my grandchildren. What kind of world will they live in when it's already under stress because we haven't learned to live in harmony, or in accord with nature.
What lies ahead is bleak on so many levels, as the report the editorial references makes abundantly clear. Younger people face enormous challenges, from climate change to technological advances that shred personal freedoms and people's right to privacy.
The dystopic visions myriad novelists have imagined are inching ever closer to becoming reality.
Perhaps it won't be as extreme as some have posited but the signs are there that human existence in the decades to come will be grim and unforgiving ... unless we as individuals and as nations can set aside our many differences, acknowledge a common good, and work in concert to stave off certain ruin.
I don't see that happening, at least on a scale that will avert disaster, and that fills me with despair.
Not for what's to become of me but what my children and grandchildren will have to deal with because of the failures of my generation and earlier.
Procrastination and non-cooperation were the choices we made.
But then civilizations rise and fall, species become extinct and Earth goes through upheavals.
It all seems inevitable, no?
Excuse my feelings of desolation. Reading about politics has that effect when done to excess.
Politics is no longer the art of the possible but the improbable -- with predictable results.
Not the sort of thing that gives you hope about the future.
(April 16, 2021)
Humankind's future is most dire
Because of the -ups who are higher
If they don't mend their ways
Everyone pays
Our species without doubt will expire
Giving in to despair
(April 15, 2021)
I fear for my grandchildren. What kind of world will they live in when it's already under stress because we haven't learned to live in harmony, or in accord with nature.
What lies ahead is bleak on so many levels, as the report the editorial references makes abundantly clear. Younger people face enormous challenges, from climate change to technological advances that shred personal freedoms and people's right to privacy.
The dystopic visions myriad novelists have imagined are inching ever closer to becoming reality.
Perhaps it won't be as extreme as some have posited but the signs are there that human existence in the decades to come will be grim and unforgiving ... unless we as individuals and as nations can set aside our many differences, acknowledge a common good, and work in concert to stave off certain ruin.
I don't see that happening, at least on a scale that will avert disaster, and that fills me with despair.
Not for what's to become of me but what my children and grandchildren will have to deal with because of the failures of my generation and earlier.
Procrastination and non-cooperation were the choices we made.
But then civilizations rise and fall, species become extinct and Earth goes through upheavals.
It all seems inevitable, no?
Excuse my feelings of desolation. Reading about politics has that effect when done to excess.
Politics is no longer the art of the possible but the improbable -- with predictable results.
Not the sort of thing that gives you hope about the future.
Know thy weapon
(April 15, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/14/opinion/us-police-killings.html
I would argue "society has become horribly desensitized." Period.
To mass killings, violence against women, domestic abuse, poverty, the homeless, environmental degradation, disinformation, and, yes, tragically so, Black men who are the victims of excessive force.
There is so much wrong in society that its ills threaten to overwhelm us. Rage is a natural response, especially when little progress is being made to address longstanding issues.
Remedies are out there, but not sufficient will or generosity of spirit to have them attempted in any meaningful way. Or for very long.
Police reform is urgently needed. Officers are well-armed but ill-equipped to handle situations that require a firm hand but at the same time a less antagonistic approach. Too often it seems their encounters with individuals rapidly escalate when they choose intimidation over tact. Does their training devote as much time to tamping down emotions as it does in the use of force?
Yes, police place their lives in danger every day, never knowing when a situation might suddenly erupt into violence. But they're also putting other people's lives at risk when they over-react to what's happening in the moment.
With regard to the most recent tragic incident, if it's the practice of police to draw weapons when confronting an unarmed person why not make it a policy that one officer draws a handgun and the other a Taser, and have the latter officer be the one who engages the person?
(April 15, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/14/opinion/us-police-killings.html
I would argue "society has become horribly desensitized." Period.
To mass killings, violence against women, domestic abuse, poverty, the homeless, environmental degradation, disinformation, and, yes, tragically so, Black men who are the victims of excessive force.
There is so much wrong in society that its ills threaten to overwhelm us. Rage is a natural response, especially when little progress is being made to address longstanding issues.
Remedies are out there, but not sufficient will or generosity of spirit to have them attempted in any meaningful way. Or for very long.
Police reform is urgently needed. Officers are well-armed but ill-equipped to handle situations that require a firm hand but at the same time a less antagonistic approach. Too often it seems their encounters with individuals rapidly escalate when they choose intimidation over tact. Does their training devote as much time to tamping down emotions as it does in the use of force?
Yes, police place their lives in danger every day, never knowing when a situation might suddenly erupt into violence. But they're also putting other people's lives at risk when they over-react to what's happening in the moment.
With regard to the most recent tragic incident, if it's the practice of police to draw weapons when confronting an unarmed person why not make it a policy that one officer draws a handgun and the other a Taser, and have the latter officer be the one who engages the person?
(A) Justice for all
(April 12, 2021)
I'm all for term limits and 20 years seems reasonable.
However, for a Supreme Court justice to serve the last five years, he/she would have to go through a re-confirmation hearing, in part to explain their thinking in memorable rulings and to be held to account for the outcome of their decisions.
Secondly, there should be a People's Justice on the Supreme Court -- someone who is directly appointed/elected by voters.
The Democrats would submit a name, the Republicans likewise, and the two nominees would be on the ballot the same year a president is chosen. The People's Justice would serve a 12-year-term, before being replaced.
I've also argued before that the Court should be restructured so it is evenly divided between Democratic and Republican nominated justices, 4-4, and that the president holding office would submit his/her choice to be the ninth member.
Under this scenario, whenever an opening occurred, a conservative jurist would be replaced by a conservative, as would a liberal jurist with a liberal, to maintain the balance.
The ninth justice, as I've proposed, would be a nominee of the president but that function instead should, upon further consideration, be turned over the population at large, with the introduction of the People's Justice.
The court's makeup might be more representative of the country as a whole with these reforms. At least that would be the hope, and 20-year terms would provide continuity as well as a means for the court to evolve with the times.
(April 12, 2021)
I'm all for term limits and 20 years seems reasonable.
However, for a Supreme Court justice to serve the last five years, he/she would have to go through a re-confirmation hearing, in part to explain their thinking in memorable rulings and to be held to account for the outcome of their decisions.
Secondly, there should be a People's Justice on the Supreme Court -- someone who is directly appointed/elected by voters.
The Democrats would submit a name, the Republicans likewise, and the two nominees would be on the ballot the same year a president is chosen. The People's Justice would serve a 12-year-term, before being replaced.
I've also argued before that the Court should be restructured so it is evenly divided between Democratic and Republican nominated justices, 4-4, and that the president holding office would submit his/her choice to be the ninth member.
Under this scenario, whenever an opening occurred, a conservative jurist would be replaced by a conservative, as would a liberal jurist with a liberal, to maintain the balance.
The ninth justice, as I've proposed, would be a nominee of the president but that function instead should, upon further consideration, be turned over the population at large, with the introduction of the People's Justice.
The court's makeup might be more representative of the country as a whole with these reforms. At least that would be the hope, and 20-year terms would provide continuity as well as a means for the court to evolve with the times.
Where the real worry should be
(April 10, 2021)
One can't help but conclude that what we're doing to the environment is having a significant impact on human sexuality. Studies have shown there are forces at play, most likely chemical, that interfere with or alter the sexual development of humans (animals as well).
The effects might be apparent at birth or they become evident later on in life. There is no real choice in the matter. What individuals identify themselves as is decided at a genetic level. It's not an issue of morality. People should be judged by how they conduct themselves, according to what's right and wrong, not the imprint they were given in the months leading up to their birth (when environmental factors have considerable influence).
Rather than waste time worrying about what sex a person is, politicians should devote their energy to reducing the physical harm, the mutilation, that humans are doing to the world. The choices before us are many, and we can do something that has a real impact on what sort of future will be ours.
Ignoring the extraordinary risks to our species that inaction presents to deal with matters far less consequential is shortsighted and arguably criminal.
(April 10, 2021)
One can't help but conclude that what we're doing to the environment is having a significant impact on human sexuality. Studies have shown there are forces at play, most likely chemical, that interfere with or alter the sexual development of humans (animals as well).
The effects might be apparent at birth or they become evident later on in life. There is no real choice in the matter. What individuals identify themselves as is decided at a genetic level. It's not an issue of morality. People should be judged by how they conduct themselves, according to what's right and wrong, not the imprint they were given in the months leading up to their birth (when environmental factors have considerable influence).
Rather than waste time worrying about what sex a person is, politicians should devote their energy to reducing the physical harm, the mutilation, that humans are doing to the world. The choices before us are many, and we can do something that has a real impact on what sort of future will be ours.
Ignoring the extraordinary risks to our species that inaction presents to deal with matters far less consequential is shortsighted and arguably criminal.
Of all the Republican reprobates
(April 8, 2021)
Of all the Republican reprobates
There's none so egregious as Matt Gaetz
The Rep's rep is bad
For reasons so sad:
He shares nude pics of his dates with seatmates
(April 8, 2021)
Of all the Republican reprobates
There's none so egregious as Matt Gaetz
The Rep's rep is bad
For reasons so sad:
He shares nude pics of his dates with seatmates
Employ official witnesses to deliver justice
(April 4, 2021)
It's hard to imagine what credible defence Derek Chauvin's attorney can mount given what the video shows: a cop kneeling on a man's neck while showing no concern, or even interest, that the suspect is slowly dying.
George Floyd was powerless, lying face down with his hands in handcuffs behind him. He posed no threat to Chauvin; the officer acknowledged as much by having one hand in his pocket -- hardly a position from which to react defensively should Floyd erupt violently with a superhuman show of strength.
And Chauvin's bland expression offered no evidence that he was intimidated by onlookers protesting his conduct or that he thought his safety was at risk by their presence. His evident indifference to another human being's suffering was sheer callousness.
Thank goodness there were recordings of what took place. Who knows what kind of spin Chauvin and his feckless fellow officers would have put on the tragic event had there not been. Body cameras -- when activated -- are limited in what they reveal.
Perhaps governments need to appoint citizen tribunes to serve as official witnesses, people specially trained who will respond to calls the same time that police do when there are incidents involving individuals in distress or causing a ruckus.
They would record what takes place and provide in writing an independent account of what was witnessed. Their presence might be enough to persuade officers to change how they police so fewer lives are lost in encounters that could have been handled much differently.
(April 4, 2021)
It's hard to imagine what credible defence Derek Chauvin's attorney can mount given what the video shows: a cop kneeling on a man's neck while showing no concern, or even interest, that the suspect is slowly dying.
George Floyd was powerless, lying face down with his hands in handcuffs behind him. He posed no threat to Chauvin; the officer acknowledged as much by having one hand in his pocket -- hardly a position from which to react defensively should Floyd erupt violently with a superhuman show of strength.
And Chauvin's bland expression offered no evidence that he was intimidated by onlookers protesting his conduct or that he thought his safety was at risk by their presence. His evident indifference to another human being's suffering was sheer callousness.
Thank goodness there were recordings of what took place. Who knows what kind of spin Chauvin and his feckless fellow officers would have put on the tragic event had there not been. Body cameras -- when activated -- are limited in what they reveal.
Perhaps governments need to appoint citizen tribunes to serve as official witnesses, people specially trained who will respond to calls the same time that police do when there are incidents involving individuals in distress or causing a ruckus.
They would record what takes place and provide in writing an independent account of what was witnessed. Their presence might be enough to persuade officers to change how they police so fewer lives are lost in encounters that could have been handled much differently.
Not a good sign -- by design
(April 3, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/03/us/politics/trump-donations.html
The New York Times reports that Trump duped supporters into signing up for weekly recurring contributions last year to keep his struggling campaign afloat. They thought they were making a one-time donation online when in fact it was to be for every week up until the election, which they would only know if they waded through a fine-print disclaimer that told them they had to manually uncheck a box to opt out. And that disclaimer grew increasingly opaque as the election drew near ...
Uh oh, I can see Republican states taking up this idea in a big way in the next election: All ballots will come with the box beside the GOP candidate pre-checked, and it will take voters two steps to vote for the Democrat -- first to mark the teeny-tiny box that explicitly says they're not voting for the Republican, and then to mark the box beside the Democrat candidate.
If they fail to do either of the two steps, well, the vote, by default, goes to the Republican.
Of course, state Republicans will argue it's to protect the integrity of the electoral process and to ensure people know who exactly they are voting for.
They will also claim it shows how dumb Democrats are if they can't follow a simple set of directions.
Gustav Aschenbach, Venice
@JohnBellyful
That's diabolically brilliant, and probably feasible. Defenders of Jim Crow 2.0 think that the rest of America doesn't understand that Jim Crow 1.0 was all written into law that was vigorously justified and defended by politicians and lawyers. Jellybean counting wasn't just a whim, it was a law.
Trump's critics were lambasted for calling his supporters 'deplorables'.
How about dupes? Does that work?
... BTW I think it's deplorable they were deceived.
(April 3, 2021)
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/03/us/politics/trump-donations.html
The New York Times reports that Trump duped supporters into signing up for weekly recurring contributions last year to keep his struggling campaign afloat. They thought they were making a one-time donation online when in fact it was to be for every week up until the election, which they would only know if they waded through a fine-print disclaimer that told them they had to manually uncheck a box to opt out. And that disclaimer grew increasingly opaque as the election drew near ...
Uh oh, I can see Republican states taking up this idea in a big way in the next election: All ballots will come with the box beside the GOP candidate pre-checked, and it will take voters two steps to vote for the Democrat -- first to mark the teeny-tiny box that explicitly says they're not voting for the Republican, and then to mark the box beside the Democrat candidate.
If they fail to do either of the two steps, well, the vote, by default, goes to the Republican.
Of course, state Republicans will argue it's to protect the integrity of the electoral process and to ensure people know who exactly they are voting for.
They will also claim it shows how dumb Democrats are if they can't follow a simple set of directions.
Gustav Aschenbach, Venice
@JohnBellyful
That's diabolically brilliant, and probably feasible. Defenders of Jim Crow 2.0 think that the rest of America doesn't understand that Jim Crow 1.0 was all written into law that was vigorously justified and defended by politicians and lawyers. Jellybean counting wasn't just a whim, it was a law.
Trump's critics were lambasted for calling his supporters 'deplorables'.
How about dupes? Does that work?
... BTW I think it's deplorable they were deceived.
Winning over the Republicans
(April 1, 2021)
Biden might win a good chunk of support from Republican supporters if he were to dedicate several millions of his infrastructure spending to rebuilding the GOP.
The party is rotting -- Marjorie Taylor Gangreene has set in -- and in need of fixing on several fronts: ethics, compassion, imagination, honesty, etc.
Should the party continue to decline, the republic is all but certain to implode.
Those on the right resistant to Democratic help would do well to remember that it was an infusion of money from the competition (Microsoft) that saved Apple from ruin and enabled it to become the powerhouse it is today while revolutionizing more than one industry.
C'mon, Republicans, it could happen to your party too -- one that's nicer, with scruples and real ideas to make the country better.
All you have to do is: Think Different. And become, not the iParty, but the weParty, as in "We, the People..."
(April 1, 2021)
Biden might win a good chunk of support from Republican supporters if he were to dedicate several millions of his infrastructure spending to rebuilding the GOP.
The party is rotting -- Marjorie Taylor Gangreene has set in -- and in need of fixing on several fronts: ethics, compassion, imagination, honesty, etc.
Should the party continue to decline, the republic is all but certain to implode.
Those on the right resistant to Democratic help would do well to remember that it was an infusion of money from the competition (Microsoft) that saved Apple from ruin and enabled it to become the powerhouse it is today while revolutionizing more than one industry.
C'mon, Republicans, it could happen to your party too -- one that's nicer, with scruples and real ideas to make the country better.
All you have to do is: Think Different. And become, not the iParty, but the weParty, as in "We, the People..."
Politically elite abstain full disclosure
(March 31, 2021)
Politically elite abstain full disclosure
There's great risk that comes with exposure
Ridicule and disgrace
Is what they would face
If it became known they were poseurs
(March 31, 2021)
Politically elite abstain full disclosure
There's great risk that comes with exposure
Ridicule and disgrace
Is what they would face
If it became known they were poseurs
If not gun 'control', what?
(March 28, 2021)
I've never understood the desire to possess assault-style weapons. And does any of their owners stop at just having one? Anything that can reduce their numbers is to be encouraged and if changing the language used in debating the issue works then by all means make that effort.
We've seen how damaging 'defunding' has been to swaying public opinion on much-needed policing reform so especial care must be taken to strike the right note to facilitate change in gun ownership.
What terms, then, might be useful in getting more people receptive to the idea that America can get along fine with fewer firearms?
Statewide 'massacre-free zones' that prohibit the sale of assault-style weapons?
'Rampage reduction' legislation?
'Social harmonization' initiatives?
What if, in the same way that cigarette makers had to put warnings on their products that smoking can cause cancer, gun manufacturers and their retailers were required to label their merchandise as 'people killers' and 'child slayers' -- when used irresponsibly, of course.
The U.S. needs to do something in a big way to curb its appetite for violence and weaning itself from personal arsenals would be a huge step in the right direction.
(March 28, 2021)
I've never understood the desire to possess assault-style weapons. And does any of their owners stop at just having one? Anything that can reduce their numbers is to be encouraged and if changing the language used in debating the issue works then by all means make that effort.
We've seen how damaging 'defunding' has been to swaying public opinion on much-needed policing reform so especial care must be taken to strike the right note to facilitate change in gun ownership.
What terms, then, might be useful in getting more people receptive to the idea that America can get along fine with fewer firearms?
Statewide 'massacre-free zones' that prohibit the sale of assault-style weapons?
'Rampage reduction' legislation?
'Social harmonization' initiatives?
What if, in the same way that cigarette makers had to put warnings on their products that smoking can cause cancer, gun manufacturers and their retailers were required to label their merchandise as 'people killers' and 'child slayers' -- when used irresponsibly, of course.
The U.S. needs to do something in a big way to curb its appetite for violence and weaning itself from personal arsenals would be a huge step in the right direction.
Build back better
(March 27, 2021)
Build back better was a promise Biden made
Rebuilding infrastructure is the key
The work that needs doing has too long been delayed
And his to-do list now includes democracy
Thanks to the wrecking ball that is the GOP
Biden believes in bipartisanship; the GOP's largest donors buy partisanship.
Do away with the filibuster!
Change the rules/tradition so that only those senators who won 60 per cent of the vote get to decide whether a bill passes or not.
The rest of the senators can spend their time working together on how to reform the system.
(March 27, 2021)
Build back better was a promise Biden made
Rebuilding infrastructure is the key
The work that needs doing has too long been delayed
And his to-do list now includes democracy
Thanks to the wrecking ball that is the GOP
Biden believes in bipartisanship; the GOP's largest donors buy partisanship.
Do away with the filibuster!
Change the rules/tradition so that only those senators who won 60 per cent of the vote get to decide whether a bill passes or not.
The rest of the senators can spend their time working together on how to reform the system.
Twaddling with Twump
(March 26, 2021)
Should Trump venture into the digital world my suggestion is that he'd brand his social network Twaddle. People who join would be Twaddlers and the stuff that they write would be nonsense.
“Hey, have you seen the latest twaddle from Twump? You'll never guess what he's twaddling today.”
He could cash in on his new venture with T-shirts (a big red T on the front), ball caps (that read Dare to Twaddle), candy (poppycock, of course), and fist pumps (a souvenir in the form of a clenched hand that sits upright; press a button and a burst of air raises the middle finger).
I can see Twaddle developing a huge following among people who require few words to speak their mind and exhaust its content, who never think twice when one thought will do.
GOP laying land mines
(March 26, 2021)
I thought Biden handled himself well at his first news conference. Very relatable. No over-arching ego. Was much more knowledgeable about the issues that reporters raised than Trump ever was.
We should enjoy this while we can, this calm after the storm, because there's another one brewing, if the Republicans get their way in taking control of how elections are to be run. What Georgia did tonight is truly terrifying.
Maybe what it and other states are doing will serve as a wake-up call for Manchin, that his beloved filibuster stands in the way of vital federal legislation being passed, most notably a law that preserves and protects the integrity of the electoral system.
If he clings to the belief the filibuster is sacrosanct and the best mechanism for engendering bipartisanship, then Biden should make him the head of a committee of Democratic senators who share Manchin's view. Its task would be to secure Republican support for major initiatives the president has designated as priorities and by doing so prove that it can be done without resorting to upending the filibuster.
The committee would be given three weeks for each bill to produce a consensus that has sufficient Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold for passage.
If the committee fails in its efforts -- wagers, anyone? -- the matter would be decided by 51 votes as a minimum.
(March 26, 2021)
Should Trump venture into the digital world my suggestion is that he'd brand his social network Twaddle. People who join would be Twaddlers and the stuff that they write would be nonsense.
“Hey, have you seen the latest twaddle from Twump? You'll never guess what he's twaddling today.”
He could cash in on his new venture with T-shirts (a big red T on the front), ball caps (that read Dare to Twaddle), candy (poppycock, of course), and fist pumps (a souvenir in the form of a clenched hand that sits upright; press a button and a burst of air raises the middle finger).
I can see Twaddle developing a huge following among people who require few words to speak their mind and exhaust its content, who never think twice when one thought will do.
GOP laying land mines
(March 26, 2021)
I thought Biden handled himself well at his first news conference. Very relatable. No over-arching ego. Was much more knowledgeable about the issues that reporters raised than Trump ever was.
We should enjoy this while we can, this calm after the storm, because there's another one brewing, if the Republicans get their way in taking control of how elections are to be run. What Georgia did tonight is truly terrifying.
Maybe what it and other states are doing will serve as a wake-up call for Manchin, that his beloved filibuster stands in the way of vital federal legislation being passed, most notably a law that preserves and protects the integrity of the electoral system.
If he clings to the belief the filibuster is sacrosanct and the best mechanism for engendering bipartisanship, then Biden should make him the head of a committee of Democratic senators who share Manchin's view. Its task would be to secure Republican support for major initiatives the president has designated as priorities and by doing so prove that it can be done without resorting to upending the filibuster.
The committee would be given three weeks for each bill to produce a consensus that has sufficient Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold for passage.
If the committee fails in its efforts -- wagers, anyone? -- the matter would be decided by 51 votes as a minimum.
The GOP's greatest fear
(March 23, 2021)
State GOP are going to great lengths to make it harder for people to cast a ballot.
What is it that Republicans fear? Oh, right, this:
Imagine if all adults were allowed to go vote
Just think of the harm it would do:
Our chances of winning would be slim to remote
And states we once owned would turn blue.
* * *
Anti-vaxxers should be grateful that those choosing to get vaccinated are giving economic recovery a shot in the arm. Unlike the revelers at Miami Beach who have decided to punch it in the face.
(March 23, 2021)
State GOP are going to great lengths to make it harder for people to cast a ballot.
What is it that Republicans fear? Oh, right, this:
Imagine if all adults were allowed to go vote
Just think of the harm it would do:
Our chances of winning would be slim to remote
And states we once owned would turn blue.
* * *
Anti-vaxxers should be grateful that those choosing to get vaccinated are giving economic recovery a shot in the arm. Unlike the revelers at Miami Beach who have decided to punch it in the face.
Cuomo-Trump, McConnell-Biden
(March 22, 2021)
Cuomo went from being a knight in shining armour for his handling of the pandemic, compared to Trump's denialism, to being an imperious knave who has no clothes, having been found out he's not much different from Trump when it comes to relations with females -- if his many accusers, like Trump's, are to be believed.
What they say does have the ring of truth.
Where McConnell talks scorched earth when it comes to preserving the filibuster, Biden prefers to plant seeds in the soil, and then help them grow.
(March 22, 2021)
Cuomo went from being a knight in shining armour for his handling of the pandemic, compared to Trump's denialism, to being an imperious knave who has no clothes, having been found out he's not much different from Trump when it comes to relations with females -- if his many accusers, like Trump's, are to be believed.
What they say does have the ring of truth.
Where McConnell talks scorched earth when it comes to preserving the filibuster, Biden prefers to plant seeds in the soil, and then help them grow.
Look who's winning
(March 19, 2021)
“Britain and the U.S. have administered around three times as many doses as France or Germany.”
Imagine that, Britain and the U.S. are winning the arms race. Who would have predicted that six months ago?
But now it's clear: The first pair's adept at vaccination, the second pair's great at vacillation.
Voter cards the answer
(March 18, 2021)
Just how widespread exactly are the concerns in 43 states about the security of the electoral process? It's easy for Republicans to argue that's what's behind these efforts at reform but without actual evidence to support the legitimacy of these supposedly abundant fears, it's nothing more than a brazen bid to hold onto power and disadvantage citizens who vote Democrat.
Perhaps the answer lies in password-protected universal voter cards, which the federal government would provide Americans when they reach the age of 18, or, if born elsewhere, when they become eligible to vote. These would be for a lifetime and it would be the responsibility of the individual to update, online or in person, after moving, and again in advance of an election being held.
For mail-in voting the cardholder would need to confirm receipt of the ballot by calling an automated system that checks the password the person provides over the phone against the database and then confirms the voter has been registered.
(March 19, 2021)
“Britain and the U.S. have administered around three times as many doses as France or Germany.”
Imagine that, Britain and the U.S. are winning the arms race. Who would have predicted that six months ago?
But now it's clear: The first pair's adept at vaccination, the second pair's great at vacillation.
Voter cards the answer
(March 18, 2021)
Just how widespread exactly are the concerns in 43 states about the security of the electoral process? It's easy for Republicans to argue that's what's behind these efforts at reform but without actual evidence to support the legitimacy of these supposedly abundant fears, it's nothing more than a brazen bid to hold onto power and disadvantage citizens who vote Democrat.
Perhaps the answer lies in password-protected universal voter cards, which the federal government would provide Americans when they reach the age of 18, or, if born elsewhere, when they become eligible to vote. These would be for a lifetime and it would be the responsibility of the individual to update, online or in person, after moving, and again in advance of an election being held.
For mail-in voting the cardholder would need to confirm receipt of the ballot by calling an automated system that checks the password the person provides over the phone against the database and then confirms the voter has been registered.
I Can't Believe It's Not Civet
(March 16, 2021)
Times columnist Thomas Friedman argues the COVID-19 pandemic is the equivalent of a nuclear accident but "nothing meaningful" is being done to prevent another pandemic. He looks at the causes and offers a number of steps that should be taken to ward off history being repeated. One is to protect the natural system. Another is "to wipe out the illicit wildlife-related supply chains feeding these wet markets with endangered wildlife species."
I am worried. Those on the far right will read this and make the case for the extinction of wild animals.
When will we learn Mother Nature isn't keen on makeovers by humans. She's been around for billions of years. We're not even fruit flies in comparison. But we're definitely a lot more annoying which is why we're getting slapped down, with disease, drought, flooding, famine, extreme weather events ...
Unfortunately for us her 'pesticides' are infinitely more powerful than any we'll ever devise.
The makers of plant-based burgers would do the animal world a huge favour if they could reproduce the flavour of endangered species.
Wouldn't it be nice if “I Can't Believe It's Not Civet” set the standard for myriad fake meats?
plandemic – humankind's repeated failure to adequately prepare for global diseases that are entirely predictable and largely preventable
(March 16, 2021)
Times columnist Thomas Friedman argues the COVID-19 pandemic is the equivalent of a nuclear accident but "nothing meaningful" is being done to prevent another pandemic. He looks at the causes and offers a number of steps that should be taken to ward off history being repeated. One is to protect the natural system. Another is "to wipe out the illicit wildlife-related supply chains feeding these wet markets with endangered wildlife species."
I am worried. Those on the far right will read this and make the case for the extinction of wild animals.
When will we learn Mother Nature isn't keen on makeovers by humans. She's been around for billions of years. We're not even fruit flies in comparison. But we're definitely a lot more annoying which is why we're getting slapped down, with disease, drought, flooding, famine, extreme weather events ...
Unfortunately for us her 'pesticides' are infinitely more powerful than any we'll ever devise.
The makers of plant-based burgers would do the animal world a huge favour if they could reproduce the flavour of endangered species.
Wouldn't it be nice if “I Can't Believe It's Not Civet” set the standard for myriad fake meats?
plandemic – humankind's repeated failure to adequately prepare for global diseases that are entirely predictable and largely preventable
Filibuster reform or bust
(March 11, 2021)
At the very least any senator who chooses to filibuster should be required to speak about the matter under deliberation and nothing else. As soon as it becomes apparent the senator is repeating points already made or is raising issues unrelated to what's being considered, the presiding officer can step in and rule the filibuster has come to an end.
The session should then be adjourned for 24 hours to allow for the leaders of the two parties to confer about possible changes to the bill -- to satisfy Manchin's insistence that the minority's voice be heard.
Once that is done the Senate can vote, with a simple majority being sufficient to decide the matter.
(March 11, 2021)
At the very least any senator who chooses to filibuster should be required to speak about the matter under deliberation and nothing else. As soon as it becomes apparent the senator is repeating points already made or is raising issues unrelated to what's being considered, the presiding officer can step in and rule the filibuster has come to an end.
The session should then be adjourned for 24 hours to allow for the leaders of the two parties to confer about possible changes to the bill -- to satisfy Manchin's insistence that the minority's voice be heard.
Once that is done the Senate can vote, with a simple majority being sufficient to decide the matter.
Tax cheats, and Trump
(March 10, 2021)
Any effort by the Biden administration to help the IRS nab tax cheats will undoubtedly win the enthusiastic support of the Republicans, whose instinctive desire to root out fraud is well-known.
Unlike their claims of voter fraud, however, tax fraud is real, it's massive, and it weakens the republic, by depriving it of money owed the government that could be put to better use than making the ultra-rich ultra-comfortable.
Trump has a somewhat skewed interpretation of what it means to be a team player.
He looks at the word 'team' and somehow sees only 'me'.
(March 10, 2021)
Any effort by the Biden administration to help the IRS nab tax cheats will undoubtedly win the enthusiastic support of the Republicans, whose instinctive desire to root out fraud is well-known.
Unlike their claims of voter fraud, however, tax fraud is real, it's massive, and it weakens the republic, by depriving it of money owed the government that could be put to better use than making the ultra-rich ultra-comfortable.
Trump has a somewhat skewed interpretation of what it means to be a team player.
He looks at the word 'team' and somehow sees only 'me'.
When you're ahead you don't need anybody ... for awhile
(March 9, 2021)
The New York Times reports researchers have determined sea slugs will "purposefully decapitate themselves in order to facilitate the growth of a new body ... Their severed heads get around just fine until they regenerate perfectly functioning, parasite-free new bodies, scientists say."
Imagine how a slug's body must feel after getting a letter of separation from head office saying its services are no longer required.
Does it get a severance package, or is it the severance package?
(March 9, 2021)
The New York Times reports researchers have determined sea slugs will "purposefully decapitate themselves in order to facilitate the growth of a new body ... Their severed heads get around just fine until they regenerate perfectly functioning, parasite-free new bodies, scientists say."
Imagine how a slug's body must feel after getting a letter of separation from head office saying its services are no longer required.
Does it get a severance package, or is it the severance package?
The filibuster
(March 4, 2021)
The filibuster is used to delay
So nothing gets done right away
Though the needs might be great
The public must wait
Because one side says no every day
(March 4, 2021)
The filibuster is used to delay
So nothing gets done right away
Though the needs might be great
The public must wait
Because one side says no every day
The windbag of change
(March 4, 2021)
There's no disputing Trump has transmogrified the GOP. Which is to say, as the dictionary does, he's changed or altered the party “greatly and often with grotesque or humorous effect.”
Trump has taken it one step further and made it grotesque AND laughable. Dangerously so.
But as much as the would-be king is also his own jester and Republicans his courtiers, a court of a different sort – several, perhaps – awaits and it is there that his fate might be decided. And with it the future of the Republican party.
But should retribution never come at the conclusion of any of the Trump's trials that multitudes devoutly wish, the question on the lips of everyone maneuvering to be his heir apparent then becomes: How much longer do you think he'll live? How much more grovelling will we have to do?
If he wasn't such a threat you could be excused for wishing he'd live to be a hundred if only for the spectacle of arthritic GOP-ers bowing and scraping, abasing themselves.
Biden needn't be a knight in shining armour to spare America another reign of error. He need only be competent and composed, resolute and focused. Any fanfare he will receive will be earned, not staged.
(March 4, 2021)
There's no disputing Trump has transmogrified the GOP. Which is to say, as the dictionary does, he's changed or altered the party “greatly and often with grotesque or humorous effect.”
Trump has taken it one step further and made it grotesque AND laughable. Dangerously so.
But as much as the would-be king is also his own jester and Republicans his courtiers, a court of a different sort – several, perhaps – awaits and it is there that his fate might be decided. And with it the future of the Republican party.
But should retribution never come at the conclusion of any of the Trump's trials that multitudes devoutly wish, the question on the lips of everyone maneuvering to be his heir apparent then becomes: How much longer do you think he'll live? How much more grovelling will we have to do?
If he wasn't such a threat you could be excused for wishing he'd live to be a hundred if only for the spectacle of arthritic GOP-ers bowing and scraping, abasing themselves.
Biden needn't be a knight in shining armour to spare America another reign of error. He need only be competent and composed, resolute and focused. Any fanfare he will receive will be earned, not staged.
A moral abyss
(March 3, 2021)
Trump's life is a moral abyss
But his message to many is bliss
They hang on each word
However absurd
And reverently his feet they will kiss
(March 3, 2021)
Trump's life is a moral abyss
But his message to many is bliss
They hang on each word
However absurd
And reverently his feet they will kiss
U.S. a one-party state
(March 1, 2021)
There's been talk in the States of forming a third party. What third party? There's only one now, and its rival is a cult.
GOP supporters are mostly white guys with prostrate problems, bowing and scraping before their Inglorious Leader. They have a worm's-eye view of the world and look up to a snake whose oil they consume to feed their fears and prejudices.
The Republicans need to shed the serpent that is strangling them slowly and with them democracy. But those within their ranks who dare to take on the challenge are too few in number to break Trump's hold.
Which makes talk of a second – not third – party so attractive to those not under his spell. To start afresh, far removed from the madness that worships a snake deity, a cult of Ever Trumpers that defies comprehension when viewed from the outside that is reality.
And what can the Democrats do as they watch this asp rise from the ashes to threaten them anew? Ignore it for the time being and focus on what they have set out to do, to improve the lives of all Americans, who will show their gratitude when returning to the polls.
That's really a nation's best protection against being snake-smitten for another four years.
(March 1, 2021)
There's been talk in the States of forming a third party. What third party? There's only one now, and its rival is a cult.
GOP supporters are mostly white guys with prostrate problems, bowing and scraping before their Inglorious Leader. They have a worm's-eye view of the world and look up to a snake whose oil they consume to feed their fears and prejudices.
The Republicans need to shed the serpent that is strangling them slowly and with them democracy. But those within their ranks who dare to take on the challenge are too few in number to break Trump's hold.
Which makes talk of a second – not third – party so attractive to those not under his spell. To start afresh, far removed from the madness that worships a snake deity, a cult of Ever Trumpers that defies comprehension when viewed from the outside that is reality.
And what can the Democrats do as they watch this asp rise from the ashes to threaten them anew? Ignore it for the time being and focus on what they have set out to do, to improve the lives of all Americans, who will show their gratitude when returning to the polls.
That's really a nation's best protection against being snake-smitten for another four years.
Limiting the vote a derelection of duty
(Feb. 28, 2021)
The villainy of Republicans knows no bounds. Across dozens of states they're introducing laws to make it more difficult to vote to protect the sanctity of elections. That's rich.
How dare they speak of election integrity when integrity is a concept that's utterly foreign to them.
But they know it means something to those they oppose so they gleefully throw the term in their faces. It's no different from spitting in their eye as they deprive them of their most cherished democratic right.
If they succeed, Biden will be able to say in the weeks leading up to the mid-terms next year that the election has been rigged and he won't be lying.
Knowing this, Biden and his administration should make plans to allocate federal funding to non-partisan organizations in each state dedicated to informing citizens what they must do to satisfy requirements that stand in the way of their casting of votes.
They should assist them with that as well where possible.
It's wrong that so many hurdles are being placed before them but that is a reality they need to prepare for, if they are to defeat a most determined foe.
The federal government should also provide funding to individuals in need of providing proper ID and residency who lack the means to do so, for whatever reason.
It's a battle the Democrats shouldn't have to wage, given there was no credible evidence of substantial fraud in the last election – other than in the person of the Former Guy and Constant Menace.
The Republicans are running scared. Let them. Anything that can be done to point them in the direction of oblivion will be of great service to the country.
(Feb. 28, 2021)
The villainy of Republicans knows no bounds. Across dozens of states they're introducing laws to make it more difficult to vote to protect the sanctity of elections. That's rich.
How dare they speak of election integrity when integrity is a concept that's utterly foreign to them.
But they know it means something to those they oppose so they gleefully throw the term in their faces. It's no different from spitting in their eye as they deprive them of their most cherished democratic right.
If they succeed, Biden will be able to say in the weeks leading up to the mid-terms next year that the election has been rigged and he won't be lying.
Knowing this, Biden and his administration should make plans to allocate federal funding to non-partisan organizations in each state dedicated to informing citizens what they must do to satisfy requirements that stand in the way of their casting of votes.
They should assist them with that as well where possible.
It's wrong that so many hurdles are being placed before them but that is a reality they need to prepare for, if they are to defeat a most determined foe.
The federal government should also provide funding to individuals in need of providing proper ID and residency who lack the means to do so, for whatever reason.
It's a battle the Democrats shouldn't have to wage, given there was no credible evidence of substantial fraud in the last election – other than in the person of the Former Guy and Constant Menace.
The Republicans are running scared. Let them. Anything that can be done to point them in the direction of oblivion will be of great service to the country.
Hoping MBS gets his just desserts in the desert
(Feb. 26, 2021)
Perhaps a little faith and more patience is required here in anticipation the Biden administration will ultimately do the right thing, whatever that might end up being.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's horrific role in the murder of an American journalist has been revealed for all to see, and cannot go unpunished. But having witnessed America's inability to punish one of its own prominent citizens, referred to at times as Individual 1, whose crimes were no less apparent, I suspect it will be every bit as difficult to make a Saudi prince pay for what he's done, because of the unwholesome alliance that exists between the two countries.
One can still hope, though, that justice will be served, because the effort must be made; otherwise the rule of law will suffer another blow, and the goodwill Biden earned with his election will begin to fray.
He can't let that happen, he must do more than have his administration deliver a tepid response that leaves MBS untouched.
Biden should excoriate the crown prince for behaving like a savage, and instruct aides to look into what the United States can do to inflict financial pain on MBS, cause him reputational damage and shrink his influence, even if it risks souring relations with the Saudi kingdom.
It's not much of a relationship when one side can brutally silence a strong voice for freedom that the other side professes to stand with and protect as a matter of principle, and not suffer any great consequences.
At some point you have to draw a line in the sand.
(Feb. 26, 2021)
Perhaps a little faith and more patience is required here in anticipation the Biden administration will ultimately do the right thing, whatever that might end up being.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's horrific role in the murder of an American journalist has been revealed for all to see, and cannot go unpunished. But having witnessed America's inability to punish one of its own prominent citizens, referred to at times as Individual 1, whose crimes were no less apparent, I suspect it will be every bit as difficult to make a Saudi prince pay for what he's done, because of the unwholesome alliance that exists between the two countries.
One can still hope, though, that justice will be served, because the effort must be made; otherwise the rule of law will suffer another blow, and the goodwill Biden earned with his election will begin to fray.
He can't let that happen, he must do more than have his administration deliver a tepid response that leaves MBS untouched.
Biden should excoriate the crown prince for behaving like a savage, and instruct aides to look into what the United States can do to inflict financial pain on MBS, cause him reputational damage and shrink his influence, even if it risks souring relations with the Saudi kingdom.
It's not much of a relationship when one side can brutally silence a strong voice for freedom that the other side professes to stand with and protect as a matter of principle, and not suffer any great consequences.
At some point you have to draw a line in the sand.
Joe, they're not going to change
(Feb. 26, 2021)
Biden should never have opened his big mouth and talked about partisanship. That pipe dream of his demonstrated just how much he hasn't been paying attention to how far Congress has regressed, with the connivance of spurious Republican members.
All he had to say was that he was committed to restoring the country's soul and its standing in the world by doing what was best for the people, especially those most in need of help.
If the Republicans chose to join him in that effort, instead of reflexively throwing up roadblocks, all the better. There's strength in working together.
But if they chose not, well, he would forge ahead all the same, without spending too much time and effort trying to win them over. Their implacability is as predictable as the setting of the sun.
The polls clearly show Biden has the support of a majority of Americans. It's their collective voice he should listen to, not the strident objections of a party that has no interest in seeing a nation regain its footing after four years of stumbling.
If Biden insists on reaching across the aisle it should be with the intent of grabbing the GOP by the collar and saying forcefully, "C'mon, man, smarten up. You can do better. And so can the country."
(Feb. 26, 2021)
Biden should never have opened his big mouth and talked about partisanship. That pipe dream of his demonstrated just how much he hasn't been paying attention to how far Congress has regressed, with the connivance of spurious Republican members.
All he had to say was that he was committed to restoring the country's soul and its standing in the world by doing what was best for the people, especially those most in need of help.
If the Republicans chose to join him in that effort, instead of reflexively throwing up roadblocks, all the better. There's strength in working together.
But if they chose not, well, he would forge ahead all the same, without spending too much time and effort trying to win them over. Their implacability is as predictable as the setting of the sun.
The polls clearly show Biden has the support of a majority of Americans. It's their collective voice he should listen to, not the strident objections of a party that has no interest in seeing a nation regain its footing after four years of stumbling.
If Biden insists on reaching across the aisle it should be with the intent of grabbing the GOP by the collar and saying forcefully, "C'mon, man, smarten up. You can do better. And so can the country."
Preposterous? Maybe
(Feb. 23, 2021)
As the climate continues to get weirder and extreme weather events occur more frequently and with greater ferocity, science should look into developing technology that harnesses the untapped energy of hurricanes and tornadoes.
Look at all that power that's going to waste while winds are laying waste to structures.
If all that energy could be stored for future use think of the possibilities.
A far-fetched notion, agreed, but given where the world is headed, toward ever more chaotic weather, any way to make the best of a really bad situation should not be ruled out.
Alternatively, politicians of all stripes can take climate change seriously and do their level best to head off its worst effects.
It's difficult to say which of the two suggestions is more preposterous.
(Feb. 23, 2021)
As the climate continues to get weirder and extreme weather events occur more frequently and with greater ferocity, science should look into developing technology that harnesses the untapped energy of hurricanes and tornadoes.
Look at all that power that's going to waste while winds are laying waste to structures.
If all that energy could be stored for future use think of the possibilities.
A far-fetched notion, agreed, but given where the world is headed, toward ever more chaotic weather, any way to make the best of a really bad situation should not be ruled out.
Alternatively, politicians of all stripes can take climate change seriously and do their level best to head off its worst effects.
It's difficult to say which of the two suggestions is more preposterous.
All will be revealed
(Feb. 22, 2021)
Supreme Court says Trump has to release his taxes and other financial records, over his strenuous objections. Could it be he's worried word will get out how much he spends on hair plugs and marmalade make-up?
That people will find out his video rental store in Yonkers was his biggest revenue producer three years running?
That Cousin Vladdy is a silent partner in his hotels and golf resorts?
(Feb. 22, 2021)
Supreme Court says Trump has to release his taxes and other financial records, over his strenuous objections. Could it be he's worried word will get out how much he spends on hair plugs and marmalade make-up?
That people will find out his video rental store in Yonkers was his biggest revenue producer three years running?
That Cousin Vladdy is a silent partner in his hotels and golf resorts?
Moms said it best
(Feb. 20, 2021)
Rush Limbaugh's death did bring to mind Moms Mabley's famous line:
"They say you shouldn't say nothin' about the dead unless it's good. He's dead. Good."
Does this count as sufficient regard for his life's work?
(I'm sure Rush would have got a chuckle out of Moms' line, known as he was for his self-deprecating wit.)
(Feb. 20, 2021)
Rush Limbaugh's death did bring to mind Moms Mabley's famous line:
"They say you shouldn't say nothin' about the dead unless it's good. He's dead. Good."
Does this count as sufficient regard for his life's work?
(I'm sure Rush would have got a chuckle out of Moms' line, known as he was for his self-deprecating wit.)
Rush Limbaugh dead at 70
(Feb. 17, 2021)
I'll shed no crocodile tears over the death of a talk show host who was the head jeerleader for endlessly embittered masses.
He was more than a thorn in the side of democracy, he was a blunt weapon used unrelentingly against Democrats, celebrities and experts he dearly loved to ridicule.
One was never in doubt what he meant by his words. They were meant to be mean. The harshness of his condemnations evoked responses in kind -- extremely unkind -- from his legion of critics.
The only thing middle of the road with Limbaughhumbug was the liberal roadkill he left behind with his steamroller commentary.
His oft-aggrieved listeners are no doubt grieving today.
And wondering how to blame liberals for his passing.
(Feb. 17, 2021)
I'll shed no crocodile tears over the death of a talk show host who was the head jeerleader for endlessly embittered masses.
He was more than a thorn in the side of democracy, he was a blunt weapon used unrelentingly against Democrats, celebrities and experts he dearly loved to ridicule.
One was never in doubt what he meant by his words. They were meant to be mean. The harshness of his condemnations evoked responses in kind -- extremely unkind -- from his legion of critics.
The only thing middle of the road with Limbaughhumbug was the liberal roadkill he left behind with his steamroller commentary.
His oft-aggrieved listeners are no doubt grieving today.
And wondering how to blame liberals for his passing.
Keeping 'em honest
(Feb. 16, 2021)
The New York Times reports that Fox News and a competing group of investors are looking to create separate news services in the UK to compete with the BBC.
The UK should require Fox to include in its program schedule a half-hour fact check show that broadcasts at supper time with an update at 11 p.m.
They would correct any misinformation Fox's on-air talent has conveyed to viewers, intentional or otherwise, in the preceding 24 hours.
It would be staffed by non-Fox, non-partisan associates whose experience and training have given them the skills to ferret out facts.
There is the matter of allotting only 30 minutes twice a day to keeping Fox honest but baby steps, folks.
The concern is that advertisers will flock to support a program that airs on the side of truth, which in turn could incentivize Fox's opiniators to keep getting it wrong to generate more revenue for their employer at the supper hour. And again at 11 p.m.
It could turn into a vicious loop.
(Feb. 16, 2021)
The New York Times reports that Fox News and a competing group of investors are looking to create separate news services in the UK to compete with the BBC.
The UK should require Fox to include in its program schedule a half-hour fact check show that broadcasts at supper time with an update at 11 p.m.
They would correct any misinformation Fox's on-air talent has conveyed to viewers, intentional or otherwise, in the preceding 24 hours.
It would be staffed by non-Fox, non-partisan associates whose experience and training have given them the skills to ferret out facts.
There is the matter of allotting only 30 minutes twice a day to keeping Fox honest but baby steps, folks.
The concern is that advertisers will flock to support a program that airs on the side of truth, which in turn could incentivize Fox's opiniators to keep getting it wrong to generate more revenue for their employer at the supper hour. And again at 11 p.m.
It could turn into a vicious loop.
Who was that idiot?
(Feb. 15, 2021)
It's too bad the senate majority leader at the time hadn't decided to move in haste to impeach the president at the time which the Democrats wanted to do at the time.
Otherwise McConnell could have said his speech AND then voted to convict, rather than get tripped up by a technicality that made it impossible.
He can't be very happy with the idiot who thwarted justice.
McConnell had to make do with issuing a stern rebuke.
Trump is probably still feeling the sting of his tongue-lashing, though, accustomed as he is to having GOP members give his boots a thorough tongue-licking.
(Feb. 15, 2021)
It's too bad the senate majority leader at the time hadn't decided to move in haste to impeach the president at the time which the Democrats wanted to do at the time.
Otherwise McConnell could have said his speech AND then voted to convict, rather than get tripped up by a technicality that made it impossible.
He can't be very happy with the idiot who thwarted justice.
McConnell had to make do with issuing a stern rebuke.
Trump is probably still feeling the sting of his tongue-lashing, though, accustomed as he is to having GOP members give his boots a thorough tongue-licking.
Hung jury
(Feb. 12, 2021)
As expected, Republicans voted in sufficient numbers to enable Trump to escape justice.
The public could be excused if it now asked that the jury be hung.*
* At least that part of the jury that stuck with Trump.**
**No call to violence intended. Just a bit of gallows humour.
(Feb. 12, 2021)
As expected, Republicans voted in sufficient numbers to enable Trump to escape justice.
The public could be excused if it now asked that the jury be hung.*
* At least that part of the jury that stuck with Trump.**
**No call to violence intended. Just a bit of gallows humour.
Loser deserves a losing argument
(Feb. 12, 2021)
Trump told his supporters he knew they would be "going over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make (their) voices heard today."
Imagine his sense of betrayal, then, when he learned they did no such thing. One can only conclude he was consumed with rage at their treachery and was so seized with anger that it rendered him incapable of calling in the National Guard immediately. His emotions got the better of him and it delayed a swift response.
At which point he ... no, can't do it, can't continue making an effort to get inside the minds of his lawyers and figure out what it is they will argue.
Trying to make sense of the nonsensical, to defend the indefensible is a losing proposition.
Trump's role in what took place Jan. 6 is all too obvious, even to Republican senators who are letting partisan politics guide their thinking rather than be swayed by the weight of evidence.
Once again they are enablers, allowing Trumpism to put its thumb on the scales of justice, and their consciences are being squashed in the process.
What little is left of them after four years of Trump.
(Feb. 12, 2021)
Trump told his supporters he knew they would be "going over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make (their) voices heard today."
Imagine his sense of betrayal, then, when he learned they did no such thing. One can only conclude he was consumed with rage at their treachery and was so seized with anger that it rendered him incapable of calling in the National Guard immediately. His emotions got the better of him and it delayed a swift response.
At which point he ... no, can't do it, can't continue making an effort to get inside the minds of his lawyers and figure out what it is they will argue.
Trying to make sense of the nonsensical, to defend the indefensible is a losing proposition.
Trump's role in what took place Jan. 6 is all too obvious, even to Republican senators who are letting partisan politics guide their thinking rather than be swayed by the weight of evidence.
Once again they are enablers, allowing Trumpism to put its thumb on the scales of justice, and their consciences are being squashed in the process.
What little is left of them after four years of Trump.
Connecting the dots when there's no smoking gun
(Feb. 11, 2021)
While the case against Trump would have benefited from a "smoking gun" -- audio of him telling aides he intended to stoke the anger of his supporters and have them storm the Capitol with intent to commit mayhem on his behalf -- the presentation of the House impeachment managers yesterday nonetheless made the compelling argument that it was Trump who put bullets in the pistol and then aimed it, leaving it to others to pull the trigger.
The Democrats connected the dots to make plain Trump's culpability but even had they resorted to paint-by-number to fill in the big picture, the Republicans most certainly would have turned a blind eye to the portrait of evil placed before them.
Their choosing to ignore the facts calls to mind the immortal words of Sergeant Schultz of Hogan's Heroes fame: "I see nothing."
Unlike the TV character, however, it is the GOP that is being held prisoner -- by the cult of Donald Trump and the hold his base has over the party, which now has a new motto: "Where They Go We Follow As One."
With a few exceptions, of course, but not near enough to make a difference.
(Feb. 11, 2021)
While the case against Trump would have benefited from a "smoking gun" -- audio of him telling aides he intended to stoke the anger of his supporters and have them storm the Capitol with intent to commit mayhem on his behalf -- the presentation of the House impeachment managers yesterday nonetheless made the compelling argument that it was Trump who put bullets in the pistol and then aimed it, leaving it to others to pull the trigger.
The Democrats connected the dots to make plain Trump's culpability but even had they resorted to paint-by-number to fill in the big picture, the Republicans most certainly would have turned a blind eye to the portrait of evil placed before them.
Their choosing to ignore the facts calls to mind the immortal words of Sergeant Schultz of Hogan's Heroes fame: "I see nothing."
Unlike the TV character, however, it is the GOP that is being held prisoner -- by the cult of Donald Trump and the hold his base has over the party, which now has a new motto: "Where They Go We Follow As One."
With a few exceptions, of course, but not near enough to make a difference.
Tech giants need to be brought down to size
(Feb. 10, 2021)
As a rule, one should not shoot the messenger, the bearer of bad news and good.
But using restraints shouldn't be out of the question when circumstances demand it.
Facebook, Google, Twitter and others are messengers, capable of delivering content instantly to millions of people around the world. Their incredible reach and extraordinary efficiency is both a strength and a threat, because their capacity to perform a worthwhile service is too often hijacked for nefarious purposes, resulting in harm being done on an unprecedented scale.
Unlike the messengers of old, they know the content of what it is they deliver, and they choose to do so even when aware that what they carry can poison minds and inflame passions.
Only in the most extreme instances will they refuse to be a party to outrageous misconduct.
If they are to continue to profit handsomely from the online traffic they generate, they should also bear responsibility for the collisions that follow, between prejudice and reason, fiction and fact.
Would a courier service not be investigated by the authorities if it knew it was delivering a dealer's cocaine to a customer, a bomb-making kit to a terrorist, or a AR-15 to an angry ex-spouse bent on revenge?
Rules are needed to rein in Google, Facebook, Twitter and others.
They need to be held accountable.
(Feb. 10, 2021)
As a rule, one should not shoot the messenger, the bearer of bad news and good.
But using restraints shouldn't be out of the question when circumstances demand it.
Facebook, Google, Twitter and others are messengers, capable of delivering content instantly to millions of people around the world. Their incredible reach and extraordinary efficiency is both a strength and a threat, because their capacity to perform a worthwhile service is too often hijacked for nefarious purposes, resulting in harm being done on an unprecedented scale.
Unlike the messengers of old, they know the content of what it is they deliver, and they choose to do so even when aware that what they carry can poison minds and inflame passions.
Only in the most extreme instances will they refuse to be a party to outrageous misconduct.
If they are to continue to profit handsomely from the online traffic they generate, they should also bear responsibility for the collisions that follow, between prejudice and reason, fiction and fact.
Would a courier service not be investigated by the authorities if it knew it was delivering a dealer's cocaine to a customer, a bomb-making kit to a terrorist, or a AR-15 to an angry ex-spouse bent on revenge?
Rules are needed to rein in Google, Facebook, Twitter and others.
They need to be held accountable.
Donald Trump deserves to be tried
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Donald Trump deserves to be tried
He is the one who had lied
He incited a mob
Saying he had been robbed
And the result was five people died
Here are the facts, senators
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Trump's lawyers will claim he never incited, he merely invited all his supporters to come to Washington to have a mild, not “wild,” time. (His tweets were notorious for having typos.)
And by mild he meant for his followers to march in peace to the Capitol building and with their massive presence alone show support for a president unjustly ousted.
Expect one of his lawyers to argue with a straight face:
“Yes, violence erupted but whose fault was that? The police, of course, because that's what police everywhere do when people gather in large numbers to protest wrongdoing. We saw it happen countless times in other cities, with authorities over-reacting to the slightest provocation.
The patriots on Jan. 6 were no different in demanding accountability. It's only when they were strong-armed did they respond in kind with aggression, and invaded the Capitol building in search of the officials who had given the orders to disperse them by force.
Now it's been said Mr. Trump was somewhat slow in sending for help or advising his followers to back off but he was never a president to act in haste and regret in leisure. Let fate play its hand was always his motto.
Men and women of the Senate the events of the day were tragic indeed but it will only add to the tragedy if a man beloved by millions is found guilty of enjoining Americans to fight for the truth.
Senators, join them in their fight to discover what is the truth, and prove with your decision that you have found it.”
Is door to U.S. a trapdoor for Biden?
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Could Trump's wall become Biden's first pitfall?
Proceed with caution, Joe.
Crack open the floodgate -- every border seems to have one -- and before you know it you have a flood that washes away the goodwill you've built up with the American people and drowns reforms you haven't even had a chance to introduce.
It's a situation that calls for a measured response, taking into account the needs of desperate people along with the needs of a host nation that, in certain quarters and with good reason, fears it's being taken advantage of.
Take care in what you say and how you proceed.
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Donald Trump deserves to be tried
He is the one who had lied
He incited a mob
Saying he had been robbed
And the result was five people died
Here are the facts, senators
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Trump's lawyers will claim he never incited, he merely invited all his supporters to come to Washington to have a mild, not “wild,” time. (His tweets were notorious for having typos.)
And by mild he meant for his followers to march in peace to the Capitol building and with their massive presence alone show support for a president unjustly ousted.
Expect one of his lawyers to argue with a straight face:
“Yes, violence erupted but whose fault was that? The police, of course, because that's what police everywhere do when people gather in large numbers to protest wrongdoing. We saw it happen countless times in other cities, with authorities over-reacting to the slightest provocation.
The patriots on Jan. 6 were no different in demanding accountability. It's only when they were strong-armed did they respond in kind with aggression, and invaded the Capitol building in search of the officials who had given the orders to disperse them by force.
Now it's been said Mr. Trump was somewhat slow in sending for help or advising his followers to back off but he was never a president to act in haste and regret in leisure. Let fate play its hand was always his motto.
Men and women of the Senate the events of the day were tragic indeed but it will only add to the tragedy if a man beloved by millions is found guilty of enjoining Americans to fight for the truth.
Senators, join them in their fight to discover what is the truth, and prove with your decision that you have found it.”
Is door to U.S. a trapdoor for Biden?
(Feb. 8, 2021)
Could Trump's wall become Biden's first pitfall?
Proceed with caution, Joe.
Crack open the floodgate -- every border seems to have one -- and before you know it you have a flood that washes away the goodwill you've built up with the American people and drowns reforms you haven't even had a chance to introduce.
It's a situation that calls for a measured response, taking into account the needs of desperate people along with the needs of a host nation that, in certain quarters and with good reason, fears it's being taken advantage of.
Take care in what you say and how you proceed.
Spewing nonsense, spreading lies
(Feb. 6, 2021)
QAnon is an OCult that spews nonsense about matters "not easily apprehended or understood," but does so in a way that adherents are assured their suspicions are well-founded.
Clinton, to them, is a she-devil, combining the worst aspects of being a woman, a Democrat, and someone who does her own thinking rather than outsource it to conspiracists.
The O in 0Cult represents the total amount of credibility its theories have among people rooted in reality.
Anyone who would believe Clinton participated in an unimaginable crime like that of Frazzledrip is either colossally stupid or, worse, morally bankrupt, pushing a reprehensible fiction to achieve political goals with no regard for the reputational harm that it causes.
What "Where We Go One, We Go All" fails to mention is that the sewer is their destination, and getting there requires that they go all in.
(Feb. 6, 2021)
QAnon is an OCult that spews nonsense about matters "not easily apprehended or understood," but does so in a way that adherents are assured their suspicions are well-founded.
Clinton, to them, is a she-devil, combining the worst aspects of being a woman, a Democrat, and someone who does her own thinking rather than outsource it to conspiracists.
The O in 0Cult represents the total amount of credibility its theories have among people rooted in reality.
Anyone who would believe Clinton participated in an unimaginable crime like that of Frazzledrip is either colossally stupid or, worse, morally bankrupt, pushing a reprehensible fiction to achieve political goals with no regard for the reputational harm that it causes.
What "Where We Go One, We Go All" fails to mention is that the sewer is their destination, and getting there requires that they go all in.
Marjorie Taylor Gangrene sign of rot in party
Feb. 5
Greene should use her time not on committees brushing up on House rules and the Bible (where it talks about not killing and loving your neighbours across the aisle instead).
She should also learn what it is to apologize and why it's so important.
Her about-face today only proved that she's two-faced.
Greene said today 9/11 "absolutely happened" and the school shootings were real, contrary to what she's said before.
Her "words of the past" no longer "represent" her, she claimed.
Believing that is awfully hard to do when the first thing that comes to mind after she says she's seen the light is that she's probably talking about a UFO that abducted her.
Feb. 5
Greene should use her time not on committees brushing up on House rules and the Bible (where it talks about not killing and loving your neighbours across the aisle instead).
She should also learn what it is to apologize and why it's so important.
Her about-face today only proved that she's two-faced.
Greene said today 9/11 "absolutely happened" and the school shootings were real, contrary to what she's said before.
Her "words of the past" no longer "represent" her, she claimed.
Believing that is awfully hard to do when the first thing that comes to mind after she says she's seen the light is that she's probably talking about a UFO that abducted her.
Keep it simple
Feb. 2, 2021)
Times columnist Paul Krugman says the Republicans' counter-proposal to Biden's economic recovery plan is an insult and he urges the president not to get sidetracked. His advice: "Should he let negotiations with Republicans delay the passage of his rescue plan? Absolutely not. Just get it done."
The professor's last line offers the White House a path for winning over the people whom Republicans represent and take their cues from.
"Just get it done" won't cut it with the people back home but "Git-R-Done" will by showing the Biden administration speaks their language and shares their view, that no challenge is too great that it can't be overcome.
If the president, who's a joe just like them, says he needs $1.9 trillion to get the U.S.A. out of the mess the GOP created, you think they're gonna listen to that stuffed shirt McConnell and his gang say he doesn't? Fat chance. They'd tell that minority leader fellow to smarten up real quick and order his senator pals to give Joe whatever he needs. And be happy about it.
You don't need fancy talk and a bunch of graphs to get your message across. Sometimes keepin' it simple does the trick.
Feb. 2, 2021)
Times columnist Paul Krugman says the Republicans' counter-proposal to Biden's economic recovery plan is an insult and he urges the president not to get sidetracked. His advice: "Should he let negotiations with Republicans delay the passage of his rescue plan? Absolutely not. Just get it done."
The professor's last line offers the White House a path for winning over the people whom Republicans represent and take their cues from.
"Just get it done" won't cut it with the people back home but "Git-R-Done" will by showing the Biden administration speaks their language and shares their view, that no challenge is too great that it can't be overcome.
If the president, who's a joe just like them, says he needs $1.9 trillion to get the U.S.A. out of the mess the GOP created, you think they're gonna listen to that stuffed shirt McConnell and his gang say he doesn't? Fat chance. They'd tell that minority leader fellow to smarten up real quick and order his senator pals to give Joe whatever he needs. And be happy about it.
You don't need fancy talk and a bunch of graphs to get your message across. Sometimes keepin' it simple does the trick.
Free speech not licence to smear
(Feb. 2, 2021)
The New York Times had a disturbing article about how one woman's thirst for vengeance led her to use the internet to spread outrageous lies about a former boss and destroy his reputation.
Complaint sites should, if they're not already required to by law, inform visitors in big, bold letters that:
“[Name of site] has not independently verified claims that it receives and so must caution readers that what appears on these pages might not be true. [Name of site] acknowledges the submissions it publishes could well be allegations without merit that are intended to embarrass their targets.
Our mission is simply to provide a forum for people who believe they have been wronged and to give those accused of an impropriety or worse the opportunity to refute what is alleged (at no cost).
A lack of a response should not be construed as an admission of guilt. Persons said to have done something wrong might not be aware of the accusations made against them or they have chosen not to respond on this forum to avoid becoming engaged in a public dispute they believe should be dealt with privately or in court.”
Free speech is not allowing anyone with a grudge or who is simply mean-spirited to say anything without restraint while protected by anonymity. Especially if the vile falsehoods or elaborate exaggerations are part of a campaign to destroy reputations and ruin careers.
The identity of writers need not appear with published submissions, as there are instances where exposing the truth is paramount.
But when a line is crossed, the person or institution being trashed should have the opportunity to set the record straight, beginning with knowing who it is behind the attack.
That would certainly help when dealing with claims that appear online that are irresponsible and spiteful.
(Feb. 2, 2021)
The New York Times had a disturbing article about how one woman's thirst for vengeance led her to use the internet to spread outrageous lies about a former boss and destroy his reputation.
Complaint sites should, if they're not already required to by law, inform visitors in big, bold letters that:
“[Name of site] has not independently verified claims that it receives and so must caution readers that what appears on these pages might not be true. [Name of site] acknowledges the submissions it publishes could well be allegations without merit that are intended to embarrass their targets.
Our mission is simply to provide a forum for people who believe they have been wronged and to give those accused of an impropriety or worse the opportunity to refute what is alleged (at no cost).
A lack of a response should not be construed as an admission of guilt. Persons said to have done something wrong might not be aware of the accusations made against them or they have chosen not to respond on this forum to avoid becoming engaged in a public dispute they believe should be dealt with privately or in court.”
Free speech is not allowing anyone with a grudge or who is simply mean-spirited to say anything without restraint while protected by anonymity. Especially if the vile falsehoods or elaborate exaggerations are part of a campaign to destroy reputations and ruin careers.
The identity of writers need not appear with published submissions, as there are instances where exposing the truth is paramount.
But when a line is crossed, the person or institution being trashed should have the opportunity to set the record straight, beginning with knowing who it is behind the attack.
That would certainly help when dealing with claims that appear online that are irresponsible and spiteful.
Not all flies are alike
(Jan. 31, 2021)
A New York Times reader writes:
"Representative Marjorie Greene is no more extreme on the right than Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is on the left ... I know that there will be replies that this is a false equivalency, but it is not. If anything, Ocasio-Cortez's socialism is a greater threat to the well-being of American Society than Greene's belief in conspiracy theories. Both congresswomen should just be ignored."
Ocasio-Cortez is a gadfly, which the dictionary defines as a person whose persistent criticism "stimulates or annoys other people."
Marjorie Taylor Green. on the other hand, is a testy* fly, which spreads a sickness that causes confusion and changes behaviour in those it infects.
She's also the only fly that's armed and looking for vengeance.
* tsetse
People won't have secrets; corporations still will
(Jan. 30, 2021)
I do not want to live in a world where nearly everything I do or say is being recorded and stored for corporations to exploit for profit, when I know so little about them.
They say they need the personal data to "better serve" us and to make accessing their services a more enjoyable experience. Hah!
They're nothing more than data vacuums sucking up every bit of your being, and shredding your privacy in the process.
How long will it be before we live in a society where our every movement is tracked as soon as we step out the door, and the life we lead indoors is constantly being monitored by labour-saving devices that tattle on us?
We're almost there now, and the thought of it only getting worse is most unsettling.
That's the problem with change. It happens without much thought being widely given to what the implications are, until the consequences fully manifest themselves in ways unanticipated and, too often, disturbing.
This is where we are with today's technology. We have given our lives over to corporations that entertain us and lessen our workload. A Faustian bargain that will become ever more apparent but the realization will come too late to reverse the transaction.
Our value as individuals will be diminished when intrusions become an accepted fact of life.
We're consumers to be dissected for the purpose of making sales, citizens who are surveilled to maintain law and order.
A joyless time awaits when the transformation of society is completed.
Marco's a man of his word
(Jan. 29, 2021)
Marco Rubio will say whatever it takes to advance his career, integrity be damned.
He uses words not for what they mean but as a means, to achieve power.
So what if the record shows him to be a hypocrite. It's not a fatal character flaw in the eyes of GOP supporters, it's just one more box to check off on the list of traits they look for in a candidate.
Mario has called the second impeachment of Trump "stupid," comparing it to tossing a "bunch of gasoline" on a fire that's already engulfing the country.
Gasbag Trump is the one responsible for setting the nation ablaze with his scorched earth politics and inflammatory language, and Rubio and his ilk -- or is it yecch? -- are the arsonists who aided and abetted Trump's attempt to burn the House down, fanning the flames with their rhetoric.
Impeachment is intended to hold Trump accountable for his misdeeds and then extinguish any thought he might have about running for president again.
It would be sweet justice if Rubio were to lose the primary to Ivanka and then have her suffer a humiliating defeat in the general election.
But this is Florida so her being voted into office is a foregone conclusion.
If Ivanka Trump makes clear early on that she's gunning for Rubio's seat, he'll step aside and remind people, as Frank Bruni points out in his column, that he's pledged -- more than once -- not to seek re-election and he intends to stand by that vow.
And who would doubt him?
He's a man of his word as you know.
Sadly, his vocabulary doesn't include the word truthfulness.
Build your own wall, Democrats
(Jan. 28, 2021)
Democratic senators represent 41 million more Americans than Republicans do -- and still it comes down to a hope and a prayer that things get done the way Democrats want it to?
This is why the Biden administration needs to hammer the GOP every time it blocks legislation getting passed.
It needs to keep a running tally of how the party has been thwarted in carrying out its campaign promises and put in front of the public who's responsible for gridlock whenever it can.
For example, every time there's a press briefing have as the backdrop a mock stonewall demonstrating with each new block added just how much obstruction the administration has to contend with.
As the wall grows, as it surely will, it will be a constant reminder to voters in the run-up to next year's mid-term elections the importance of voting more Democrats into the Senate -- and the House -- to tear down the legislative wall the GOP has built.
(Jan. 31, 2021)
A New York Times reader writes:
"Representative Marjorie Greene is no more extreme on the right than Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is on the left ... I know that there will be replies that this is a false equivalency, but it is not. If anything, Ocasio-Cortez's socialism is a greater threat to the well-being of American Society than Greene's belief in conspiracy theories. Both congresswomen should just be ignored."
Ocasio-Cortez is a gadfly, which the dictionary defines as a person whose persistent criticism "stimulates or annoys other people."
Marjorie Taylor Green. on the other hand, is a testy* fly, which spreads a sickness that causes confusion and changes behaviour in those it infects.
She's also the only fly that's armed and looking for vengeance.
* tsetse
People won't have secrets; corporations still will
(Jan. 30, 2021)
I do not want to live in a world where nearly everything I do or say is being recorded and stored for corporations to exploit for profit, when I know so little about them.
They say they need the personal data to "better serve" us and to make accessing their services a more enjoyable experience. Hah!
They're nothing more than data vacuums sucking up every bit of your being, and shredding your privacy in the process.
How long will it be before we live in a society where our every movement is tracked as soon as we step out the door, and the life we lead indoors is constantly being monitored by labour-saving devices that tattle on us?
We're almost there now, and the thought of it only getting worse is most unsettling.
That's the problem with change. It happens without much thought being widely given to what the implications are, until the consequences fully manifest themselves in ways unanticipated and, too often, disturbing.
This is where we are with today's technology. We have given our lives over to corporations that entertain us and lessen our workload. A Faustian bargain that will become ever more apparent but the realization will come too late to reverse the transaction.
Our value as individuals will be diminished when intrusions become an accepted fact of life.
We're consumers to be dissected for the purpose of making sales, citizens who are surveilled to maintain law and order.
A joyless time awaits when the transformation of society is completed.
Marco's a man of his word
(Jan. 29, 2021)
Marco Rubio will say whatever it takes to advance his career, integrity be damned.
He uses words not for what they mean but as a means, to achieve power.
So what if the record shows him to be a hypocrite. It's not a fatal character flaw in the eyes of GOP supporters, it's just one more box to check off on the list of traits they look for in a candidate.
Mario has called the second impeachment of Trump "stupid," comparing it to tossing a "bunch of gasoline" on a fire that's already engulfing the country.
Gasbag Trump is the one responsible for setting the nation ablaze with his scorched earth politics and inflammatory language, and Rubio and his ilk -- or is it yecch? -- are the arsonists who aided and abetted Trump's attempt to burn the House down, fanning the flames with their rhetoric.
Impeachment is intended to hold Trump accountable for his misdeeds and then extinguish any thought he might have about running for president again.
It would be sweet justice if Rubio were to lose the primary to Ivanka and then have her suffer a humiliating defeat in the general election.
But this is Florida so her being voted into office is a foregone conclusion.
If Ivanka Trump makes clear early on that she's gunning for Rubio's seat, he'll step aside and remind people, as Frank Bruni points out in his column, that he's pledged -- more than once -- not to seek re-election and he intends to stand by that vow.
And who would doubt him?
He's a man of his word as you know.
Sadly, his vocabulary doesn't include the word truthfulness.
Build your own wall, Democrats
(Jan. 28, 2021)
Democratic senators represent 41 million more Americans than Republicans do -- and still it comes down to a hope and a prayer that things get done the way Democrats want it to?
This is why the Biden administration needs to hammer the GOP every time it blocks legislation getting passed.
It needs to keep a running tally of how the party has been thwarted in carrying out its campaign promises and put in front of the public who's responsible for gridlock whenever it can.
For example, every time there's a press briefing have as the backdrop a mock stonewall demonstrating with each new block added just how much obstruction the administration has to contend with.
As the wall grows, as it surely will, it will be a constant reminder to voters in the run-up to next year's mid-term elections the importance of voting more Democrats into the Senate -- and the House -- to tear down the legislative wall the GOP has built.
The rich could park their money in parks
(Jan. 26, 2021)
Would it help if the ultra-rich were required to invest in more than the stock market but also the Stars and Stripes market -- infrastructure, health care, education, the environment?
The government would be obliged to provide a modest return on their investment only if certain benchmarks were meant: lower unemployment, fewer people living in poverty, more young people graduating, improved outcomes in health care, better broadband service to rural areas, higher public transit user numbers, and much more, with the true measure of an economy's performance and society in general being the quality of life index.
It's the least they could do to build a nation that's better for everyone after having profited so much from a tax system weighted heavily in their favour.
It might also induce them to take more notice of how their fellow citizens are doing if they have a stake in improving their lives.
(Jan. 26, 2021)
Would it help if the ultra-rich were required to invest in more than the stock market but also the Stars and Stripes market -- infrastructure, health care, education, the environment?
The government would be obliged to provide a modest return on their investment only if certain benchmarks were meant: lower unemployment, fewer people living in poverty, more young people graduating, improved outcomes in health care, better broadband service to rural areas, higher public transit user numbers, and much more, with the true measure of an economy's performance and society in general being the quality of life index.
It's the least they could do to build a nation that's better for everyone after having profited so much from a tax system weighted heavily in their favour.
It might also induce them to take more notice of how their fellow citizens are doing if they have a stake in improving their lives.
A simple majority should suffice
(Jan. 26, 2021)
American politics makes no sense in a lot of ways.
There's the Electoral College, for example. Another is giving the party not in power control over who gets to serve in the president's Cabinet.
Then there's the filibuster, which requires 60 votes to overcome, in order to pass a bill, instead of a simple majority.
Which if the same principle were to be applied to the most momentous decision a democracy gets to make -- who will be its leader -- would require the winning candidate to collect 60 per cent of Electoral College votes, 359, not 270.
That might be a problem
What's so bad with letting 50 per cent of the votes plus one decide matters?
Congressional gridlock is doing great damage to the republic the way the system is constructed now.
Secret ballots might be another way to go to break the logjam.
Just for the most important items. Call it a conscience vote, if you will, if it helps in any way to unshackle Senate members from the partisan hold their party has over them.
A novel badly written
(Jan. 25, 2021)
Watching the last four years unfold in the U.S. was like witnessing a bad novel being written, and having terrible reviews arrive with each new page.
The characters were outrageous, the plot twists unbelievable, and the ending left a lot of loose ends untied, although the villain was ultimately dispatched, under protest and despite a good many appeals, which never went anywhere -- except to the Capitol building.
There's still the matter of the epilogue being written, which will reveal if the villain, Mr. T, gets convicted of inciting an insurrection, and is barred from seeking office ever again.
This is one book that no one hopes results in a sequel, even though it must be said the narrative was rather spine-tingling.
Unless you're a Republican, in which case there was nothing there to tingle.
(Jan. 26, 2021)
American politics makes no sense in a lot of ways.
There's the Electoral College, for example. Another is giving the party not in power control over who gets to serve in the president's Cabinet.
Then there's the filibuster, which requires 60 votes to overcome, in order to pass a bill, instead of a simple majority.
Which if the same principle were to be applied to the most momentous decision a democracy gets to make -- who will be its leader -- would require the winning candidate to collect 60 per cent of Electoral College votes, 359, not 270.
That might be a problem
What's so bad with letting 50 per cent of the votes plus one decide matters?
Congressional gridlock is doing great damage to the republic the way the system is constructed now.
Secret ballots might be another way to go to break the logjam.
Just for the most important items. Call it a conscience vote, if you will, if it helps in any way to unshackle Senate members from the partisan hold their party has over them.
A novel badly written
(Jan. 25, 2021)
Watching the last four years unfold in the U.S. was like witnessing a bad novel being written, and having terrible reviews arrive with each new page.
The characters were outrageous, the plot twists unbelievable, and the ending left a lot of loose ends untied, although the villain was ultimately dispatched, under protest and despite a good many appeals, which never went anywhere -- except to the Capitol building.
There's still the matter of the epilogue being written, which will reveal if the villain, Mr. T, gets convicted of inciting an insurrection, and is barred from seeking office ever again.
This is one book that no one hopes results in a sequel, even though it must be said the narrative was rather spine-tingling.
Unless you're a Republican, in which case there was nothing there to tingle.
Unbelievable and bewildering
(Jan. 22, 2021)
Just read how much McConnell can still clog up the works if he and Schumer don't reach an agreement on how the Senate is to conduct business.
It's unbelievable that the Democrats, who occupy the White House, have the upper hand in Congress, and represent tens of millions more Americans than do the Republicans, have their hands tied by one man with a record of placing party above country.
It's also bewildering to this Canadian that the Senate has a say in who a president surrounds himself with, when the people who voted him into office clearly trust his judgment. He should have the freedom to form a Cabinet as he sees fit, rather than have his hands tied by people who have no great desire to see his administration discharge its duties responsibly.
Only one kind of unity possible
(Jan. 21, 2021)
The GOP is congenitally incapable of finding common ground with the Democrats so Biden's talk of unity will fall on deaf ears, certainly when it comes to the major issues of the day, of which there are many.
The only unity Biden should concern himself with is unity of purpose within his party, which is to do whatever it takes, legally and morally, to advance his administration's goals.
You can't build a bridge when the other side is determined to destroy it.
He'll have to find other paths to get to where he wants to go.
Keeping the public on his side will make the going easier.
Thoughts and prayers
(Jan. 20, 2021)
Our thoughts and prayers are with President Biden, said not as a matter of rote but as a heartfelt expression, delivered at a time not of great tragedy but at a moment of great promise.
The thoughts are for the different ways he has vowed to meet the many challenges his administration faces; the prayers are that the Republicans will not prove an inexorable force standing in his way but will, to everyone's great surprise, actually put country above party in rebuilding the nation, even if it means working with a rival for the good of all.
(Jan. 22, 2021)
Just read how much McConnell can still clog up the works if he and Schumer don't reach an agreement on how the Senate is to conduct business.
It's unbelievable that the Democrats, who occupy the White House, have the upper hand in Congress, and represent tens of millions more Americans than do the Republicans, have their hands tied by one man with a record of placing party above country.
It's also bewildering to this Canadian that the Senate has a say in who a president surrounds himself with, when the people who voted him into office clearly trust his judgment. He should have the freedom to form a Cabinet as he sees fit, rather than have his hands tied by people who have no great desire to see his administration discharge its duties responsibly.
Only one kind of unity possible
(Jan. 21, 2021)
The GOP is congenitally incapable of finding common ground with the Democrats so Biden's talk of unity will fall on deaf ears, certainly when it comes to the major issues of the day, of which there are many.
The only unity Biden should concern himself with is unity of purpose within his party, which is to do whatever it takes, legally and morally, to advance his administration's goals.
You can't build a bridge when the other side is determined to destroy it.
He'll have to find other paths to get to where he wants to go.
Keeping the public on his side will make the going easier.
Thoughts and prayers
(Jan. 20, 2021)
Our thoughts and prayers are with President Biden, said not as a matter of rote but as a heartfelt expression, delivered at a time not of great tragedy but at a moment of great promise.
The thoughts are for the different ways he has vowed to meet the many challenges his administration faces; the prayers are that the Republicans will not prove an inexorable force standing in his way but will, to everyone's great surprise, actually put country above party in rebuilding the nation, even if it means working with a rival for the good of all.
Day One is painting the big picture
(Jan. 17, 2021)
The plan Biden has laid out for America's recovery is a welcome sight. It addresses a host of issues that urgently need attention.
But it will be met with fierce opposition because that's what the Republicans reflexively do when confronted with solutions put forward by a party they loathe.
Fortunately, there is a huge swath of Americans who aren't close-minded but are open to the remedies being proposed.
They will need convincing, though, that Biden's agenda is practicable and non-threatening because the GOP will do everything in its power to make them think otherwise.
To win over the skeptics, Biden's team would be wise to produce a wide-ranging report in short order that spells out in detail the dire situation they are inheriting in a number of areas -- the pandemic, the economy, the environment, climate change, social injustice, health care, and more.
The information would make clear the many challenges the administration is facing.
More than a State of the Union address, the Day One report would serve as a benchmark for what's to follow, a means of measuring the rate of progress the Democrats are able to achieve over the next two to four years.
Subsequent reports would set out the advances that have been made along with difficulties the administration has encountered which have impeded its efforts to bring about change.
The year ahead won't be easy for Biden. Americans need to be told why his burden is so great before passing judgment on his performance.
Giving them facts certainly helps.
Not so tough after all
(Jan. 16, 2021)
So the end is near for Trump who thought himself invincible.
Just goes to show you: Even cockroaches, which are said to be indestructible, given their ability to survive pesticides, loss of limbs, and nuclear blasts, can be stomped on.
Literally in their case, figuratively in his.
(Jan. 17, 2021)
The plan Biden has laid out for America's recovery is a welcome sight. It addresses a host of issues that urgently need attention.
But it will be met with fierce opposition because that's what the Republicans reflexively do when confronted with solutions put forward by a party they loathe.
Fortunately, there is a huge swath of Americans who aren't close-minded but are open to the remedies being proposed.
They will need convincing, though, that Biden's agenda is practicable and non-threatening because the GOP will do everything in its power to make them think otherwise.
To win over the skeptics, Biden's team would be wise to produce a wide-ranging report in short order that spells out in detail the dire situation they are inheriting in a number of areas -- the pandemic, the economy, the environment, climate change, social injustice, health care, and more.
The information would make clear the many challenges the administration is facing.
More than a State of the Union address, the Day One report would serve as a benchmark for what's to follow, a means of measuring the rate of progress the Democrats are able to achieve over the next two to four years.
Subsequent reports would set out the advances that have been made along with difficulties the administration has encountered which have impeded its efforts to bring about change.
The year ahead won't be easy for Biden. Americans need to be told why his burden is so great before passing judgment on his performance.
Giving them facts certainly helps.
Not so tough after all
(Jan. 16, 2021)
So the end is near for Trump who thought himself invincible.
Just goes to show you: Even cockroaches, which are said to be indestructible, given their ability to survive pesticides, loss of limbs, and nuclear blasts, can be stomped on.
Literally in their case, figuratively in his.
One's the way, the other's wayward
(Jan. 15, 2021)
How is it possible that a person who professes a love of Jesus can also be a supporter of Trump?
One is the mirror image of the other:
Jesus -- caring, truthful, humble, profound, generous
Trump -- uncaring, dishonest, boastful, shallow, selfish
Trump couldn't stomach having a Jesus around him, someone who represents everything he isn't and whose presence would make him feel small.
So, again, how is it that fervent Christian Trumpists can reconcile revering two individuals whose core values, beliefs and life principles are diametrically opposite?
They could not be further apart in the example they set for those who worship them.
It's well-nigh impossible to make sense of it all.
One way to account for the disconnect, however implausible, is to acknowledge that God is real and at the same time allow for the existence of the Devil -- and it's the Devil who has gained the upper hand in clouding a good many minds of susceptible humans.
It's as if they now see the world through a looking-glass, their perception is distorted, unlike those who remain clear-eyed about what in fact is real.
It's as good an explanation as any.
New GOP rep likes to shoot off her mouth
(Jan. 14, 2021)
It would seem GOP firebrand Lauren Boebert is nothing more than a Glockenspiel, a representative who packs a pistol and is prone to "talk volubly or extravagantly".
That won't be music to her Democratic colleagues.
She's also quick on the draw. Just 10 days into office she's drawn all sorts of attention with her antics.
It's going to be a long two years.
(Jan. 15, 2021)
How is it possible that a person who professes a love of Jesus can also be a supporter of Trump?
One is the mirror image of the other:
Jesus -- caring, truthful, humble, profound, generous
Trump -- uncaring, dishonest, boastful, shallow, selfish
Trump couldn't stomach having a Jesus around him, someone who represents everything he isn't and whose presence would make him feel small.
So, again, how is it that fervent Christian Trumpists can reconcile revering two individuals whose core values, beliefs and life principles are diametrically opposite?
They could not be further apart in the example they set for those who worship them.
It's well-nigh impossible to make sense of it all.
One way to account for the disconnect, however implausible, is to acknowledge that God is real and at the same time allow for the existence of the Devil -- and it's the Devil who has gained the upper hand in clouding a good many minds of susceptible humans.
It's as if they now see the world through a looking-glass, their perception is distorted, unlike those who remain clear-eyed about what in fact is real.
It's as good an explanation as any.
New GOP rep likes to shoot off her mouth
(Jan. 14, 2021)
It would seem GOP firebrand Lauren Boebert is nothing more than a Glockenspiel, a representative who packs a pistol and is prone to "talk volubly or extravagantly".
That won't be music to her Democratic colleagues.
She's also quick on the draw. Just 10 days into office she's drawn all sorts of attention with her antics.
It's going to be a long two years.
The perfect spot
(Jan. 12, 2021)
It's been suggested Biden's inauguration be held at a location other than the Capitol building to ensure the safety of the president and vice-president.
For security and symbolic reasons I would suggest there would be no better spot than in front of the Statue of Liberty.
To tell the truth
(Jan. 12, 2021)
One way to force politicians, in particular Republicans, to be honest in Congress is to require they place one hand on the Bible and the other on a lie detector whenever they address the chamber.
This is not foolproof, of course, as pathological liars, delusional members and individuals without a conscience who are skilled in deceit would be able to skirt the truth with ease.
Hmmm, the proposed remedy, on second thought, isn't worth pursuing, given the negligible effect it is likely to have in elevating trustworthiness at the Capitol.
Perhaps the answer lies in serving alcohol in copious amounts
prior to the start of each session so senators and representatives will be more inclined to reveal their true thoughts and motivation on any issue.
In vino veritas, as they say.
(Jan. 12, 2021)
It's been suggested Biden's inauguration be held at a location other than the Capitol building to ensure the safety of the president and vice-president.
For security and symbolic reasons I would suggest there would be no better spot than in front of the Statue of Liberty.
To tell the truth
(Jan. 12, 2021)
One way to force politicians, in particular Republicans, to be honest in Congress is to require they place one hand on the Bible and the other on a lie detector whenever they address the chamber.
This is not foolproof, of course, as pathological liars, delusional members and individuals without a conscience who are skilled in deceit would be able to skirt the truth with ease.
Hmmm, the proposed remedy, on second thought, isn't worth pursuing, given the negligible effect it is likely to have in elevating trustworthiness at the Capitol.
Perhaps the answer lies in serving alcohol in copious amounts
prior to the start of each session so senators and representatives will be more inclined to reveal their true thoughts and motivation on any issue.
In vino veritas, as they say.
Questions, but no answers
(Jan. 13, 2021)
There's a lot of questions that need answering a week after the Capitol building was stormed ...
Shouldn't the people who have been charged plead guilty right away so Trump can pardon them before he leaves?
Same with the ones who haven't been identified but know the law is hot on their trail. They'd be wise to step forward as soon as possible.
Was it a condition of Devin Nunes and Jim Jordan being awarded Medals of Freedom that they do their darndest to keep Trump free?
Actually the notion of anything being Trump-free is rather comforting.
Isn't it time the schools and colleges that Trump attended release his academic records? Will they show a poor student was able to graduate because he was a rich student?
How many days before the end of a president's term do Republicans figure he has the right to commit a crime without being impeached?
We know now they're fine with his breaking the law and not being punished if it's within two weeks of a scheduled exit. Are they okay with a month? Six months? A year?
They really need to draw a line that future presidents will know not to cross.
Who would have thought Trump and Pence's friendship would end so badly? They're made for each other. Trump's a ... how shall I put this?... a Richard (as in Nixon) and Pence is, in Trump's own words, "a pussy." (I prefer to think of him in less vulgar terms, a pussycat -- weak and compliant.)
Did Trump really call reports of the rioters wanting to hang his VP "fake noose"?
(Jan. 13, 2021)
There's a lot of questions that need answering a week after the Capitol building was stormed ...
Shouldn't the people who have been charged plead guilty right away so Trump can pardon them before he leaves?
Same with the ones who haven't been identified but know the law is hot on their trail. They'd be wise to step forward as soon as possible.
Was it a condition of Devin Nunes and Jim Jordan being awarded Medals of Freedom that they do their darndest to keep Trump free?
Actually the notion of anything being Trump-free is rather comforting.
Isn't it time the schools and colleges that Trump attended release his academic records? Will they show a poor student was able to graduate because he was a rich student?
How many days before the end of a president's term do Republicans figure he has the right to commit a crime without being impeached?
We know now they're fine with his breaking the law and not being punished if it's within two weeks of a scheduled exit. Are they okay with a month? Six months? A year?
They really need to draw a line that future presidents will know not to cross.
Who would have thought Trump and Pence's friendship would end so badly? They're made for each other. Trump's a ... how shall I put this?... a Richard (as in Nixon) and Pence is, in Trump's own words, "a pussy." (I prefer to think of him in less vulgar terms, a pussycat -- weak and compliant.)
Did Trump really call reports of the rioters wanting to hang his VP "fake noose"?
Decommission the loose cannon
(Jan. 11, 2021)
America is beset with a pair of afflictions: the pandemic and Trump.
It's worth noting how Republicans are dealing with both.
With COVID-19 too few of them are practising social distancing. They placed their faith instead in vaccines being developed that would put an end to the restrictions they, like so many others, find cumbersome.
Operation Warp Speed got them halfway to a return to normalcy but, unfortunately, the latter part of the journey, vaccinations, has been handed over to the Pony Express, which as we have seen, has been saddled with problems.
Similarly, too few Republicans have chosen to politically distance themselves from the other major problem that bedevils the U.S. and threatens democracy.
The obvious solution is to have Trump removed immediately but not enough Republicans have the stomach – or the spine – or the guts – to back such a step, with so few days left in his term. Their attitude is to let the clock run out -- and hope it's not attached to a bomb.
But Trump is a loose cannon with plenty of targets (although his being booted off Facebook and Twitter has greatly reduced his ordnance).
Even should he demonstrate uncharacteristic restraint in the next 10 days, there is still the matter of his inciting an insurrection. He needs to be held accountable (or in stocks would be the recommendation of many).
At minimum, a special commission, counsel, inquiry – whatever works best – should be tasked with enumerating his crimes and proscribing his punishment.
The Senate resolves that it is repulsed
(Jan. 10, 2021)
If the Senate is too timid to convict Trump for incitement of insurrection, it should follow the lead of editorials across the country and deliver a scathing indictment of his key role in setting off a series of treasonous acts.
Representatives and senators need to go on record that they were repulsed by what took place and aghast that Trump was its stage manager and cheerleader.
If his offense does not rise to a criminal act in their estimation, they need to make plain that what he did was inexcusable and deserving of condemnation in the strongest terms.
The resolution in essence should say:
President Donald Trump betrayed his oath of office and dishonored the exalted position he holds. He did so by inciting his supporters to lay siege to democracy and endanger its defenders.
He must and shall always be remembered for the evil he unleashed at the end of his term for no other purpose than to hold onto power and salve his bruised ego.
He failed his people. Let him live with that failure the rest of his life, knowing history will judge him with good reason as the worst president the United States has ever known.
May we never see his like again.
(Jan. 11, 2021)
America is beset with a pair of afflictions: the pandemic and Trump.
It's worth noting how Republicans are dealing with both.
With COVID-19 too few of them are practising social distancing. They placed their faith instead in vaccines being developed that would put an end to the restrictions they, like so many others, find cumbersome.
Operation Warp Speed got them halfway to a return to normalcy but, unfortunately, the latter part of the journey, vaccinations, has been handed over to the Pony Express, which as we have seen, has been saddled with problems.
Similarly, too few Republicans have chosen to politically distance themselves from the other major problem that bedevils the U.S. and threatens democracy.
The obvious solution is to have Trump removed immediately but not enough Republicans have the stomach – or the spine – or the guts – to back such a step, with so few days left in his term. Their attitude is to let the clock run out -- and hope it's not attached to a bomb.
But Trump is a loose cannon with plenty of targets (although his being booted off Facebook and Twitter has greatly reduced his ordnance).
Even should he demonstrate uncharacteristic restraint in the next 10 days, there is still the matter of his inciting an insurrection. He needs to be held accountable (or in stocks would be the recommendation of many).
At minimum, a special commission, counsel, inquiry – whatever works best – should be tasked with enumerating his crimes and proscribing his punishment.
The Senate resolves that it is repulsed
(Jan. 10, 2021)
If the Senate is too timid to convict Trump for incitement of insurrection, it should follow the lead of editorials across the country and deliver a scathing indictment of his key role in setting off a series of treasonous acts.
Representatives and senators need to go on record that they were repulsed by what took place and aghast that Trump was its stage manager and cheerleader.
If his offense does not rise to a criminal act in their estimation, they need to make plain that what he did was inexcusable and deserving of condemnation in the strongest terms.
The resolution in essence should say:
President Donald Trump betrayed his oath of office and dishonored the exalted position he holds. He did so by inciting his supporters to lay siege to democracy and endanger its defenders.
He must and shall always be remembered for the evil he unleashed at the end of his term for no other purpose than to hold onto power and salve his bruised ego.
He failed his people. Let him live with that failure the rest of his life, knowing history will judge him with good reason as the worst president the United States has ever known.
May we never see his like again.
Give it a rest!
(Jan. 9, 2021)
A little doggerel with your indulgence:
Twitter, Twitter, about your star
Now you think he's gone too far?
Why so long to shut him down?
We all knew his mind's unsound.
We're so glad he's woebegone
Donnie feels he's put upon:
“Tell me now, what is my crime?
I told the truth time after time!”
“What I said, it wasn't fake –
Just too honest for lib snowflakes!
So banned I am but I'll be back
I never really got the sack!”
"The vote was rigged, it's so unfair
It had me pulling at my hair.
So I summoned my allies
And they listened – no surprise!”
“To Washington in droves they went
Patriots all, with good intent
To stand up for what's clearly right
A government that's mostly white.”
“Yeah, things got rough but don't blame me
Or my boys, freedom's infantry!
If Pence had done what he was told
I'd keep my job -- but he's not bold!”
Please stop it, Trump, give it a rest
You lost the vote, it's for the best.
No one was hurt in your unseating
But joy there was in your sound beating!
And now you're muffled at long last
A proper end for an iconoclast.
If still you want to spread your spoor
I suggest going door-to-door.
(Jan. 9, 2021)
A little doggerel with your indulgence:
Twitter, Twitter, about your star
Now you think he's gone too far?
Why so long to shut him down?
We all knew his mind's unsound.
We're so glad he's woebegone
Donnie feels he's put upon:
“Tell me now, what is my crime?
I told the truth time after time!”
“What I said, it wasn't fake –
Just too honest for lib snowflakes!
So banned I am but I'll be back
I never really got the sack!”
"The vote was rigged, it's so unfair
It had me pulling at my hair.
So I summoned my allies
And they listened – no surprise!”
“To Washington in droves they went
Patriots all, with good intent
To stand up for what's clearly right
A government that's mostly white.”
“Yeah, things got rough but don't blame me
Or my boys, freedom's infantry!
If Pence had done what he was told
I'd keep my job -- but he's not bold!”
Please stop it, Trump, give it a rest
You lost the vote, it's for the best.
No one was hurt in your unseating
But joy there was in your sound beating!
And now you're muffled at long last
A proper end for an iconoclast.
If still you want to spread your spoor
I suggest going door-to-door.
Tools of historical interest
(Jan. 7, 2021)
I can go along with the claim that the people who stormed the Capitol yesterday were antifa, if by antifa they mean anti-fact.
They are also artifacts -- tools of historical interest -- for having let themselves be used by Trump to attack American democracy in a way that will live on in infamy.
If there's any justice in the world ...
Those who serve Trump try to please him
When angry they try to appease him
But once his term's at an end
And the marshals descend
All they can do then is watch them come seize him.
To be fair ...
(Jan. 7, 2021)
A New York Times reader writes: "To be fair, a couple things to keep in mind:
- although Trump called on his supporters to march to the Capitol, he also reminded them several times to protest peacefully and to respect law enforcement.
- symbolically, entering the building by force (esp. during the certification process) was of course a major transgression. But the level of actual physical violence was orders of magnitude less than during the many protests/riots of last summer."
To which one responds: To be fair,
-- he half-heartedly asked them to protest peacefully, knowing it was the least he could do as president, while telling them he loved them for trying to undermine democracy at his behest
-- there was less violence because those defending the Capitol, for some reason, didn't choose to resist the mob with the same amount of force that police demonstrated last summer when citizens were protesting black people being killed without justification. They didn't take to the streets because of a monstrous lie they were fed over and over again by a self-serving fabulist.
Liberty Bell has broken, and other thoughts
(Jan. 7, 2021)
For editorial cartoonists out there, here are a few ideas for what took place yesterday:
[Drawing, split-screen -- left panel shows mob storming Capitol, right panel shows mob screaming "Death to Democracy"]
Caption: Americans, Iranians find something they agree on
[Drawing -- Lady Liberty reaches down and sets fire to her gown]
[Drawing -- Cracked Liberty Bell is now broken in half]
[Drawing -- Trump sitting in recliner watching riot on TV, a gas can beside him]
"I woulda joined you, brothers, but my bone spurs started acting up."
[Drawing -- Bunch of rodents, some resembling Cruz, Hawley, etc, showing great fear huddled in a room, with desks, sofas, chairs barricading a door]
"Not all rats desert a sinking ship."
"Sure, Don, I'll pardon you"
(Jan. 6, 2021)
" I am nurturing the faint hope that at this moment VP Pence is convening with members of cabinet over section 4 of the 25th Amendment, which on the grounds of instability empowers him to remove Mr. Trump from office."
To which one responds: The faint hope I'm nurturing is that Trump resigns in the next two weeks with the understanding that his ever-faithful servant, Pence, now president, will pardon him -- only to find out his lapdog, having been thrown under the bus once too often, has decided to ignore his last command.
Warnock and Ossoff Republi-canned their two rivals and McConnell's now the Grim Weeper.
O happy day!
(Jan. 7, 2021)
I can go along with the claim that the people who stormed the Capitol yesterday were antifa, if by antifa they mean anti-fact.
They are also artifacts -- tools of historical interest -- for having let themselves be used by Trump to attack American democracy in a way that will live on in infamy.
If there's any justice in the world ...
Those who serve Trump try to please him
When angry they try to appease him
But once his term's at an end
And the marshals descend
All they can do then is watch them come seize him.
To be fair ...
(Jan. 7, 2021)
A New York Times reader writes: "To be fair, a couple things to keep in mind:
- although Trump called on his supporters to march to the Capitol, he also reminded them several times to protest peacefully and to respect law enforcement.
- symbolically, entering the building by force (esp. during the certification process) was of course a major transgression. But the level of actual physical violence was orders of magnitude less than during the many protests/riots of last summer."
To which one responds: To be fair,
-- he half-heartedly asked them to protest peacefully, knowing it was the least he could do as president, while telling them he loved them for trying to undermine democracy at his behest
-- there was less violence because those defending the Capitol, for some reason, didn't choose to resist the mob with the same amount of force that police demonstrated last summer when citizens were protesting black people being killed without justification. They didn't take to the streets because of a monstrous lie they were fed over and over again by a self-serving fabulist.
Liberty Bell has broken, and other thoughts
(Jan. 7, 2021)
For editorial cartoonists out there, here are a few ideas for what took place yesterday:
[Drawing, split-screen -- left panel shows mob storming Capitol, right panel shows mob screaming "Death to Democracy"]
Caption: Americans, Iranians find something they agree on
[Drawing -- Lady Liberty reaches down and sets fire to her gown]
[Drawing -- Cracked Liberty Bell is now broken in half]
[Drawing -- Trump sitting in recliner watching riot on TV, a gas can beside him]
"I woulda joined you, brothers, but my bone spurs started acting up."
[Drawing -- Bunch of rodents, some resembling Cruz, Hawley, etc, showing great fear huddled in a room, with desks, sofas, chairs barricading a door]
"Not all rats desert a sinking ship."
"Sure, Don, I'll pardon you"
(Jan. 6, 2021)
" I am nurturing the faint hope that at this moment VP Pence is convening with members of cabinet over section 4 of the 25th Amendment, which on the grounds of instability empowers him to remove Mr. Trump from office."
To which one responds: The faint hope I'm nurturing is that Trump resigns in the next two weeks with the understanding that his ever-faithful servant, Pence, now president, will pardon him -- only to find out his lapdog, having been thrown under the bus once too often, has decided to ignore his last command.
Warnock and Ossoff Republi-canned their two rivals and McConnell's now the Grim Weeper.
O happy day!
Georgia's on everyone's mind
(Jan. 5, 2021)
Can't help but think that what happens in today's election will determine who Biden nominates for attorney general.
Here's hoping the results will be in his favour and that he will feel comfortable putting forward a nominee that African-Americans will feel secure is someone who will defend their rights as vigorously as those of all other Americans and is committed to ensuring everyone is treated fairly under the law.
Keeping politicians on the straight and narrow
(Jan. 5, 2021)
The Biden administration should create an independent agency that fact checks members of Congress -- Democrats and Republicans alike -- and the executive branch.
False statements or misleading information, whether unintentional or deliberate, would be identified and put into the public record, along with the offenders' names.
Those determined to have misled Americans on issues of significance would pay a price, to deter further transgressions and to encourage accuracy.
One penalty might be to levy fines on a sliding scale, with each new offence committed by the same individual drawing an ever-larger fine.
The Politicians Accountability Office would give citizens some assurance that what elected officials are telling them aren't lies.
Naturally, its authority would not encompass matters of national security or issues where secrecy is of the utmost importance. It would only evaluate what politicians choose to express publicly.
The benefit would be their deciding to comment not as often or choosing their words with greater care.
A sister agency to the Government Accountability Agency, its focus would be narrower -- determining the veracity of statements made by politicians -- but its impact would be far greater, contributing as it would to a level of honesty not seen before in Washington.
The lone drawback would be the size of staff and budget required to fact check politicians. It might rival the Department of Defense in its requirements.
But democracy would be better for it.
If integrity could be measured by weight
(Jan. 3, 2021)
Isn't it time we stop referring to the Republicans as the GOP (Grand Old Party) and start calling them CRAP (Crazy Republicans Abusing Politics)?
It's clear that Trump will stop at nothing to remain in power.
It's also clear Republicans who share his disdain for democracy will go to any length to support his nakedly corrupt bid to undo the will of the people.
If integrity could be measured by weight, with a full measure being a kilogram -- sorry, I'm Canadian -- Trump and the GOP would be hard-pressed to move the needle. A graham at most.
Biden will assume office with a huge disadvantage -- a disgraced president who will deride his every move and strive to undermine people's confidence in his ability to do the job, aided and abetted by a cohort of elected officials who belong to an anti-democratic cabal.
Under siege by Russia from without, under attack by inimical forces from within, America is in crisis.
Hope will be in short supply if citizens and the people who represent them don't soon come to their senses and pledge to work together to save the union.
I'll leave it to you to decide what the over/under is on the number of days the United States has left before it reaches the point of no return and its fate is sealed as a failed nation.
Keeping secrets from prying eyes
(Jan. 2, 2021)
It's amazing what they're doing with robotics these days.
If scientists were to take their cue from what took place last century I'm sure they'd be able to come up with extraordinary carrier pigeons capable of transporting top-secret messages and sensitive data that would be impervious to hacking.
If the bird bots were to fall into enemy hands, they would be programmed to self-destruct, and at the same time spray their handlers with pigeon poop.
Sure, the instantaneous transmission of information is wonderful but not so much when it renders a nation's defence highly vulnerable to unseen attacks that leave it badly compromised.
Using pigeons helped the Allies win two wars. It just might win them a third.
This idea for the birds could turn out to be the best one ever.
(Jan. 5, 2021)
Can't help but think that what happens in today's election will determine who Biden nominates for attorney general.
Here's hoping the results will be in his favour and that he will feel comfortable putting forward a nominee that African-Americans will feel secure is someone who will defend their rights as vigorously as those of all other Americans and is committed to ensuring everyone is treated fairly under the law.
Keeping politicians on the straight and narrow
(Jan. 5, 2021)
The Biden administration should create an independent agency that fact checks members of Congress -- Democrats and Republicans alike -- and the executive branch.
False statements or misleading information, whether unintentional or deliberate, would be identified and put into the public record, along with the offenders' names.
Those determined to have misled Americans on issues of significance would pay a price, to deter further transgressions and to encourage accuracy.
One penalty might be to levy fines on a sliding scale, with each new offence committed by the same individual drawing an ever-larger fine.
The Politicians Accountability Office would give citizens some assurance that what elected officials are telling them aren't lies.
Naturally, its authority would not encompass matters of national security or issues where secrecy is of the utmost importance. It would only evaluate what politicians choose to express publicly.
The benefit would be their deciding to comment not as often or choosing their words with greater care.
A sister agency to the Government Accountability Agency, its focus would be narrower -- determining the veracity of statements made by politicians -- but its impact would be far greater, contributing as it would to a level of honesty not seen before in Washington.
The lone drawback would be the size of staff and budget required to fact check politicians. It might rival the Department of Defense in its requirements.
But democracy would be better for it.
If integrity could be measured by weight
(Jan. 3, 2021)
Isn't it time we stop referring to the Republicans as the GOP (Grand Old Party) and start calling them CRAP (Crazy Republicans Abusing Politics)?
It's clear that Trump will stop at nothing to remain in power.
It's also clear Republicans who share his disdain for democracy will go to any length to support his nakedly corrupt bid to undo the will of the people.
If integrity could be measured by weight, with a full measure being a kilogram -- sorry, I'm Canadian -- Trump and the GOP would be hard-pressed to move the needle. A graham at most.
Biden will assume office with a huge disadvantage -- a disgraced president who will deride his every move and strive to undermine people's confidence in his ability to do the job, aided and abetted by a cohort of elected officials who belong to an anti-democratic cabal.
Under siege by Russia from without, under attack by inimical forces from within, America is in crisis.
Hope will be in short supply if citizens and the people who represent them don't soon come to their senses and pledge to work together to save the union.
I'll leave it to you to decide what the over/under is on the number of days the United States has left before it reaches the point of no return and its fate is sealed as a failed nation.
Keeping secrets from prying eyes
(Jan. 2, 2021)
It's amazing what they're doing with robotics these days.
If scientists were to take their cue from what took place last century I'm sure they'd be able to come up with extraordinary carrier pigeons capable of transporting top-secret messages and sensitive data that would be impervious to hacking.
If the bird bots were to fall into enemy hands, they would be programmed to self-destruct, and at the same time spray their handlers with pigeon poop.
Sure, the instantaneous transmission of information is wonderful but not so much when it renders a nation's defence highly vulnerable to unseen attacks that leave it badly compromised.
Using pigeons helped the Allies win two wars. It just might win them a third.
This idea for the birds could turn out to be the best one ever.
Rise up!
(Dec. 29 2020)
The only proper response to trickle-down economics is for Americans to rise up against its pernicious effects.
Reaganism vs Bidenism
(Dec. 28, 2020)
With any luck, the new administration will be remembered for Bidenism, a set of policies that helps average Joes (and Jills) better their lot in life by the most direct means possible.
It will prove faster and more certain in its outcomes than having common folk pray trickle-down economics will, as its proponents say, raise the standard of living for all -- a dubious notion at best that gives cover to enriching the rich even more.
Bidenism won't rely on the well-to-do to do what's best for the common weal.
Reagan's mocking words, "I’m from the government, and I’m here to help,” will be consigned to the waste bin by Biden's: "We can build better together. We have your back."
Pardons unforgivable
(Dec. 24, 2020)
Trump is a disgusting human being.
But I could be wrong. Maybe he's the best president America has ever had, although the evidence is overwhelming that he occupies the opposite end of the scale.
Perhaps his devout followers could explain to me why the four Blackwater contractors who massacred Iraq civilians were pardoned and how that helps the American economy -- Trump's go-to reference any time he wants to point to his accomplishments.
And how comfortable would his three appointees to the Supreme Court be in defending his right to pardon if they were also asked if they, as individuals, citizens, parents, Christians, agreed with his decision?
This is pure fantasy, of course, as they will never be placed in a situation where their having a conscience will be put to the test.
I wouldn't be surprised if Trump were to pardon serial killers and mass murderers if only to demonstrate the immense power a lame-duck bird brain of a president still possesses, especially if it meant wreaking havoc on Republicans who haven't followed him to the edge of the abyss.
(Dec. 29 2020)
The only proper response to trickle-down economics is for Americans to rise up against its pernicious effects.
Reaganism vs Bidenism
(Dec. 28, 2020)
With any luck, the new administration will be remembered for Bidenism, a set of policies that helps average Joes (and Jills) better their lot in life by the most direct means possible.
It will prove faster and more certain in its outcomes than having common folk pray trickle-down economics will, as its proponents say, raise the standard of living for all -- a dubious notion at best that gives cover to enriching the rich even more.
Bidenism won't rely on the well-to-do to do what's best for the common weal.
Reagan's mocking words, "I’m from the government, and I’m here to help,” will be consigned to the waste bin by Biden's: "We can build better together. We have your back."
Pardons unforgivable
(Dec. 24, 2020)
Trump is a disgusting human being.
But I could be wrong. Maybe he's the best president America has ever had, although the evidence is overwhelming that he occupies the opposite end of the scale.
Perhaps his devout followers could explain to me why the four Blackwater contractors who massacred Iraq civilians were pardoned and how that helps the American economy -- Trump's go-to reference any time he wants to point to his accomplishments.
And how comfortable would his three appointees to the Supreme Court be in defending his right to pardon if they were also asked if they, as individuals, citizens, parents, Christians, agreed with his decision?
This is pure fantasy, of course, as they will never be placed in a situation where their having a conscience will be put to the test.
I wouldn't be surprised if Trump were to pardon serial killers and mass murderers if only to demonstrate the immense power a lame-duck bird brain of a president still possesses, especially if it meant wreaking havoc on Republicans who haven't followed him to the edge of the abyss.
Will they resist or fly the coup?
(Dec. 22, 2020)
It will be interesting to see how the GOP reacts when Trump decides to go all-out in his bid to hold onto power. Will party members finally stand up to him and show themselves to be true patriots, or will they decide his remaining in office matters more for what it will bring them, even if it means doing nothing in the face of a coup?
It's frightening how Republicans are reduced to a cowering, quivering pile of pusillanimity when confronted with the prospect of a torrent of Trump tweets.
They don't have a spine, they have a backdownbone.
A happy meal for everyone
(Dec. 22, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "So let me get this straight. The executives get free lunches, yet we don’t have the money to help the poor?"
To which one responds:
Instead of writing off business lunches Congress would have been wiser -- and kinder -- to launch a program that gives poor people vouchers for free meals.
Seize the initiative, Dems, frame the narrative
(Dec. 22, 2020)
The Biden administration needs to be very clear in putting before the public the hurdles it faces in trying to get legislation passed that will benefit the country as a whole.
One way is to maintain an online weekly journal that chronicles what it has achieved and what it was denied because of Republican obstinacy for partisan reasons.
It would keep the record straight on why gridlock is occurring and help explain why it's so important that more Democrats be elected to the Senate and House in 2022 to remove roadblocks that stand in their way.
It's essential that the text speak plainly and that the visuals be strong so that the message sinks in and is easily remembered.
The site would build a narrative that would be hard to repudiate when the mid-terms take place.
No fiction or exaggeration need be employed by the Democrats to make their case; having truth on their side is their most powerful weapon.
Republican perfidy must be called out, again and again, and preserved for future reference in order to demonstrate to Americans just how much the GOP places its interests above theirs.
Higher education hasn't raised the bar
(Dec. 21, 2020)
A New York Times columnist writes that 95 per cent of the members of Congress have earned a diploma but higher education has done little to improve the legislative body's performance in addressing issues and resolving disputes ...
The question not asked is what sort of education did these elected officials receive to earn a degree? Were they taught ethics, philosophy, social equity, comity, regard for others no matter their station in life, ethnicity, sex or spiritual beliefs?
Knowledge alone does not define a person. There's also the matter of character and conscience.
It's disappointing in the extreme to see elected officials with diplomas fall well short of doing what's right for ALL citiziens because of a rigidity in thought and an absence of feeling.
A diploma merely indicates they have a brain, it does not offer proof of a heart. One is as important as the other, and the latter can best be measured by the amount of effort and degree of commitment a person puts into improving a community, getting behind a cause, and reaching out to people in need before entering politics.
Having one's heart in the right place might not be enough to succeed as a representative of the people but it would assure them that their best interests were always top of mind.
Give it a rest for gawdsakes!
(Dec. 21, 2020)
Why weren't Fox hosts Dobbs, Pirro and Bartiromo forced to have the expert on voting machines appear on their shows to debunk their false claims about a rigged election, instead of having a disembodied and anonymous voice serve as their proxy?
Maybe Fox was worried they'd suffer real harm biting their tongues sticking with the script they were ordered to follow.
Or was it concern they'd go into shock on-air after being confronted by the truth and not being allowed to respond with lies?
One more reason to pray for the lawsuits to be successful should the aggrieved parties follow through on their threats: Trump would be forced to tamp down his inflammatory rhetoric once he's out of office and is no longer afforded its protection.
And if he didn't, as would likely be the case, one would hope the slimeball meets the same fate as the red slime defendants.
A New York Times reader writes: "The Times beacon of the free press and champion of the first amendment would like to see its rivals sued out of existence."
To which one responds:
The Times, beacon of the free press and champion of the first amendment, would like to see its rivals be held to the same standard that it strives to meet, which is to tell the truth and admit to mistakes when errors are made.
If it takes their being sued to be held accountable for irresponsible reporting and commentary, and they go out of business as a result because they wouldn't change, so be it.
Sometimes it's judges who set liars' pants on fire.
(Dec. 22, 2020)
It will be interesting to see how the GOP reacts when Trump decides to go all-out in his bid to hold onto power. Will party members finally stand up to him and show themselves to be true patriots, or will they decide his remaining in office matters more for what it will bring them, even if it means doing nothing in the face of a coup?
It's frightening how Republicans are reduced to a cowering, quivering pile of pusillanimity when confronted with the prospect of a torrent of Trump tweets.
They don't have a spine, they have a backdownbone.
A happy meal for everyone
(Dec. 22, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "So let me get this straight. The executives get free lunches, yet we don’t have the money to help the poor?"
To which one responds:
Instead of writing off business lunches Congress would have been wiser -- and kinder -- to launch a program that gives poor people vouchers for free meals.
Seize the initiative, Dems, frame the narrative
(Dec. 22, 2020)
The Biden administration needs to be very clear in putting before the public the hurdles it faces in trying to get legislation passed that will benefit the country as a whole.
One way is to maintain an online weekly journal that chronicles what it has achieved and what it was denied because of Republican obstinacy for partisan reasons.
It would keep the record straight on why gridlock is occurring and help explain why it's so important that more Democrats be elected to the Senate and House in 2022 to remove roadblocks that stand in their way.
It's essential that the text speak plainly and that the visuals be strong so that the message sinks in and is easily remembered.
The site would build a narrative that would be hard to repudiate when the mid-terms take place.
No fiction or exaggeration need be employed by the Democrats to make their case; having truth on their side is their most powerful weapon.
Republican perfidy must be called out, again and again, and preserved for future reference in order to demonstrate to Americans just how much the GOP places its interests above theirs.
Higher education hasn't raised the bar
(Dec. 21, 2020)
A New York Times columnist writes that 95 per cent of the members of Congress have earned a diploma but higher education has done little to improve the legislative body's performance in addressing issues and resolving disputes ...
The question not asked is what sort of education did these elected officials receive to earn a degree? Were they taught ethics, philosophy, social equity, comity, regard for others no matter their station in life, ethnicity, sex or spiritual beliefs?
Knowledge alone does not define a person. There's also the matter of character and conscience.
It's disappointing in the extreme to see elected officials with diplomas fall well short of doing what's right for ALL citiziens because of a rigidity in thought and an absence of feeling.
A diploma merely indicates they have a brain, it does not offer proof of a heart. One is as important as the other, and the latter can best be measured by the amount of effort and degree of commitment a person puts into improving a community, getting behind a cause, and reaching out to people in need before entering politics.
Having one's heart in the right place might not be enough to succeed as a representative of the people but it would assure them that their best interests were always top of mind.
Give it a rest for gawdsakes!
(Dec. 21, 2020)
Why weren't Fox hosts Dobbs, Pirro and Bartiromo forced to have the expert on voting machines appear on their shows to debunk their false claims about a rigged election, instead of having a disembodied and anonymous voice serve as their proxy?
Maybe Fox was worried they'd suffer real harm biting their tongues sticking with the script they were ordered to follow.
Or was it concern they'd go into shock on-air after being confronted by the truth and not being allowed to respond with lies?
One more reason to pray for the lawsuits to be successful should the aggrieved parties follow through on their threats: Trump would be forced to tamp down his inflammatory rhetoric once he's out of office and is no longer afforded its protection.
And if he didn't, as would likely be the case, one would hope the slimeball meets the same fate as the red slime defendants.
A New York Times reader writes: "The Times beacon of the free press and champion of the first amendment would like to see its rivals sued out of existence."
To which one responds:
The Times, beacon of the free press and champion of the first amendment, would like to see its rivals be held to the same standard that it strives to meet, which is to tell the truth and admit to mistakes when errors are made.
If it takes their being sued to be held accountable for irresponsible reporting and commentary, and they go out of business as a result because they wouldn't change, so be it.
Sometimes it's judges who set liars' pants on fire.
Was no need for tax cut
(Dec. 17, 2020)
The American government shouldn't have cut taxes to the rich. It should have diverted the tax revenue it was prepared to give up to subsidizing wages, in order to create jobs and to enhance the incomes of those struggling to escape poverty.
Assistance of this kind would reward the industrious and discourage indolence.
Breach of cyber security truly alarming
(Dec. 17, 2020)
The truly alarming breach of American cyber security by Russian hackers should dominate news coverage and opinion pieces for many weeks to come, competing only with the pandemic for the public's attention -- that's how serious the situation is.
It has always been a source of amazement and despair that more care wasn't taken to design a secure internet before the world became interconnected.
Governments, businesses and society have been paying the price ever since of not being able to keep one step ahead of criminal hackers and malevolent foreign powers.
And there is no reason to think they ever will develop that capability, the internet having become so entrenched in people's lives that it would be impossible to rebuild an infrastructure on the fly that's impervious to most attacks.
In addition to systems being breached and humans duped, there's also the threat of satellites being destroyed and undersea cables being cut to cease the flow of data and communications.
Never before has it been possible for one nation to bring down another remotely without blood being shed but there is that potential now.
Trump, by his incompetence and fawning deference to Putin, failed to provide the leadership that makes adversaries think twice about testing American mettle.
If ever the Democrats and Republicans were to agree on an issue of vital importance, it would be to stand as one in responding in the strongest terms to Russian aggression.
What form that response takes will be Biden's biggest challenge his first 100 days in office.
They're baffled by high numbers?
(Dec. 16, 2020)
There could be any number of reasons Republicans are taking so long to recognize the legitimacy of Biden's presidency:
-- they're slow on the uptake
-- huge numbers leave them baffled
-- no vaccine has been developed to inoculate consumers of fake news against contracting stupidity
-- they were keen to add some drama to Electoral College vote counting, normally a staid affair
-- geez, can't anyone take a joke?
-- Republicans' sense of fair play has atrophied to the point of being apocryphal
-- everyone knew who had won the election, why should they have to come out and echo the obvious
-- sure, Biden won in THIS reality but that's not where they call home
-- surprise, that kernel of truth about election fraud just never popped the way they thought it would!
-- Trump threatened them with mean tweets if they didn't toe the line, and who wants that just before Christmas?
Facts are such a bother
(Dec. 14, 2020)
Facts are an inconvenience, an irritant, a distraction, a great deal of bother if you let them pile up.
Fauxsimiles, on the other hand, have the appearance of facts but are pieces of misinformation and disinformation fused together to create a different interpretation of reality, one that's closer to what some individuals want to see realized in a world that, unfortunately, must be shared with others.
These fauxes, being malleable, are easier to work with as they can be shaped to help achieve certain goals.
Fauxes are most effective at shaping opinion when they contain kernels of truth which enable the fauxes to insinuate themselves into minds eager to believe what they're told and are willing to offer them permanent residence.
From such places fauxes will be difficult, if not impossible, to dislodge, and with them opinions change.
Solving this conundrum will be the most difficult task faced by the Biden administration because carrying out its agenda depends a great deal on finding an answer.
Start now on grooming the chosen one
(Dec. 14, 2020)
The Democrats need to start grooming one of their own to become a populist whose following will equal that of a Trump without appealing to the worst instincts of Americans.
Unlike Trump, he -- or she -- would be a demi-god, not a demagogue, "a person so outstanding as to seem to approach the divine," someone who can bring together the nation's warring factions and restore respect for the rule of law and its unbiased application.
This would be a person whose oratorical skills inspire, not inflame; raise hopes of a better future, not call to mind an imagined better past; and employ language that's inclusive, not abusive.
She -- or he -- would be the anti-Trump, the leader who actually leads, not misleads, who takes to heart the oath of office and not hold it in contempt.
The Republicans, by their actions over the past 40 years, set the stage for a Trump to seize command of the party and then the government where the limits of democracy would be put to the test as never before and steered toward autocracy.
It appears Trump has failed but he has left it severely weakened and exposed its many vulnerabilities, which remain at risk of further assaults in future.
It's imperative, then, that Democrats shore up the battered union and create a unifying vision they must not waver from. They also need to be far more forceful in asserting their core principles.
If Harris isn't the one to carry the banner in four years, another one should be waiting in the wings to take on the challenge.
One for Ripley's
(Dec. 14, 2020)
A New York Times reader asks: "I do wish the media would spend time researching and investigating how Joe Biden was elected with the most votes in American history. Its kind of like a major league baseball player who averaged 8 home runs per year for their entire 20 year career and out of nowhere hits 60 home runs!"
To which one responds: And while they're at it they should find out how a guy who NEVER played the game hit 40 home runs his first season and 50 the next!
They also should look into why the other players on his team -- yeah, it's definitely HIS team now -- let him bully them.
And, lastly, they need to figure out why he never plays by the rules. Right now he's yelling he's gonna stick around even though the umpires have tossed him out of the game.
On second thought
(Dec. 14, 2020)
Some time ago I suggested the GOP replace the elephant as its mascot and go with the water horse because of the party's blatant hippo-crisy.
Another possibility that must now be considered is the snake, which, in slang, means to cheat, deceive or steal. It certainly reflects the character of Trump and his co-conspirators.
A snake sheds skin, Republicans principles.
Both are cold-blooded.
And share a forked tongue.
And, yes, they're repulsive. Republicans, not snakes.
Concerned neighbour offers to help with election
(Dec. 13, 2020)
The states should follow the example of the NFL -- which reviews all scoring plays -- and conduct official inquiries after every national vote, to ensure no fraud was committed on a scale, as AG Barr would put it, that affected the outcome.
Affidavits attesting trickery would have to be submitted within 24 hours of the close of voting, and all poll workers would be required to wear body cameras so the recordings could be examined for alleged processing irregularities.
To ensure complete impartiality in the conduct of the one-month inquiry, the 13 members of the panel confirming the results would be foreign nationals, which I would suggest however immodestly be Canadians.
We speak your language and are quite familiar with American culture and history, being knee-deep in TV and film offerings from your nation.
It would be akin to a concerned neighbour offering to mediate when the fractious couple next door appear close to separating over strongly held views as to what constitutes fact.
As to how the 13 will be chosen I will leave it to your Senate to decide but I would propose that it be done in the form of a lottery.
Our requirements would be minimal -- food, accommodations, free Wi-Fi, and a stipend well below what would be needed for early retirement.
If someone in government thinks this is a good idea, you know where to reach me.
(Dec. 17, 2020)
The American government shouldn't have cut taxes to the rich. It should have diverted the tax revenue it was prepared to give up to subsidizing wages, in order to create jobs and to enhance the incomes of those struggling to escape poverty.
Assistance of this kind would reward the industrious and discourage indolence.
Breach of cyber security truly alarming
(Dec. 17, 2020)
The truly alarming breach of American cyber security by Russian hackers should dominate news coverage and opinion pieces for many weeks to come, competing only with the pandemic for the public's attention -- that's how serious the situation is.
It has always been a source of amazement and despair that more care wasn't taken to design a secure internet before the world became interconnected.
Governments, businesses and society have been paying the price ever since of not being able to keep one step ahead of criminal hackers and malevolent foreign powers.
And there is no reason to think they ever will develop that capability, the internet having become so entrenched in people's lives that it would be impossible to rebuild an infrastructure on the fly that's impervious to most attacks.
In addition to systems being breached and humans duped, there's also the threat of satellites being destroyed and undersea cables being cut to cease the flow of data and communications.
Never before has it been possible for one nation to bring down another remotely without blood being shed but there is that potential now.
Trump, by his incompetence and fawning deference to Putin, failed to provide the leadership that makes adversaries think twice about testing American mettle.
If ever the Democrats and Republicans were to agree on an issue of vital importance, it would be to stand as one in responding in the strongest terms to Russian aggression.
What form that response takes will be Biden's biggest challenge his first 100 days in office.
They're baffled by high numbers?
(Dec. 16, 2020)
There could be any number of reasons Republicans are taking so long to recognize the legitimacy of Biden's presidency:
-- they're slow on the uptake
-- huge numbers leave them baffled
-- no vaccine has been developed to inoculate consumers of fake news against contracting stupidity
-- they were keen to add some drama to Electoral College vote counting, normally a staid affair
-- geez, can't anyone take a joke?
-- Republicans' sense of fair play has atrophied to the point of being apocryphal
-- everyone knew who had won the election, why should they have to come out and echo the obvious
-- sure, Biden won in THIS reality but that's not where they call home
-- surprise, that kernel of truth about election fraud just never popped the way they thought it would!
-- Trump threatened them with mean tweets if they didn't toe the line, and who wants that just before Christmas?
Facts are such a bother
(Dec. 14, 2020)
Facts are an inconvenience, an irritant, a distraction, a great deal of bother if you let them pile up.
Fauxsimiles, on the other hand, have the appearance of facts but are pieces of misinformation and disinformation fused together to create a different interpretation of reality, one that's closer to what some individuals want to see realized in a world that, unfortunately, must be shared with others.
These fauxes, being malleable, are easier to work with as they can be shaped to help achieve certain goals.
Fauxes are most effective at shaping opinion when they contain kernels of truth which enable the fauxes to insinuate themselves into minds eager to believe what they're told and are willing to offer them permanent residence.
From such places fauxes will be difficult, if not impossible, to dislodge, and with them opinions change.
Solving this conundrum will be the most difficult task faced by the Biden administration because carrying out its agenda depends a great deal on finding an answer.
Start now on grooming the chosen one
(Dec. 14, 2020)
The Democrats need to start grooming one of their own to become a populist whose following will equal that of a Trump without appealing to the worst instincts of Americans.
Unlike Trump, he -- or she -- would be a demi-god, not a demagogue, "a person so outstanding as to seem to approach the divine," someone who can bring together the nation's warring factions and restore respect for the rule of law and its unbiased application.
This would be a person whose oratorical skills inspire, not inflame; raise hopes of a better future, not call to mind an imagined better past; and employ language that's inclusive, not abusive.
She -- or he -- would be the anti-Trump, the leader who actually leads, not misleads, who takes to heart the oath of office and not hold it in contempt.
The Republicans, by their actions over the past 40 years, set the stage for a Trump to seize command of the party and then the government where the limits of democracy would be put to the test as never before and steered toward autocracy.
It appears Trump has failed but he has left it severely weakened and exposed its many vulnerabilities, which remain at risk of further assaults in future.
It's imperative, then, that Democrats shore up the battered union and create a unifying vision they must not waver from. They also need to be far more forceful in asserting their core principles.
If Harris isn't the one to carry the banner in four years, another one should be waiting in the wings to take on the challenge.
One for Ripley's
(Dec. 14, 2020)
A New York Times reader asks: "I do wish the media would spend time researching and investigating how Joe Biden was elected with the most votes in American history. Its kind of like a major league baseball player who averaged 8 home runs per year for their entire 20 year career and out of nowhere hits 60 home runs!"
To which one responds: And while they're at it they should find out how a guy who NEVER played the game hit 40 home runs his first season and 50 the next!
They also should look into why the other players on his team -- yeah, it's definitely HIS team now -- let him bully them.
And, lastly, they need to figure out why he never plays by the rules. Right now he's yelling he's gonna stick around even though the umpires have tossed him out of the game.
On second thought
(Dec. 14, 2020)
Some time ago I suggested the GOP replace the elephant as its mascot and go with the water horse because of the party's blatant hippo-crisy.
Another possibility that must now be considered is the snake, which, in slang, means to cheat, deceive or steal. It certainly reflects the character of Trump and his co-conspirators.
A snake sheds skin, Republicans principles.
Both are cold-blooded.
And share a forked tongue.
And, yes, they're repulsive. Republicans, not snakes.
Concerned neighbour offers to help with election
(Dec. 13, 2020)
The states should follow the example of the NFL -- which reviews all scoring plays -- and conduct official inquiries after every national vote, to ensure no fraud was committed on a scale, as AG Barr would put it, that affected the outcome.
Affidavits attesting trickery would have to be submitted within 24 hours of the close of voting, and all poll workers would be required to wear body cameras so the recordings could be examined for alleged processing irregularities.
To ensure complete impartiality in the conduct of the one-month inquiry, the 13 members of the panel confirming the results would be foreign nationals, which I would suggest however immodestly be Canadians.
We speak your language and are quite familiar with American culture and history, being knee-deep in TV and film offerings from your nation.
It would be akin to a concerned neighbour offering to mediate when the fractious couple next door appear close to separating over strongly held views as to what constitutes fact.
As to how the 13 will be chosen I will leave it to your Senate to decide but I would propose that it be done in the form of a lottery.
Our requirements would be minimal -- food, accommodations, free Wi-Fi, and a stipend well below what would be needed for early retirement.
If someone in government thinks this is a good idea, you know where to reach me.
Let's all breathe a sigh of relief
(Dec. 12, 2020)
Trump's egregious bid to undo
An election by staging a coup
Has come to an end
The court was no friend
The justices he chose didn't come through.
So let's all breathe a sigh of relief
That soon the commander-in-chief
Will storm off the stage
No doubt in a rage
That the gift he was given is grief.
So what will he do when he's out
Go to Mar-a-Lago and pout?
No, mischief he'll make
Call everything fake
It's what he does best and that's flout.
Headlines in tomorrow's papers ...
(Dec. 11, 2020)
Joy reigns supreme
You don't own us SCOTUS tells POTUS
Trump's new conspiracy: EU "has the goods on justices"
Millions of zombie Americans snap out of it, asking where last four years have gone
Trump to take case to International Court of Justice
Republicans ridicule Democrats for "not being able to take a joke"
Post Office announces it's found "thousands of bags of undelivered ballots"
Trump says he will give concession speech "the 12th of Never"
White House staff say Trump has carpal tunnel syndrome after 1,200 tweets in one night
Giuliani doesn't rule out armed insurrection, "hinges on logistics"
More to this than herd mentality?
(Dec. 11, 2020)
This lawsuit by Texas to overturn an election, supported by Republican states and members of Congress, is clear evidence of the "herd mentality" Trump spoke about earlier this year, which is that followers of his not only eagerly consent to be led but misled as well.
It's also further evidence of American exceptionalism, the "theory or belief that something, especially a nation, does not conform to a pattern or norm."
Exceptionalism, by definition, leaves no room for common sense or common decency. Aberrant behaviour has become the new norm.
The new coin of the realm the Republicans have minted is: "Heads we win, tails you lose."
It's hard to understand why so many people accept Trump's lies as gospel. Could it be one of the symptoms of COVID-19 hitherto undiagnosed is susceptibility to delusions, which has worked to Trump's advantage?
More than 15 million Americans have tested positive for coronavirus with most showing no ill effects. But maybe the infection is more pernicious than has been imagined: Maybe it invites delusions, or worse, causes moral blindness and cripples the ability to think for oneself.
Just a few more reasons for the vaccine to be distributed as quickly as possible.
But then the question becomes: How many will take it?
Republicans, share your wisdom
(Dec. 10, 2020)
Republican senators would do their country a great service if they were to produce a guide for Americans that shows how they can survive a pandemic and a failing economy with little or no income.
The downtrodden could really benefit from their counsel. It should be easy enough to dispense the entirety of their wisdom in a 24-page booklet detailing how an impoverished family can get by reasonably well, with or without a roof over its head, or food in the larder.
There would even be a section on exploiting tax loopholes.
It would be good PR for a party accused of being heartless and out of touch with the reality that too many Americans are experiencing.
Where's the uprising?
(Dec. 10, 2020)
Massive relief of an emotional kind should have followed the election when it became obvious to all but the horrendously obtuse and the blatantly corrupt that Biden had won in a landslide and Trump was on his way out.
But that relief is being denied to keep alive a bully's irrational dream, as is the economic kind that would protect those at risk from eviction and put food on their table.
It's alarming to see the Republicans behave in a so heartless and self-serving manner.
And it's beyond comprehension that what they're doing hasn't provoked an uprising among Americans, Democrat and Republican, who will suffer greatly because of choices the GOP is making.
Why aren't people gathering outside the homes of representatives and senators who are behaving badly to send a message that they need to do better, by thinking of others and not just themselves?
How far down the path will the United States go before it realizes it's headed toward an abyss?
(Dec. 12, 2020)
Trump's egregious bid to undo
An election by staging a coup
Has come to an end
The court was no friend
The justices he chose didn't come through.
So let's all breathe a sigh of relief
That soon the commander-in-chief
Will storm off the stage
No doubt in a rage
That the gift he was given is grief.
So what will he do when he's out
Go to Mar-a-Lago and pout?
No, mischief he'll make
Call everything fake
It's what he does best and that's flout.
Headlines in tomorrow's papers ...
(Dec. 11, 2020)
Joy reigns supreme
You don't own us SCOTUS tells POTUS
Trump's new conspiracy: EU "has the goods on justices"
Millions of zombie Americans snap out of it, asking where last four years have gone
Trump to take case to International Court of Justice
Republicans ridicule Democrats for "not being able to take a joke"
Post Office announces it's found "thousands of bags of undelivered ballots"
Trump says he will give concession speech "the 12th of Never"
White House staff say Trump has carpal tunnel syndrome after 1,200 tweets in one night
Giuliani doesn't rule out armed insurrection, "hinges on logistics"
More to this than herd mentality?
(Dec. 11, 2020)
This lawsuit by Texas to overturn an election, supported by Republican states and members of Congress, is clear evidence of the "herd mentality" Trump spoke about earlier this year, which is that followers of his not only eagerly consent to be led but misled as well.
It's also further evidence of American exceptionalism, the "theory or belief that something, especially a nation, does not conform to a pattern or norm."
Exceptionalism, by definition, leaves no room for common sense or common decency. Aberrant behaviour has become the new norm.
The new coin of the realm the Republicans have minted is: "Heads we win, tails you lose."
It's hard to understand why so many people accept Trump's lies as gospel. Could it be one of the symptoms of COVID-19 hitherto undiagnosed is susceptibility to delusions, which has worked to Trump's advantage?
More than 15 million Americans have tested positive for coronavirus with most showing no ill effects. But maybe the infection is more pernicious than has been imagined: Maybe it invites delusions, or worse, causes moral blindness and cripples the ability to think for oneself.
Just a few more reasons for the vaccine to be distributed as quickly as possible.
But then the question becomes: How many will take it?
Republicans, share your wisdom
(Dec. 10, 2020)
Republican senators would do their country a great service if they were to produce a guide for Americans that shows how they can survive a pandemic and a failing economy with little or no income.
The downtrodden could really benefit from their counsel. It should be easy enough to dispense the entirety of their wisdom in a 24-page booklet detailing how an impoverished family can get by reasonably well, with or without a roof over its head, or food in the larder.
There would even be a section on exploiting tax loopholes.
It would be good PR for a party accused of being heartless and out of touch with the reality that too many Americans are experiencing.
Where's the uprising?
(Dec. 10, 2020)
Massive relief of an emotional kind should have followed the election when it became obvious to all but the horrendously obtuse and the blatantly corrupt that Biden had won in a landslide and Trump was on his way out.
But that relief is being denied to keep alive a bully's irrational dream, as is the economic kind that would protect those at risk from eviction and put food on their table.
It's alarming to see the Republicans behave in a so heartless and self-serving manner.
And it's beyond comprehension that what they're doing hasn't provoked an uprising among Americans, Democrat and Republican, who will suffer greatly because of choices the GOP is making.
Why aren't people gathering outside the homes of representatives and senators who are behaving badly to send a message that they need to do better, by thinking of others and not just themselves?
How far down the path will the United States go before it realizes it's headed toward an abyss?
A pardon could present problems for GOP
(Dec. 7, 2020)
I'm half-expecting Trump to shoot someone on Fifth Avenue in a fit of pique. And as he predicted years ago it wouldn't cost him any votes.
Or even his freedom, such is the power of a presidential pardon.
The GOP would find itself in a tough spot were that to happen, especially if the victim was a state Republican official who refused to change the vote count in Trump's favor.
Do they excuse the president, saying everyone deserves a second chance -- only to have Trump take another shot at the poor fellow to finish him off -- or do they offer the mild reproof that it's not something they themselves would do, but it wasn't entirely the president's fault either-- what was the guy doing on Fifth Avenue anyways, and why within shooting range?
Geez, could you give me two shots?
(Dec. 7, 2020)
Looking ahead to when being vaccinated will face the same sort of resistance among Trump's supporters as does wearing masks, the answer is obvious: Have Trump's brand stamped on the needles.
After all, it's only because of him that a vaccine has been developed in record time (and you thought he's been shirking the last month when in fact he's been spending night and day working with the scientists in the lab fine-tuning the formula).
The first commercial would feature Trump supporters loudly proclaiming: "We're into him -- and now he's into us!"
Ah, deniers, thank you for your contribution
(Dec. 7, 2020)
A New York Timers reader credited COVID-19 deniers with having been responsible for a vaccine being developed in record time.
To which one responds: What's a few hundred thousand deaths if you can get the government to shell out billions for a vaccine and you don't have to lift a finger to put a mask on your face.
Another reader suggested the government could get more Trump supporters to wear masks by threatening to take away their guns if the they didn't.
A better suggestion would be to GIVE them a gun if they do.
A glue gun, mind you, but it's the thought that counts.
Codpieces were popular once, why not ...
(Dec. 7, 2020)
Hmmm, if masks were promoted as this century's codpieces (COVIDpieces), men might be persuaded to wear them with pride.
In fact, it wouldn't be a surprise if they preferred wearing ever larger masks, to send a message they're ... really into public safety?
As for the ladies, the face coverings could be touted as a way to draw attention to a woman's most attractive feature, her eyes.
There would be the added benefit of reducing makeup costs by half.
If "terrifying realism" doesn't work -- and it won't in every instance -- sex just might be the answer.
Pssst, exit stage right!
(Dec. 6, 2020)
Trump has deluded himself into thinking the world's HIS stage, and all others upon it bit players whose role is to proclaim his greatness, a Greek chorus whose lines he has scripted.
But in Trump's version of Shakespeare's play, retitled As HE Likes It, the past-president-to-be plays only three parts, not seven, as immortalized in the speech the bard wrote.
Trump went from being an infant "mewling and puking" to being a "whining school-boy" who never matured, though even now in his 70s.
And so, with the spotlight still on him, in the "last scene of all,
That ends this strange eventful history,
Is second childishness and mere oblivion."
Not wishing to slip into oblivion and bring the curtain forever down, Trump remains on stage, ignoring the clamor of audience members wearied by his act who yearn for his exit, while those in the cheap seats urge him to stay put and declaim, enraptured as they are by his words that express what they fear most: the play they love so much is about to end its run, and a new one take its place, with a cast too diverse for their liking.
The title being used in rehearsal, it's rumoured, is All's Well That Ends Well.
Pray that it's so.
(Dec. 7, 2020)
I'm half-expecting Trump to shoot someone on Fifth Avenue in a fit of pique. And as he predicted years ago it wouldn't cost him any votes.
Or even his freedom, such is the power of a presidential pardon.
The GOP would find itself in a tough spot were that to happen, especially if the victim was a state Republican official who refused to change the vote count in Trump's favor.
Do they excuse the president, saying everyone deserves a second chance -- only to have Trump take another shot at the poor fellow to finish him off -- or do they offer the mild reproof that it's not something they themselves would do, but it wasn't entirely the president's fault either-- what was the guy doing on Fifth Avenue anyways, and why within shooting range?
Geez, could you give me two shots?
(Dec. 7, 2020)
Looking ahead to when being vaccinated will face the same sort of resistance among Trump's supporters as does wearing masks, the answer is obvious: Have Trump's brand stamped on the needles.
After all, it's only because of him that a vaccine has been developed in record time (and you thought he's been shirking the last month when in fact he's been spending night and day working with the scientists in the lab fine-tuning the formula).
The first commercial would feature Trump supporters loudly proclaiming: "We're into him -- and now he's into us!"
Ah, deniers, thank you for your contribution
(Dec. 7, 2020)
A New York Timers reader credited COVID-19 deniers with having been responsible for a vaccine being developed in record time.
To which one responds: What's a few hundred thousand deaths if you can get the government to shell out billions for a vaccine and you don't have to lift a finger to put a mask on your face.
Another reader suggested the government could get more Trump supporters to wear masks by threatening to take away their guns if the they didn't.
A better suggestion would be to GIVE them a gun if they do.
A glue gun, mind you, but it's the thought that counts.
Codpieces were popular once, why not ...
(Dec. 7, 2020)
Hmmm, if masks were promoted as this century's codpieces (COVIDpieces), men might be persuaded to wear them with pride.
In fact, it wouldn't be a surprise if they preferred wearing ever larger masks, to send a message they're ... really into public safety?
As for the ladies, the face coverings could be touted as a way to draw attention to a woman's most attractive feature, her eyes.
There would be the added benefit of reducing makeup costs by half.
If "terrifying realism" doesn't work -- and it won't in every instance -- sex just might be the answer.
Pssst, exit stage right!
(Dec. 6, 2020)
Trump has deluded himself into thinking the world's HIS stage, and all others upon it bit players whose role is to proclaim his greatness, a Greek chorus whose lines he has scripted.
But in Trump's version of Shakespeare's play, retitled As HE Likes It, the past-president-to-be plays only three parts, not seven, as immortalized in the speech the bard wrote.
Trump went from being an infant "mewling and puking" to being a "whining school-boy" who never matured, though even now in his 70s.
And so, with the spotlight still on him, in the "last scene of all,
That ends this strange eventful history,
Is second childishness and mere oblivion."
Not wishing to slip into oblivion and bring the curtain forever down, Trump remains on stage, ignoring the clamor of audience members wearied by his act who yearn for his exit, while those in the cheap seats urge him to stay put and declaim, enraptured as they are by his words that express what they fear most: the play they love so much is about to end its run, and a new one take its place, with a cast too diverse for their liking.
The title being used in rehearsal, it's rumoured, is All's Well That Ends Well.
Pray that it's so.
A poxic prez
(Dec. 4, 2020)
So POTUS has become a pox on his party. How sad.
Couldn't have happened to a nicer bunch of people.
They deluded themselves into thinking they could unleash a virus into the wild that targeted their enemies, only to learn the disease spares no one. Self-preservation is its sole motivation.
Trump is the chickenpox that has come home to roost.
And the Republicans will never rid themselves of the infection until they do something about the pustule that is Trump and the inflamed base that he created.
They lack the know-how or the fortitude.
Let them suffer for their fecklessness.
The country can recover by having the Democrats take control of the Senate.
McConnell could use some company
(Dec. 3, 2020)
McConnell could use a visit by the Spirits of Past, Present and Future to remind him of a time long ago when Democrats and Republicans worked together to get things done, to open his eyes to the great harm that he and his party are doing to the country in the present, and to apprise him of the tragic consequence that awaits if America continues on its current path -- a nation in decline and so divided that it is beyond repair.
Unfortunately, McConnell is far beyond being saved and is doomed to follow in the footsteps of Jacob Marley, and millions who could have used a helping hand will continue to suffer for his pinched heart and unwholesome appetite for hanging onto power.
(Dec. 4, 2020)
So POTUS has become a pox on his party. How sad.
Couldn't have happened to a nicer bunch of people.
They deluded themselves into thinking they could unleash a virus into the wild that targeted their enemies, only to learn the disease spares no one. Self-preservation is its sole motivation.
Trump is the chickenpox that has come home to roost.
And the Republicans will never rid themselves of the infection until they do something about the pustule that is Trump and the inflamed base that he created.
They lack the know-how or the fortitude.
Let them suffer for their fecklessness.
The country can recover by having the Democrats take control of the Senate.
McConnell could use some company
(Dec. 3, 2020)
McConnell could use a visit by the Spirits of Past, Present and Future to remind him of a time long ago when Democrats and Republicans worked together to get things done, to open his eyes to the great harm that he and his party are doing to the country in the present, and to apprise him of the tragic consequence that awaits if America continues on its current path -- a nation in decline and so divided that it is beyond repair.
Unfortunately, McConnell is far beyond being saved and is doomed to follow in the footsteps of Jacob Marley, and millions who could have used a helping hand will continue to suffer for his pinched heart and unwholesome appetite for hanging onto power.
A White House diary for all to see
(Dec. 1, 2020)
Biden needs to get the point across that Republicans are relentlessly working against the interests of Americans in a bid to regain power by frustrating the efforts of Democrats to effect needed change.
The best way to do that is for Biden's communications team to craft a strategy that spells out for the public those times the GOP stonewalled an administration that 80 million people voted into office.
It could take the form of a special press briefing held every Friday recapping events of the week in which the Senate blocked Democratic initiatives, confirmations, appointments, and more, and threw into disarray plans that would have benefitted businesses and citizens.
The presentation would be highly visual, the kind Trump preferred, and presumably so do his supporters, who seem to like messaging that is direct and uncomplicated.
The weekly or biweekly segment could be titled White House Diary to give people a sense they are being given an insider's look at the administration and how its ability to deal with domestic and international challenges is being hamstrung by Republican intransigence. Intransigence not to produce better answers to problems but to weaken the White House.
Criticism directed at the Senate would continue so long as it remains obstructionist.
But the diary, which would be available online, would also tout those instances when bipartisanship led to worthwhile measures being adopted and action taken.
Give credit when due, and censure when earned.
Is the body not a temple, the mind a place of worship?
(Dec. 1, 2020)
Why is it necessary for religious folk to gather in one spot to communicate with God when there are sound health reasons not to do so?
Can they not carry on on an interior dialogue with their Maker, relying on Faith to establish a connection as an individual?
And use Zoom, FaceTime, Skype, texting and email to stay in touch with fellow believers, relying on Science to keep open the lines of communication among members of a group?
Seeing each other in person and sharing in the passion of their devotion undoubtedly makes for a stronger experience that reinforces their convictions.
But the beliefs that have sustained them throughout life should be robust enough to carry them through a pandemic and the bumbling efforts, in their opinion, of public officials trying to deal with a crisis that is worsening by the day.
This is not to discount their rights as citizens, but to suggest the anguish they are experiencing not being able to congregate as before would be less of a burden if they were to accept current reality as part of God's plan.
What that plan is exactly has been the subject of inquiry for centuries. They can search for the truth on their own or with each other, either remotely or in small numbers.
Adherents do not lack resources to make the best of a bad situation.
(Dec. 1, 2020)
Biden needs to get the point across that Republicans are relentlessly working against the interests of Americans in a bid to regain power by frustrating the efforts of Democrats to effect needed change.
The best way to do that is for Biden's communications team to craft a strategy that spells out for the public those times the GOP stonewalled an administration that 80 million people voted into office.
It could take the form of a special press briefing held every Friday recapping events of the week in which the Senate blocked Democratic initiatives, confirmations, appointments, and more, and threw into disarray plans that would have benefitted businesses and citizens.
The presentation would be highly visual, the kind Trump preferred, and presumably so do his supporters, who seem to like messaging that is direct and uncomplicated.
The weekly or biweekly segment could be titled White House Diary to give people a sense they are being given an insider's look at the administration and how its ability to deal with domestic and international challenges is being hamstrung by Republican intransigence. Intransigence not to produce better answers to problems but to weaken the White House.
Criticism directed at the Senate would continue so long as it remains obstructionist.
But the diary, which would be available online, would also tout those instances when bipartisanship led to worthwhile measures being adopted and action taken.
Give credit when due, and censure when earned.
Is the body not a temple, the mind a place of worship?
(Dec. 1, 2020)
Why is it necessary for religious folk to gather in one spot to communicate with God when there are sound health reasons not to do so?
Can they not carry on on an interior dialogue with their Maker, relying on Faith to establish a connection as an individual?
And use Zoom, FaceTime, Skype, texting and email to stay in touch with fellow believers, relying on Science to keep open the lines of communication among members of a group?
Seeing each other in person and sharing in the passion of their devotion undoubtedly makes for a stronger experience that reinforces their convictions.
But the beliefs that have sustained them throughout life should be robust enough to carry them through a pandemic and the bumbling efforts, in their opinion, of public officials trying to deal with a crisis that is worsening by the day.
This is not to discount their rights as citizens, but to suggest the anguish they are experiencing not being able to congregate as before would be less of a burden if they were to accept current reality as part of God's plan.
What that plan is exactly has been the subject of inquiry for centuries. They can search for the truth on their own or with each other, either remotely or in small numbers.
Adherents do not lack resources to make the best of a bad situation.
An open mind or an empty head?
(Nov. 29, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes that Trump will succeed in overturning the results of the election "because it is obvious to anyone with an open mind that the election was rigged."
Your saying open mind I take to mean people would have to be empty-headed to allow Trump to fill their noggin with lies that the election was rigged.
What is obvious, from the many lawsuits before different judges in different states that have failed with good reason, is that there is no evidence to support such an absurd contention.
Oh, right, it's because of the "many nefarious forces" -- normally referred to as "they" -- that conspired against poor Trump and robbed him of an electoral win.
Well, two can play that game: How could an unhinged Trump have garnered 74 million votes? It doesn't stand to reason that so many Americans could be so easily duped by a serial liar.
There has to be another explanation, namely, sympathizers of his were embedded among the vote counters and it was they who, operating in the shadows, fudged the numbers, giving Trump millions of more votes than he actually received.
You must concede the verity of this in accordance with the standards the president has set for affirming the truth of a matter, which is that the mere assertion of an outrageous crime is sufficient proof that it occurred and is not to be doubted.
If Trump and his followers think otherwise they need to prove it didn't happen!
(Nov. 29, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes that Trump will succeed in overturning the results of the election "because it is obvious to anyone with an open mind that the election was rigged."
Your saying open mind I take to mean people would have to be empty-headed to allow Trump to fill their noggin with lies that the election was rigged.
What is obvious, from the many lawsuits before different judges in different states that have failed with good reason, is that there is no evidence to support such an absurd contention.
Oh, right, it's because of the "many nefarious forces" -- normally referred to as "they" -- that conspired against poor Trump and robbed him of an electoral win.
Well, two can play that game: How could an unhinged Trump have garnered 74 million votes? It doesn't stand to reason that so many Americans could be so easily duped by a serial liar.
There has to be another explanation, namely, sympathizers of his were embedded among the vote counters and it was they who, operating in the shadows, fudged the numbers, giving Trump millions of more votes than he actually received.
You must concede the verity of this in accordance with the standards the president has set for affirming the truth of a matter, which is that the mere assertion of an outrageous crime is sufficient proof that it occurred and is not to be doubted.
If Trump and his followers think otherwise they need to prove it didn't happen!
So what
(Nov. 23, 2020)
So what if Trump doesn't concede.
What matters most is that he recede.
Like a bad memory that grows dimmer with time.
That won't ever happen, of course.
What he's done the last four years has left an indelible mark on our psyche.
We might need counseling.
But Trump will need counsel, if justice is served.
We won't be looking for a concession then but a confession
Trump's moved on
(Nov. 23, 2020)
Unlike most New York Times readers and Democrats, Trump has moved on.
He's already declared himself the winner of the 2024 presidential election.
And he's insisting that he be told everything that goes on behind the scenes at the Biden administration for the next four years as part of the transition.
If Trump doesn't receive the cooperation he's requested, he's instructed a crack team of lawyers to prepare a lawsuit arguing the system is rigged.
Giuliani has advised him he'll have a strong case.
Don and Rudy BFFs
(Nov. 23, 2020)
Trump went from being pathetic to apathetic.
Never leaves the House anymore, except to go golfing.
("Another hole in one, Mr. President!" shouts the Secret Service agent as he retrieves Trump's ball from the sand trap.)
He's still tweeting, of course -- and undercutting the incoming administration any way he can.
But you don't have to get off the couch to do that.
His supporters should gather on the front lawn and try to rally his flagging spirits. It's time they returned the favor for all he's done for them.
Wonder who he'll have over to celebrate Thankstaking.
Giuliani, for sure. A trusted friend whose best feature is that he makes Trump look intelligent in comparison.
Trust Rudy to go before a judge and argue election fraud without a shred of evidence and leave with his reputation in tatters.
More than it was when he went in.
The press conference didn't help.
Even QAnon found his conspiracy talk laughable, saying "It lacked credibility. There was no mention of a sex ring."
I do give Rudy credit for sending a not-so-subtle message about the importance of the Senate race in Georgia, with his sideburns having a runoff. It wasn't so much neck-and-neck as cheek-and-cheek. To his neck.
Maybe Trump will have conceded by then.
That he never had a chance of winning when the system is rigged against him.
He'll have four years to lick his wounds -- and cause them in his replacement.
It might be the only treason he'll have to get out of bed.
(Nov. 23, 2020)
So what if Trump doesn't concede.
What matters most is that he recede.
Like a bad memory that grows dimmer with time.
That won't ever happen, of course.
What he's done the last four years has left an indelible mark on our psyche.
We might need counseling.
But Trump will need counsel, if justice is served.
We won't be looking for a concession then but a confession
Trump's moved on
(Nov. 23, 2020)
Unlike most New York Times readers and Democrats, Trump has moved on.
He's already declared himself the winner of the 2024 presidential election.
And he's insisting that he be told everything that goes on behind the scenes at the Biden administration for the next four years as part of the transition.
If Trump doesn't receive the cooperation he's requested, he's instructed a crack team of lawyers to prepare a lawsuit arguing the system is rigged.
Giuliani has advised him he'll have a strong case.
Don and Rudy BFFs
(Nov. 23, 2020)
Trump went from being pathetic to apathetic.
Never leaves the House anymore, except to go golfing.
("Another hole in one, Mr. President!" shouts the Secret Service agent as he retrieves Trump's ball from the sand trap.)
He's still tweeting, of course -- and undercutting the incoming administration any way he can.
But you don't have to get off the couch to do that.
His supporters should gather on the front lawn and try to rally his flagging spirits. It's time they returned the favor for all he's done for them.
Wonder who he'll have over to celebrate Thankstaking.
Giuliani, for sure. A trusted friend whose best feature is that he makes Trump look intelligent in comparison.
Trust Rudy to go before a judge and argue election fraud without a shred of evidence and leave with his reputation in tatters.
More than it was when he went in.
The press conference didn't help.
Even QAnon found his conspiracy talk laughable, saying "It lacked credibility. There was no mention of a sex ring."
I do give Rudy credit for sending a not-so-subtle message about the importance of the Senate race in Georgia, with his sideburns having a runoff. It wasn't so much neck-and-neck as cheek-and-cheek. To his neck.
Maybe Trump will have conceded by then.
That he never had a chance of winning when the system is rigged against him.
He'll have four years to lick his wounds -- and cause them in his replacement.
It might be the only treason he'll have to get out of bed.
What's it gonna take to get rid of the demon?
(Nov. 22, 2020)
Prayers or an exorcism can expel demons, such as an incubus, but it will take a rite like no other to remove the demon inhabiting America's body politic, the bogus POTUS.
It preys on the gullible, impregnating their minds with dangerous falsehoods.
And what has the union of a malevolent spirit and a corruptible populace spawned?
A country as divided as the forked tongue with which the disgraced president speaks.
Even those who see through Trump's lies have allowed him to enter their minds where he continues to nibble away at their sanity.
How much more of this can we take, they cry.
After he's gone he will still occupy a good deal of their thoughts because his legacy will afflict them for years.
And he'll strive to draw attention to himself, a baleful presence to the very end.
What can be done to expel him?
Well, for starters, turn the channel or the page whenever his face appears. Recite a mantra the instant his name pops into your head (“Hey, nonny, nonny, Think no more of Donny, Donny.”).
If this and all else fails, then an exorcism is in order, but it would be an enormous undertaking. Nothing on this scale has ever been attempted before, where an evil spirit is to be dispatched from millions of lives all at once.
A trial would seem the best bet.
Trump would find it difficult to survive a setting where those called to testify must swear an oath, to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
The truth would set people free – and send him to prison.
Creeps, they're everywhere in the swamp
(Nov. 21, 2020)
New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd ended her column by quoting Lady Diana who told a friend what she thought of Trump: "He gives me the creeps.”
Dowd wrote: "Di, we know how you feel."
Lady Liberty knows all about creeps: Trump, Pence, Barr, Pompeo, Miller, etc.
Their conduct offends, their character repels, their sordidness has no equal in the annals of American history.
As the chapter is about to close on this pathetic administration, the film version shows Lady Liberty tied to the tracks and a GOP train bearing down on her, with McConnell at the control and Trump's heavy hand on his shoulder.
Biden is growing desperate to free Lady Li, but his efforts are made doubly difficult by having his own hands tied by the Senate.
The cliffhanger ending switches to Georgia where the winners of two key Senate seats are about to be announced.
Stay tuned.
(Nov. 22, 2020)
Prayers or an exorcism can expel demons, such as an incubus, but it will take a rite like no other to remove the demon inhabiting America's body politic, the bogus POTUS.
It preys on the gullible, impregnating their minds with dangerous falsehoods.
And what has the union of a malevolent spirit and a corruptible populace spawned?
A country as divided as the forked tongue with which the disgraced president speaks.
Even those who see through Trump's lies have allowed him to enter their minds where he continues to nibble away at their sanity.
How much more of this can we take, they cry.
After he's gone he will still occupy a good deal of their thoughts because his legacy will afflict them for years.
And he'll strive to draw attention to himself, a baleful presence to the very end.
What can be done to expel him?
Well, for starters, turn the channel or the page whenever his face appears. Recite a mantra the instant his name pops into your head (“Hey, nonny, nonny, Think no more of Donny, Donny.”).
If this and all else fails, then an exorcism is in order, but it would be an enormous undertaking. Nothing on this scale has ever been attempted before, where an evil spirit is to be dispatched from millions of lives all at once.
A trial would seem the best bet.
Trump would find it difficult to survive a setting where those called to testify must swear an oath, to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
The truth would set people free – and send him to prison.
Creeps, they're everywhere in the swamp
(Nov. 21, 2020)
New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd ended her column by quoting Lady Diana who told a friend what she thought of Trump: "He gives me the creeps.”
Dowd wrote: "Di, we know how you feel."
Lady Liberty knows all about creeps: Trump, Pence, Barr, Pompeo, Miller, etc.
Their conduct offends, their character repels, their sordidness has no equal in the annals of American history.
As the chapter is about to close on this pathetic administration, the film version shows Lady Liberty tied to the tracks and a GOP train bearing down on her, with McConnell at the control and Trump's heavy hand on his shoulder.
Biden is growing desperate to free Lady Li, but his efforts are made doubly difficult by having his own hands tied by the Senate.
The cliffhanger ending switches to Georgia where the winners of two key Senate seats are about to be announced.
Stay tuned.
Dread about the future
(Nov. 20, 2020)
It's so demoralizing to see what's happening to the United States.
I dread to think what sort of future awaits the world if America continues to head down the path the GOP is determined to take it.
Biden offers a glimmer of hope but his efforts to reverse course will be severely hampered, if not outright thwarted, should the Senate remain under McConnell's rule.
There is so much work his administration needs to undertake to undo the harm that Trump has inflicted, the damage to institutions and norms being the most glaring.
Somehow restorative measures must be put in place to re-establish and reinforce their preeminence, to prevent another aspiring autocrat from ever again threatening to take democracy hostage, aided and abetted by accomplices in Congress who have neither shame nor scruple.
Wouldn't it be nice if, as a condition of running for office, candidates at all levels would be required to complete a questionnaire that tested their honesty and probity?
It would consist of actual examples of wayward behavior by members of both parties over the past 40 years, without identifying the principals involved.
The questions would be straightforward and unbiased, the intent being to establish the character of the person running for office.
Answers would be a yes or no, because each correct response would seem so obvious, in an ideal world.
Those elected would be subject to censure or worse should their decisions be at odds with their responses.
The meaning of life
(Nov. 19, 2020)
For Trump the meaning of life is to be mean.
He needs to change his outlook.
We must find a way to de-mean him.
Worse than a Grinch and a Scrooge
(Nov. 19, 2020)
Trump is worse than a Grinch, a heart he has none
It can't grow three sizes if not there
His only concern is himself, number one
All others he has not a care
Trump is worse than a Scrooge, no ghosts he'll admit
Their message he'd rather not hear
He loves to hurt others so why should he quit
“Not when I am Mean of the Year!”
(Nov. 20, 2020)
It's so demoralizing to see what's happening to the United States.
I dread to think what sort of future awaits the world if America continues to head down the path the GOP is determined to take it.
Biden offers a glimmer of hope but his efforts to reverse course will be severely hampered, if not outright thwarted, should the Senate remain under McConnell's rule.
There is so much work his administration needs to undertake to undo the harm that Trump has inflicted, the damage to institutions and norms being the most glaring.
Somehow restorative measures must be put in place to re-establish and reinforce their preeminence, to prevent another aspiring autocrat from ever again threatening to take democracy hostage, aided and abetted by accomplices in Congress who have neither shame nor scruple.
Wouldn't it be nice if, as a condition of running for office, candidates at all levels would be required to complete a questionnaire that tested their honesty and probity?
It would consist of actual examples of wayward behavior by members of both parties over the past 40 years, without identifying the principals involved.
The questions would be straightforward and unbiased, the intent being to establish the character of the person running for office.
Answers would be a yes or no, because each correct response would seem so obvious, in an ideal world.
Those elected would be subject to censure or worse should their decisions be at odds with their responses.
The meaning of life
(Nov. 19, 2020)
For Trump the meaning of life is to be mean.
He needs to change his outlook.
We must find a way to de-mean him.
Worse than a Grinch and a Scrooge
(Nov. 19, 2020)
Trump is worse than a Grinch, a heart he has none
It can't grow three sizes if not there
His only concern is himself, number one
All others he has not a care
Trump is worse than a Scrooge, no ghosts he'll admit
Their message he'd rather not hear
He loves to hurt others so why should he quit
“Not when I am Mean of the Year!”
Parting is sorrow because it's taking so long
(Nov. 18, 2020)
Why do I get the feeling that Trump, when he finally hands over power to Biden, will be handing him a lit stick of dynamite and not a baton?
Trump's not very good when it comes to matters of race.
America's hermit king is doing everything in his power to undermine his successor's chances of success.
He's a malady attacking the very core of democracy and just like the coronavirus he's not going to go away easily.
Election Day was supposed to be the vaccine but administering it has become a challenge (as it will be with COVID).
The disease is proving disconcertingly persistent.
Trump is no lame duck, he's a wounded elephant running amok, laying waste to norms and conventions.
And his supposed handlers – Republicans who thought they could manipulate his wild behaviour to their own advantage but ended up being led by his rather long nose, elongated from all the lying – meekly follow in his path, not even bothering to clean up his messes or even excuse them.
It will be left to Biden to bring order to disarray.
He'll need a big broom and a large bucket.
But the stench will remain for a long time.
Down at the Hee-Haw
(Nov. 16, 2020)
Meanwhile, down at the Hee-Haw Comedy Club frequented by Democrats, it was Open Mike Night for senators:
Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania -- three swings and a miss for Trump!
Yer out -- of office, says the ump. But Trump's still standing at the plate, asking for a recount.
He just doesn't know how to play ball.
The most worrisome part about 72 million Americans voting for Trump is that they'll propagandate: produce another generation of rumormongers.
Democats trying to communicate with Republicans is a lost cause: You can talk to them until you're bluer in the face while theirs is only getting redder.
Has any research been done to break down the numbers for COVID-19 deaths between:
Democrat
Republican
Independent
Too young to vote but not too young to die?
When they escort Trump out of the White House will they play "To Hell With the Chief"?
Scary thought, indeed
(Nov. 14, 2020)
Here's a scary thought: Trump spends the next four years laying the groundwork for another run at president, by heading a media empire that attacks the Biden administration day after day.
You know what that means: Even when Trump hauls his ass out the White House door we haven't seen the end of him.
Please, no reruns
(Nov. 13, 2020)
Trump's career in politics began when he raised his profile appearing on The Apprentice.
The end of his career in politics is now linked to another NBC show -- The Biggest Loser.
The guy gets more than 72 million votes -- and he still can't hang onto his job?
Yeah, he lost big time. But it was the 78 million who voted for Biden who had the most weight lifted off their shoulders.
Electoral College Part II
(Nov. 13, 2020)
I wrote earlier about the conundrum the Electoral College presents. Further reflection has led me to this observation:
If 50 states have equal say in picking who runs the nation and decides how their residents' taxes are to be spent, shouldn't they share equally in the costs run up by the administration?
That is, when the bill arrives at the table, the states should reach into their pockets and hand over the same amount of money to pay what's owed (California, of course, can look after the tip because it's rich).
This seems only fair when you belong to an exclusive, nay, exceptional, club like the United States, where members are expected to pay dues to keep it afloat, and not awash in debt.
Now dues can get expensive, I grant you, and more than a little onerous for states that aren't as flushed as the big boys.
But, hey, what's fair is fair, and taking on the cost of governing federally should be apportioned in the same equitable manner as having the final say in electing a president.
Now if some states balk at this new arrangement, because of the additional costs they will be expected to bear, I don't see why an agreement can't be negotiated to redistribute the burden across the 50 states based on their respective wealth and unique requirements.
Something like "From each according to its ability, to each according to its needs."
One more thing for the Biden commission to consider, which I'm sure would be met with much fanfare by the public.
Electoral dysfunction Part 1
(Nov. 13, 2020)
Am I mistaken in thinking that Americans pay the same federal tax rates - federal , not state -- no matter where they live?
That is, rates for the different income brackets do not change from state to state, and that this is accepted as a fair way of raising money to run a nation.
So why doesn't the same principle apply in choosing a president, namely, that a vote cast in California, with a population of about 40 million, means as much as one cast in Wyoming (580,000)?
Perhaps the tax system needs to change to reflect this longstanding imbalance: Have people in less populated states pay more in federal taxes proportionate to how much more value their votes have in deciding who gets to lead the United States and decides how their taxes are to be spent.
One way to do this is to levy a surcharge that recognizes the unfair advantage electorally small states have over densely populated ones.
I'll leave it with Biden to set up a commission to study the proposal.
Or this alternative: Weight Electoral College votes so that each state is allotted 1 vote for every 1 million residents.
Of course, the states that currently fall short of the threshold would retain the votes they already possess.
The third option, which seems more likely to happen given the devolution of the Republican party in recent years, would be to give in to the inevitable and do away with the Electoral College -- and elections - and 'choose' an autocrat.
How that choice is to be made I'll leave with you.
What do Trump University and the Electoral College have in common?
Both are failed institutions, but only one of them is still operating, the place of higher earning.
Here's looking at you, Trump
(Nov. 12, 2020)
How many of Trump's supporters applying for a job, looking for a mate, or hiring someone to look after their children seek out these qualities in a boss, spouse or babysitter?
Lies constantly
Boasts incessantly
Cheats frequently
Badmouths everyone
Behaves like a bully
Works hardly at all
Shows no interest in others
Never accepts responsibility
Expects praise
Demands loyalty
Breaks promises
Talks nonsense
Claims to be a genius
Despises science
And doesn't read
If the answer is they only accept this kind of behavior in their leader and no one else, it says volumes about how much they 'love' their country, that they have no qualms placing their faith in a reprobate.
(Nov. 18, 2020)
Why do I get the feeling that Trump, when he finally hands over power to Biden, will be handing him a lit stick of dynamite and not a baton?
Trump's not very good when it comes to matters of race.
America's hermit king is doing everything in his power to undermine his successor's chances of success.
He's a malady attacking the very core of democracy and just like the coronavirus he's not going to go away easily.
Election Day was supposed to be the vaccine but administering it has become a challenge (as it will be with COVID).
The disease is proving disconcertingly persistent.
Trump is no lame duck, he's a wounded elephant running amok, laying waste to norms and conventions.
And his supposed handlers – Republicans who thought they could manipulate his wild behaviour to their own advantage but ended up being led by his rather long nose, elongated from all the lying – meekly follow in his path, not even bothering to clean up his messes or even excuse them.
It will be left to Biden to bring order to disarray.
He'll need a big broom and a large bucket.
But the stench will remain for a long time.
Down at the Hee-Haw
(Nov. 16, 2020)
Meanwhile, down at the Hee-Haw Comedy Club frequented by Democrats, it was Open Mike Night for senators:
Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania -- three swings and a miss for Trump!
Yer out -- of office, says the ump. But Trump's still standing at the plate, asking for a recount.
He just doesn't know how to play ball.
The most worrisome part about 72 million Americans voting for Trump is that they'll propagandate: produce another generation of rumormongers.
Democats trying to communicate with Republicans is a lost cause: You can talk to them until you're bluer in the face while theirs is only getting redder.
Has any research been done to break down the numbers for COVID-19 deaths between:
Democrat
Republican
Independent
Too young to vote but not too young to die?
When they escort Trump out of the White House will they play "To Hell With the Chief"?
Scary thought, indeed
(Nov. 14, 2020)
Here's a scary thought: Trump spends the next four years laying the groundwork for another run at president, by heading a media empire that attacks the Biden administration day after day.
You know what that means: Even when Trump hauls his ass out the White House door we haven't seen the end of him.
Please, no reruns
(Nov. 13, 2020)
Trump's career in politics began when he raised his profile appearing on The Apprentice.
The end of his career in politics is now linked to another NBC show -- The Biggest Loser.
The guy gets more than 72 million votes -- and he still can't hang onto his job?
Yeah, he lost big time. But it was the 78 million who voted for Biden who had the most weight lifted off their shoulders.
Electoral College Part II
(Nov. 13, 2020)
I wrote earlier about the conundrum the Electoral College presents. Further reflection has led me to this observation:
If 50 states have equal say in picking who runs the nation and decides how their residents' taxes are to be spent, shouldn't they share equally in the costs run up by the administration?
That is, when the bill arrives at the table, the states should reach into their pockets and hand over the same amount of money to pay what's owed (California, of course, can look after the tip because it's rich).
This seems only fair when you belong to an exclusive, nay, exceptional, club like the United States, where members are expected to pay dues to keep it afloat, and not awash in debt.
Now dues can get expensive, I grant you, and more than a little onerous for states that aren't as flushed as the big boys.
But, hey, what's fair is fair, and taking on the cost of governing federally should be apportioned in the same equitable manner as having the final say in electing a president.
Now if some states balk at this new arrangement, because of the additional costs they will be expected to bear, I don't see why an agreement can't be negotiated to redistribute the burden across the 50 states based on their respective wealth and unique requirements.
Something like "From each according to its ability, to each according to its needs."
One more thing for the Biden commission to consider, which I'm sure would be met with much fanfare by the public.
Electoral dysfunction Part 1
(Nov. 13, 2020)
Am I mistaken in thinking that Americans pay the same federal tax rates - federal , not state -- no matter where they live?
That is, rates for the different income brackets do not change from state to state, and that this is accepted as a fair way of raising money to run a nation.
So why doesn't the same principle apply in choosing a president, namely, that a vote cast in California, with a population of about 40 million, means as much as one cast in Wyoming (580,000)?
Perhaps the tax system needs to change to reflect this longstanding imbalance: Have people in less populated states pay more in federal taxes proportionate to how much more value their votes have in deciding who gets to lead the United States and decides how their taxes are to be spent.
One way to do this is to levy a surcharge that recognizes the unfair advantage electorally small states have over densely populated ones.
I'll leave it with Biden to set up a commission to study the proposal.
Or this alternative: Weight Electoral College votes so that each state is allotted 1 vote for every 1 million residents.
Of course, the states that currently fall short of the threshold would retain the votes they already possess.
The third option, which seems more likely to happen given the devolution of the Republican party in recent years, would be to give in to the inevitable and do away with the Electoral College -- and elections - and 'choose' an autocrat.
How that choice is to be made I'll leave with you.
What do Trump University and the Electoral College have in common?
Both are failed institutions, but only one of them is still operating, the place of higher earning.
Here's looking at you, Trump
(Nov. 12, 2020)
How many of Trump's supporters applying for a job, looking for a mate, or hiring someone to look after their children seek out these qualities in a boss, spouse or babysitter?
Lies constantly
Boasts incessantly
Cheats frequently
Badmouths everyone
Behaves like a bully
Works hardly at all
Shows no interest in others
Never accepts responsibility
Expects praise
Demands loyalty
Breaks promises
Talks nonsense
Claims to be a genius
Despises science
And doesn't read
If the answer is they only accept this kind of behavior in their leader and no one else, it says volumes about how much they 'love' their country, that they have no qualms placing their faith in a reprobate.
A landmark devoted to Trump
(Nov. 11, 2020)
The Democrats should have done this years ago: Acquire a long stretch of land along a well-traveled highway where they could erect a Wall of Shame, with each new brick laid down having another lie told by Trump or a Republican inscribed on it.
It would be certain to become a tourist attraction -- and, sadly, a target for GOP vandals -- but at some point construction would become too precarious to proceed once the wall reached a certain height.
In which case more land would have to be acquired.
Along the American-Mexican border would seem an obvious choice but Trump should not be rewarded for his lies by having the wall that he covets built in his dishonour.
That was no president. That was The Donald
(Nov. 11, 2020)
Meanwhile down at the Hee-Haw Comedy Club frequented by Democrats, it's Open Mike Night for senators:
We all suspected Trump was half-crazy.
Now we're learning it's worse than that.
He's coupcoup.
What's amazing about McConnell is that he's so good at blocking legislation when he doesn't have a spine.
Elvis had an album come out in 1959 called 50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong.
Yeah, but 71,000,000 Trump voters can be.
Trump shouldn't be surprised so many dead people voted against him. We'll never know the exact number but the latest estimate is 240,000.
And isn't it a bit hypocritical for him to complain about the deceased supporting Biden? Look at how many brain-dead voted for him.
From agony to ecstasy
(Nov. 10, 2020)
Democrats' feelings about Trump losing this year's election compared to his winning it four years ago could be summed up as follows by looking to sports for inspiration: “from the agony of his victory to the thrill of his defeat.”
By refusing to accept the results of the election would it be far off the mark to refer to McConnell and his gang as rejects? Or Repudians?
Has this ever happened in history before, where a puppet master (Putin) controlled a puppet (Trump) who in turn controlled a puppet (Senate), and the two of them worked together to string along the people?
What do you call an American who loves his country? A patriot.
What do you call an American who loves his country club more? A Republican.
Pardon my interest
(Nov. 10, 2020)
A Times reader writes: "One thing that has always struck me about international readers (and commenters) of the NYTs, is their interest in and strong opinions about America. It's a little ironic considering you'd be hard pressed to find many Americans who are reading about and offering opinions on how Democracy works in the Netherlands, or Canada, or Australia, or anywhere else."
Excuse me for taking an interest in, and expressing a strong opinion about, a neighbour whose beliefs, actions, moods, friendship, trade, and conduct are of great consequence to us here on your northern flank.
The example you set extends far beyond your borders, and much of what you do affects us in no small way.
And don't overlook the powerful influence your news and entertainment media exercise.
Maybe Americans need to be pressed a little harder to get them reading about how democracy works in other countries. They might profit from the experience.
As would anyone, no matter their place of birth, who makes an effort to learn more about what's happening elsewhere in the world.
Besides, when it comes to politics, you got us all beat. There's no way we can match the drama, the twists and turns, the unbelievableness of it all.
Nor would we want to. Living it vicariously is exhausting enough.
Could you please find your way back to the main road now? That detour down Route 666 with a devil at the wheel was a real rough go.
Thirst quenching, soul destroying
(Nov. 9, 2020)
Trump's cult of poisonality is potent indeed.
There will always be a following eager to gulp down his Krool-Aid.
Which is both baffling and alarming. Why is it so many of his supporters have no problem viewing reality through a prism of hate, filtering out facts so they see only fictions?
What will it take to change their perceptions?
A dose of decency would help but alone it's no elixir.
And the winner is ...
(Nov. 9, 2020)
Why the compulsion to report vote totals piecemeal, county by county?
Why not have states hold off releasing anything until all the votes have been collected and tabulated, at which point they can announce the final numbers on the same day, broken down by in-person, mail-in, absentee, and so on?
It would heighten the suspense but lessen the melodrama, at least how it's dragged out now, which gives rise to nonsense about dirty tricks being played on a grand scale.
No doubt conspiracies would still surface but there would be less 'material' to work with to feed the rumour mills daily if a date were set for election results to be announced for the entire nation, say one week after Election Day.
Deadlines would have to be adjusted and made uniform across the country to ensure the receipt of ballots within the time frame required.
It would make for riveting TV as each secretary of state stepped in front of the cameras in their capitols to unveil the results.
It could be done any number of ways: alphabetically, smallest state to largest state, or, randomly, which would likely be the preferred option.
The reveal day could be made a national holiday, an occasion of joy for some, a reason for mourning for others (but, on the plus side, they'd get a day off work).
McConnell, the bourbonic plague from Kentucky
(Nov. 9, 2020)
What a tragedy it would be if Biden were to oust the evil king from his castle only to have his hands tied by the gatekeeper McConnell in his bid to restore harmony in the land.
Rest assured Biden's efforts to build a bridge between Democrats and Republicans will be undercut by the ever-present troll.
McConnell who was so great at enabling the indecent will prove himself no less adept at disabling the decent.
He'll stand in the way of progress to pave the way for his party's eventual return to the White House.
Overcoming the huge impediment to change that McConnell presents is Biden's greatest challenge. Finding a solution must happen quickly if the new president is to establish a solid record of achievement before the mid-terms in 2022.
The prospect of a gridlock will infuriate the millions of people who voted in record numbers to put someone in office they believe will set the nation on a far better course than where the country was headed under his reviled/revered predecessor.
Especially galling is that McConnell is Senate majority leader even though Republicans in the chamber actually represent far fewer Americans than do Democrats.
Biden's team must make clear every step of the way just how much of their agenda is being thwarted by the Republicans and how that is interfering with good governance.
It's a message they'll need to repeat loudly and often: the will of the people is being denied by a party more interested in regaining power than in improving America
(Nov. 11, 2020)
The Democrats should have done this years ago: Acquire a long stretch of land along a well-traveled highway where they could erect a Wall of Shame, with each new brick laid down having another lie told by Trump or a Republican inscribed on it.
It would be certain to become a tourist attraction -- and, sadly, a target for GOP vandals -- but at some point construction would become too precarious to proceed once the wall reached a certain height.
In which case more land would have to be acquired.
Along the American-Mexican border would seem an obvious choice but Trump should not be rewarded for his lies by having the wall that he covets built in his dishonour.
That was no president. That was The Donald
(Nov. 11, 2020)
Meanwhile down at the Hee-Haw Comedy Club frequented by Democrats, it's Open Mike Night for senators:
We all suspected Trump was half-crazy.
Now we're learning it's worse than that.
He's coupcoup.
What's amazing about McConnell is that he's so good at blocking legislation when he doesn't have a spine.
Elvis had an album come out in 1959 called 50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong.
Yeah, but 71,000,000 Trump voters can be.
Trump shouldn't be surprised so many dead people voted against him. We'll never know the exact number but the latest estimate is 240,000.
And isn't it a bit hypocritical for him to complain about the deceased supporting Biden? Look at how many brain-dead voted for him.
From agony to ecstasy
(Nov. 10, 2020)
Democrats' feelings about Trump losing this year's election compared to his winning it four years ago could be summed up as follows by looking to sports for inspiration: “from the agony of his victory to the thrill of his defeat.”
By refusing to accept the results of the election would it be far off the mark to refer to McConnell and his gang as rejects? Or Repudians?
Has this ever happened in history before, where a puppet master (Putin) controlled a puppet (Trump) who in turn controlled a puppet (Senate), and the two of them worked together to string along the people?
What do you call an American who loves his country? A patriot.
What do you call an American who loves his country club more? A Republican.
Pardon my interest
(Nov. 10, 2020)
A Times reader writes: "One thing that has always struck me about international readers (and commenters) of the NYTs, is their interest in and strong opinions about America. It's a little ironic considering you'd be hard pressed to find many Americans who are reading about and offering opinions on how Democracy works in the Netherlands, or Canada, or Australia, or anywhere else."
Excuse me for taking an interest in, and expressing a strong opinion about, a neighbour whose beliefs, actions, moods, friendship, trade, and conduct are of great consequence to us here on your northern flank.
The example you set extends far beyond your borders, and much of what you do affects us in no small way.
And don't overlook the powerful influence your news and entertainment media exercise.
Maybe Americans need to be pressed a little harder to get them reading about how democracy works in other countries. They might profit from the experience.
As would anyone, no matter their place of birth, who makes an effort to learn more about what's happening elsewhere in the world.
Besides, when it comes to politics, you got us all beat. There's no way we can match the drama, the twists and turns, the unbelievableness of it all.
Nor would we want to. Living it vicariously is exhausting enough.
Could you please find your way back to the main road now? That detour down Route 666 with a devil at the wheel was a real rough go.
Thirst quenching, soul destroying
(Nov. 9, 2020)
Trump's cult of poisonality is potent indeed.
There will always be a following eager to gulp down his Krool-Aid.
Which is both baffling and alarming. Why is it so many of his supporters have no problem viewing reality through a prism of hate, filtering out facts so they see only fictions?
What will it take to change their perceptions?
A dose of decency would help but alone it's no elixir.
And the winner is ...
(Nov. 9, 2020)
Why the compulsion to report vote totals piecemeal, county by county?
Why not have states hold off releasing anything until all the votes have been collected and tabulated, at which point they can announce the final numbers on the same day, broken down by in-person, mail-in, absentee, and so on?
It would heighten the suspense but lessen the melodrama, at least how it's dragged out now, which gives rise to nonsense about dirty tricks being played on a grand scale.
No doubt conspiracies would still surface but there would be less 'material' to work with to feed the rumour mills daily if a date were set for election results to be announced for the entire nation, say one week after Election Day.
Deadlines would have to be adjusted and made uniform across the country to ensure the receipt of ballots within the time frame required.
It would make for riveting TV as each secretary of state stepped in front of the cameras in their capitols to unveil the results.
It could be done any number of ways: alphabetically, smallest state to largest state, or, randomly, which would likely be the preferred option.
The reveal day could be made a national holiday, an occasion of joy for some, a reason for mourning for others (but, on the plus side, they'd get a day off work).
McConnell, the bourbonic plague from Kentucky
(Nov. 9, 2020)
What a tragedy it would be if Biden were to oust the evil king from his castle only to have his hands tied by the gatekeeper McConnell in his bid to restore harmony in the land.
Rest assured Biden's efforts to build a bridge between Democrats and Republicans will be undercut by the ever-present troll.
McConnell who was so great at enabling the indecent will prove himself no less adept at disabling the decent.
He'll stand in the way of progress to pave the way for his party's eventual return to the White House.
Overcoming the huge impediment to change that McConnell presents is Biden's greatest challenge. Finding a solution must happen quickly if the new president is to establish a solid record of achievement before the mid-terms in 2022.
The prospect of a gridlock will infuriate the millions of people who voted in record numbers to put someone in office they believe will set the nation on a far better course than where the country was headed under his reviled/revered predecessor.
Especially galling is that McConnell is Senate majority leader even though Republicans in the chamber actually represent far fewer Americans than do Democrats.
Biden's team must make clear every step of the way just how much of their agenda is being thwarted by the Republicans and how that is interfering with good governance.
It's a message they'll need to repeat loudly and often: the will of the people is being denied by a party more interested in regaining power than in improving America
It's true! It's true! The crowd has made it clear!
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Biden's no JFK but with Harris as VP we will see Camelot.
Idle hands the devil's workshop
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Imagine if Trump had been the stable genius he claimed to be.
Think of how much more havoc he could have wrought.
As it is he can still do tremendous harm in the twilight of his presidency (which, for the most part, has been perpetually dark).
Is it only custom and norms that constrain him before he hands over the reins? God forbid if that's true. We should expect the worst if it is.
Are mass firings of bureaucrats in play? Will there be a flurry of executive orders?
How much harm can a wounded lame duck filled with grievances inflict before leaving the scene, its right wing flapping like crazy?
I also wonder how many top secret government documents and reports Trump will suddenly start taking a deep interest in where before he had been so incurious. You can be fairly certain it won't be for research to firm up a few details for his memoir noir.
A man's got to make a living after being voted out of office you know.
Staff should start counting the cutlery.
A toast to the 74 million -- and counting
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Congratulations, fellow (North) Americans (speaking as a cousin who lives across the border)!
You saved a continent -- at least the 74 million who voted for Biden and Harris, the ivory and ebony of politics working together in perfect harmony.
We fervently hope that relationship will serve as a model for the rest of the country, with good people on both sides of the Democratic and Republican divide setting aside their differences to join forces in repairing the immense damage that's been done to the republic by the fascist Trump and his bootlicking lackeys.
Theirs won't be an easy task, with McConnell standing in their way, should the Republicans retain control of the Senate.
How a system allows one man to exercise that much control outside of the presidency staggers the mind.
A person who wields so much authority that it can thwart the aspirations of a president placed in office by people in 50 states should likewise be required to face voters across the nation and win their support, not just those in his state and his party.
Should the Republicans block the appointment of Biden's candidates for his Cabinet, is his only alternative to rotate acting heads of departments, and build a case with the public that the Republicans are being obstreperous and actively denying the majority will of the people?
It would lay the foundation for a strong argument to be made when the mid-terms are held in two years that resisters to change who are up for re-election need to be turfed.
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Biden's no JFK but with Harris as VP we will see Camelot.
Idle hands the devil's workshop
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Imagine if Trump had been the stable genius he claimed to be.
Think of how much more havoc he could have wrought.
As it is he can still do tremendous harm in the twilight of his presidency (which, for the most part, has been perpetually dark).
Is it only custom and norms that constrain him before he hands over the reins? God forbid if that's true. We should expect the worst if it is.
Are mass firings of bureaucrats in play? Will there be a flurry of executive orders?
How much harm can a wounded lame duck filled with grievances inflict before leaving the scene, its right wing flapping like crazy?
I also wonder how many top secret government documents and reports Trump will suddenly start taking a deep interest in where before he had been so incurious. You can be fairly certain it won't be for research to firm up a few details for his memoir noir.
A man's got to make a living after being voted out of office you know.
Staff should start counting the cutlery.
A toast to the 74 million -- and counting
(Nov. 7, 2020)
Congratulations, fellow (North) Americans (speaking as a cousin who lives across the border)!
You saved a continent -- at least the 74 million who voted for Biden and Harris, the ivory and ebony of politics working together in perfect harmony.
We fervently hope that relationship will serve as a model for the rest of the country, with good people on both sides of the Democratic and Republican divide setting aside their differences to join forces in repairing the immense damage that's been done to the republic by the fascist Trump and his bootlicking lackeys.
Theirs won't be an easy task, with McConnell standing in their way, should the Republicans retain control of the Senate.
How a system allows one man to exercise that much control outside of the presidency staggers the mind.
A person who wields so much authority that it can thwart the aspirations of a president placed in office by people in 50 states should likewise be required to face voters across the nation and win their support, not just those in his state and his party.
Should the Republicans block the appointment of Biden's candidates for his Cabinet, is his only alternative to rotate acting heads of departments, and build a case with the public that the Republicans are being obstreperous and actively denying the majority will of the people?
It would lay the foundation for a strong argument to be made when the mid-terms are held in two years that resisters to change who are up for re-election need to be turfed.
A liar without equal
(Nov. 6, 2020)
Trump is a liar without equal
His claims are notoriously fecal
We pray that the vote
Will cause us to gloat
That he won't be returned for a sequel
It's all a bad dream ... isn't it?
(Nov. 4, 2020)
I went to bed late last night hopeful Biden could pull through but fearing the worst.
The feeling remains as I write this.
Should Trump be re-elected -- horrors of horrors! -- my advice to the Democrats is to start looking for someone who is actually capable of draining the swamp in four years, if the White House hasn't sunk into it by then.
Someone who's under 45, possesses the common touch, and can go toe-to-toe with Donald Jr. (toe-to-butt would be even better).
I suggest this, all the while assuming the States will remain United,and there's still a republic in 2024.
Even should Trump lose and his defeat is upheld by the Supreme Court -- okay, we're talking miracles here -- America is not the nation it once was.
Its psychosis is truly terrifying and there's no real reason to hope that its grip will lessen any time soon.
In fact, it's likely to worsen, which doesn't bode well for America and its allies.
Day ruined, but all is not lost
(Nov. 3, 2020)
Just read that pollster Trafalgar Cahaly is certain of Trump's re-election.
Well, that just ruined my day, making me fear for the worst.
I just hope Cahaly's day is ruined tomorrow.
Make that PRAY that his day is ruined tomorrow.
How long before we know if Biden was able to lift the knee of voter suppression off the neck of democracy and save it from suffocation while beating off Trump and his pack of legal brief-toting jackals?
Joe's to-do list
(Nov. 2, 2020)
What can Biden do to unify a divided country?
1. Don't lie. Respect the truth, and the ability of citizens to handle it.
2. Treat all segments of society fairly, and not look upon any one in particular as his base.
3. Don't tweet nonsense or hate. Never retweet anything unless it's a feelgood story.
4. Listen to what knowledgeable people have to say and be guided by their counsel.
5. Don't divide the country into red and blue states.
6. Be plainspoken, not meanlymouthed.
7. Don't whine incessantly. Man up. President up.
8. Act with urgency to forestall the worst effects of climate change.
9. Narrow the wealth gap.
10. Prepare Americans for the three phases of AI: Artificial Intelligence/Automated Industry/Attenuated Individuals. The first term inexorably leads to the last -- people whose quality of life and value as workers and contributing members of society assuredly decline with a loss of employment or a greatly reduced need for their services, their function having been assumed by machines and computer programs.
Yes, China has taken jobs from the United States but it, too, will have to contend one day with technology supplanting human labour on a massive scale, and with that large a population and that many people out of work, it won't be pretty.
A wise president can head off the worst of what the future holds by making plans that address the fear and anger of workers who see their livelihoods threatened, and with it the security and well-being of their families.
Re-write, please
(Nov. 2, 2020)
Abe, the last line needs reworking:
"Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives, that that nation might live.
It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract.
The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Who's the basement dweller?
(Nov. 2, 2020)
A Times reader writes: "Hillary Clinton won California by 4,269,978 votes; she lost the other 49 states by 1,401,292 votes. One might conclude that her national vote margin over Trump was in fact strictly a California phenomenon."
And Californians' votes, it's true, aren't American votes. They're ... they're ... what are they again?
Maybe California is Clinton's base. Trump has one, why can't she?
And where do base dwellers reside? In a basement, of course.
Why is it Trump never wants to leave his?
(Nov. 6, 2020)
Trump is a liar without equal
His claims are notoriously fecal
We pray that the vote
Will cause us to gloat
That he won't be returned for a sequel
It's all a bad dream ... isn't it?
(Nov. 4, 2020)
I went to bed late last night hopeful Biden could pull through but fearing the worst.
The feeling remains as I write this.
Should Trump be re-elected -- horrors of horrors! -- my advice to the Democrats is to start looking for someone who is actually capable of draining the swamp in four years, if the White House hasn't sunk into it by then.
Someone who's under 45, possesses the common touch, and can go toe-to-toe with Donald Jr. (toe-to-butt would be even better).
I suggest this, all the while assuming the States will remain United,and there's still a republic in 2024.
Even should Trump lose and his defeat is upheld by the Supreme Court -- okay, we're talking miracles here -- America is not the nation it once was.
Its psychosis is truly terrifying and there's no real reason to hope that its grip will lessen any time soon.
In fact, it's likely to worsen, which doesn't bode well for America and its allies.
Day ruined, but all is not lost
(Nov. 3, 2020)
Just read that pollster Trafalgar Cahaly is certain of Trump's re-election.
Well, that just ruined my day, making me fear for the worst.
I just hope Cahaly's day is ruined tomorrow.
Make that PRAY that his day is ruined tomorrow.
How long before we know if Biden was able to lift the knee of voter suppression off the neck of democracy and save it from suffocation while beating off Trump and his pack of legal brief-toting jackals?
Joe's to-do list
(Nov. 2, 2020)
What can Biden do to unify a divided country?
1. Don't lie. Respect the truth, and the ability of citizens to handle it.
2. Treat all segments of society fairly, and not look upon any one in particular as his base.
3. Don't tweet nonsense or hate. Never retweet anything unless it's a feelgood story.
4. Listen to what knowledgeable people have to say and be guided by their counsel.
5. Don't divide the country into red and blue states.
6. Be plainspoken, not meanlymouthed.
7. Don't whine incessantly. Man up. President up.
8. Act with urgency to forestall the worst effects of climate change.
9. Narrow the wealth gap.
10. Prepare Americans for the three phases of AI: Artificial Intelligence/Automated Industry/Attenuated Individuals. The first term inexorably leads to the last -- people whose quality of life and value as workers and contributing members of society assuredly decline with a loss of employment or a greatly reduced need for their services, their function having been assumed by machines and computer programs.
Yes, China has taken jobs from the United States but it, too, will have to contend one day with technology supplanting human labour on a massive scale, and with that large a population and that many people out of work, it won't be pretty.
A wise president can head off the worst of what the future holds by making plans that address the fear and anger of workers who see their livelihoods threatened, and with it the security and well-being of their families.
Re-write, please
(Nov. 2, 2020)
Abe, the last line needs reworking:
"Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives, that that nation might live.
It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract.
The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Who's the basement dweller?
(Nov. 2, 2020)
A Times reader writes: "Hillary Clinton won California by 4,269,978 votes; she lost the other 49 states by 1,401,292 votes. One might conclude that her national vote margin over Trump was in fact strictly a California phenomenon."
And Californians' votes, it's true, aren't American votes. They're ... they're ... what are they again?
Maybe California is Clinton's base. Trump has one, why can't she?
And where do base dwellers reside? In a basement, of course.
Why is it Trump never wants to leave his?
Trump fooling around with America's future
(Oct. 30, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Joe Biden has not done a lot of campaigning so it’s really hard to know what he proposes."
No, it isn't. It takes all of five minutes, tops, on Google.
Just go to https://joebiden.com/joes-vision/
Trump's pratform, on the other hand, is a blend of misanthropy and exploitation.
(No, that's not a typo, prat is the right word to use whenever referring to the former-president-to-be, pratitude being another.)
His public spectacles aren't intended to elaborate on the specifics of his grandiose vision, they're meant to exhort those gathered in close quarters to hail his genius and to excoriate his enemies.
The promise of having their prejudices championed in so entertaining a fashion is what draws them to Trump's rallies, like moths to the flame.
And Trump doesn't disappoint, inflaming them with his overwrought rhetoric.
Ever the huckster, Trump took to heart just the first few words of what Abraham Lincoln once said, "You can fool some of the people all of the time," realizing that would be enough to win an election and keep him in power.
Deep in thought? Not really
(Oct. 30, 2020)
Truth be told, Trump is the beneficiary, not the victim, of a 'deep state” -- that being a deep state of mind otherwise known as a coma in which many of his supporters have apparently placed themselves willingly in order to watch him on TV or attend his rallies without suffering psychological trauma.
Were they to remain conscious and listen closely to what Trump is saying, they would soon lose their bearings trying to follow in his footsteps through a thicket of nonsense and a copse of incoherence.
It might be somewhat hyperbolic to say they would be traumatized by the experience but, at a minimum, they'd be addlepated.
And so they have developed a defensive mechanism to shield themselves from Trump's worst excesses. Which is to retreat into the deepest recesses of their minds and wait for the dog whistles to sound to make the appropriate responses.
It's a way of bringing them back to reality every so often and albeit briefly while Trump continues on his way, losing them once again.
Taking in a rally or a press conference while comatose is not how it's normally done but for true conservatives it's the only avenue available to them to show their support for policies they favor espoused by a man who's deranged.
Their inurement is what keeps Trump in power, and he should thank his lucky stars they've stood by him all this time, their feet firmly on the ground – and their minds elsewhere.
Rally-ho!
(Oct. 29, 2020)
I wonder, should Trump lose the election next week, will he cut down on his rallies in November?*
*If he challenges the results and pushes the issue all the way to the Supreme Court, you just know he will keep holding rallies. Maybe even hold one in front of the court building. With special guest, Amy Coney Barrett.
Obsessed with the abscess
(Oct. 29, 2020)
Yes, the media -- and a good many others -- are obsessed with Trump, because he's an abscess in the body politic, a figure whose words and actions inflame.
But the harm he does isn't localized. It spreads across the country, infecting minds, killing innocents.
His tweets go viral, the virulence never stops.
No wonder he's at war with the doctors. They recognize a pathogen when they see one.
A remedy is at hand, Nov. 3, but the regimen will take a few more months to complete its course.
But the body politic will never fully recover.
Trump's time in office, coming after decades of Republican malpractice, has caused lasting damage, and the risk of remission will remain high.
America's soul is in a really bad state.
(Oct. 30, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Joe Biden has not done a lot of campaigning so it’s really hard to know what he proposes."
No, it isn't. It takes all of five minutes, tops, on Google.
Just go to https://joebiden.com/joes-vision/
Trump's pratform, on the other hand, is a blend of misanthropy and exploitation.
(No, that's not a typo, prat is the right word to use whenever referring to the former-president-to-be, pratitude being another.)
His public spectacles aren't intended to elaborate on the specifics of his grandiose vision, they're meant to exhort those gathered in close quarters to hail his genius and to excoriate his enemies.
The promise of having their prejudices championed in so entertaining a fashion is what draws them to Trump's rallies, like moths to the flame.
And Trump doesn't disappoint, inflaming them with his overwrought rhetoric.
Ever the huckster, Trump took to heart just the first few words of what Abraham Lincoln once said, "You can fool some of the people all of the time," realizing that would be enough to win an election and keep him in power.
Deep in thought? Not really
(Oct. 30, 2020)
Truth be told, Trump is the beneficiary, not the victim, of a 'deep state” -- that being a deep state of mind otherwise known as a coma in which many of his supporters have apparently placed themselves willingly in order to watch him on TV or attend his rallies without suffering psychological trauma.
Were they to remain conscious and listen closely to what Trump is saying, they would soon lose their bearings trying to follow in his footsteps through a thicket of nonsense and a copse of incoherence.
It might be somewhat hyperbolic to say they would be traumatized by the experience but, at a minimum, they'd be addlepated.
And so they have developed a defensive mechanism to shield themselves from Trump's worst excesses. Which is to retreat into the deepest recesses of their minds and wait for the dog whistles to sound to make the appropriate responses.
It's a way of bringing them back to reality every so often and albeit briefly while Trump continues on his way, losing them once again.
Taking in a rally or a press conference while comatose is not how it's normally done but for true conservatives it's the only avenue available to them to show their support for policies they favor espoused by a man who's deranged.
Their inurement is what keeps Trump in power, and he should thank his lucky stars they've stood by him all this time, their feet firmly on the ground – and their minds elsewhere.
Rally-ho!
(Oct. 29, 2020)
I wonder, should Trump lose the election next week, will he cut down on his rallies in November?*
*If he challenges the results and pushes the issue all the way to the Supreme Court, you just know he will keep holding rallies. Maybe even hold one in front of the court building. With special guest, Amy Coney Barrett.
Obsessed with the abscess
(Oct. 29, 2020)
Yes, the media -- and a good many others -- are obsessed with Trump, because he's an abscess in the body politic, a figure whose words and actions inflame.
But the harm he does isn't localized. It spreads across the country, infecting minds, killing innocents.
His tweets go viral, the virulence never stops.
No wonder he's at war with the doctors. They recognize a pathogen when they see one.
A remedy is at hand, Nov. 3, but the regimen will take a few more months to complete its course.
But the body politic will never fully recover.
Trump's time in office, coming after decades of Republican malpractice, has caused lasting damage, and the risk of remission will remain high.
America's soul is in a really bad state.
I think, therefore I am ...
(Oct. 25, 2020)
Here's what philosophers have to say about the Republicans:
The greatest happiness of the greatest number of the biggest donors is the foundation of our morals and legislation.
-- Jeremy Bentham
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one misstep.
-- Lao Tzu
I think, therefore I am not a Republican.
-- Rene Descartes
History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as Trump.
-- Karl Marx
All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is laid to rest as fake news.
-- Arthur Schopenhauer
The obligation of subjects to the sovereign is understood to last as long, and no longer, than the power lasteth by which he is able to protect them.
And when a nation is stricken by a pandemic, thanks to the Chinese, it's every man for himself.
-- Thomas Hobbes
Headed the way of the appendix
(Oct. 25, 2020)
It was reported the other day that a previously undiscovered organ had been found deep inside the human head.
Researchers say it's likely a fourth pair of salivary glands.
I disagree, and being a human, I think I can speak with some authority, having first-hand (and second-hand) knowledge of the body (well, a good number of its parts).
I suspect what the medical people found is a vestigial conscience in a member of the Republican party, serving no discernible purpose having atrophied over time, roughly 40 years.
It took considerably longer for the appendix to lose its functionality but then it never was subjected to the crippling effect of a Nixon or a Gingrich or a Cheney or a Rove.
Another four years of Trump and I doubt you'll ever find organ X in a Republican again. Evolution will have excised it, realizing it's a dead end; it will concentrate instead on accelerating the organ's development in Democrats, who, for the most part, do make use of their conscience. Which we now know is tucked away somewhere near the back of the throat (an apt location for an inner voice).
Although the appendix and Republican conscience are alike in their general usefulness – which is zilch, say physicians -- there is one important difference: It's not unusual for Republicans to experience the pain of appendicitis but none has ever been known to suffer pangs of conscience.
Which makes its discovery in a GOP member's body all the more startling.
Interestingly, there was no mention of a heart being found.
Nearing the finishing line
(Oct. 24, 2020)
As difficult as it is to keep abreast of the Trump administration's breaking bad news, it's no less challenging trying to keep track of who: one, left or were forced out government because they opposed what was happening; two, have written books as insiders or experts in their field decrying the cruelty, corruption and ineptitude they've seen on display; three, have renounced the party they once loved and joined forces to bring down Trump, or; four, in the case of highly respected magazines, journals and organizations, have broken with tradition and vehemently spoken out against the president being re-elected.
"It's the likes of which we've never seen before," as Trump would say.
For only the fourth time in its history, The Atlantic, as one New York Times reader has pointed out, is endorsing a candidate, and it ain't Trump:
"Two men are running for president. One is a terrible man; the other is a decent man. Vote for the decent man."
Also, it should be noted, only one in the race is harebrained.
He's also the opposite of slow and steady, being quick to anger and unsteady of mind.
We all know how the fable ended.
Let's hope the same outcome awaits in reality -- and with it the end of a fabulist.
How does he do it?
(Oct. 23, 2020)
Voting against a no-brainer would seem to be a no-brainer.
But Trump somehow casts a spell over 40 per cent of Americans -- and a pall over the rest of them.
How is that possible? He's a terrible speaker but is able to connect with his supporters viscerally.
Language beyond a repetitive use of taunts, rebukes and labels isn't required to communicate the raw emotions of anger and fear that animate his messaging.
He's a master at it and his benighted followers are in his thrall for good. Or evil, which Trump too willingly embraces to serve his selfish interests.
Four years of Trump was a disaster. Four more would be an apocalypse.
From Loudmouth Donald to SubDude
(Oct. 23, 2020)
That was quite the transition Trump made from the first debate, going from Loudmouth Donald to SubDude.
He told the same volume of lies -- just not at the same volume.
My ears thanked him, my brain was not so forgiving.
A lie is a lie is a lie, and never the truth, no matter how often you repeat it.
If one turned the sound down while he talked -- I resisted the temptation, don't ask me why -- and merely watched his constant gesticulating, you couldn't help but think he was at the wheel spinning tall tales.
Trump's priorities are so screwed up he downplays the pandemic and plays up Hunter Biden being on the board of a Ukrainian gas company without obvious qualifications.
Which of these two choices has killed hundreds of thousands and is destined to kill thousands more?
Who showed a greater lack of judgment, the one who ignored the counsel of experts or the one who unwisely accepted an appointment that has embarrassed his father?
Thousands have paid for Trump's willful blindness with their lives. It's time Trump paid as well by being voted out of office.
(Oct. 25, 2020)
Here's what philosophers have to say about the Republicans:
The greatest happiness of the greatest number of the biggest donors is the foundation of our morals and legislation.
-- Jeremy Bentham
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one misstep.
-- Lao Tzu
I think, therefore I am not a Republican.
-- Rene Descartes
History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as Trump.
-- Karl Marx
All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is laid to rest as fake news.
-- Arthur Schopenhauer
The obligation of subjects to the sovereign is understood to last as long, and no longer, than the power lasteth by which he is able to protect them.
And when a nation is stricken by a pandemic, thanks to the Chinese, it's every man for himself.
-- Thomas Hobbes
Headed the way of the appendix
(Oct. 25, 2020)
It was reported the other day that a previously undiscovered organ had been found deep inside the human head.
Researchers say it's likely a fourth pair of salivary glands.
I disagree, and being a human, I think I can speak with some authority, having first-hand (and second-hand) knowledge of the body (well, a good number of its parts).
I suspect what the medical people found is a vestigial conscience in a member of the Republican party, serving no discernible purpose having atrophied over time, roughly 40 years.
It took considerably longer for the appendix to lose its functionality but then it never was subjected to the crippling effect of a Nixon or a Gingrich or a Cheney or a Rove.
Another four years of Trump and I doubt you'll ever find organ X in a Republican again. Evolution will have excised it, realizing it's a dead end; it will concentrate instead on accelerating the organ's development in Democrats, who, for the most part, do make use of their conscience. Which we now know is tucked away somewhere near the back of the throat (an apt location for an inner voice).
Although the appendix and Republican conscience are alike in their general usefulness – which is zilch, say physicians -- there is one important difference: It's not unusual for Republicans to experience the pain of appendicitis but none has ever been known to suffer pangs of conscience.
Which makes its discovery in a GOP member's body all the more startling.
Interestingly, there was no mention of a heart being found.
Nearing the finishing line
(Oct. 24, 2020)
As difficult as it is to keep abreast of the Trump administration's breaking bad news, it's no less challenging trying to keep track of who: one, left or were forced out government because they opposed what was happening; two, have written books as insiders or experts in their field decrying the cruelty, corruption and ineptitude they've seen on display; three, have renounced the party they once loved and joined forces to bring down Trump, or; four, in the case of highly respected magazines, journals and organizations, have broken with tradition and vehemently spoken out against the president being re-elected.
"It's the likes of which we've never seen before," as Trump would say.
For only the fourth time in its history, The Atlantic, as one New York Times reader has pointed out, is endorsing a candidate, and it ain't Trump:
"Two men are running for president. One is a terrible man; the other is a decent man. Vote for the decent man."
Also, it should be noted, only one in the race is harebrained.
He's also the opposite of slow and steady, being quick to anger and unsteady of mind.
We all know how the fable ended.
Let's hope the same outcome awaits in reality -- and with it the end of a fabulist.
How does he do it?
(Oct. 23, 2020)
Voting against a no-brainer would seem to be a no-brainer.
But Trump somehow casts a spell over 40 per cent of Americans -- and a pall over the rest of them.
How is that possible? He's a terrible speaker but is able to connect with his supporters viscerally.
Language beyond a repetitive use of taunts, rebukes and labels isn't required to communicate the raw emotions of anger and fear that animate his messaging.
He's a master at it and his benighted followers are in his thrall for good. Or evil, which Trump too willingly embraces to serve his selfish interests.
Four years of Trump was a disaster. Four more would be an apocalypse.
From Loudmouth Donald to SubDude
(Oct. 23, 2020)
That was quite the transition Trump made from the first debate, going from Loudmouth Donald to SubDude.
He told the same volume of lies -- just not at the same volume.
My ears thanked him, my brain was not so forgiving.
A lie is a lie is a lie, and never the truth, no matter how often you repeat it.
If one turned the sound down while he talked -- I resisted the temptation, don't ask me why -- and merely watched his constant gesticulating, you couldn't help but think he was at the wheel spinning tall tales.
Trump's priorities are so screwed up he downplays the pandemic and plays up Hunter Biden being on the board of a Ukrainian gas company without obvious qualifications.
Which of these two choices has killed hundreds of thousands and is destined to kill thousands more?
Who showed a greater lack of judgment, the one who ignored the counsel of experts or the one who unwisely accepted an appointment that has embarrassed his father?
Thousands have paid for Trump's willful blindness with their lives. It's time Trump paid as well by being voted out of office.
Prepare for the worst, Joe
(Oct, 21, 2020)
Biden should prepare for the worst, which is the best that Trump has to offer. We know Trump will interrupt Biden during his two-minute responses, he can't help himself (or most Americans, for that matter). A mute button won't stop him. Trump will pull out a MAGAphone to drown out Biden.
How should the vice-president respond to such provocation?
Rotten tomatoes work.
Or he could sing his answers at the top of the voice, ditties like:
The president he is a cad
He's the worst we've ever had
No one likes he is this bad
Except, of course, his best pal, Vlad
Or Biden could do what law enforcement officers do when confronted with an unruly person who's disturbing the peace and refuses to follow orders: Taser him.
If that doesn't work ...
Read him his Bill of Rights and make a citizen's arrest?
Trump is still 4-F
(Oct. 21, 2020)
When Trump was a young man he was classified 4-F (unfit for military service). That determination, I read, is “based on the necessary physical, mental and moral standards required of members of military service.”
If evangelists – and voters in general -- were to apply the same standards to presidential candidates, they could not in good conscience support Trump's re-election (having belatedly recognized the error of their ways in helping to vote him into office).
They should, instead, atone for their transgression by declaring him 4-F -- someone they need to Foreswear, Forsake, Forgive* and Forget.
* this is where their Christian beliefs will be mightily put to the test
'Where Truth Rots'
(Oct. 19, 2020)
Don't be surprised if the New York Compost -- "Where Truth Rots" -- continues with its series of exposes by publishing an email from Hunter Biden that has him plotting with antifa to kidnap the president. They plan to make it happen after Thursday's debate when Trump will be at his weakest, exhausted after having told a week's worth of lies.
Speak to the pandemic experts!
(Oct. 19, 2020)
Many frame the debate as science vs commerce, lives vs livelihoods.
Workers who have remained healthy have still suffered because of jobs lost or hours reduced as a result of policies put in place to halt the spread of the coronavirus.
Others have died or become seriously ill because their compatriots chose not to abide by protocols they were adamant violated their rights.
Clearly, no consensus has developed on how to respond to a pandemic in a way that does the least harm to the most people.
This is where we need to look to billionaires for guidance.
By one estimate last month almost 650 of them had seen their collective wealth increase by roughly $685 billion since March.
Obviously they know better than we lesser folk do on how to handle a global pandemic and they need to share their wisdom as quickly as possible. Who wouldn't want to hear to what they have to say, especially if their sage counsel is packaged as "How to Beat COVID-19 -- And Make a Killing!"
These guys have not only survived, they've thrived! They get it! Not scientists, not politicians, but the super-wealthy.
So why haven't they shared their secrets with America?
Because nobody asked.
Well, let's ask them. Hat in hand if necessary. Mask on face if they insist.
But ask them.
I'm sure they'd be more than happy to help out.
As long as they get a tax write-off.
Don't give in to fantasy ... just yet
(Oct. 19, 2020)
All this talk of what Biden/Harris should do if they win is, by definition, a fantasy: the "process of creating especially unrealistic or improbable mental images in response to psychological need."
We've already seen to our horror the immense damage that can be done by a president whose supporters are delusional. Replacing him with a man whose followers believe in fantasy, however understandable, is worrisome as well.
Reality can be jarring.
Yielding to fantasy at this late stage is “especially unrealistic or improbable” given the strenuous efforts of The Donald and his allies to throw spanners in the election that could end up returning him to office, with the Electoral College/Supreme Court playing the Trump card.
So hold off any speculation what a new team at the top might usher in – like, say, a doubling of the IRS budget to nab tax cheats in the higher brackets; ooh, I shouldn't have done that! -- and focus on the here and now, which is to vote, vote, vote.
In other words, DON'T JINX THE OUTCOME!
(Yeah, I'm superstitious.)
Trump's supporters enable, enfeeble
(Oct. 18, 2020)
On an editorial by the New York Times making the very strong case that Trump should not be returned to office:
You have painted the clearest picture possible of how corrupt this man is and the enormous danger he poses to the institutions of democracy and the welfare of citizens who aren't millionaires.
I can't imagine defenders of this administration producing a similar document extolling his accomplishments that would be as detailed or as honest as this.
Trump has earned every epithet directed his way, and his hardline supporters are equally deserving of scorn, for ignoring his many failings and the toll they're exacting on American society.
They are enablers of Trump and enfeeblers of their country.
Don't they realize Trump's jobbing has nothing to do with fixing American's high unemployment rate?
Why don't they believe decency should be the very minimum expected of a president, that serial lying should immediately disqualify a person from holding office?
Placing your trust in a person who's untrustworthy proves your judgment can't be trusted.
Trump is losing badly in the court of public opinion but we'll have to wait until Nov. 3 for the people's final verdict.
And then a year or two for other courts to give their rulings, if justice is to be served, however cold.
And why hasn't the number of COVID-19 deaths per day dropped down to zero by now since Trump's announcement of a "cure"?
Is he working on an angle to personally profit from its distribution before okaying its release?
QAnon, if you're listening, I hope you're able to find out what we're missing.
(Oct, 21, 2020)
Biden should prepare for the worst, which is the best that Trump has to offer. We know Trump will interrupt Biden during his two-minute responses, he can't help himself (or most Americans, for that matter). A mute button won't stop him. Trump will pull out a MAGAphone to drown out Biden.
How should the vice-president respond to such provocation?
Rotten tomatoes work.
Or he could sing his answers at the top of the voice, ditties like:
The president he is a cad
He's the worst we've ever had
No one likes he is this bad
Except, of course, his best pal, Vlad
Or Biden could do what law enforcement officers do when confronted with an unruly person who's disturbing the peace and refuses to follow orders: Taser him.
If that doesn't work ...
Read him his Bill of Rights and make a citizen's arrest?
Trump is still 4-F
(Oct. 21, 2020)
When Trump was a young man he was classified 4-F (unfit for military service). That determination, I read, is “based on the necessary physical, mental and moral standards required of members of military service.”
If evangelists – and voters in general -- were to apply the same standards to presidential candidates, they could not in good conscience support Trump's re-election (having belatedly recognized the error of their ways in helping to vote him into office).
They should, instead, atone for their transgression by declaring him 4-F -- someone they need to Foreswear, Forsake, Forgive* and Forget.
* this is where their Christian beliefs will be mightily put to the test
'Where Truth Rots'
(Oct. 19, 2020)
Don't be surprised if the New York Compost -- "Where Truth Rots" -- continues with its series of exposes by publishing an email from Hunter Biden that has him plotting with antifa to kidnap the president. They plan to make it happen after Thursday's debate when Trump will be at his weakest, exhausted after having told a week's worth of lies.
Speak to the pandemic experts!
(Oct. 19, 2020)
Many frame the debate as science vs commerce, lives vs livelihoods.
Workers who have remained healthy have still suffered because of jobs lost or hours reduced as a result of policies put in place to halt the spread of the coronavirus.
Others have died or become seriously ill because their compatriots chose not to abide by protocols they were adamant violated their rights.
Clearly, no consensus has developed on how to respond to a pandemic in a way that does the least harm to the most people.
This is where we need to look to billionaires for guidance.
By one estimate last month almost 650 of them had seen their collective wealth increase by roughly $685 billion since March.
Obviously they know better than we lesser folk do on how to handle a global pandemic and they need to share their wisdom as quickly as possible. Who wouldn't want to hear to what they have to say, especially if their sage counsel is packaged as "How to Beat COVID-19 -- And Make a Killing!"
These guys have not only survived, they've thrived! They get it! Not scientists, not politicians, but the super-wealthy.
So why haven't they shared their secrets with America?
Because nobody asked.
Well, let's ask them. Hat in hand if necessary. Mask on face if they insist.
But ask them.
I'm sure they'd be more than happy to help out.
As long as they get a tax write-off.
Don't give in to fantasy ... just yet
(Oct. 19, 2020)
All this talk of what Biden/Harris should do if they win is, by definition, a fantasy: the "process of creating especially unrealistic or improbable mental images in response to psychological need."
We've already seen to our horror the immense damage that can be done by a president whose supporters are delusional. Replacing him with a man whose followers believe in fantasy, however understandable, is worrisome as well.
Reality can be jarring.
Yielding to fantasy at this late stage is “especially unrealistic or improbable” given the strenuous efforts of The Donald and his allies to throw spanners in the election that could end up returning him to office, with the Electoral College/Supreme Court playing the Trump card.
So hold off any speculation what a new team at the top might usher in – like, say, a doubling of the IRS budget to nab tax cheats in the higher brackets; ooh, I shouldn't have done that! -- and focus on the here and now, which is to vote, vote, vote.
In other words, DON'T JINX THE OUTCOME!
(Yeah, I'm superstitious.)
Trump's supporters enable, enfeeble
(Oct. 18, 2020)
On an editorial by the New York Times making the very strong case that Trump should not be returned to office:
You have painted the clearest picture possible of how corrupt this man is and the enormous danger he poses to the institutions of democracy and the welfare of citizens who aren't millionaires.
I can't imagine defenders of this administration producing a similar document extolling his accomplishments that would be as detailed or as honest as this.
Trump has earned every epithet directed his way, and his hardline supporters are equally deserving of scorn, for ignoring his many failings and the toll they're exacting on American society.
They are enablers of Trump and enfeeblers of their country.
Don't they realize Trump's jobbing has nothing to do with fixing American's high unemployment rate?
Why don't they believe decency should be the very minimum expected of a president, that serial lying should immediately disqualify a person from holding office?
Placing your trust in a person who's untrustworthy proves your judgment can't be trusted.
Trump is losing badly in the court of public opinion but we'll have to wait until Nov. 3 for the people's final verdict.
And then a year or two for other courts to give their rulings, if justice is to be served, however cold.
And why hasn't the number of COVID-19 deaths per day dropped down to zero by now since Trump's announcement of a "cure"?
Is he working on an angle to personally profit from its distribution before okaying its release?
QAnon, if you're listening, I hope you're able to find out what we're missing.
Random thoughts
(Oct. 17, 2020)
I've never understood why Trump sides with white nationalists.
Shouldn't he look out for his own kind first, people who are orange?
And the comb-over! He should use that time giving his character a makeover instead (a task admittedly more challenging, given he has less 'material' to work worth).
You can't judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a man by his cover-ups.
Picking apart court packing
(Oct. 16, 2020)
All this chatter about court packing is a manufactured controversy intended to trip up Biden, as if the average American cares more about the Supreme Court than holding onto a job, staying healthy, raising a family in a safe and clean environment, and living a stress-free life.
All Joe has to say is:
"I'm not a fan of court packing but there are those in my party who are in favour of it. Some, possibly several, will be named to my Cabinet should I win the election. I will not stake out a position before then until I have consulted with them. I trust their judgment and accept the fact they might have strong arguments to make that could lead me to change my mind.
Or they, along with me, might be persuaded by events that enlarging the Supreme Court is not an option we should pursue when there are so many other things of greater importance to consider.
Let's face it, how many people occupy Supreme Court seats is not a pressing issue at this time, not when the pandemic, a flagging economy, a divided country, law and order, and climate change will be more than enough to occupy our minds the first few months of our administration.
Only when we have a handle on meeting those challenges will we turn our attention to reforming, as a last resort, the Supreme Court should a pattern in its decisions betray an absence of evenhandedness."
(Oct. 17, 2020)
I've never understood why Trump sides with white nationalists.
Shouldn't he look out for his own kind first, people who are orange?
And the comb-over! He should use that time giving his character a makeover instead (a task admittedly more challenging, given he has less 'material' to work worth).
You can't judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a man by his cover-ups.
Picking apart court packing
(Oct. 16, 2020)
All this chatter about court packing is a manufactured controversy intended to trip up Biden, as if the average American cares more about the Supreme Court than holding onto a job, staying healthy, raising a family in a safe and clean environment, and living a stress-free life.
All Joe has to say is:
"I'm not a fan of court packing but there are those in my party who are in favour of it. Some, possibly several, will be named to my Cabinet should I win the election. I will not stake out a position before then until I have consulted with them. I trust their judgment and accept the fact they might have strong arguments to make that could lead me to change my mind.
Or they, along with me, might be persuaded by events that enlarging the Supreme Court is not an option we should pursue when there are so many other things of greater importance to consider.
Let's face it, how many people occupy Supreme Court seats is not a pressing issue at this time, not when the pandemic, a flagging economy, a divided country, law and order, and climate change will be more than enough to occupy our minds the first few months of our administration.
Only when we have a handle on meeting those challenges will we turn our attention to reforming, as a last resort, the Supreme Court should a pattern in its decisions betray an absence of evenhandedness."
Will town hall be Trump's downfall?
(Oct. 15, 2020)
Do we know for a fact that Trump was ever hinged in the first place?
Maybe it's just as well he didn't serve in the military. He's a loose cannon.
I started out watching the Biden town hall, flipped over to NBC long enough to see Trump unmasked by the moderator, and then went back to watching Biden cuz I like people who talk normally and thoughtfully, with no hint of rancor.
Went back to Trump during a commercial break to see how he was holding up and it wasn't good. One woman said she loved his smile and thought he was handsome.
That perked him up and I have to say, it made him look preensidential.
Returned to watching Biden behave like a regular joe ... for 90 minutes, none of this one hour and that's it, I'm outta here stuff.
In Trump's defence he hadn't tweeted anything for 60 minutes so he probably was getting anxious.
Looking forward to next week's debate, Round 2: The Final.
The commission has said it won't allow the moderator to use a mute button to keep Trump in check.
That's okay, I'll use mine at home.
There are white lies and there are Trump lies
(Oct. 15, 2020)
As I said earlier this week, one line of inquiry the Democrats should pursue with Trump's Supreme Court nominee has to do with lying.
The senators could ask Judge Barrett:
“Should Supreme Court justices lie in performance of their duties?
“Does anyone appearing before you have the right to lie to achieve a certain end?”
“Would you turn a blind eye to anyone who perverts the course of justice by lying?”
“Is lying a line you will never cross or allow in your court?”
“Can society – and the court -- get by without truth at its foundation?”
“Are there small lies and big lies?”
“Do falsehoods have the real potential to do harm, by undermining people's faith in democracy, sowing dissension, and putting lives at risk?”
“Are the three branches of government equal?”
“Are there certain standards all three must adhere to?”
“Is being truthful one of those standards?”
“Does lying bother you?”
It's been one long assault
(Oct. 15, 2020)
The more we learn about the vile machinations of this administration away from the public eye the more our disgust and disappointment grow.
Is there anything redeeming about this presidency? Anything?
It's one long assault on normalcy, decency and competency.
Former deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein aided and abetted in that effort by following orders without complaint or a show of defiance.
He was content to do the job that was expected of him.
Not with blinders on, but compassion off.
His record has given birth to a word one can apply to any bureaucrat whose ethics have been tested and found wanting:
rosenstain -- a blot on one's career
Cheaters never lose
(Oct. 15, 2020)
Most won't accept Henry Ford's contention that history is bunk.
But few will dispute Trump's history is all about bunco.
Cheaters never lose is his motto.
Prediction: There will be more books written about Trump than any other president in history – including Abraham Lincoln and FDR.
Trump even 'wrote' one of his own long before entering politics: The Art of the Steal (it's a how-to book about getting elected).
Trump and his 44 Horsemen of the Apocalypse – McConnell, Pence, Barr, Graham, Pompeo, Ratcliffe, Mnuchin, Wheeler, DeJoy, etc -- care nothing about history and their place in it. They live for the now and getting as much as they can while it's there for the taking.
And take is what they do best.
Trump is too busy re-writing history on the fly to worry about what others will write after he leaves the scene.
The same with his gang that couldn't play straight. Their relationship with the past is to view it through the prism of selective memory, which never leaves them troubled.
They're just not the kind to be swayed by history's harsh judgment.
The wealth they've accumulated and the connections they've made guarantees their living in the present will always bring them contentment, the future be damned – and those who would condemn them.
(Oct. 15, 2020)
Do we know for a fact that Trump was ever hinged in the first place?
Maybe it's just as well he didn't serve in the military. He's a loose cannon.
I started out watching the Biden town hall, flipped over to NBC long enough to see Trump unmasked by the moderator, and then went back to watching Biden cuz I like people who talk normally and thoughtfully, with no hint of rancor.
Went back to Trump during a commercial break to see how he was holding up and it wasn't good. One woman said she loved his smile and thought he was handsome.
That perked him up and I have to say, it made him look preensidential.
Returned to watching Biden behave like a regular joe ... for 90 minutes, none of this one hour and that's it, I'm outta here stuff.
In Trump's defence he hadn't tweeted anything for 60 minutes so he probably was getting anxious.
Looking forward to next week's debate, Round 2: The Final.
The commission has said it won't allow the moderator to use a mute button to keep Trump in check.
That's okay, I'll use mine at home.
There are white lies and there are Trump lies
(Oct. 15, 2020)
As I said earlier this week, one line of inquiry the Democrats should pursue with Trump's Supreme Court nominee has to do with lying.
The senators could ask Judge Barrett:
“Should Supreme Court justices lie in performance of their duties?
“Does anyone appearing before you have the right to lie to achieve a certain end?”
“Would you turn a blind eye to anyone who perverts the course of justice by lying?”
“Is lying a line you will never cross or allow in your court?”
“Can society – and the court -- get by without truth at its foundation?”
“Are there small lies and big lies?”
“Do falsehoods have the real potential to do harm, by undermining people's faith in democracy, sowing dissension, and putting lives at risk?”
“Are the three branches of government equal?”
“Are there certain standards all three must adhere to?”
“Is being truthful one of those standards?”
“Does lying bother you?”
It's been one long assault
(Oct. 15, 2020)
The more we learn about the vile machinations of this administration away from the public eye the more our disgust and disappointment grow.
Is there anything redeeming about this presidency? Anything?
It's one long assault on normalcy, decency and competency.
Former deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein aided and abetted in that effort by following orders without complaint or a show of defiance.
He was content to do the job that was expected of him.
Not with blinders on, but compassion off.
His record has given birth to a word one can apply to any bureaucrat whose ethics have been tested and found wanting:
rosenstain -- a blot on one's career
Cheaters never lose
(Oct. 15, 2020)
Most won't accept Henry Ford's contention that history is bunk.
But few will dispute Trump's history is all about bunco.
Cheaters never lose is his motto.
Prediction: There will be more books written about Trump than any other president in history – including Abraham Lincoln and FDR.
Trump even 'wrote' one of his own long before entering politics: The Art of the Steal (it's a how-to book about getting elected).
Trump and his 44 Horsemen of the Apocalypse – McConnell, Pence, Barr, Graham, Pompeo, Ratcliffe, Mnuchin, Wheeler, DeJoy, etc -- care nothing about history and their place in it. They live for the now and getting as much as they can while it's there for the taking.
And take is what they do best.
Trump is too busy re-writing history on the fly to worry about what others will write after he leaves the scene.
The same with his gang that couldn't play straight. Their relationship with the past is to view it through the prism of selective memory, which never leaves them troubled.
They're just not the kind to be swayed by history's harsh judgment.
The wealth they've accumulated and the connections they've made guarantees their living in the present will always bring them contentment, the future be damned – and those who would condemn them.
Hoping Biden loses
(Oct. 14, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Say what you want about Trump but he is still very much himself, while Biden is losing it, in front of the entire nation."
My, what a ringing endorsement of a mendacious, venal, cruel, petty, vindictive, lazy, egotistical, incompetent, pitiable excuse for a leader -- "he is still very much himself."
He is also very much OF himself.
There, I've said what I wanted about Trump.
As for Biden losing it in front of the entire nation -- say what?
By 'it' do you mean his faith in Americans to do what's right? Not a chance.
His patience with unscrupulous Republicans who will employ dirty tricks to hold onto power? I'm with Joe.
His temper with Trump for soiling the office of the president? You bet. All Americans should be upset.
Confession: Come Election Day I really do hope to see Biden lose ... any reference to him as former vice-president.
Being called the "46th president of the United States" sounds so much better.
(Oct. 14, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Say what you want about Trump but he is still very much himself, while Biden is losing it, in front of the entire nation."
My, what a ringing endorsement of a mendacious, venal, cruel, petty, vindictive, lazy, egotistical, incompetent, pitiable excuse for a leader -- "he is still very much himself."
He is also very much OF himself.
There, I've said what I wanted about Trump.
As for Biden losing it in front of the entire nation -- say what?
By 'it' do you mean his faith in Americans to do what's right? Not a chance.
His patience with unscrupulous Republicans who will employ dirty tricks to hold onto power? I'm with Joe.
His temper with Trump for soiling the office of the president? You bet. All Americans should be upset.
Confession: Come Election Day I really do hope to see Biden lose ... any reference to him as former vice-president.
Being called the "46th president of the United States" sounds so much better.
Reining in the Supreme Court
(Oct. 13, 2020)
A New York Times columnist notes the Constitution "says Congress can strip the Supreme Court of its jurisdiction to hear certain kinds of cases."
Interesting. Tell me more.
The Supreme Court needs to be reined in by whatever means in the absence of term limits for members and the hypocrisy of one party in shattering norms to achieve its goals, which have the effect of further dividing a country that's troubled.
I wonder, when the Republicans recite the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, "and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all," do they hold their right hand over that part of the body where a heart is normally found and cross their fingers?
Saying farewell to a ne'er-do-well
(Oct. 12, 2020)
I'm looking forward to Biden's inauguration – there is a God, right? -- but shouldn't there should be a separate ceremony marking Trump's departure, a way of spanking him for his years of disservice?
(He might like the spanking part so nix that.)
He's been the leader of the world's most powerful nation for four years, that has to mean something.
Not long enough for gold watch, mind you, but surely he deserves a token of low esteem for what he's wrought.
A set of cuffs, perhaps. Nickle-plated. With an inscription: “Property of New York State Police.”
The centrepiece of Biden's inauguration will be the swearing in followed by cheers.
There will be swearing as well at Trump's defenestration. Lots of it – followed by cheers.
(Oct. 13, 2020)
A New York Times columnist notes the Constitution "says Congress can strip the Supreme Court of its jurisdiction to hear certain kinds of cases."
Interesting. Tell me more.
The Supreme Court needs to be reined in by whatever means in the absence of term limits for members and the hypocrisy of one party in shattering norms to achieve its goals, which have the effect of further dividing a country that's troubled.
I wonder, when the Republicans recite the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, "and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all," do they hold their right hand over that part of the body where a heart is normally found and cross their fingers?
Saying farewell to a ne'er-do-well
(Oct. 12, 2020)
I'm looking forward to Biden's inauguration – there is a God, right? -- but shouldn't there should be a separate ceremony marking Trump's departure, a way of spanking him for his years of disservice?
(He might like the spanking part so nix that.)
He's been the leader of the world's most powerful nation for four years, that has to mean something.
Not long enough for gold watch, mind you, but surely he deserves a token of low esteem for what he's wrought.
A set of cuffs, perhaps. Nickle-plated. With an inscription: “Property of New York State Police.”
The centrepiece of Biden's inauguration will be the swearing in followed by cheers.
There will be swearing as well at Trump's defenestration. Lots of it – followed by cheers.
Biden can bide his time
(Oct. 11, 2020)
Let's be clear: Biden does not need to state what his plans are, if anything, for the Supreme Court. There are too many variables to consider, chief among them how many more dirty tricks Trump and the Republicans will pull before their time is up.
Equally important is how well Trump's nominee for the Supreme Court handles her hearing. If it's obvious, as many fear, that she's a staunch conservative too set in her ways to be nuanced in her judgments, then Biden will have to seriously contemplate ways to offset the impact her thinking will have on future court decisions.
Perhaps having the possibility of expanding the Court hanging over the justices might be enough to temper their decision-making.
It also must be said that Biden needs to consult his Cabinet – still to be chosen – before putting together a plan that will have long-term consequences for the nation. Unlike Trump, he will value the opinions of those around him and they won't be shy about offering them. Their input will shape what actions a new administration will take upon taking office.
And unlike the Republicans with their rushing to confirm Amy Coney Barrett at the tail-end of Trump's presidency , the Democrats will be making their decision with a fresh mandate they've been given based on Americans' current sentiments, not those they felt four years ago, which many no doubt have come to regret.
(Oct. 11, 2020)
Let's be clear: Biden does not need to state what his plans are, if anything, for the Supreme Court. There are too many variables to consider, chief among them how many more dirty tricks Trump and the Republicans will pull before their time is up.
Equally important is how well Trump's nominee for the Supreme Court handles her hearing. If it's obvious, as many fear, that she's a staunch conservative too set in her ways to be nuanced in her judgments, then Biden will have to seriously contemplate ways to offset the impact her thinking will have on future court decisions.
Perhaps having the possibility of expanding the Court hanging over the justices might be enough to temper their decision-making.
It also must be said that Biden needs to consult his Cabinet – still to be chosen – before putting together a plan that will have long-term consequences for the nation. Unlike Trump, he will value the opinions of those around him and they won't be shy about offering them. Their input will shape what actions a new administration will take upon taking office.
And unlike the Republicans with their rushing to confirm Amy Coney Barrett at the tail-end of Trump's presidency , the Democrats will be making their decision with a fresh mandate they've been given based on Americans' current sentiments, not those they felt four years ago, which many no doubt have come to regret.
The last 100 days
(Oct. 11, 2020)
The first 100 days of a presidency are considered critical to defining an administration's goals and how it hopes to achieve them.
The last 100 days, in contrast, have traditionally been treated as a lame duck period, when usually nothing of great import is likely to occur until after the people have spoken.
That's not happening with Trump, who is turning his final days in office -- fingers crossed -- into a disaster movie, with Air Force One, its engines afire, hurtling to earth.
What happens to Trump and his Congressional passengers is of far less consequence than the fate of the country. If a crash cannot be averted, American society most certainly will be its greatest victim.
What's left of democracy in the smouldering wreckage of Trump's horrendously corrupt and bungling rule will require an extraordinary effort by individuals working tirelessly together to save the Union, having set aside their differences.
If Trump wants to go out in a blaze of Old Glory, he should wrap his arms around it first before lighting the match.
(Oct. 11, 2020)
The first 100 days of a presidency are considered critical to defining an administration's goals and how it hopes to achieve them.
The last 100 days, in contrast, have traditionally been treated as a lame duck period, when usually nothing of great import is likely to occur until after the people have spoken.
That's not happening with Trump, who is turning his final days in office -- fingers crossed -- into a disaster movie, with Air Force One, its engines afire, hurtling to earth.
What happens to Trump and his Congressional passengers is of far less consequence than the fate of the country. If a crash cannot be averted, American society most certainly will be its greatest victim.
What's left of democracy in the smouldering wreckage of Trump's horrendously corrupt and bungling rule will require an extraordinary effort by individuals working tirelessly together to save the Union, having set aside their differences.
If Trump wants to go out in a blaze of Old Glory, he should wrap his arms around it first before lighting the match.
Pssst, Joe!
(Oct. 9, 2020)
Hmmm, 39 people signed the Constitution.
You could make the argument that not as many need to defend it or interpret its articles, even though the world and American society is so much more complex today than it was in the 18th century.
One-third that number, or 13, on the Supreme Court should be up to the task -- not unlike a regular court with 12 jurors (jurists) and a judge (chief justice).
Thirteen is also the number of states that ratified the Constitution.
Yes, Joe could make America whole again by going full circle and enlarging the Supreme Court to reflect the roots of the country's founding.
Four more justices -- one per year his first term.
Sounds like a plan.
To be announced after the election.
(Oct. 9, 2020)
Hmmm, 39 people signed the Constitution.
You could make the argument that not as many need to defend it or interpret its articles, even though the world and American society is so much more complex today than it was in the 18th century.
One-third that number, or 13, on the Supreme Court should be up to the task -- not unlike a regular court with 12 jurors (jurists) and a judge (chief justice).
Thirteen is also the number of states that ratified the Constitution.
Yes, Joe could make America whole again by going full circle and enlarging the Supreme Court to reflect the roots of the country's founding.
Four more justices -- one per year his first term.
Sounds like a plan.
To be announced after the election.
It's clear who has the upper hand
(Oct. 9, 2020)
We need to ask: Is God Trump's enabler? Or has the deity simply given up on humanity?
The latter notion would explain what's happening in the world, when the likes of Trump and Pence have their way, badly misgoverning the planet's most powerful nation, a nation with all the resources needed to blaze a trail to a better life but is instead being led over the cliff to shatter below -- the worst kind of division when carried to the extreme.
If we allow for the existence of God, does that require a belief in the Devil as well, in which case should the question be: Does Satan have the upper hand?
It's hard to argue against the proposition, if one chooses to frame the battle for America's soul in those terms.
Trump is his zealous henchman, Pence his insipid dupe.
Glory, glory hellelujah
(Oct. 9, 2020)
We need to ask: Is God Trump's enabler? Or has the deity simply given up on humanity?
The latter notion would explain what's happening in the world, when the likes of Trump and Pence have their way, badly misgoverning the planet's most powerful nation, a nation with all the resources needed to blaze a trail to a better life but is instead being led over the cliff to shatter below -- the worst kind of division when carried to the extreme.
If we allow for the existence of God, does that require a belief in the Devil as well, in which case should the question be: Does Satan have the upper hand?
It's hard to argue against the proposition, if one chooses to frame the battle for America's soul in those terms.
Trump is his zealous henchman, Pence his insipid dupe.
Glory, glory hellelujah
Superman he's not
(Oct. 7, 2020)
Trump's no Superman.
But he is superannuated and should be superseded.
(Oct. 7, 2020)
Trump's no Superman.
But he is superannuated and should be superseded.
Feeling sorry for Trump
(Oct. 6, 2020)
It's a shame the Trump administration is getting bad press when it's had nothing but positives to report in recent days.
We should feel sorry for Trump.
At one point his drugs left him so disoriented that advisers had to talk him out of releasing his tax returns
He's recovering but he's told confidants he's anxious about the next presidential debate, saying he's worried his voice might not be strong enough to interrupt for more than a half-hour.
Trump is no good dead. He's no good alive either but death would turn him into a QAnon martyr -- a victim of his own stupidity and cupidity, mind you -- whose legend would only grow, and do further harm to the republic.
Better that he stay alive and continue to endure the slings and arrows of his fiercest critics in hopes that at least one might bring the great beast down Nov. 3.
So let the blowhard bellow so that he might dig his own political grave with empty words and a blind eye.
Should that happen it would be a rare instance of an ill windbag actually doing some good.
(Oct. 6, 2020)
It's a shame the Trump administration is getting bad press when it's had nothing but positives to report in recent days.
We should feel sorry for Trump.
At one point his drugs left him so disoriented that advisers had to talk him out of releasing his tax returns
He's recovering but he's told confidants he's anxious about the next presidential debate, saying he's worried his voice might not be strong enough to interrupt for more than a half-hour.
Trump is no good dead. He's no good alive either but death would turn him into a QAnon martyr -- a victim of his own stupidity and cupidity, mind you -- whose legend would only grow, and do further harm to the republic.
Better that he stay alive and continue to endure the slings and arrows of his fiercest critics in hopes that at least one might bring the great beast down Nov. 3.
So let the blowhard bellow so that he might dig his own political grave with empty words and a blind eye.
Should that happen it would be a rare instance of an ill windbag actually doing some good.
The virus is real
(Oct. 5, 2020)
The virus that has found Trump is real
He knows now he's been a schlemiel
Re-election's in doubt
More than likely he's out
Let's pray -- for the end of an ordeal
There are so many things wrong with Trump that are obvious.
He's obtuse, obnoxious, obstinate, obdurate, and obese.
But he can make things right by losing the election and becoming obsolete (he already is but a loss at the polls would make it official).
Ob-la-di, ob-la-da
Life goes on
(Oct. 5, 2020)
The virus that has found Trump is real
He knows now he's been a schlemiel
Re-election's in doubt
More than likely he's out
Let's pray -- for the end of an ordeal
There are so many things wrong with Trump that are obvious.
He's obtuse, obnoxious, obstinate, obdurate, and obese.
But he can make things right by losing the election and becoming obsolete (he already is but a loss at the polls would make it official).
Ob-la-di, ob-la-da
Life goes on
Real life alarms should be so easy to turn off
(Oct. 4, 2020)
New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof says Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis is a wake-up call for Americans.
Many people require an alarm to wake up. If 209,000 people dead wasn't alarming enough, maybe the president contracting the disease for all the wrong reasons -- his own -- will persuade his supporters, non-believers in science, to mend their ways, so they won't require mending later on.
They placed their trust in Trump's mendacity instead and look where it got him.
As much as I detest Trump, I do not wish to see him die.
However, if his getting COVID-19 kills his chances of winning the election I'd be okay with that.
(Oct. 4, 2020)
New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof says Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis is a wake-up call for Americans.
Many people require an alarm to wake up. If 209,000 people dead wasn't alarming enough, maybe the president contracting the disease for all the wrong reasons -- his own -- will persuade his supporters, non-believers in science, to mend their ways, so they won't require mending later on.
They placed their trust in Trump's mendacity instead and look where it got him.
As much as I detest Trump, I do not wish to see him die.
However, if his getting COVID-19 kills his chances of winning the election I'd be okay with that.
Reality isn't a game show
(Oct. 3, 2020)
Only now is Trump realizing he was a contestant on an old TV game show that's been quietly revived, called Truth or Consequences.
Trump decided not to face up to the truth so he finds himself dealing with the consequences. It's not likely he'll go home with any prizes, like a win on Election Day.
Oh well.
Maybe Donald will get a chance to go on another show they've brought back, To Tell the Truth.
Uh, that's not gonna happen. I just checked. He's already turned down the show's producers 234 times.
(Oct. 3, 2020)
Only now is Trump realizing he was a contestant on an old TV game show that's been quietly revived, called Truth or Consequences.
Trump decided not to face up to the truth so he finds himself dealing with the consequences. It's not likely he'll go home with any prizes, like a win on Election Day.
Oh well.
Maybe Donald will get a chance to go on another show they've brought back, To Tell the Truth.
Uh, that's not gonna happen. I just checked. He's already turned down the show's producers 234 times.
He is what he is -- and infected
(Oct. 3, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Far too many liberal columnists ..., have not shown even a modicum of concern or for him. How poisonous our country has become."
And who is the greatest source of that poison? Trump, just to be clear.
While it's almost always wrong to blame a victim for being the author of his/her misfortune -- a frail senior pushing a drunken biker for cutting in line being one of the exceptions -- Trump deserves little sympathy for his current predicament because he is responsible for so many of his fellow Americans ending up in the same situation. He wasn't upfront with them, he was relentless in his efforts to undermine the work of health experts, and he was an extremely poor role model.
I certainly don't wish for him to suffer but it wouldn't bother me in the least if he were to experience some discomfort over an extended period, sufficient to cause him to have an epiphany and realize how much better he could have handled the crisis had he demonstrated true leadership.
Sadly, I have no expectation that he will, in the days to come, set a new course and do a much better job in the latter part of his presidency.
He is what he is, which is now a person who's infected.
(Oct. 3, 2020)
A New York Times reader writes: "Far too many liberal columnists ..., have not shown even a modicum of concern or for him. How poisonous our country has become."
And who is the greatest source of that poison? Trump, just to be clear.
While it's almost always wrong to blame a victim for being the author of his/her misfortune -- a frail senior pushing a drunken biker for cutting in line being one of the exceptions -- Trump deserves little sympathy for his current predicament because he is responsible for so many of his fellow Americans ending up in the same situation. He wasn't upfront with them, he was relentless in his efforts to undermine the work of health experts, and he was an extremely poor role model.
I certainly don't wish for him to suffer but it wouldn't bother me in the least if he were to experience some discomfort over an extended period, sufficient to cause him to have an epiphany and realize how much better he could have handled the crisis had he demonstrated true leadership.
Sadly, I have no expectation that he will, in the days to come, set a new course and do a much better job in the latter part of his presidency.
He is what he is, which is now a person who's infected.
Is it all a ruse?
(Oct. 2, 2020)
Now that Trump has the coronavirus it will be easier to stop its spread by voting him out of office.
We can always hope with Trump that one of the lingering effects of COVID-19 is empathy.
Is Trump trying to back out of an election he knows he's going to lose by saying he tested positive and needs time to recover?
He wouldn't dare use bone spurs a second time around to avoid a fate he doesn't relish so lucky for him he can now blame COVID-19 for having cold feet.
(Oct. 2, 2020)
Now that Trump has the coronavirus it will be easier to stop its spread by voting him out of office.
We can always hope with Trump that one of the lingering effects of COVID-19 is empathy.
Is Trump trying to back out of an election he knows he's going to lose by saying he tested positive and needs time to recover?
He wouldn't dare use bone spurs a second time around to avoid a fate he doesn't relish so lucky for him he can now blame COVID-19 for having cold feet.
Biden should hold off making a decision
(Oct. 1, 2020)
Why is it necessary for Biden to stake out a position right now on whether or not he will expand the number of seats on the Supreme Court so Democrats can add more liberal justices to the bench?
He should say:
“I will be tasked with making many decisions in the first 100 days of taking office, and what's to be done with the Supreme Court could well be one of them.
But let me speak plainly, I do not favour any one option at this point because there are many factors to consider that have yet to play out, such as the upcoming confirmation hearing and, more importantly, the election.
There's also the question of how far the president will derail the electoral process, and then challenge its results should he lose.
Whatever happens in the next few months will have a bearing on what I and my Cabinet will ultimately decide. You see, that's the other thing, a decision of this magnitude requires asking trusted colleagues for their thoughts before reaching a consensus on how to proceed. I ultimately will make the decision, but not without their input.
To state what I would do as a president without waiting for events to unfold and a Cabinet in place to offer me their wisdom would be reckless in the extreme. A step of such import must be taken with care. To do otherwise would be to risk stumbling. That I will not do.”
Trump would be wise now to step down and have the vice-president take over so Pence can issue him and the other turkey a pardon just before Thanksgiving.
(Oct. 1, 2020)
Why is it necessary for Biden to stake out a position right now on whether or not he will expand the number of seats on the Supreme Court so Democrats can add more liberal justices to the bench?
He should say:
“I will be tasked with making many decisions in the first 100 days of taking office, and what's to be done with the Supreme Court could well be one of them.
But let me speak plainly, I do not favour any one option at this point because there are many factors to consider that have yet to play out, such as the upcoming confirmation hearing and, more importantly, the election.
There's also the question of how far the president will derail the electoral process, and then challenge its results should he lose.
Whatever happens in the next few months will have a bearing on what I and my Cabinet will ultimately decide. You see, that's the other thing, a decision of this magnitude requires asking trusted colleagues for their thoughts before reaching a consensus on how to proceed. I ultimately will make the decision, but not without their input.
To state what I would do as a president without waiting for events to unfold and a Cabinet in place to offer me their wisdom would be reckless in the extreme. A step of such import must be taken with care. To do otherwise would be to risk stumbling. That I will not do.”
Trump would be wise now to step down and have the vice-president take over so Pence can issue him and the other turkey a pardon just before Thanksgiving.
Hey, that wasn't nice!
(Sept. 30, 2020)
I thought it was extremely unfair that Biden called Trump a clown.
Clowns have nicer hair and better makeup.
And they know how to fill big shoes. Trump is flopping around in Obama's.
I don't know why more people didn't recognize Trump was being sarcastic when he suggested a bleach injection would be effective in combatting the coronavirus. Really, folks, lighten up: A country is being ravaged by a pandemic, citizens are felling super tense, businesses are taking a beating -- don't you think a bit of humour now and then helps take the edge off? I know when I heard Trump say it the first time I chuckled to myself and thought: "Oh that Donald, what a kidder! That quip will bring a smile to a lot of faces."
Yeah, Trump was a wussy when it came to denouncing white supremacists. He probably thought telling them to "stand down and stand by" put them in their place but most people didn't like the fact he meant by his side.
The commission that oversees presidential debates says it will make changes so the remaining two head-to-heads won't turn into debacles. It could start by telling Trump - just Trump -- the dates have been changed.
If he catches on and shows up, well, they could mute his mike when he interrupts but he'll whine about being silenced. Let him be who he is. then, but have the audio system programmed so that his voice sounds like Donald Duck whenever he speaks out of turn.
His sounding like a quack would go a long way to helping the undecided make up their minds.
(Sept. 30, 2020)
I thought it was extremely unfair that Biden called Trump a clown.
Clowns have nicer hair and better makeup.
And they know how to fill big shoes. Trump is flopping around in Obama's.
I don't know why more people didn't recognize Trump was being sarcastic when he suggested a bleach injection would be effective in combatting the coronavirus. Really, folks, lighten up: A country is being ravaged by a pandemic, citizens are felling super tense, businesses are taking a beating -- don't you think a bit of humour now and then helps take the edge off? I know when I heard Trump say it the first time I chuckled to myself and thought: "Oh that Donald, what a kidder! That quip will bring a smile to a lot of faces."
Yeah, Trump was a wussy when it came to denouncing white supremacists. He probably thought telling them to "stand down and stand by" put them in their place but most people didn't like the fact he meant by his side.
The commission that oversees presidential debates says it will make changes so the remaining two head-to-heads won't turn into debacles. It could start by telling Trump - just Trump -- the dates have been changed.
If he catches on and shows up, well, they could mute his mike when he interrupts but he'll whine about being silenced. Let him be who he is. then, but have the audio system programmed so that his voice sounds like Donald Duck whenever he speaks out of turn.
His sounding like a quack would go a long way to helping the undecided make up their minds.
Speaking as a Canadian
(Sept. 30, 2020)
After watching last night's debate in horror, let me say that if the rules don't allow for contemporaneous fact-checking, organizers should seriously consider giving the green light to hip checks (speaking as a Canadian).
At the very least, Biden should be forgiven for pulling the shirt over Trump's head when he's being obstreperous.
I could be wrong but at one point I thought I saw Trump's own family giving him the thumbs down for going too far.
Then again their gestures might have been telling him to go even lower.
(Sept. 30, 2020)
After watching last night's debate in horror, let me say that if the rules don't allow for contemporaneous fact-checking, organizers should seriously consider giving the green light to hip checks (speaking as a Canadian).
At the very least, Biden should be forgiven for pulling the shirt over Trump's head when he's being obstreperous.
I could be wrong but at one point I thought I saw Trump's own family giving him the thumbs down for going too far.
Then again their gestures might have been telling him to go even lower.
Whispering in Trump's ear
(Sept. 28, 2020)
Biden's team should make sure the debate's organizers have taken every measure possible to prevent secret messaging reaching Trump that is intended, against all odds, to make him sound intelligent.
If not entirely satisfied with the precautions the organizers have arranged, Biden's team should, as a courtesy, secretly provide Trump with information they think will be helpful and which they know an unthinking Trump will repeat verbatim, such as:
"Mr. President, you told Bob Woodward that you downplayed the coronavirus because you didn't want the public to panic. Is that good leadership?"
Trump: "That's not true! I downplayed the coronavirus because ...[brief hesitation] I didn't want to panic .. uh, I mean I didn't want the coronavirus to panic ...no, no. Uh, Bob Woodward to panic? ... Isn't it time for a commercial break?"
(Sept. 28, 2020)
Biden's team should make sure the debate's organizers have taken every measure possible to prevent secret messaging reaching Trump that is intended, against all odds, to make him sound intelligent.
If not entirely satisfied with the precautions the organizers have arranged, Biden's team should, as a courtesy, secretly provide Trump with information they think will be helpful and which they know an unthinking Trump will repeat verbatim, such as:
"Mr. President, you told Bob Woodward that you downplayed the coronavirus because you didn't want the public to panic. Is that good leadership?"
Trump: "That's not true! I downplayed the coronavirus because ...[brief hesitation] I didn't want to panic .. uh, I mean I didn't want the coronavirus to panic ...no, no. Uh, Bob Woodward to panic? ... Isn't it time for a commercial break?"
Prepare for the worst -- thy name is Trump
(Sept. 28, 2020)
Biden should prepare for Trump going nuclear in attacking his character and repeating spurious claims made by QAnon about the former vice-president.
As difficult as it would be, Biden should keep his emotions in check but make plain his disgust that an opponent would resort to the worst kind of lies to retain power:
"Donald, I know you're desperate like a cornered rat and will do anything to divert attention from your many failures as president and before that as businessman, but I will not join in your mudslinging by levelling false accusations. I will stick to the facts, the latest being documents that show you to be a leech who saps this country by not paying your fair share of taxes, the lifeblood of democracy. You feed on others who carry the burden of supporting their government.
In your mind that makes you smart and them not so much.
You see them as losers, Donald, but you -- you're a bloodsucker!"
Now, if Biden did want to go over the line, he could conclude his remarks by dredging up comments Trump made about his daughter that are on the record:
"Donald, being the subject of unfounded rumours that make you look evil can be a hard thing to handle. But I won't let them destroy me. You, on the other hand, have it a lot harder, having to deal with your own words. What kind of father would say his daughter is "hot," "voluptuous," has "the best body," and is someone he'd date if he "weren't happily married and, ya know, her father . . .”
"Care to elaborate, Donald?"
(Sept. 28, 2020)
Biden should prepare for Trump going nuclear in attacking his character and repeating spurious claims made by QAnon about the former vice-president.
As difficult as it would be, Biden should keep his emotions in check but make plain his disgust that an opponent would resort to the worst kind of lies to retain power:
"Donald, I know you're desperate like a cornered rat and will do anything to divert attention from your many failures as president and before that as businessman, but I will not join in your mudslinging by levelling false accusations. I will stick to the facts, the latest being documents that show you to be a leech who saps this country by not paying your fair share of taxes, the lifeblood of democracy. You feed on others who carry the burden of supporting their government.
In your mind that makes you smart and them not so much.
You see them as losers, Donald, but you -- you're a bloodsucker!"
Now, if Biden did want to go over the line, he could conclude his remarks by dredging up comments Trump made about his daughter that are on the record:
"Donald, being the subject of unfounded rumours that make you look evil can be a hard thing to handle. But I won't let them destroy me. You, on the other hand, have it a lot harder, having to deal with your own words. What kind of father would say his daughter is "hot," "voluptuous," has "the best body," and is someone he'd date if he "weren't happily married and, ya know, her father . . .”
"Care to elaborate, Donald?"
Odds and ends
(Sept. 27, 2020)
Biden should announce at the outset of Tuesday's debate links to reputable fact-checking organizations and news media that viewers would be wise to check out after the evening is over. It would help remove from their minds the pile of lies that his opponent told.
Gettin' it right
At the debate!
Americans have a chance to write off their largest liability Nov. 3. Don't blow it.
Surely by now Trump has warranted an entry in Ripley's Believe It or Not for the longest tax audit ever done by the IRS. Translating his tax returns from Russian into English has probably held up things.
As president can Trump claim the GOP as a dependent?
(Sept. 27, 2020)
Biden should announce at the outset of Tuesday's debate links to reputable fact-checking organizations and news media that viewers would be wise to check out after the evening is over. It would help remove from their minds the pile of lies that his opponent told.
Gettin' it right
At the debate!
Americans have a chance to write off their largest liability Nov. 3. Don't blow it.
Surely by now Trump has warranted an entry in Ripley's Believe It or Not for the longest tax audit ever done by the IRS. Translating his tax returns from Russian into English has probably held up things.
As president can Trump claim the GOP as a dependent?
Wrong vaccine being developed
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Why this preoccupation with developing a vaccine for COVID-19?
Shouldn't science be working on a vaccine for stupidity?
Which one do you think does more harm in the world, a virus or dumbness?
A virus doesn't get elected but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't ignore science but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't discriminate but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't believe in outlandish conspiracies but dumbness does.
So, having seen how much havoc dumbness wreaks when it holds power, dismisses science, promotes racism, and spreads conspiracies, why isn't more being done to find a cure?
Education takes too long. The United States is headed over the cliff and democracy with it if a vaccine isn't found pronto.
Maybe for the interim big pharma could start handing out placebos and claim they're smart pills. Research has shown just how much of a positive impact the placebo effect can have.
You tell people the pill will make them smart they might start acting that way. They've already proved they'll believe anything and act accordingly.
As for the holdouts, those who will say the pills are a plot to take over people's minds, okay, let them think so. But if you cut down on distribution and let word out that only people who are intelligent are getting them to create a super race, that should guarantee a run on pills.
It might be enough to raise voters' IQ in the short term -- and buy scientists time to perfect a vaccine for idiocy.
And what better name to call the entire effort than Operation Trump.
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Why this preoccupation with developing a vaccine for COVID-19?
Shouldn't science be working on a vaccine for stupidity?
Which one do you think does more harm in the world, a virus or dumbness?
A virus doesn't get elected but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't ignore science but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't discriminate but dumbness does.
A virus doesn't believe in outlandish conspiracies but dumbness does.
So, having seen how much havoc dumbness wreaks when it holds power, dismisses science, promotes racism, and spreads conspiracies, why isn't more being done to find a cure?
Education takes too long. The United States is headed over the cliff and democracy with it if a vaccine isn't found pronto.
Maybe for the interim big pharma could start handing out placebos and claim they're smart pills. Research has shown just how much of a positive impact the placebo effect can have.
You tell people the pill will make them smart they might start acting that way. They've already proved they'll believe anything and act accordingly.
As for the holdouts, those who will say the pills are a plot to take over people's minds, okay, let them think so. But if you cut down on distribution and let word out that only people who are intelligent are getting them to create a super race, that should guarantee a run on pills.
It might be enough to raise voters' IQ in the short term -- and buy scientists time to perfect a vaccine for idiocy.
And what better name to call the entire effort than Operation Trump.
A surefire fix for future elections
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Here's a suggestion to allay the growing unease (and you can thank Trump's head office in Russia for the inspiration):
Whoever wins the popular vote is elected president.
Whoever wins the Electoral College is named prime minister.
They can be one and the same, of course, if that's how it plays out because the prime minister's principal role will be to serve as a figurehead.
I know what you're thinking, and, yes, a dunderhead could be the figurehead, because he won't have any real responsibilities, his duties will be minimal.
All he has to do, for example, is fetch the president coffee and get his clothes at the cleaners, preside over the annual turkey pardon ceremony, hand out releases at the press briefings, and report to the vice-president each day for special assignments, such as proofreading bills before the Senate.
I think this would go a long way to ending what's become a virulent partisan conflict in a deeply divided country.
It might not be what Putin had in mind when he took Trump on as his apprentice but the system seems to work in Russia -- when was the last time you heard the country was in turmoil? The people really seem to like their government there -- so it should work in America.
Hey, is it too late to organize a national referendum for Nov. 3 asking people what they think of the idea?
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Here's a suggestion to allay the growing unease (and you can thank Trump's head office in Russia for the inspiration):
Whoever wins the popular vote is elected president.
Whoever wins the Electoral College is named prime minister.
They can be one and the same, of course, if that's how it plays out because the prime minister's principal role will be to serve as a figurehead.
I know what you're thinking, and, yes, a dunderhead could be the figurehead, because he won't have any real responsibilities, his duties will be minimal.
All he has to do, for example, is fetch the president coffee and get his clothes at the cleaners, preside over the annual turkey pardon ceremony, hand out releases at the press briefings, and report to the vice-president each day for special assignments, such as proofreading bills before the Senate.
I think this would go a long way to ending what's become a virulent partisan conflict in a deeply divided country.
It might not be what Putin had in mind when he took Trump on as his apprentice but the system seems to work in Russia -- when was the last time you heard the country was in turmoil? The people really seem to like their government there -- so it should work in America.
Hey, is it too late to organize a national referendum for Nov. 3 asking people what they think of the idea?
Recuse yourself, recuse yourself!
(Sept. 24, 2020)
I have to ask, wouldn't a new justice who was interviewed for the Supreme Court by the president weeks before an election challenge reaches the top court have to recuse herself from taking part in those deliberations?
Or is it not unusual for a judge to have an intimate chat with a person whose case she will hear and who was responsible for her being promoted?
It's bad optics at the very least, and the suspicion of a transaction being completed would be well-founded.
And don't tell me she has integrity and will be guided by the facts alone. We're well past the point that anyone nominated or awarded a post by Trump can be accepted at face value. He has a remarkable knack for finding people who turn out to be flawed or have no problem with being compromised.
(Sept. 24, 2020)
I have to ask, wouldn't a new justice who was interviewed for the Supreme Court by the president weeks before an election challenge reaches the top court have to recuse herself from taking part in those deliberations?
Or is it not unusual for a judge to have an intimate chat with a person whose case she will hear and who was responsible for her being promoted?
It's bad optics at the very least, and the suspicion of a transaction being completed would be well-founded.
And don't tell me she has integrity and will be guided by the facts alone. We're well past the point that anyone nominated or awarded a post by Trump can be accepted at face value. He has a remarkable knack for finding people who turn out to be flawed or have no problem with being compromised.
Don't call Trumpers deplorable
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Hillary probably went a tad too far when she called members of Trump's base "deplorables."
They have feelings, too, and shouldn't be cast in a negative light.
Maybe we should describe them as "pro-repulsive."
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Hillary probably went a tad too far when she called members of Trump's base "deplorables."
They have feelings, too, and shouldn't be cast in a negative light.
Maybe we should describe them as "pro-repulsive."
Trump's no dummy, he's a yes dummy -- for Putin
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Just how many dummies does Putin need to run his puppet regime in America?
Trump, Barr, Pompeo, Kushner, Meadows, McConnell, Johnson, Wolf, Ratcliffe, Nunes, Jordan, Caputo, McEnany ... the list goes on and on (as does the chicanery).
That's quite a large payroll for people to roll over but it's paying handsome divide-dends for America's puppet master.
(Sept. 24, 2020)
Just how many dummies does Putin need to run his puppet regime in America?
Trump, Barr, Pompeo, Kushner, Meadows, McConnell, Johnson, Wolf, Ratcliffe, Nunes, Jordan, Caputo, McEnany ... the list goes on and on (as does the chicanery).
That's quite a large payroll for people to roll over but it's paying handsome divide-dends for America's puppet master.
In the garden - Eden, not White House
(Sept. 23, 2020)
You gotta believe that if two Republicans found themselves in the Garden of Eden, within minutes one would turn to the other and say: "Well, are you gonna just stand there all day doing nothing or start looking for a job? There's way too many trees here, you know."
(Sept. 23, 2020)
You gotta believe that if two Republicans found themselves in the Garden of Eden, within minutes one would turn to the other and say: "Well, are you gonna just stand there all day doing nothing or start looking for a job? There's way too many trees here, you know."
Working with the Supreme Court
(Sept. 23, 2020)
Perhaps a new administration under Biden might be able to 'influence' the Supreme Court's decision-making by setting the justices' working conditions. Like turning up the heat in the summertime, cranking up the air conditioning in winter, replacing the 'bench' with a hockey bench, requiring justices to do their own research, holding snap quizzes on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, making it mandatory they answer questions from the news media after every ruling, replacing their black gowns with rainbow-colured ones, charging them for parking by installing meters, making them take turns cleaning the one washroom they've been assigned ...
There's more that could be done but this might be enough to get a conservative court to think seriously about working with another branch of government instead of trying to saw it off.
(Sept. 23, 2020)
Perhaps a new administration under Biden might be able to 'influence' the Supreme Court's decision-making by setting the justices' working conditions. Like turning up the heat in the summertime, cranking up the air conditioning in winter, replacing the 'bench' with a hockey bench, requiring justices to do their own research, holding snap quizzes on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, making it mandatory they answer questions from the news media after every ruling, replacing their black gowns with rainbow-colured ones, charging them for parking by installing meters, making them take turns cleaning the one washroom they've been assigned ...
There's more that could be done but this might be enough to get a conservative court to think seriously about working with another branch of government instead of trying to saw it off.
Speaking as a friend
(Sept. 22, 2020)
That Roe vs Wade remains a matter of fierce contention after all these years proves just how critical the next few weeks will be in determining the fate of the United States.
The outcome, no matter which side it favours, could be enough to send the country hurtling over the edge toward chaos.
To prevent that from happening, Congress should immediately pass emergency legislation banning congress between a man and a woman until the matter is settled. Couples need to know now what kind of world awaits their child should they choose to have a baby -- or not, but are forced to do so with a change in the law.
Yes, it could come down to this: Saving the union might require individuals not engaging in any.
For the good of the nation while politicians work things out.
That's how serious matters are.
Now a prime minister of ours once said long ago: “There’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation.”
But he wasn't faced with the prospect of a country breaking up.
You guys are.
That's why your politicians need to get their act together and quickly so regular folk can get together for, you know, that other kind of act.
(Sept. 22, 2020)
That Roe vs Wade remains a matter of fierce contention after all these years proves just how critical the next few weeks will be in determining the fate of the United States.
The outcome, no matter which side it favours, could be enough to send the country hurtling over the edge toward chaos.
To prevent that from happening, Congress should immediately pass emergency legislation banning congress between a man and a woman until the matter is settled. Couples need to know now what kind of world awaits their child should they choose to have a baby -- or not, but are forced to do so with a change in the law.
Yes, it could come down to this: Saving the union might require individuals not engaging in any.
For the good of the nation while politicians work things out.
That's how serious matters are.
Now a prime minister of ours once said long ago: “There’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation.”
But he wasn't faced with the prospect of a country breaking up.
You guys are.
That's why your politicians need to get their act together and quickly so regular folk can get together for, you know, that other kind of act.
Setting ground rules for appointing justices
(Sept. 21, 2020)
The two parties should set ground rules in putting forward candidates for the Supreme Court in future:
-- all nominees, as a condition of their being nominated, agree in writing to serve no more than 15 years on the bench. They also make clear in signing the agreement that they are legally bound to fulfill its conditions and fully understand what they are committing to.
-- both parties accept that an equilibrium of sorts must exist on the Supreme Court to avoid pitched battles of the kind being waged now and to ensure the union remains stable. Toward that end the court will consist of four justices endorsed by the Democrats and four justices endorsed by the Republicans.
The party in power will decide who is the ninth justice, when an vacancy occurs.
-- allow cameras in the courtroom when court is in session. Let Americans see their system of justice at work at the highest level, where so much of how they live their lives is decided.
(Sept. 21, 2020)
The two parties should set ground rules in putting forward candidates for the Supreme Court in future:
-- all nominees, as a condition of their being nominated, agree in writing to serve no more than 15 years on the bench. They also make clear in signing the agreement that they are legally bound to fulfill its conditions and fully understand what they are committing to.
-- both parties accept that an equilibrium of sorts must exist on the Supreme Court to avoid pitched battles of the kind being waged now and to ensure the union remains stable. Toward that end the court will consist of four justices endorsed by the Democrats and four justices endorsed by the Republicans.
The party in power will decide who is the ninth justice, when an vacancy occurs.
-- allow cameras in the courtroom when court is in session. Let Americans see their system of justice at work at the highest level, where so much of how they live their lives is decided.
A lie is the truth seen in a funhouse mirror
(Sept. 21, 2020)
I have long thought that an inability or an unwillingness to tell the truth should automatically disqualify a person from holding office but apparently enough Americans think otherwise, electing as they did a serial liar whom they continue to support.
How can this be? Is it what they hope to gain from having Trump in power that leads them to turn a blind eye to all his transgressions?
Would they be as forgiving if people around them behaved the same way, if a wife lied to her husband, if a child lied to a parent, if a boss lied to an employee -- EVERY SINGLE DAY?
What's that you say, lying means little to them, no matter who does it, as long as the people who are lied to get something out of it and it doesn't materially harm their interests.
And if others do get hurt by it, well, they should know better and not be so trusting.
What wretched lives they must lead, these people who care so little about the truth, knowing lying is no different from cheating.
So if a wife cheats but is a great cook, a child cheats but gets good grades, and a boss cheats but you make top pay, well, life isn't so bad, is it?
That election platform Trump's standing on is thoroughly rotten but a lot of his fellow Americans are prepared to prop him up no matter what. He's the leader they've always wanted, their kind of man.
It's not a pretty sight.
(Sept. 21, 2020)
I have long thought that an inability or an unwillingness to tell the truth should automatically disqualify a person from holding office but apparently enough Americans think otherwise, electing as they did a serial liar whom they continue to support.
How can this be? Is it what they hope to gain from having Trump in power that leads them to turn a blind eye to all his transgressions?
Would they be as forgiving if people around them behaved the same way, if a wife lied to her husband, if a child lied to a parent, if a boss lied to an employee -- EVERY SINGLE DAY?
What's that you say, lying means little to them, no matter who does it, as long as the people who are lied to get something out of it and it doesn't materially harm their interests.
And if others do get hurt by it, well, they should know better and not be so trusting.
What wretched lives they must lead, these people who care so little about the truth, knowing lying is no different from cheating.
So if a wife cheats but is a great cook, a child cheats but gets good grades, and a boss cheats but you make top pay, well, life isn't so bad, is it?
That election platform Trump's standing on is thoroughly rotten but a lot of his fellow Americans are prepared to prop him up no matter what. He's the leader they've always wanted, their kind of man.
It's not a pretty sight.
Random thoughts
(Sept. 20, 2020)
Apparently, cheaters do prosper.
Cuz 45 knows how to thrive.
It would be the height of irony -- and tragic, of course -- if the Republicans' choice for the Supreme Court were to be confirmed after a vicious battle in the Senate, and then die from COVID-19 in February.
If the Republicans set aside principle and push through their replacement for Madame Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, they should at the same time replace their party's symbol, the elephant, with a river horse.
There's no better animal to represent their strongest trait -- hippo-crisy.
If perchance a sufficient number of Republican senators were to develop a conscience and leave the selection of Ginsburg's replacement to the next administration it would be the first time "Justice delayed is justice upheld."
Why the aversion to wearing face masks? Could it be Trump's supporters are mouth breathers?
It's not always necessary for Trump appointees to have a background in their area of responsibility but it's absolutely essential they not have a backbone.
(Sept. 20, 2020)
Apparently, cheaters do prosper.
Cuz 45 knows how to thrive.
It would be the height of irony -- and tragic, of course -- if the Republicans' choice for the Supreme Court were to be confirmed after a vicious battle in the Senate, and then die from COVID-19 in February.
If the Republicans set aside principle and push through their replacement for Madame Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, they should at the same time replace their party's symbol, the elephant, with a river horse.
There's no better animal to represent their strongest trait -- hippo-crisy.
If perchance a sufficient number of Republican senators were to develop a conscience and leave the selection of Ginsburg's replacement to the next administration it would be the first time "Justice delayed is justice upheld."
Why the aversion to wearing face masks? Could it be Trump's supporters are mouth breathers?
It's not always necessary for Trump appointees to have a background in their area of responsibility but it's absolutely essential they not have a backbone.
Things are heating up
(Sept. 16, 2020)
The United States used to be a melting pot now it's a cauldron, with too many of its people bewitched by a president who likes stirring the pot.
Shakespeare said it best:
"Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn and cauldron bubble."
That pretty much captures what's going on these days.
And if Trump wins a second term, the grief he causes is sure to redouble.
(Sept. 16, 2020)
The United States used to be a melting pot now it's a cauldron, with too many of its people bewitched by a president who likes stirring the pot.
Shakespeare said it best:
"Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn and cauldron bubble."
That pretty much captures what's going on these days.
And if Trump wins a second term, the grief he causes is sure to redouble.
The very much seen hand in November's election
(Sept. 16, 2020)
You know who could ultimately decide the fate of the United States? Not the left or the right but Mother Nature. She hasn't a vote but she carries a lot of weight. Look at what she has her disposal: wildfires, hurricanes, drought, floods and coronavirus.
You want extreme, she can deliver.
MN is making clear to Americans what her political preference is these days: leave much the country in ruins and force people to start over with a shared purpose.
They can begin by acknowledging climate change is real and undertaking major reforms to stave off its worst effects. Perhaps with an enlightened administration in office, the workplace of the president will come to be known as the Green House.
(Sept. 16, 2020)
You know who could ultimately decide the fate of the United States? Not the left or the right but Mother Nature. She hasn't a vote but she carries a lot of weight. Look at what she has her disposal: wildfires, hurricanes, drought, floods and coronavirus.
You want extreme, she can deliver.
MN is making clear to Americans what her political preference is these days: leave much the country in ruins and force people to start over with a shared purpose.
They can begin by acknowledging climate change is real and undertaking major reforms to stave off its worst effects. Perhaps with an enlightened administration in office, the workplace of the president will come to be known as the Green House.
Finding salvation in lies
(Sept. 13, 2020)
Not knowing when a safe and effective vaccine will be developed or how many will ultimately choose immunization when it becomes available, perhaps salvation for America lies in spreading more lies.
Convince Trump's base that America's chief adversaries -- China, Democrats, news media, Hollywood celebrities, experts -- have conspired to rid the world of his staunch supporters and pave the way for global domination by sending into the atmosphere an unnerve gas that weakens resolve and destroys faith, designed specifically for them.
Also let it be known that Fox News has been co-opted to poison their minds as well as send coded messages to agents bent on doing the United States harm.
(It probably wouldn't hurt to whisper CNN is the Conspiracy News Network, a clearing-house for the latest in outrageous rumours where Trump's adherents can feel at home.)
Only then might they decide to wear face masks and practise social distancing to vanquish the hostile forces that threaten their way of life
(Sept. 13, 2020)
Not knowing when a safe and effective vaccine will be developed or how many will ultimately choose immunization when it becomes available, perhaps salvation for America lies in spreading more lies.
Convince Trump's base that America's chief adversaries -- China, Democrats, news media, Hollywood celebrities, experts -- have conspired to rid the world of his staunch supporters and pave the way for global domination by sending into the atmosphere an unnerve gas that weakens resolve and destroys faith, designed specifically for them.
Also let it be known that Fox News has been co-opted to poison their minds as well as send coded messages to agents bent on doing the United States harm.
(It probably wouldn't hurt to whisper CNN is the Conspiracy News Network, a clearing-house for the latest in outrageous rumours where Trump's adherents can feel at home.)
Only then might they decide to wear face masks and practise social distancing to vanquish the hostile forces that threaten their way of life
The truth will make you panicky
(Sept. 13, 2020)
I hadn't realized until this week just how fragile Americans have become under Trump.
Apparently they can't handle the truth.
Trump decided he couldn't tell them what he knew when he did, that COVID-19 is “deadly stuff” transmitted through the air and a threat to young and old, because he didn't want to “create a panic.”
Who knows how many people would have been killed fighting over toilet paper and chips if word had got out that something far worse than the flu was headed their way and they might have to hunker down for weeks, even months.
50,000? 100,000? Even more, in their mad rush to get supplies before they ran out?
The numbers are indeed staggering just how many people die each year in supermarkets when shoppers are seized by an impulse to hoard, and well-stocked shelves begin to thin out.
So, maybe Trump does deserve credit for doing the right thing, telling citizens talk of a pandemic was a hoax being promoted by Democrats for partisan purposes.
He knew the “facts” he doled out are the kind people find tolerable, having been spoon-fed conspiracies for years.
The whole truth will become known at some point, but releasing it in small doses, as the Trump administration has done – albeit reluctantly but with everyone's best interests at heart, of course -- means people have developed a resistance of sorts so they won't go into sudden shock when the truth in its entirety comes out.
Experts call this “herd immunity.”
(Sept. 13, 2020)
I hadn't realized until this week just how fragile Americans have become under Trump.
Apparently they can't handle the truth.
Trump decided he couldn't tell them what he knew when he did, that COVID-19 is “deadly stuff” transmitted through the air and a threat to young and old, because he didn't want to “create a panic.”
Who knows how many people would have been killed fighting over toilet paper and chips if word had got out that something far worse than the flu was headed their way and they might have to hunker down for weeks, even months.
50,000? 100,000? Even more, in their mad rush to get supplies before they ran out?
The numbers are indeed staggering just how many people die each year in supermarkets when shoppers are seized by an impulse to hoard, and well-stocked shelves begin to thin out.
So, maybe Trump does deserve credit for doing the right thing, telling citizens talk of a pandemic was a hoax being promoted by Democrats for partisan purposes.
He knew the “facts” he doled out are the kind people find tolerable, having been spoon-fed conspiracies for years.
The whole truth will become known at some point, but releasing it in small doses, as the Trump administration has done – albeit reluctantly but with everyone's best interests at heart, of course -- means people have developed a resistance of sorts so they won't go into sudden shock when the truth in its entirety comes out.
Experts call this “herd immunity.”
The (edited) least bad of Politically Speaking – Part 4
Who would win more votes than lose them with these actions:
Biden currying favour with the law and order crowd by punching a protester in the nose?
Trump courting minorities by handing – not tossing – rolls of paper towel to Black hurricane victims and giving them a mask-free hug?
Aug. 31, 2020
There was a time Trump aspired to be a Warren Buffet and become a tycoon but the best he could do was to be a Buffoon.
Unfortunately the Buffoon's now in the White House which has driven down property values in the neighbourhood, and values across the nation.
Four more years of his tenancy would be catastrophic to the nation as a whole. The world would suffer as well.
Given the huge stakes of this election, Biden needs to pursue a more forceful campaign than issuing occasional statements that condemn the latest pronouncement by the president-in-name-only-but-a-despot-in-the-making.
He needs to make himself more visible, and more vigorous in his attacks on the Republicans, keeping his message simple and honest. It will be hard to land a knockout blow against an opponent as slippery as Trump but a constant barrage of jabs on Twitter, say, could prove as effective as the president's use of the medium in setting the agenda and creating narratives that stay with the public.
Sloganeering might not be the best way to enunciate policy but it can predispose voters to think in certain ways about issues and spur the thoughtful ones to do their own research.
In other words, Biden and the Democrats need to step up the pace and match Trump's energy, but not the content, of his virulent messaging.
Every day there's a report of what Trump said or did should also carry news of how Biden's campaigning sets him apart from the fellow he aims to replace, and the sordid conduct he vows to end.
Aug. 31, 2020
Based on recent events why is the law-and-order crowd so quick to conclude that protesters are indistinguishable from looters, vandals and anarchists but fail to use the same logic and think of police officers as being no different from thugs and executioners?
Such sweeping generalizations would be a gross misrepresentation of the two sides, taking as their cue the unfortunate actions of a few bad actors.
If the federal government is intent on restoring peace in the streets no matter the cost it should apply the same robust effort to ridding police departments of officers who employ lethal force inexcusably.
Success in the latter area would eliminate the need for protests in the first place. Is that so difficult to understand?
After all when was the last time a violent uprising took place BEFORE a Black man or woman was killed without just cause?
Aug. 30, 2020
Trump doesn't believe Black Lives Matter.
He doesn't believe facts matter.
He doesn't believe words matter.
He doesn't believe rules and traditions matter.
He doesn't believe scruples matter.
Conclusion: He's antimatter – the opposite of NORMAL matter.
And so are his followers.
You know what that means: Mutual annihilation when matter and antimatter collide. Civil war, in other words.
The United States was fortunate to survive the first one. Another civil war and “the great American experiment” could come to an explosive end.
It's up to the electrons -- voters -- to stop it from happening.
Aug. 28, 2020
The White House is looking shabby today.
The tenants threw a party and the owners are upset.
Time to serve them a 60-day eviction notice.
What's that, they don't have to leave until January?
Well, that doesn't seem right.
They better not wreck the furniture.
They can move the deck chairs around, though.
Aug. 28, 2020
You wait and see, folks.
Tonight, when Trump unveils his years-in-the-making health care plan --AND the one to end systemic racism -- you'll be sorry you said those mean things about him.
Aug. 27, 2020
I'll say this about the Republicans. They put the con in convention.
They also put one in the White House.
Most Americans would rather see Trump not serve a second term in office but a first term in prison.
Aug. 27, 2020
“If the elite, privileged NB players don't want to play, they can all give up their $10 million mansions and vacation homes and fancy cars and go get a real job like the rest of us.”
Tell me exactly why playing professional sports isn't a 'real' job?
Does your demeaning athletes apply to all the workers behind the scenes whose jobs depend on sports for their livelihood, and the people employed in businesses that profit in any way from sports?
What about the multitudes employed in movies, theatre, music, dance, literature? And the people who make novelties for the lower and middle class and baubles for the wealthy?
Are you saying these do not involve 'real' jobs because they bring enjoyment.
And what would life be for the mechanic, plumber, carpenter, factory worker, doctor, nurse, farmer, server, baker -- people with 'real' jobs -- if they didn't have entertainment to lift their spirits, give them inspiration, bring them joy, evoke a smile or shed a tear, soothe their soul, in other words, make them think, make them feel?
What a sterile world it would be if these not-real jobs didn't exist.
Aug. 27, 2020
You know, I might be wrong about this Trump feller.
After watching people from all walks of life deliver testimonials about him and reading reports about others I missed, I now realize just much good he's done for the United States.
And then I think, wow, if a guy who lies, cheats, insults, bullies, betrays, and whines as much as he does to make America great again, imagine what a guy who's decent and good can do for his country and democracy.
The U.S. could go back to being No. 1 in the eyes of the world again.
Aug. 26, 2020
Great White Hunter Don Jr thinks Democrats are fair game but as long as there's a law against killing humans whaddya gonna do? Shoot animals, of course, animals that are so fierce and clever that only a brave man with a small arsenal can take them down for a photo op.
Which is very thoughtful of him, because we should have a record of what the last of these animals looked like before they became extinct at the hands of man.
Aug. 25, 2020
I wonder how many people named Trump but not related to the president in any way are seriously considering changing their name -- if they haven't already.
The alternative, I suppose, when asked, would be to hand out business cards that say: "No, no, a thousand times no, I am not related to him!"
Aug. 24, 2020
I get the feeling the Trumps think subpoena is Latin for "you don't hafta if you don't wanna."
Aug. 24, 2020
I liken Trump's disastrous administration to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
He gets away with doing detestable things but his image never changes in the eyes of his steadfast supporters.
Meanwhile hidden away in a room in the White House known only to Trump there's an American flag, not a portrait, growing ever more ragged. Each new outrage he commits leaves another star or stripe in tatters.
A Biden victory Nov. 3 will make the flag whole again.
Unfortunately, restoring the flag to its original pristine state will take years to accomplish.
Aug. 24, 2020
Given the amount of dirt the Republicans are certain to fling at Biden and Harris in the form of insults and -- paradoxically -- groundless accusations, an overwhelming victory by the Democrats would best be described as a mudslide.
Aug. 23, 2020
The Democrats should run a negative campaign – by running unedited clips of Trump talking and ranting, whining and moaning, boasting and blathering.
There's so much raw, incendiary material to sift through, their challenge will be to decide which clips to run and stay within budget.
The commercials will catch Trump's base off-guard as they won't be expecting the bad guys to pay 'tribute' to their hero, but, more importantly, it will cause the ultra-important minority who have yet to decide on a candidate to shake their head and think: “Good grief, why am I even considering voting for a corrupt, racist, egotistical, indolent blowhard?”
Trump in his own words – the unvarnished truth.
Yeah, that'll work.
I can't think of a better campaign script.
PS: A nice touch would be to have “Who's Sorry Now” playing in the background.
Also, they should open some of the commercials showing a clip of Obama speaking at the Democratic convention, with the words Your President on Point at the bottom, followed by clips of Trump and the words Your President Unhinged.
Aug. 22, 2020
However insignificant your vote might seem in the great scheme of things, when millions of votes are cast, the individual act of casting a ballot should mean everything to you as a citizen --fulfilling a sacred duty to one's nation that is critical to it being managed well.
Even though it's an awesome responsibility, to be taken seriously, it is hardly onerous, requiring only that you be well-informed -- a task, unfortunately, made unnecessarily difficult by myriad elements determined to spread disinformation and sow division.
To throw up one's hands in the face of such obstacles and retire from the fray would be to give into forces that haven't your best interests at heart.
One vote is but an arrow, in the thousands they're a volley, capable of striking down an enemy and clearing the way for what is good and decent.
Aug. 22, 2020
Nothing says improvement in efficiency more than the removal of machines that sort 30,000 pieces of mail an hour.
It also tells me the new postmaster general is keen on the USPS providing a service with a personal touch.
Aug. 22, 2020
Michelle Obama said Trump is “clearly in over his head.”
I think I know where it's stuck.
Aug. 22, 2020
The court system is one of the few places where Trump is appealing.
Everywhere else he is loathsome.
Aug. 20, 2020
Americans are at the crossroads.
Which path will they choose? Empath or psychopath?
Aug. 19, 2020
We really do think it a shame that a once-great country -- a characterization Trump routinely conveyed with his slogan -- is stumbling badly, a condition that will only get worse until the cause of its waywardness is removed from the White House.
There was a time when the United States was a beacon. In the last four years it's turned into a dumpster fire.
So go ahead, call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," if it makes you feel better, even superior. We know you're hurting and could use an ego bump.
We've got used to Trump treating allies poorly and we've taken plenty of potshots at him as well so all's good.
Best of luck with the election.
The world is watching with anxious eyes.
Aug. 18, 2020
It's with great reluctance that I make this suggestion but I am emboldened to do so by readers who identify themselves as seniors who are passionate about sending Trump packing.
Assuming many others of their generation share their feelings, why not have older Americans form the front ranks of protesters when they take to the streets should Trump refuse to leave office despite losing an election.
It's a terrible request to make of citizens who suffer from the infirmities of their age but are more concerned with their nation's well-being.
Many would require canes, walkers and wheelchairs to take part but their hatred of what Trump has done to their country would serve as their impetus.
The obvious fear is that they'd suffer harm at the hands of heavily armed agents set loose by an aspiring autocrat defying the will of the people.
The hope, however, is that their show of courage would be met by the staying of force, that those charged with maintaining 'law and order' would soon realize the folly of employing heavy-handed tactics against society's most vulnerable.
To do otherwise would generate horrifying images and result in a public backlash so intense that Trump would have to flee for his life and take refuge in another country.
A welcome end but at too great a cost.
Far better for Trump would be to let his fellow seniors send him into retirement with a going-away party in January, which they can begin planning after all the 'invitations' have been counted in November.
Aug.18, 2020
The news media no longer needs to give oxygen to Trump's fabrications by repeating the specifics of his latest mistruth.
For TV and radio it would be enough to say: "Today President Trump lied about [fill in the blank]. Now for the news. [Proceed to then report on something that is actually news]
For newspapers they could set aside a little box in the corner -- the far right corner -- of the front page for a running tally of his lies, broken down by category: Democrats 2,702, coronavirus 1,068, voter fraud 2,841, Obama 1,844, news media 1,895, conspiracies 1,796, dishwashers/showers 633 ...
The risk, of course, is that the box would steadily grow larger as Trump expands his areas of prevarication and threaten to take over the entire front page.
It would be a Pandora's Box of Pinnochio proportions.
Aug. 17, 2020
"Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President."
Apparently not. Greed and heartlessness, on the other hand, gets you a seat in the Oval Office behind the Resolute desk (since renamed Dissolute).
And serially lying, sadly, doesn't automatically disqualify one from leading the nation.
Whatever Biden's faults, they pale in comparison to the many that define Trump, who knows shame only as a word in the dictionary and thinks being decent is what chumps do.
Now there's a slogan for the Biden-Harris ticket: Make America Decent Again.
A herculean task, no question, akin to cleaning out stables where a White House once stood, in which manure has been piling up for the past four years.
The current tenants are a landlord's worst nightmare.
Let them find out what it feels like to be evicted (and convicted, if there is any justice).
Aug. 16, 2020
Who would win more votes than lose them with these actions:
Biden currying favour with the law and order crowd by punching a protester in the nose?
Trump courting minorities by handing – not tossing – rolls of paper towel to Black hurricane victims and giving them a mask-free hug?
Aug. 31, 2020
There was a time Trump aspired to be a Warren Buffet and become a tycoon but the best he could do was to be a Buffoon.
Unfortunately the Buffoon's now in the White House which has driven down property values in the neighbourhood, and values across the nation.
Four more years of his tenancy would be catastrophic to the nation as a whole. The world would suffer as well.
Given the huge stakes of this election, Biden needs to pursue a more forceful campaign than issuing occasional statements that condemn the latest pronouncement by the president-in-name-only-but-a-despot-in-the-making.
He needs to make himself more visible, and more vigorous in his attacks on the Republicans, keeping his message simple and honest. It will be hard to land a knockout blow against an opponent as slippery as Trump but a constant barrage of jabs on Twitter, say, could prove as effective as the president's use of the medium in setting the agenda and creating narratives that stay with the public.
Sloganeering might not be the best way to enunciate policy but it can predispose voters to think in certain ways about issues and spur the thoughtful ones to do their own research.
In other words, Biden and the Democrats need to step up the pace and match Trump's energy, but not the content, of his virulent messaging.
Every day there's a report of what Trump said or did should also carry news of how Biden's campaigning sets him apart from the fellow he aims to replace, and the sordid conduct he vows to end.
Aug. 31, 2020
Based on recent events why is the law-and-order crowd so quick to conclude that protesters are indistinguishable from looters, vandals and anarchists but fail to use the same logic and think of police officers as being no different from thugs and executioners?
Such sweeping generalizations would be a gross misrepresentation of the two sides, taking as their cue the unfortunate actions of a few bad actors.
If the federal government is intent on restoring peace in the streets no matter the cost it should apply the same robust effort to ridding police departments of officers who employ lethal force inexcusably.
Success in the latter area would eliminate the need for protests in the first place. Is that so difficult to understand?
After all when was the last time a violent uprising took place BEFORE a Black man or woman was killed without just cause?
Aug. 30, 2020
Trump doesn't believe Black Lives Matter.
He doesn't believe facts matter.
He doesn't believe words matter.
He doesn't believe rules and traditions matter.
He doesn't believe scruples matter.
Conclusion: He's antimatter – the opposite of NORMAL matter.
And so are his followers.
You know what that means: Mutual annihilation when matter and antimatter collide. Civil war, in other words.
The United States was fortunate to survive the first one. Another civil war and “the great American experiment” could come to an explosive end.
It's up to the electrons -- voters -- to stop it from happening.
Aug. 28, 2020
The White House is looking shabby today.
The tenants threw a party and the owners are upset.
Time to serve them a 60-day eviction notice.
What's that, they don't have to leave until January?
Well, that doesn't seem right.
They better not wreck the furniture.
They can move the deck chairs around, though.
Aug. 28, 2020
You wait and see, folks.
Tonight, when Trump unveils his years-in-the-making health care plan --AND the one to end systemic racism -- you'll be sorry you said those mean things about him.
Aug. 27, 2020
I'll say this about the Republicans. They put the con in convention.
They also put one in the White House.
Most Americans would rather see Trump not serve a second term in office but a first term in prison.
Aug. 27, 2020
“If the elite, privileged NB players don't want to play, they can all give up their $10 million mansions and vacation homes and fancy cars and go get a real job like the rest of us.”
Tell me exactly why playing professional sports isn't a 'real' job?
Does your demeaning athletes apply to all the workers behind the scenes whose jobs depend on sports for their livelihood, and the people employed in businesses that profit in any way from sports?
What about the multitudes employed in movies, theatre, music, dance, literature? And the people who make novelties for the lower and middle class and baubles for the wealthy?
Are you saying these do not involve 'real' jobs because they bring enjoyment.
And what would life be for the mechanic, plumber, carpenter, factory worker, doctor, nurse, farmer, server, baker -- people with 'real' jobs -- if they didn't have entertainment to lift their spirits, give them inspiration, bring them joy, evoke a smile or shed a tear, soothe their soul, in other words, make them think, make them feel?
What a sterile world it would be if these not-real jobs didn't exist.
Aug. 27, 2020
You know, I might be wrong about this Trump feller.
After watching people from all walks of life deliver testimonials about him and reading reports about others I missed, I now realize just much good he's done for the United States.
And then I think, wow, if a guy who lies, cheats, insults, bullies, betrays, and whines as much as he does to make America great again, imagine what a guy who's decent and good can do for his country and democracy.
The U.S. could go back to being No. 1 in the eyes of the world again.
Aug. 26, 2020
Great White Hunter Don Jr thinks Democrats are fair game but as long as there's a law against killing humans whaddya gonna do? Shoot animals, of course, animals that are so fierce and clever that only a brave man with a small arsenal can take them down for a photo op.
Which is very thoughtful of him, because we should have a record of what the last of these animals looked like before they became extinct at the hands of man.
Aug. 25, 2020
I wonder how many people named Trump but not related to the president in any way are seriously considering changing their name -- if they haven't already.
The alternative, I suppose, when asked, would be to hand out business cards that say: "No, no, a thousand times no, I am not related to him!"
Aug. 24, 2020
I get the feeling the Trumps think subpoena is Latin for "you don't hafta if you don't wanna."
Aug. 24, 2020
I liken Trump's disastrous administration to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
He gets away with doing detestable things but his image never changes in the eyes of his steadfast supporters.
Meanwhile hidden away in a room in the White House known only to Trump there's an American flag, not a portrait, growing ever more ragged. Each new outrage he commits leaves another star or stripe in tatters.
A Biden victory Nov. 3 will make the flag whole again.
Unfortunately, restoring the flag to its original pristine state will take years to accomplish.
Aug. 24, 2020
Given the amount of dirt the Republicans are certain to fling at Biden and Harris in the form of insults and -- paradoxically -- groundless accusations, an overwhelming victory by the Democrats would best be described as a mudslide.
Aug. 23, 2020
The Democrats should run a negative campaign – by running unedited clips of Trump talking and ranting, whining and moaning, boasting and blathering.
There's so much raw, incendiary material to sift through, their challenge will be to decide which clips to run and stay within budget.
The commercials will catch Trump's base off-guard as they won't be expecting the bad guys to pay 'tribute' to their hero, but, more importantly, it will cause the ultra-important minority who have yet to decide on a candidate to shake their head and think: “Good grief, why am I even considering voting for a corrupt, racist, egotistical, indolent blowhard?”
Trump in his own words – the unvarnished truth.
Yeah, that'll work.
I can't think of a better campaign script.
PS: A nice touch would be to have “Who's Sorry Now” playing in the background.
Also, they should open some of the commercials showing a clip of Obama speaking at the Democratic convention, with the words Your President on Point at the bottom, followed by clips of Trump and the words Your President Unhinged.
Aug. 22, 2020
However insignificant your vote might seem in the great scheme of things, when millions of votes are cast, the individual act of casting a ballot should mean everything to you as a citizen --fulfilling a sacred duty to one's nation that is critical to it being managed well.
Even though it's an awesome responsibility, to be taken seriously, it is hardly onerous, requiring only that you be well-informed -- a task, unfortunately, made unnecessarily difficult by myriad elements determined to spread disinformation and sow division.
To throw up one's hands in the face of such obstacles and retire from the fray would be to give into forces that haven't your best interests at heart.
One vote is but an arrow, in the thousands they're a volley, capable of striking down an enemy and clearing the way for what is good and decent.
Aug. 22, 2020
Nothing says improvement in efficiency more than the removal of machines that sort 30,000 pieces of mail an hour.
It also tells me the new postmaster general is keen on the USPS providing a service with a personal touch.
Aug. 22, 2020
Michelle Obama said Trump is “clearly in over his head.”
I think I know where it's stuck.
Aug. 22, 2020
The court system is one of the few places where Trump is appealing.
Everywhere else he is loathsome.
Aug. 20, 2020
Americans are at the crossroads.
Which path will they choose? Empath or psychopath?
Aug. 19, 2020
We really do think it a shame that a once-great country -- a characterization Trump routinely conveyed with his slogan -- is stumbling badly, a condition that will only get worse until the cause of its waywardness is removed from the White House.
There was a time when the United States was a beacon. In the last four years it's turned into a dumpster fire.
So go ahead, call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," if it makes you feel better, even superior. We know you're hurting and could use an ego bump.
We've got used to Trump treating allies poorly and we've taken plenty of potshots at him as well so all's good.
Best of luck with the election.
The world is watching with anxious eyes.
Aug. 18, 2020
It's with great reluctance that I make this suggestion but I am emboldened to do so by readers who identify themselves as seniors who are passionate about sending Trump packing.
Assuming many others of their generation share their feelings, why not have older Americans form the front ranks of protesters when they take to the streets should Trump refuse to leave office despite losing an election.
It's a terrible request to make of citizens who suffer from the infirmities of their age but are more concerned with their nation's well-being.
Many would require canes, walkers and wheelchairs to take part but their hatred of what Trump has done to their country would serve as their impetus.
The obvious fear is that they'd suffer harm at the hands of heavily armed agents set loose by an aspiring autocrat defying the will of the people.
The hope, however, is that their show of courage would be met by the staying of force, that those charged with maintaining 'law and order' would soon realize the folly of employing heavy-handed tactics against society's most vulnerable.
To do otherwise would generate horrifying images and result in a public backlash so intense that Trump would have to flee for his life and take refuge in another country.
A welcome end but at too great a cost.
Far better for Trump would be to let his fellow seniors send him into retirement with a going-away party in January, which they can begin planning after all the 'invitations' have been counted in November.
Aug.18, 2020
The news media no longer needs to give oxygen to Trump's fabrications by repeating the specifics of his latest mistruth.
For TV and radio it would be enough to say: "Today President Trump lied about [fill in the blank]. Now for the news. [Proceed to then report on something that is actually news]
For newspapers they could set aside a little box in the corner -- the far right corner -- of the front page for a running tally of his lies, broken down by category: Democrats 2,702, coronavirus 1,068, voter fraud 2,841, Obama 1,844, news media 1,895, conspiracies 1,796, dishwashers/showers 633 ...
The risk, of course, is that the box would steadily grow larger as Trump expands his areas of prevarication and threaten to take over the entire front page.
It would be a Pandora's Box of Pinnochio proportions.
Aug. 17, 2020
"Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President."
Apparently not. Greed and heartlessness, on the other hand, gets you a seat in the Oval Office behind the Resolute desk (since renamed Dissolute).
And serially lying, sadly, doesn't automatically disqualify one from leading the nation.
Whatever Biden's faults, they pale in comparison to the many that define Trump, who knows shame only as a word in the dictionary and thinks being decent is what chumps do.
Now there's a slogan for the Biden-Harris ticket: Make America Decent Again.
A herculean task, no question, akin to cleaning out stables where a White House once stood, in which manure has been piling up for the past four years.
The current tenants are a landlord's worst nightmare.
Let them find out what it feels like to be evicted (and convicted, if there is any justice).
Aug. 16, 2020
The (edited) least bad of Politically Speaking – Part 3
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
I keep reading about the long lineups that are likely to occur on Nov. 3, which could dissuade large numbers of people from voting, and tip the scale in Trump's favour.
Nonprofits and philanthropic individuals of ample means could support the fight to restore decency and intelligence in the Oval Office by making available wheeled walkers in key areas across the nation where bottlenecks are projected to happen.
A modest initiative, to be sure, but it would allow people to stand up for democracy ... while sitting down, as they ever so slowly make their way to the polling station.
Voters would be advised to go in pairs, taking turns resting in the seat while the other pushes.
(Hopefully, the weather isn't inclement, which would be a boon to the incumbent.)
Aug. 15, 2020
Humour won't bring down Trump. It's an antidote to despair so the battle can continue to be fought despite overwhelming odds.
Aug. 14, 2020
Conspiracy propaganda is the equivalent of political pornography: Consumers of the lies are looking to gratify their biases the easiest way possible, with the least amount of thought.
At some point the perverse pleasure they derive from the outrage this nonsense provokes begins to wane and they must look for ever more extreme notions of a deep state to achieve the same intensity of feeling.
It's sad -- and terrifying -- that people would set aside their capacity to reason and let rumour-mongers and peddlers of patently false narratives feed them lies so they can achieve a state of angry bliss.
The more this blight spreads the worse off society will be. Democracy can't survive when its citizens abandon reason.
Aug. 13, 2020
As expected Fox News hosts last night attacked Harris as Biden's VP choice, a fulminating fusillade that will continue for the next two-and-a-half months. Their ordnance, as always, will consist of ridicule and hyperbole, fiction and hate.
Tucker Carlson came under fire himself, however, for mispronouncing Harris's first name, even after being corrected by a guest.
But I can see his problem. I, myself, often mispronounce his first name.
Aug. 12, 2020
I would be curious to know just how many communicants really "believe they are actually eating and drinking the body and blood of Christ," and not participating in a ritual that is meant to be strictly symbolic.
Is it not possible they recognize communion for what it is, which is an expression of faith and not a rejection of reason?
Religious conviction is fine but when it requires adherents to perceive reality in a way that defies logic I would suggest it becomes problematic in how they conduct their lives.
Faith and common sense can go hand in hand.
Or so one would think.
Aug. 11, 2020
The oath of office does contain a caveat that gives Trump cover: He swore to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY.
There you go. Everyone -- and I mean everyone -- should have realized then that things weren't going to go well, with a bankrupt -- moral and financial -- at the helm.
You just knew he would steer the ship of state onto a reef.
Too bad the Republicans didn't have the courage to mutiny.
Aug. 10, 2020
Based on what New York Times readers have had to say I would advise Over the Hillary Clinton and her hubby Billy Goat to decline with regret their invitation to speak at the Democratic convention. They should know their appearance with baggage in hand will send many of the party's faithful over the edge. Apparently there's no letting bygones be bygones with has-beens.
As for Bill of Goods No Holds Barr he should resign to devote himself full-time to helping -- wait a minute, he's already devoting all his time to engineering Trump's re-election.
How is that possible, he's a servant of the public, not an aide-de-campaign to the commander-in-chief.
Barr rants about fascists and communists but I have to ask, when did the Republicans become Bullsh**veks?
Aug. 10, 2020
One can't help but think that Trump, in reaching new lows with everything he says and does, is engaged in a political game of limbo, for the express purpose of creating a state of uncertainty.
Chaos is his preferred management style as it provides a cover for the corrupt practices of his incompetent administration, although it must be said his efforts to enrich himself have grown more blatant the further along in his term.
He doesn't worry now that his grasping character will prove his undoing because he's found a Barr that rigs the game in his favour.
The dictionary also defines limbo as a place of oblivion, which we fervently hope will be where Trump ends up after all the votes are counted.
Aug. 10, 2020
Never has a cabinet had so many bottom drawers.
And every one of them is filled with dirty laundry.
Remember when Trump boasted, in 2017, there are those who say "it's one of the finest group of people ever assembled ... as a cabinet." he said.
"We have just gotten really, really, great people. I'm very proud of them."
So superb was his craftsmanship that he's had to rebuild it -- with shoddier parts.
Not only is he commander-in-chief, he's secretary of the inferior.
Well done, Donald.
Oh, who's the worst of the lot? The attorney general, Barr none. (He's so bad he's even corrupted the meaning of a perfectly good phrase.)
I like to refer to him as Bill of Goods because his modus operandi is deception.
Aug. 6, 2020
Trump appointees suspected of wrongdoing oppose having their conduct overseen but are okay with it being overlooked.
It's a sad state of affairs when the secretary of state is a sad sack.
Even sadder is that he hasn't been sacked.
Alternative headline:
West Point Grad's Appointment A Low Point In Nation's History
Aug. 5, 2020
Good ole Trump, he defies convention, which some find appealing, and others find alarming.
To his ardent supporters he's an icon
To his fervent critics he's a moron.
Trump, in word and deed, has already provided enough fodder for either side to make its case.
Which is why I ask, do we really need a debate to settle the question: Is Trump an iconic moron or a moronic icon?
Aug. 5, 2020
Biden isn't demented, he's old. As is Trump, who claims he's not demented because he "aced" a cognitive test.
Where he has failed miserably, throughout his entire administration, is a test of character.
Unfortunately, the miserable part is born by the majority of people he supposedly serves, because HIS priority is himself, each and every time.
Were he to be marked on performance, it would be a D grade. Which, coincidentally, is what he has done to the country he misleads.
Oh, as for Biden not debating, which some have suggested and others have lambasted, shouldn't the supporters of Trump admire him for NOT agreeing to a debate? It would be a departure from the norm, which Trump has done often to the delight of his base. Wouldn't Biden get a thumbs up from their quarter for doing the same?
Or are iconoclasts only acceptable when they're ruthless and amoral?
Aug. 4, 2020
When the millions who have been evicted take to the streets -- because that's where they'll end up -- they should gather en masse and pitch camps in front of federal buildings in major cities across the United States.
Protests of this kind form a part of American history. A re-enactment at this time might prove useful in swaying public opinion.
How would the Trump administration respond to a non-violent protest intended to draw attention to the plight of people who find themselves suddenly homeless largely as a result of poor decisions made by the Senate and the president?
Would pepper spray, tear gas, flashbangs, and strongarm tactics be employed to uphold laws that target trespassing, vagrancy and public nuisance?
With Trump the answer seems obvious, even though -- theoretically -- it would be highly injurious to his re-election bid. Think of the video footage it would generate.
Aug. 4, 2020
Trump is a vampire, and it goes beyond being batty.
When he looks into a mirror he sees a great leader but the rest of us see nothing.
Trump just isn't very good when it comes to reflection.
With his seeking re-election democracy is at stake -- the very solution voters will have at hand Nov. 3.
Aug. 3, 2020
Here's a suggestion to end the dispute over the $600 a week in additional unemployment benefits: Get the Republicans to agree that the extra funding will cease when the number of COVID-19 cases and resulting deaths over a 10-day period fall below thresholds set by the Democrats.
That would give the GOP a strong incentive to try a lot harder to halt the spread of the disease and thereby hasten the return of a full economy, which it desperately wants.
Similarly, the Democrats would be credited with having pushed the government to step up its pandemic response, which will result in thousands of lives being saved.
A clincher for both sides making such a deal would be the favourable news coverage they'd receive for their uncharacteristic show of bipartisanship.
Aug. 2, 2020
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
Aug. 1, 2020
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
I keep reading about the long lineups that are likely to occur on Nov. 3, which could dissuade large numbers of people from voting, and tip the scale in Trump's favour.
Nonprofits and philanthropic individuals of ample means could support the fight to restore decency and intelligence in the Oval Office by making available wheeled walkers in key areas across the nation where bottlenecks are projected to happen.
A modest initiative, to be sure, but it would allow people to stand up for democracy ... while sitting down, as they ever so slowly make their way to the polling station.
Voters would be advised to go in pairs, taking turns resting in the seat while the other pushes.
(Hopefully, the weather isn't inclement, which would be a boon to the incumbent.)
Aug. 15, 2020
Humour won't bring down Trump. It's an antidote to despair so the battle can continue to be fought despite overwhelming odds.
Aug. 14, 2020
Conspiracy propaganda is the equivalent of political pornography: Consumers of the lies are looking to gratify their biases the easiest way possible, with the least amount of thought.
At some point the perverse pleasure they derive from the outrage this nonsense provokes begins to wane and they must look for ever more extreme notions of a deep state to achieve the same intensity of feeling.
It's sad -- and terrifying -- that people would set aside their capacity to reason and let rumour-mongers and peddlers of patently false narratives feed them lies so they can achieve a state of angry bliss.
The more this blight spreads the worse off society will be. Democracy can't survive when its citizens abandon reason.
Aug. 13, 2020
As expected Fox News hosts last night attacked Harris as Biden's VP choice, a fulminating fusillade that will continue for the next two-and-a-half months. Their ordnance, as always, will consist of ridicule and hyperbole, fiction and hate.
Tucker Carlson came under fire himself, however, for mispronouncing Harris's first name, even after being corrected by a guest.
But I can see his problem. I, myself, often mispronounce his first name.
Aug. 12, 2020
I would be curious to know just how many communicants really "believe they are actually eating and drinking the body and blood of Christ," and not participating in a ritual that is meant to be strictly symbolic.
Is it not possible they recognize communion for what it is, which is an expression of faith and not a rejection of reason?
Religious conviction is fine but when it requires adherents to perceive reality in a way that defies logic I would suggest it becomes problematic in how they conduct their lives.
Faith and common sense can go hand in hand.
Or so one would think.
Aug. 11, 2020
The oath of office does contain a caveat that gives Trump cover: He swore to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY.
There you go. Everyone -- and I mean everyone -- should have realized then that things weren't going to go well, with a bankrupt -- moral and financial -- at the helm.
You just knew he would steer the ship of state onto a reef.
Too bad the Republicans didn't have the courage to mutiny.
Aug. 10, 2020
Based on what New York Times readers have had to say I would advise Over the Hillary Clinton and her hubby Billy Goat to decline with regret their invitation to speak at the Democratic convention. They should know their appearance with baggage in hand will send many of the party's faithful over the edge. Apparently there's no letting bygones be bygones with has-beens.
As for Bill of Goods No Holds Barr he should resign to devote himself full-time to helping -- wait a minute, he's already devoting all his time to engineering Trump's re-election.
How is that possible, he's a servant of the public, not an aide-de-campaign to the commander-in-chief.
Barr rants about fascists and communists but I have to ask, when did the Republicans become Bullsh**veks?
Aug. 10, 2020
One can't help but think that Trump, in reaching new lows with everything he says and does, is engaged in a political game of limbo, for the express purpose of creating a state of uncertainty.
Chaos is his preferred management style as it provides a cover for the corrupt practices of his incompetent administration, although it must be said his efforts to enrich himself have grown more blatant the further along in his term.
He doesn't worry now that his grasping character will prove his undoing because he's found a Barr that rigs the game in his favour.
The dictionary also defines limbo as a place of oblivion, which we fervently hope will be where Trump ends up after all the votes are counted.
Aug. 10, 2020
Never has a cabinet had so many bottom drawers.
And every one of them is filled with dirty laundry.
Remember when Trump boasted, in 2017, there are those who say "it's one of the finest group of people ever assembled ... as a cabinet." he said.
"We have just gotten really, really, great people. I'm very proud of them."
So superb was his craftsmanship that he's had to rebuild it -- with shoddier parts.
Not only is he commander-in-chief, he's secretary of the inferior.
Well done, Donald.
Oh, who's the worst of the lot? The attorney general, Barr none. (He's so bad he's even corrupted the meaning of a perfectly good phrase.)
I like to refer to him as Bill of Goods because his modus operandi is deception.
Aug. 6, 2020
Trump appointees suspected of wrongdoing oppose having their conduct overseen but are okay with it being overlooked.
It's a sad state of affairs when the secretary of state is a sad sack.
Even sadder is that he hasn't been sacked.
Alternative headline:
West Point Grad's Appointment A Low Point In Nation's History
Aug. 5, 2020
Good ole Trump, he defies convention, which some find appealing, and others find alarming.
To his ardent supporters he's an icon
To his fervent critics he's a moron.
Trump, in word and deed, has already provided enough fodder for either side to make its case.
Which is why I ask, do we really need a debate to settle the question: Is Trump an iconic moron or a moronic icon?
Aug. 5, 2020
Biden isn't demented, he's old. As is Trump, who claims he's not demented because he "aced" a cognitive test.
Where he has failed miserably, throughout his entire administration, is a test of character.
Unfortunately, the miserable part is born by the majority of people he supposedly serves, because HIS priority is himself, each and every time.
Were he to be marked on performance, it would be a D grade. Which, coincidentally, is what he has done to the country he misleads.
Oh, as for Biden not debating, which some have suggested and others have lambasted, shouldn't the supporters of Trump admire him for NOT agreeing to a debate? It would be a departure from the norm, which Trump has done often to the delight of his base. Wouldn't Biden get a thumbs up from their quarter for doing the same?
Or are iconoclasts only acceptable when they're ruthless and amoral?
Aug. 4, 2020
When the millions who have been evicted take to the streets -- because that's where they'll end up -- they should gather en masse and pitch camps in front of federal buildings in major cities across the United States.
Protests of this kind form a part of American history. A re-enactment at this time might prove useful in swaying public opinion.
How would the Trump administration respond to a non-violent protest intended to draw attention to the plight of people who find themselves suddenly homeless largely as a result of poor decisions made by the Senate and the president?
Would pepper spray, tear gas, flashbangs, and strongarm tactics be employed to uphold laws that target trespassing, vagrancy and public nuisance?
With Trump the answer seems obvious, even though -- theoretically -- it would be highly injurious to his re-election bid. Think of the video footage it would generate.
Aug. 4, 2020
Trump is a vampire, and it goes beyond being batty.
When he looks into a mirror he sees a great leader but the rest of us see nothing.
Trump just isn't very good when it comes to reflection.
With his seeking re-election democracy is at stake -- the very solution voters will have at hand Nov. 3.
Aug. 3, 2020
Here's a suggestion to end the dispute over the $600 a week in additional unemployment benefits: Get the Republicans to agree that the extra funding will cease when the number of COVID-19 cases and resulting deaths over a 10-day period fall below thresholds set by the Democrats.
That would give the GOP a strong incentive to try a lot harder to halt the spread of the disease and thereby hasten the return of a full economy, which it desperately wants.
Similarly, the Democrats would be credited with having pushed the government to step up its pandemic response, which will result in thousands of lives being saved.
A clincher for both sides making such a deal would be the favourable news coverage they'd receive for their uncharacteristic show of bipartisanship.
Aug. 2, 2020
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
Aug. 1, 2020
The (edited) least bad of Politically Speaking -- Part 2
Voter fraud is extremely rare but it is consequential.
Four years ago a fraud was voted in and look at the harm that he's done.
July 31, 2020
It's too bad retailers couldn't hire people who have tested positive for coronavirus but show no symptoms to greet customers at the door. For those wearing masks, the greeters would keep their face shield in place; for those not wearing masks they'd lift it up and spray, er, say: "Have a nice day."
July 29, 2020
It's apparent that peaceful protesters have "bad apples" in the same way that police departments do.
When the police departments figure out how to rid themselves of the bad apples they can pass on that knowledge to peaceful protesters -- which, incidentally, there will be fewer of because that particular reason for their protesting will have been eliminated.
July 28, 2020
Democrats need to prepare for the possibility that late in the campaign, a week or so before the election, a deep fake video will surface showing Biden in the worst light possible.
Most likely it will be a manufactured scandal 'proving' he engaged in corruption of some sort, and the face and the voice 'secretly recorded' will uncannily resemble Biden's.
The revelation of 'wrongdoing' will be made public when it can do the most damage while leaving Democrats and investigative journalists the least amount of time to refute the allegations.
For that reason the Democrats might consider preparing an equally false narrative of Trump (that's even worse than the one he's created for himself), to have on hand should Republicans or Trump's supporters decide to proceed with their outrageous deception.
The Democrats could then hold a press conference to release their own deep fake video, with Trump as its star, and freely admit to its inauthenticity, in order to demonstrate how easily it is to manipulate the public into believing what purveyors of falsehoods have to offer.
It would be extraordinarily sad if something like this were to take place but that is where we're headed, a world where truth too often is cloaked in lies and can't be seen for what it is.
July 27, 2020
Protesters might win over skeptics of their actions if they were to show up on the streets dressed as truck drivers, plumbers, carpenters, farmers, construction workers, waitresses, barbers, cashiers, crossing guards -- ordinary people, in other words.
And when they get assaulted by heavily armed agents of the government dressed in camouflage, Middle America will rise up in anger seeing their own attacked and spirited away for no apparent reason.
July 26, 2020
Based on New York Times readers' comments Americans face a terrible choice in this year's election: tyranny on the left, despotism on the right.
What the country obviously needs is a third party that speaks to people in the middle, the silent majority, and promises to unite the country through totalitarianism.
July 24, 2020
If Trump truly wants to match wits with Biden, the two rivals should appear on a special presidential edition of a hugely popular game show.
Many Americans believe the country's already in Jeopardy so why not have the two candidates slug it out there to see who's the smarter candidate.
After explaining to Trump how the buzzer works, Trebek would announce the six categories for the first round: Animal Shapes, World History, Words That Rhyme, Bestsellers, Science, and the Bible.
Allowing for frequent interruptions so Trebek can repeatedly explain to Trump that answers are to be given in the form of a question in less than a minute, the show would offer viewers a relatively quick take on each man's fitness for office.
The second round would bring the two men's mental state into sharper focus with a new set of categories: Debunked Conspiracies, Famous Authors, Basic Arithmetic, Ethics, American Constitution, and Civil Rights.
Even if Trump were to end up in the hole after two rounds – and does anyone seriously think that he wouldn't?-- he would be allowed to play Final Jeopardy by 'borrowing' money from his friends overseas during the commercial break.
It would all be for naught, though. The last category is Facts.
July 23, 2020
Trump surrounds himself with people who prop him up who have no scruples. They further his agenda by whatever means and are known as his enablers.
They could also be called, with equal justification, disablers, for what they are doing collectively to the Constitution, the judicial system, convention, tradition, and myriad other checks and balances.
Power hasn't corrupted Trump and his cronies. They've corrupted power, their individual characters having been malformed long before their acquiring the means to do unprecedented harm to the nation they profess to love.
July 23, 2020
Trump's concept of law and order is that the law does as he orders.
July 22, 2020
Trump is unique in American history.
He's the country's first president who's also its vice.
July 21, 2020
Trump is truly a transformative president.
He's turning democracy into demoncracy.
If the Devil in Chief hangs around for another four years there will be hell to pay.
July 21, 2020
There is a way Trump, in his desperation, could yet spin the crisis to his advantage: Tell Americans they ALL have been exposed to the coronavirus -- thanks to the Chinese, Democrats and fake news outlets! -- and then announce every day only the number of people who have tested negative.
The numbers nationwide of people who HAVEN'T been infected would be quite impressive and provide solid evidence that the administration is winning the war against COVID-19.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if hordes of people, gladdened by the news, celebrated in the streets.
(If they did end up getting sick, well, they'd still have time to recover and be able to vote in the November election.)
July 20, 2020
The U.S. shouldn't pin its hopes on developing a vaccine to put an end to the pandemic.
The country would be better off in so many ways if scientists were to develop a truth serum instead to administer to the president, cabinet and Republicans.
Only then will be they be seen for who they are and what they stand for by more Americans than is currently the case, and with that knowledge will come changes in attitude and perspective that are needed to subdue the coronavirus.
July 19, 2020
Perhaps Trump could be persuaded not to challenge Biden for the presidency if Joe promised, upon assuming office, to:
-- name a naval vessel after him (a small harbor tug)
-- arrange for his face to be sculpted on the side of a mountain (at Disney World)
-- declare him among the top 50 American presidents of all time
-- have a statuette erected in his honour (in Grand Canyon)
-- put his face put on a three-dollar bill
-- declare Feb. 30 Donald Trump Day
-- get Obama to say something nice about him on national TV
July 16, 2020
DeVos is a person of means, combining as she does in one person what it is to be mean in all its forms: dishonorable, contemptible, dull, stingy and malicious.
Why is it so many of the super-rich are never satisfied with what they have and strive to deny others the opportunity to earn a fraction of what they accumulate annually?
A poorly educated populace will one day prove the country's undoing, but apparently that is of no matter to the affluent, so long as they can shield themselves from the worst consequences of a failing economy and widespread social unrest.
They should know, however, that history is replete with examples of the reckoning that awaits the privileged who blithely ignore the anger they stoke and the hopes they suppress.
July 15, 2020
With all the idiocy in the world, and the rate at which it's spreading, thanks to the internet and lunatics who find each other, I can only conclude that humanity is being tested.
I just haven't figured out by whom.
God?
Satan?
Aliens?
A coterie of mad scientists engaged in a massive social experiment who are intent on destroying civilization so that mankind can start with a fresh slate led by a master race created in the lab?
Worst case scenario: They're ALL in cahoots!
July 14, 2020
Trump is an outlier among presidents.
He outlies them all.
July 11, 2020
Thoughts on a warm summer's day ...
Roger Stone's commutation secures the reputation the presidency has earned as an Offal Office.
Trump boasted this week of having “aced” a cognitive assessment, a test so arduous it includes drawing a clock and identifying animals.
Shouldn't presidents be tested for ethics as well throughout their term, to make certain they still possess a moral compass and haven't lost their bearings?
(In Trump's case it's clear he's never had a compass, or if he did, never thought it more than a gimcrack.)
Stone is what you find under a rock, a creepy-crawly that makes you cringe.
What's the difference between the Confederates who fought to divide the country and Trump's confederates who are helping him do the same? One group wore uniforms and had statues raised in their honor.
There's no honour attached to the second group, Rush Limbaugh's Medal of Freedom notwithstanding.
July 11, 2020
It's amazing how much criticism is directed at Biden for his gaffes when those making the complaint should be alarmed by what comes out of Trump's mouth.
Trump's verbal miscues far exceed in number those of Biden and his incoherence is unrivalled.
But the most dismaying aspect of Trump's utterances is the amount of hate and animus that inform them. The poison in his soul washes over his words. He's most comfortable when he's assailing another -- or wailing about a grievance, usually of his own making.
Biden, in contrast, does not immerse himself in vitriol and comes across as a decent guy.
Yes, he is capable of embarrassing gaffes, but he has shown he will acknowledge his missteps. Trump, never.
Here's hoping Americans will acknowledge their mistake by denying Trump a second term.
Make him a one-hit blunder.
July 10, 2020
Trump has repeatedly shown that incoherence is not a hurdle to becoming president so that should ease any concerns a person might have about Biden.
Of greater concern, I would hope, is having a person remain in power who's incapable of speaking at length without larding his words with lies.
July 7, 2020
I know of only one other 'character' who proclaimed himself a genius: Wile E. Coyote.
Like Trump he doesn't care what destruction he causes in pursuit of his goal, but for all his scheming Wile E. is never able to catch the roadrunner.
Trump, on the other hand, is one election away from bringing down the American eagle.
July 7, 2020
I wonder how many voted for Trump last time thinking he was a populist only to learn to their horror how much more he is a fabulist.
July 7, 2020
It's obvious the Electoral College needs reforming. One change worth making would be to require the candidate poised to become president to pass a civics exam, a history test, and a geography quiz.
It would be a mix of short answer, fill-in-the-blank and multiple choice questions.
A failing grade -- anything less than 75 per cent -- would disqualify the person from holding the highest office in the land.
At which point the candidate's vice-president choice would be given the same opportunity to become the country's leader.
If both fail to obtain the necessary marks, well, the other party would be given the chance to do better.
Surely the parties wouldn't precipitate a constitutional crisis by nominating more than one doofus for POTUS.
July 6, 2020
According to Wikipedia the original plan for Mount Rushmore was to carve the likenesses of the four presidents from head to waist but insufficient funding prevented it from happening.
Perhaps Congress could see fit to have the work completed and go one step further by insisting the granite sculpture include feet of clay for historical accuracy.
July 6, 2020
Is Trump Toast? New York Times columnist Frank Bruni says yes.
I pray what you predict will come to pass.
Today in Canada we celebrate the birth of our country and view with alarm the slow death of another.
It's suicide by degrees.
July 1, 2020
Trump is a Russian doll.
His identity is closely tied to Mother Russia and the more you learn about what's inside the man the smaller he becomes.
But the danger that he poses never lessens.
July 1, 2020
Voter fraud is extremely rare but it is consequential.
Four years ago a fraud was voted in and look at the harm that he's done.
July 31, 2020
It's too bad retailers couldn't hire people who have tested positive for coronavirus but show no symptoms to greet customers at the door. For those wearing masks, the greeters would keep their face shield in place; for those not wearing masks they'd lift it up and spray, er, say: "Have a nice day."
July 29, 2020
It's apparent that peaceful protesters have "bad apples" in the same way that police departments do.
When the police departments figure out how to rid themselves of the bad apples they can pass on that knowledge to peaceful protesters -- which, incidentally, there will be fewer of because that particular reason for their protesting will have been eliminated.
July 28, 2020
Democrats need to prepare for the possibility that late in the campaign, a week or so before the election, a deep fake video will surface showing Biden in the worst light possible.
Most likely it will be a manufactured scandal 'proving' he engaged in corruption of some sort, and the face and the voice 'secretly recorded' will uncannily resemble Biden's.
The revelation of 'wrongdoing' will be made public when it can do the most damage while leaving Democrats and investigative journalists the least amount of time to refute the allegations.
For that reason the Democrats might consider preparing an equally false narrative of Trump (that's even worse than the one he's created for himself), to have on hand should Republicans or Trump's supporters decide to proceed with their outrageous deception.
The Democrats could then hold a press conference to release their own deep fake video, with Trump as its star, and freely admit to its inauthenticity, in order to demonstrate how easily it is to manipulate the public into believing what purveyors of falsehoods have to offer.
It would be extraordinarily sad if something like this were to take place but that is where we're headed, a world where truth too often is cloaked in lies and can't be seen for what it is.
July 27, 2020
Protesters might win over skeptics of their actions if they were to show up on the streets dressed as truck drivers, plumbers, carpenters, farmers, construction workers, waitresses, barbers, cashiers, crossing guards -- ordinary people, in other words.
And when they get assaulted by heavily armed agents of the government dressed in camouflage, Middle America will rise up in anger seeing their own attacked and spirited away for no apparent reason.
July 26, 2020
Based on New York Times readers' comments Americans face a terrible choice in this year's election: tyranny on the left, despotism on the right.
What the country obviously needs is a third party that speaks to people in the middle, the silent majority, and promises to unite the country through totalitarianism.
July 24, 2020
If Trump truly wants to match wits with Biden, the two rivals should appear on a special presidential edition of a hugely popular game show.
Many Americans believe the country's already in Jeopardy so why not have the two candidates slug it out there to see who's the smarter candidate.
After explaining to Trump how the buzzer works, Trebek would announce the six categories for the first round: Animal Shapes, World History, Words That Rhyme, Bestsellers, Science, and the Bible.
Allowing for frequent interruptions so Trebek can repeatedly explain to Trump that answers are to be given in the form of a question in less than a minute, the show would offer viewers a relatively quick take on each man's fitness for office.
The second round would bring the two men's mental state into sharper focus with a new set of categories: Debunked Conspiracies, Famous Authors, Basic Arithmetic, Ethics, American Constitution, and Civil Rights.
Even if Trump were to end up in the hole after two rounds – and does anyone seriously think that he wouldn't?-- he would be allowed to play Final Jeopardy by 'borrowing' money from his friends overseas during the commercial break.
It would all be for naught, though. The last category is Facts.
July 23, 2020
Trump surrounds himself with people who prop him up who have no scruples. They further his agenda by whatever means and are known as his enablers.
They could also be called, with equal justification, disablers, for what they are doing collectively to the Constitution, the judicial system, convention, tradition, and myriad other checks and balances.
Power hasn't corrupted Trump and his cronies. They've corrupted power, their individual characters having been malformed long before their acquiring the means to do unprecedented harm to the nation they profess to love.
July 23, 2020
Trump's concept of law and order is that the law does as he orders.
July 22, 2020
Trump is unique in American history.
He's the country's first president who's also its vice.
July 21, 2020
Trump is truly a transformative president.
He's turning democracy into demoncracy.
If the Devil in Chief hangs around for another four years there will be hell to pay.
July 21, 2020
There is a way Trump, in his desperation, could yet spin the crisis to his advantage: Tell Americans they ALL have been exposed to the coronavirus -- thanks to the Chinese, Democrats and fake news outlets! -- and then announce every day only the number of people who have tested negative.
The numbers nationwide of people who HAVEN'T been infected would be quite impressive and provide solid evidence that the administration is winning the war against COVID-19.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if hordes of people, gladdened by the news, celebrated in the streets.
(If they did end up getting sick, well, they'd still have time to recover and be able to vote in the November election.)
July 20, 2020
The U.S. shouldn't pin its hopes on developing a vaccine to put an end to the pandemic.
The country would be better off in so many ways if scientists were to develop a truth serum instead to administer to the president, cabinet and Republicans.
Only then will be they be seen for who they are and what they stand for by more Americans than is currently the case, and with that knowledge will come changes in attitude and perspective that are needed to subdue the coronavirus.
July 19, 2020
Perhaps Trump could be persuaded not to challenge Biden for the presidency if Joe promised, upon assuming office, to:
-- name a naval vessel after him (a small harbor tug)
-- arrange for his face to be sculpted on the side of a mountain (at Disney World)
-- declare him among the top 50 American presidents of all time
-- have a statuette erected in his honour (in Grand Canyon)
-- put his face put on a three-dollar bill
-- declare Feb. 30 Donald Trump Day
-- get Obama to say something nice about him on national TV
July 16, 2020
DeVos is a person of means, combining as she does in one person what it is to be mean in all its forms: dishonorable, contemptible, dull, stingy and malicious.
Why is it so many of the super-rich are never satisfied with what they have and strive to deny others the opportunity to earn a fraction of what they accumulate annually?
A poorly educated populace will one day prove the country's undoing, but apparently that is of no matter to the affluent, so long as they can shield themselves from the worst consequences of a failing economy and widespread social unrest.
They should know, however, that history is replete with examples of the reckoning that awaits the privileged who blithely ignore the anger they stoke and the hopes they suppress.
July 15, 2020
With all the idiocy in the world, and the rate at which it's spreading, thanks to the internet and lunatics who find each other, I can only conclude that humanity is being tested.
I just haven't figured out by whom.
God?
Satan?
Aliens?
A coterie of mad scientists engaged in a massive social experiment who are intent on destroying civilization so that mankind can start with a fresh slate led by a master race created in the lab?
Worst case scenario: They're ALL in cahoots!
July 14, 2020
Trump is an outlier among presidents.
He outlies them all.
July 11, 2020
Thoughts on a warm summer's day ...
Roger Stone's commutation secures the reputation the presidency has earned as an Offal Office.
Trump boasted this week of having “aced” a cognitive assessment, a test so arduous it includes drawing a clock and identifying animals.
Shouldn't presidents be tested for ethics as well throughout their term, to make certain they still possess a moral compass and haven't lost their bearings?
(In Trump's case it's clear he's never had a compass, or if he did, never thought it more than a gimcrack.)
Stone is what you find under a rock, a creepy-crawly that makes you cringe.
What's the difference between the Confederates who fought to divide the country and Trump's confederates who are helping him do the same? One group wore uniforms and had statues raised in their honor.
There's no honour attached to the second group, Rush Limbaugh's Medal of Freedom notwithstanding.
July 11, 2020
It's amazing how much criticism is directed at Biden for his gaffes when those making the complaint should be alarmed by what comes out of Trump's mouth.
Trump's verbal miscues far exceed in number those of Biden and his incoherence is unrivalled.
But the most dismaying aspect of Trump's utterances is the amount of hate and animus that inform them. The poison in his soul washes over his words. He's most comfortable when he's assailing another -- or wailing about a grievance, usually of his own making.
Biden, in contrast, does not immerse himself in vitriol and comes across as a decent guy.
Yes, he is capable of embarrassing gaffes, but he has shown he will acknowledge his missteps. Trump, never.
Here's hoping Americans will acknowledge their mistake by denying Trump a second term.
Make him a one-hit blunder.
July 10, 2020
Trump has repeatedly shown that incoherence is not a hurdle to becoming president so that should ease any concerns a person might have about Biden.
Of greater concern, I would hope, is having a person remain in power who's incapable of speaking at length without larding his words with lies.
July 7, 2020
I know of only one other 'character' who proclaimed himself a genius: Wile E. Coyote.
Like Trump he doesn't care what destruction he causes in pursuit of his goal, but for all his scheming Wile E. is never able to catch the roadrunner.
Trump, on the other hand, is one election away from bringing down the American eagle.
July 7, 2020
I wonder how many voted for Trump last time thinking he was a populist only to learn to their horror how much more he is a fabulist.
July 7, 2020
It's obvious the Electoral College needs reforming. One change worth making would be to require the candidate poised to become president to pass a civics exam, a history test, and a geography quiz.
It would be a mix of short answer, fill-in-the-blank and multiple choice questions.
A failing grade -- anything less than 75 per cent -- would disqualify the person from holding the highest office in the land.
At which point the candidate's vice-president choice would be given the same opportunity to become the country's leader.
If both fail to obtain the necessary marks, well, the other party would be given the chance to do better.
Surely the parties wouldn't precipitate a constitutional crisis by nominating more than one doofus for POTUS.
July 6, 2020
According to Wikipedia the original plan for Mount Rushmore was to carve the likenesses of the four presidents from head to waist but insufficient funding prevented it from happening.
Perhaps Congress could see fit to have the work completed and go one step further by insisting the granite sculpture include feet of clay for historical accuracy.
July 6, 2020
Is Trump Toast? New York Times columnist Frank Bruni says yes.
I pray what you predict will come to pass.
Today in Canada we celebrate the birth of our country and view with alarm the slow death of another.
It's suicide by degrees.
July 1, 2020
Trump is a Russian doll.
His identity is closely tied to Mother Russia and the more you learn about what's inside the man the smaller he becomes.
But the danger that he poses never lessens.
July 1, 2020
Headlines we hope to see in weeks ahead
(Aug. 21, 2020)
Republican convention a critical and ratings disaster
Trump's two-hour acceptance rant contains record 2,371 insults
Doctor: Trump 'going through a bad spell' after stumbling over words on Twitter
Postmaster general returned to sender by Congress
QAnon dissolved as high school student founders announce winner of pool for most outrageous conspiracy
Supreme Court announces blanket rejection 'of any appeal by Trump'
Trial dates set for Trump's corruption, sexual assault, perjury, obstruction, libel, treason and sedition charges
Leaked tax returns show Trump's top profit maker in 2014 was a vegetable stand
Cognitive test ordered after Trump apparently tells a truth
Trump apologizes for “four years of hell” in concession speech as Biden wins in a landslide
(Aug. 21, 2020)
Republican convention a critical and ratings disaster
Trump's two-hour acceptance rant contains record 2,371 insults
Doctor: Trump 'going through a bad spell' after stumbling over words on Twitter
Postmaster general returned to sender by Congress
QAnon dissolved as high school student founders announce winner of pool for most outrageous conspiracy
Supreme Court announces blanket rejection 'of any appeal by Trump'
Trial dates set for Trump's corruption, sexual assault, perjury, obstruction, libel, treason and sedition charges
Leaked tax returns show Trump's top profit maker in 2014 was a vegetable stand
Cognitive test ordered after Trump apparently tells a truth
Trump apologizes for “four years of hell” in concession speech as Biden wins in a landslide
Dr. Seuss Goes to the Polls
(Aug. 19, 2020)
New York Times opinion columnist Thomas Friedman has urged his fellow Americans to vote for the Democrats, no matter what it takes, because this year's presidential election is crucial to preserving democracy.
His appeal inspired this bit of pseudo-Seuss:
I will walk, I will glide
I will even hitch a ride
I will run, I will jog
I will crawl, I will slog
I will skate – not skedaddle!
Ride a horse without a saddle
I will hop, I will hurry
I will make it, don't you worry
I will dart, I will dash
Through the puddles I will splash
I don't care if it is sloppy
Mother Nature will not stop me!
I will sprint, not once dawdle
My two feet I will not coddle
Over hills I will plod
Also dales I will trod
Mountains, too, I will climb
(I'll leave early, it takes time)
I will crawl if I must
Through the mud, through the dust
Here I'll end, and you can quote:
Yes, I'll skip -- but not the vote!
Getting to the polling station
Is so important to our nation
(Aug. 19, 2020)
New York Times opinion columnist Thomas Friedman has urged his fellow Americans to vote for the Democrats, no matter what it takes, because this year's presidential election is crucial to preserving democracy.
His appeal inspired this bit of pseudo-Seuss:
I will walk, I will glide
I will even hitch a ride
I will run, I will jog
I will crawl, I will slog
I will skate – not skedaddle!
Ride a horse without a saddle
I will hop, I will hurry
I will make it, don't you worry
I will dart, I will dash
Through the puddles I will splash
I don't care if it is sloppy
Mother Nature will not stop me!
I will sprint, not once dawdle
My two feet I will not coddle
Over hills I will plod
Also dales I will trod
Mountains, too, I will climb
(I'll leave early, it takes time)
I will crawl if I must
Through the mud, through the dust
Here I'll end, and you can quote:
Yes, I'll skip -- but not the vote!
Getting to the polling station
Is so important to our nation
The (edited) best -- okay, the least worst -- of Politically Speaking
(See next tab)
Sadly, wearing a mask has become too politicized to ever look upon it simply as a safeguard against the transmission of coronavirus.
Perhaps tensions could be eased if conservatives were given the choice of wearing masks of Trump. Complimentary ones, of course, not the exaggerated kind you see at Halloween.
They'd be making a statement: "Trump's my man! And, look, I'm thinking of others! Happy?"
Liberals would be encouraged NOT to wear masks of Biden to avoid escalating tensions once again, grateful deluded fellow Americans are finally coming around to showing respect for others -- in a mean-spirited sort of way.
June 30, 2020
Exclusive interview with a really old guy who knew Carl Reiner
Interviewer: How does it feel losing your best friend?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: It sucks. It was his turn to buy coffee.
Interviewer: You two were inseparable, weren't you?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He was the yin to my yang, the gum to my shoe, the appen to my dectomy.
He used to bug me at times, though, his hanging around all the time. Carl, I'd say, I can tuck myself in.
Interviewer: So he could be annoying?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: You betcha! Questions, always with the questions! What am I, an encyclopedia? People say he was a straight man, the best there ever was. Hah! I never got a straight answer outta him in all the years I knew him! I'd ask him his age, he'd wink. I'd ask him about his sex life, he'd shrug. I'd ask him for a loan, he'd start talking about his sex life.
Interviewer: What will you miss most about him?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: The arm wrestling. And rides to the zoo.
Interviewer: Did you ever exchange harsh words?
2,000-Year-Old Man? No, just neckties and sniffles.
Interviewer: Are you looking forward to seeing him again in heaven?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: For sure. But I'm little worried, though.
Interviewer: Why?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He'll have fact checked all my stories about the people I said I met! Gawd -- I mean, good grief -- I thought he'd catch on at some point! Boy, was he gullible!
And lovable. Did I mention that? Lovable.
You got a Kleenex?
Hey, wanna hear a funny story about the guy who invented facial tissue? Had the Niagara Falls of noses. Anyways ...
June 30, 2020
I can only echo what everyone has said thus far about this comedic legend. He was a genius and, just as important, nice.
I loved The Dick Van Dyke Show and never tire of watching its episodes.
In addition to his movies, I always enjoyed the interviews Mr. Reiner gave, and the praise from others that he'd receive without fail.
He's one artist whose exit leaves us laughing, conjuring as it does fond memories of the great work that he did as a humorist.
I suppose Mr. Reiner will bide his time in heaven chatting up lesser celebrities -- saints and so on -- until his favourite interviewee shows up -- the 2,000-year-old man.
June 30, 2020
With Trump kowtowing to despots and bullying allies to pay more for their defence, the U.S. will be able to defund the military -- that is, reduce the outrageously inordinate amount it receives -- and redirect a good portion into universal health care for its citizens.
Perhaps this has been Trump's thinking all along and we don't give him enough credit for playing the long game.
June 29, 2020
Held in low esteem, hollowed out by layoffs and buyouts, deserted by advertisers and readers, attacked by politicians and magnates, journalism is in a precarious state. Newspapers are dying off or shriveling.
That is not a good thing, though many would welcome their demise. Society would be weaker for it.
To attract new readers and retain those they have mainstream newspapers might consider publishing one edition each day with two front pages (you'd have to turn the paper over to start with the cover you prefer). One would be informed by a liberal perspective, the other a conservative one.
The choice and presentation of stories inside would reflect the leanings of the editors and their staff – separate entities within the organization who would remain cordially aloof so as to maintain corporate peace and departmental independence. Obviously, the two sides' stories would end up meeting in the middle, and this where, it's hoped, readers by then will have done the same, arriving at a better understanding of what constitutes the truth, having worked their way through both sections, or points of view.
t's a proposal made somewhat tongue in cheek – a su-jest-ion, you might say -- but not worth dismissing out of hand. Perhaps in laughing it off or tossing it aside, a germ of an idea will present itself that's worth pursuing.
Something needs to be done to bridge the ever-widening divide among people in the States. Newspapers at the end of their rope no longer have the means.
June 29, 2020
In the eyes of many, Trump is the consummate businessman, although most people shorten it to conman.
June 29, 2020
Trump's denial of unpleasant facts shouldn't come as a surprise, as we've seen throughout his presidency.
The natural inclination of a draft dodger is to avoid an ill wind.
June 28, 2020
Give Gingrich and the Republicans their due.
They know how to bargain
They sold their souls in exchange for power and personal enrichment -- an extraordinary deal, you have to admit, receiving so much for so little.
June 28, 2020
Why would Texans who lose coverage if the Affordable Care Act is overturned then shoot themselves in the foot by voting for Trump?
June 26, 2020
To those suspicious of Trump being in Putin's pocket for financial assistance provided in years past, perhaps the answer is for the Democrats in Congress to put forward bills saying the federal government will assume all of Trump's debts to the Russians if he agrees to resign immediately. There would have to be a limit, though. Would a billion dollars be enough to cover them? The government would recover its money by raising taxes on the ultra-rich after the Democrats win the election.
June 26, 2020
If you're against slavery why aren't you opposed to monuments that glorify men who fought to preserve it?
Their infamy will live on in textbooks and archives, no statues are needed.
If you're looking for visible reminders of their place in history, the evil they wrought, look no further than black communities that continue to struggle to this day because of the legacy that was left them.
Honorable men of the South would have laid down their arms, and not their lives, to put an end to the wickedness.
How can there be respect for those who would die without questioning the sacrifice they were being asked to make, who would kill others putting their lives on the line to preserve the union against insurrection?
If it's statues you want, to make visible the past, why not ones of slaves in chains, of slaves being beaten and raped?
Repulsive, I grant you, but a more accurate depiction of what was real for so many for too long a time.
June 26, 2020
It's said COVID-19 is one way to reduce the Trump base, which some argue is a good thing, because dead people cannot vote.
True, they can't, but they can collect stimulus payments.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/us/politics/coronavirus-stimulus-dead-people.html
I guess that's why they're called the Grateful Dead.
June 25, 2020
Obama NEVER communicated unless he had a teleprompter?
Okaaaay.
But Obama's teleprompter worked.
Trump's not so much, apparently, judging by the stuff that comes out of his mouth, when he's forced to improv lies.
June 25, 2020
Trump telling voters Biden, who's 77, is too old to be president when he's 74 is a clear case of the POT(US) calling the kettle black.
June 24, 2020
Sadly, the Electoral College has as much credibility as Trump University, but its one graduate does secure a lucrative, high-profile job.
June 24, 2020
The accuracy of polls has been called into question, with one criticism being individuals will tell pollsters one thing and vote the opposite.
Or choose not to participate at all.
Perhaps the accuracy of polling could be greatly improved if the people surveyed were assured that $10 would be paid to the campaign of the candidate they say they support.
In a poll of 1,500 people, $15,000 is a small price to pay to obtain a truer reading of the political landscape.
June 24, 2020
Society -- and history -- would be better served by full disclosure agreements.
June 23, 2020
You have to figure any memoir Trump wrote would be classified ... as fiction.
June 23, 2020
With all the corrupt goings-on it's amazing the Trump administration is still able to function. At what point will it be too much to handle and the swamp becomes swamped?
June 21, 2020
Letters of the law, as they're now understood:
OJ -- Justice denied
DOJ -- Justice corrupted
June 21, 2020
How is it that in a country of 330 million people it wasn't possible to install an administration populated by ethical, empathic, knowledgeable people?
Trump's election wasn't a case of cream rising to the top but sludge sinking to the bottom, contaminating everything it touches.
Are there any members of his cabinet who haven't soiled the office they hold?
June 20, 2020
Is it possible Trump is a virus that poses a greater threat to the body politic than COVID-19?
Scary stuff, but on the bright side, a vaccine will be ready by November, for distribution at the polls.
June 16, 2020
Police unions are the reason "bad apples" have local governments over the barrel. Unions serve a useful purpose but there is a line they cross when they go to extraordinary lengths defending members whose conduct warrants disciplinary action or dismissal.
If they insist on throwing up obstacles to justice being done they should also commit to working with employers to ensure all officers understand and accept that use of force should be employed as a last resort when all other efforts at de-escalating situations fail.
The unions should also dismantle the silent blue wall that protects rogue cops from being called out by their colleagues and their criminal behaviour exposed. Solidarity in the performance of duty and the safeguarding of life does not extend to protecting officers who disgrace the badge and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
June 16, 2020
It sounds counter-intuitive but perhaps the solution to short-term thinking among elected officials is to give them longer terms, say 15 years.
The first dozen they could devote their time and energy to actually addressing the major issues of the day, including climate change, by taking the long approach, without having to think much about their re-election
That they could leave to the last three years of their term in office but maybe by then they will have developed a social conscience and a sense of stewardship that will make them keenly aware of their responsibility to present and future generations, as well as sensitive to their own legacy, and how they wish to be perceived by history.
June 15, 2020
I've often wondered how was it possible that Trump, with all his family's money, never received the treatment that would have been available at the time to rid him of the bone spurs that plagued him.
I'm sure if his genius had been put to use while he served in the military, the war in Vietnam would have been shortened considerably.
June 14, 2020
Did the Department of Justice argue that "it would be a travesty of justice to send General Flynn to prison for telling white lies"?
June 12, 2020
Will they be carrying torches at Trump's rally next week?
If asked, he'd probably say he'd be OKKKay with it.
Attendees could prevent the spread of COVID-19 among themselves by wearing ... hoods.
June 11, 2020
Corruption now fuels America's beacon on the hill and going up in smoke is the Constitution that sets out the separation of powers. Clearly the aim of the Trump misadministration is to have one branch, the executive, rule all.
June 11, 2020
(See next tab)
Sadly, wearing a mask has become too politicized to ever look upon it simply as a safeguard against the transmission of coronavirus.
Perhaps tensions could be eased if conservatives were given the choice of wearing masks of Trump. Complimentary ones, of course, not the exaggerated kind you see at Halloween.
They'd be making a statement: "Trump's my man! And, look, I'm thinking of others! Happy?"
Liberals would be encouraged NOT to wear masks of Biden to avoid escalating tensions once again, grateful deluded fellow Americans are finally coming around to showing respect for others -- in a mean-spirited sort of way.
June 30, 2020
Exclusive interview with a really old guy who knew Carl Reiner
Interviewer: How does it feel losing your best friend?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: It sucks. It was his turn to buy coffee.
Interviewer: You two were inseparable, weren't you?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He was the yin to my yang, the gum to my shoe, the appen to my dectomy.
He used to bug me at times, though, his hanging around all the time. Carl, I'd say, I can tuck myself in.
Interviewer: So he could be annoying?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: You betcha! Questions, always with the questions! What am I, an encyclopedia? People say he was a straight man, the best there ever was. Hah! I never got a straight answer outta him in all the years I knew him! I'd ask him his age, he'd wink. I'd ask him about his sex life, he'd shrug. I'd ask him for a loan, he'd start talking about his sex life.
Interviewer: What will you miss most about him?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: The arm wrestling. And rides to the zoo.
Interviewer: Did you ever exchange harsh words?
2,000-Year-Old Man? No, just neckties and sniffles.
Interviewer: Are you looking forward to seeing him again in heaven?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: For sure. But I'm little worried, though.
Interviewer: Why?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He'll have fact checked all my stories about the people I said I met! Gawd -- I mean, good grief -- I thought he'd catch on at some point! Boy, was he gullible!
And lovable. Did I mention that? Lovable.
You got a Kleenex?
Hey, wanna hear a funny story about the guy who invented facial tissue? Had the Niagara Falls of noses. Anyways ...
June 30, 2020
I can only echo what everyone has said thus far about this comedic legend. He was a genius and, just as important, nice.
I loved The Dick Van Dyke Show and never tire of watching its episodes.
In addition to his movies, I always enjoyed the interviews Mr. Reiner gave, and the praise from others that he'd receive without fail.
He's one artist whose exit leaves us laughing, conjuring as it does fond memories of the great work that he did as a humorist.
I suppose Mr. Reiner will bide his time in heaven chatting up lesser celebrities -- saints and so on -- until his favourite interviewee shows up -- the 2,000-year-old man.
June 30, 2020
With Trump kowtowing to despots and bullying allies to pay more for their defence, the U.S. will be able to defund the military -- that is, reduce the outrageously inordinate amount it receives -- and redirect a good portion into universal health care for its citizens.
Perhaps this has been Trump's thinking all along and we don't give him enough credit for playing the long game.
June 29, 2020
Held in low esteem, hollowed out by layoffs and buyouts, deserted by advertisers and readers, attacked by politicians and magnates, journalism is in a precarious state. Newspapers are dying off or shriveling.
That is not a good thing, though many would welcome their demise. Society would be weaker for it.
To attract new readers and retain those they have mainstream newspapers might consider publishing one edition each day with two front pages (you'd have to turn the paper over to start with the cover you prefer). One would be informed by a liberal perspective, the other a conservative one.
The choice and presentation of stories inside would reflect the leanings of the editors and their staff – separate entities within the organization who would remain cordially aloof so as to maintain corporate peace and departmental independence. Obviously, the two sides' stories would end up meeting in the middle, and this where, it's hoped, readers by then will have done the same, arriving at a better understanding of what constitutes the truth, having worked their way through both sections, or points of view.
t's a proposal made somewhat tongue in cheek – a su-jest-ion, you might say -- but not worth dismissing out of hand. Perhaps in laughing it off or tossing it aside, a germ of an idea will present itself that's worth pursuing.
Something needs to be done to bridge the ever-widening divide among people in the States. Newspapers at the end of their rope no longer have the means.
June 29, 2020
In the eyes of many, Trump is the consummate businessman, although most people shorten it to conman.
June 29, 2020
Trump's denial of unpleasant facts shouldn't come as a surprise, as we've seen throughout his presidency.
The natural inclination of a draft dodger is to avoid an ill wind.
June 28, 2020
Give Gingrich and the Republicans their due.
They know how to bargain
They sold their souls in exchange for power and personal enrichment -- an extraordinary deal, you have to admit, receiving so much for so little.
June 28, 2020
Why would Texans who lose coverage if the Affordable Care Act is overturned then shoot themselves in the foot by voting for Trump?
June 26, 2020
To those suspicious of Trump being in Putin's pocket for financial assistance provided in years past, perhaps the answer is for the Democrats in Congress to put forward bills saying the federal government will assume all of Trump's debts to the Russians if he agrees to resign immediately. There would have to be a limit, though. Would a billion dollars be enough to cover them? The government would recover its money by raising taxes on the ultra-rich after the Democrats win the election.
June 26, 2020
If you're against slavery why aren't you opposed to monuments that glorify men who fought to preserve it?
Their infamy will live on in textbooks and archives, no statues are needed.
If you're looking for visible reminders of their place in history, the evil they wrought, look no further than black communities that continue to struggle to this day because of the legacy that was left them.
Honorable men of the South would have laid down their arms, and not their lives, to put an end to the wickedness.
How can there be respect for those who would die without questioning the sacrifice they were being asked to make, who would kill others putting their lives on the line to preserve the union against insurrection?
If it's statues you want, to make visible the past, why not ones of slaves in chains, of slaves being beaten and raped?
Repulsive, I grant you, but a more accurate depiction of what was real for so many for too long a time.
June 26, 2020
It's said COVID-19 is one way to reduce the Trump base, which some argue is a good thing, because dead people cannot vote.
True, they can't, but they can collect stimulus payments.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/us/politics/coronavirus-stimulus-dead-people.html
I guess that's why they're called the Grateful Dead.
June 25, 2020
Obama NEVER communicated unless he had a teleprompter?
Okaaaay.
But Obama's teleprompter worked.
Trump's not so much, apparently, judging by the stuff that comes out of his mouth, when he's forced to improv lies.
June 25, 2020
Trump telling voters Biden, who's 77, is too old to be president when he's 74 is a clear case of the POT(US) calling the kettle black.
June 24, 2020
Sadly, the Electoral College has as much credibility as Trump University, but its one graduate does secure a lucrative, high-profile job.
June 24, 2020
The accuracy of polls has been called into question, with one criticism being individuals will tell pollsters one thing and vote the opposite.
Or choose not to participate at all.
Perhaps the accuracy of polling could be greatly improved if the people surveyed were assured that $10 would be paid to the campaign of the candidate they say they support.
In a poll of 1,500 people, $15,000 is a small price to pay to obtain a truer reading of the political landscape.
June 24, 2020
Society -- and history -- would be better served by full disclosure agreements.
June 23, 2020
You have to figure any memoir Trump wrote would be classified ... as fiction.
June 23, 2020
With all the corrupt goings-on it's amazing the Trump administration is still able to function. At what point will it be too much to handle and the swamp becomes swamped?
June 21, 2020
Letters of the law, as they're now understood:
OJ -- Justice denied
DOJ -- Justice corrupted
June 21, 2020
How is it that in a country of 330 million people it wasn't possible to install an administration populated by ethical, empathic, knowledgeable people?
Trump's election wasn't a case of cream rising to the top but sludge sinking to the bottom, contaminating everything it touches.
Are there any members of his cabinet who haven't soiled the office they hold?
June 20, 2020
Is it possible Trump is a virus that poses a greater threat to the body politic than COVID-19?
Scary stuff, but on the bright side, a vaccine will be ready by November, for distribution at the polls.
June 16, 2020
Police unions are the reason "bad apples" have local governments over the barrel. Unions serve a useful purpose but there is a line they cross when they go to extraordinary lengths defending members whose conduct warrants disciplinary action or dismissal.
If they insist on throwing up obstacles to justice being done they should also commit to working with employers to ensure all officers understand and accept that use of force should be employed as a last resort when all other efforts at de-escalating situations fail.
The unions should also dismantle the silent blue wall that protects rogue cops from being called out by their colleagues and their criminal behaviour exposed. Solidarity in the performance of duty and the safeguarding of life does not extend to protecting officers who disgrace the badge and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
June 16, 2020
It sounds counter-intuitive but perhaps the solution to short-term thinking among elected officials is to give them longer terms, say 15 years.
The first dozen they could devote their time and energy to actually addressing the major issues of the day, including climate change, by taking the long approach, without having to think much about their re-election
That they could leave to the last three years of their term in office but maybe by then they will have developed a social conscience and a sense of stewardship that will make them keenly aware of their responsibility to present and future generations, as well as sensitive to their own legacy, and how they wish to be perceived by history.
June 15, 2020
I've often wondered how was it possible that Trump, with all his family's money, never received the treatment that would have been available at the time to rid him of the bone spurs that plagued him.
I'm sure if his genius had been put to use while he served in the military, the war in Vietnam would have been shortened considerably.
June 14, 2020
Did the Department of Justice argue that "it would be a travesty of justice to send General Flynn to prison for telling white lies"?
June 12, 2020
Will they be carrying torches at Trump's rally next week?
If asked, he'd probably say he'd be OKKKay with it.
Attendees could prevent the spread of COVID-19 among themselves by wearing ... hoods.
June 11, 2020
Corruption now fuels America's beacon on the hill and going up in smoke is the Constitution that sets out the separation of powers. Clearly the aim of the Trump misadministration is to have one branch, the executive, rule all.
June 11, 2020
Joe Biden Had Better Watch It
(NY Times, Aug. 31, 2020)
Who would win more votes than lose them:
Biden currying favour with the law and order crowd by punching a protester in the nose?
Trump courting minorities by handing – not tossing – rolls of paper towel to Black hurricane victims and giving them a hug?
There was a time Trump aspired to be a Buffet and become a tycoon but the best he could do was to be a Buffoon.
Unfortunately the Buffoon's now in the White House which has driven down property values in the neighbourhood, and values across the nation.
Four more years of his tenancy would be catastrophic to the nation as a whole. The world would suffer as well.
Given the huge stakes of this election, Biden needs to pursue a more forceful campaign than issuing occasional statements that condemn the latest pronouncement by the president-in-name-only-but-a-despot-in-the-making.
He needs to make himself more visible, and more vigorous in his attacks on the Republicans, keeping his message simple and honest. It will be hard to land a knockout blow against an opponent as slippery as Trump but a constant barrage of jabs on Twitter, say, could prove as effective as the president's use of the medium in setting the agenda and creating narratives that stay with the public.
Sloganeering might not be the best way to enunciate policy but it can predispose voters to think in certain ways about issues and spur the thoughtful ones to do their own research.
In other words, Biden and the Democrats need to step up the pace and match Trump's energy, but not the content, of his virulent messaging.
Every day there's a report of what Trump said or did should also carry news of how Biden's campaigning sets him apart from the fellow he aims to replace, and the sordid conduct he vows to end.
The Lawbreakers Trump Loves
(NY Times, Aug. 30, 2020)
Meg, NY
I think Nick is missing the forest for the trees. Most commenters on both sides of the isle believe the Hatch Act is unconstitutional. But for sure, almost no one cares about it.
The fact is that most Americans are concerned about two things: the Corona virus and the riots. On one, the virus, we are inundated with news from the left, and appropriately so. But the political divide is between those who would shut down the economy at any cost, and those pushing to reopen—perhaps too fast but perhaps not. Obviously the left would shut it down and the right reopen. Trump gets low marks for this, but the stridency on the left—no jobs, no schools, may have played too long, and Trump may ultimately gain.
On the riots, most Americans support the protesters, and most of them are peaceful. But it is not clear that most protests remain peaceful. In a handful of cities the riots and looting continue night after night after night. And yet rarely a word from The NY Times. Watch Fox News sometimes. You will see Rand Paul, a Senator, and his wife attracted while walking home from the RNC. You will see another grey haired man sucker punched and knocked to the ground. You will see courthouses set afire (or attempts—while trapping people inside, EVERY night). Tellingly, the mayor of Portland asked rioters to stop for two reasons: one, attempted murder is a crime, and two, it will help Trump win. At least he asked them, finally, to stop, but he is absurd.
And no one trusts the media.
@Meg
I was going to point out that Fox News is media but then realized the absurdity of the assertion.
So to finish your thought:
"And no one trusts the media, only propaganda. It does the thinking for you."
Based on recent events why is the law-and-order crowd so quick to conclude that protesters are indistinguishable from looters, vandals and anarchists but fail to use the same logic and think of police officers as being no different from thugs and executioners?
Such sweeping generalizations would be a gross misrepresentation of the two sides, taking as their cue the unfortunate actions of a few bad actors.
If the federal government is intent on restoring peace in the streets no matter the cost it should apply the same robust effort to ridding police departments of officers who employ lethal force inexcusably.
Success in the latter area would eliminate the need for protests in the first place. Is that so difficult to understand?
After all when was the last time a violent uprising took place BEFORE a Black man or woman was killed without just cause?
Athletes Are Finished Playing America’s Rigged Game
(NY Times, Aug. 29, 2020)
bill smith, madison wisconsin
Let's face the facts: Most of the athletes standing up against social injustice are RICH and most of the people getting mistreated are poor. The biggest divide in America (or anywhere) is not Black, brown or white, but RICH or poor. What is refreshing about this stand, if indeed anything happens, is the possibility of some significant wealth redistribution from the RICH athletes and their "managers" to the poor, although it will only happen in a meaningful way if needed to preserve and maximize the profits of professional sports. That's America folks. LeBron said it right when he (apparently) expressed concern in a recent owners and players meeting about helping the people "below him". Yep, that says it all. We shall see what happens.
@bill smith
I'm waiting for white billionaires to show solidarity with wealthy athletes "below" them by joining in their push to end social injustice.
Is There Nothing Trump Won’t Say?
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Trump doesn't believe Black Lives Matter.
He doesn't believe facts matter.
He doesn't believe words matter.
He doesn't believe rules and traditions matter.
He doesn't believe scruples matter.
Conclusion: He's antimatter – the opposite of NORMAL matter.
And so are his followers.
You know what that means: Mutual annihilation when the two sides collide. Civil war, in other words.
The United States was fortunate to survive the first one. Another civil war and “the great American experiment” could come to an explosive end.
It's up to the electrons -- voters -- to stop it from happening.
(I think I might have watched way more of the Republican convention than was wise. The over-the-top rhetoric has stayed with me.)
Kenosha Tells Us More About Where the Right Is Headed Than the R.N.C. Did
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Kristina, DC
I think Trevor Noah explained it best. On the one hand, you have a man shot in the back seven times because he MIGHT have a weapon and therefore MIGHT be a threat, and on the other you have a man WITH a weapon, an AR15 no less, walking around and actively shooting people, and police just drove by and possibly thanked him at one point. If that isn't QED for the protests I don't know what is.
Paul Blart Mall Cop
@Kristina That a false choice because it implies that either would be happening in normal times. First of all, I don't think Rittenhouse should have shot anyone. However, he was only out there with a rifle because of the arson and rioting that was occurring. So really, the 'protests' (rioting always seem to accompany them) QED Rittenhouse shooting people.
We're leaving out two choices- the choice of Jacob Blake to comply with police and the choice of the protesters to turn a blind eye/stay silent about the arson and rioting that occurs along with the peaceful protests.
@Blart
Let's go through the choices:
1. Jacob Blake complies with police request
2. Blake ignores request, officers taser Blake
3. Taser doesn't work, Blake is seized by three officers and subdued
4. Blake somehow manages to break free of three police officers and continues to car. Blake is grabbed from behind by officer and pinned to the vehicle.
5. Blake somehow manages to break free of officer's arms wrapped underneath his arms and behind his neck. Officer knocks Blake on the head with pistol leaving him dazed.
6. Blake somehow manages to carry on with his intent to enter vehicle. Officer disables Blake by firing a couple of shots in his legs, and then waits to see if more shots are needed.
7. Blake somehow manages to reach inside the car, despite feeling groggy and being badly wounded. Officer fires weapon again, several times if necessary, if Blake continues to lurch backward toward him.
8. Protests, held to draw attention to what took place in Kenosha, turn violent and stores are destroyed. Rittenhouse decides to stay home and send thoughts and prayers to businesses.
9. Rittenhouse gets in touch with businesses and business leaders to ask if they need defending.
10. Rittenhouse decides to take action -- and a rifle -- to defend the property of strangers, knowing local police are outgunned by rioters and need reinforcements.
11. Rittenhouse spots a looter and fires a warning shot, saying the next bullet will find flesh.
12. Rittenhouse ... arrgh, out of spac
Yasser Taima, Pacific Palisades
@JohnBellyful In the late 1770s the world watched with amazement when Americans created the first modern republic and tugged the world firmly towards freedom and democracy.
In 2020 the world watches in horror as Americans attempt to justify the unjustifiable.
No one, anywhere in the world, would accept that an unarmed father with 3 of his children in his car would deserve a death sentence, unless the man is considered less than human.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Trump’s Big Night
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Audrey Levenson, New York
As a 15 year old minor, unable to vote for a few years, Mr. Labash’s comment on refraining from voting this year seems negligent and irresponsible. Particularly in such an important and desperate election season, wasting or throwing away a vote is one of the most dangerous choices civilians can make. Though I cannot vote in this election, I firmly believe that those who have the power to do so must act. Voting this year is a step towards saving our democracy; even if the Democratic nominee is not ideal, he remains a far lesser evil than the myopic, self-interested incumbent currently exploiting the White House for his own personal gain. My generation will be left to deal with the consequences of this election- choose wisely.
Patricia, Huntington
@Audrey Levenson Everything you say is absolutely right, and I am glad you are our future. Mr. Labash is irresponsible; in the same comment, he included the falsehood that the DNC "lied" about peaceful protests. Of course they did not do this. The majority of the protests have been peaceful, and this is an important point.
TK, Cambridge
Thank you for sharing your conviction on how important Voting is for our country and democracy. I agree, using a personal platform to advocate for ‘sitting out the election’ is in poor form.
We’re witnessing folks who’ll sell out their country for some money or an edgy contrarian take.
While they scramble for whatever measly acclaim they can get their grubby little hands on, we’re seeing young people coming to age trying to grapple with issues that will be massively challenging for decades to come.
Please continue to be a guiding light on why Voting is so important. America’s future will be built by those who can put the nation’s interests ahead of oneself.
@Audrey Levenson
Labash should hold his nose if he must to perform his civic duty. Otherwise a duty becomes a mere fancy, to indulge when the mood strikes.
He needs to find a sturdier conscience that doesn't let him off so freely.
The White House is looking shabby today.
The tenants threw a party and the owners are upset.
Time to serve them a 60-day eviction notice.
What's that, they don't have to leave until January?
Well, that doesn't seem right.
They better not wreck the furniture.
They can move the deck chairs around, though.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Mike Pence Night
(NY Times, Aug. 27, 2020)
You wait and see, folks.
Tonight, when Trump unveils his years-in-the-making health care plan --AND the one to end systemic racism -- you'll be sorry you said those mean things about him.
Bob C., CA
@JohnBellyful, How much of what he will say do you think will be lies? We have had 4 years to judge the man, and we know that he very often reverses what he said the day before. This is an election year, so he will want to impress as many of his supporters as he can. As for the rest of us, we have already decided who is in the right and who is not. What happened during these past 4 years took place on HIS watch, not Joe's. He is responsible for it all. Yet, he does not accept any kind of responsibility. Yes, from this he is definitely a lousy Commander-in Chief!
Carole, CT
@JohnBellyful Mean things? His tweets and comments are mean, vicious and intended to injure.
This is not mean, it's an observation.
I have often wondered how Donald Trump's behavior (he who was born with a silver spoon) is excused when he retaliates, lashes out and is just downright petty, BUT anyone who calls him on it is MEAN and attacking poor Donald.
Lefty, Ohio
@JohnBellyful
Sarcasm right?
Arch,California
Thanks for the bellyful laugh.
JB, CA
@JohnBellyful And, we can add his yet to be unveiled plan to control the virus! Oh, right, Pence and Kudlow (two medical experts) said we are doing well.
All the alligators from the swamp will be on display tonight. Take a good look people!!
DChrest, Texas
@JohnBellyful hahaha, you are being sarcastic right? Especially since Trump has been "promising" the greatest health care plan EVER for ever now.
K, UK
@JohnBellyful hey if he also unveils some actual leadership that would be great too
Thomas Zaslavsky, Binghamton, N.Y.
@JohnBellyful
And the miracle cure. And the four-week remedy for global warming.
oscar jr, sandown nh
Aug. 27
@JohnBellyful
Ha Ha, that's so funny it's true
I'll say this about the Republicans. They put the con in convention.
They also put one in the White House.
Most Americans would rather see Trump not serve a second term in office but a first term in prison.
As Young Black Athletes Call for Racial Awakening, Some N.F.L. Retirees Declare Fealty to ‘Winner’ Trump
(NY Times, Aug. 27, 2020)
G, Edison, NJ
If the elite, privileged NB players don't want to play, they can all give up their $10 million mansions and vacation homes and fancy cars and go get a real job like the rest of us.
I am quite sure my boss would not stand for my refusing to work because I want to protest even a legitimate social injustice.
The world will continue without NBA games.
Maybe then the players would realize how privileged they are.
If they are not paid to play ball, they may need to learn how to say "do you want fries with that ?".
@G
Tell me exactly why playing professional sports isn't a 'real' job?
Does your demeaning athletes apply to all the workers behind the scenes whose jobs depend on sports for their livelihood, and the people employed in businesses that profit in any way from sports?
What about the multitudes employed in movies, theatre, music, dance, literature? And the people who make novelties for the lower and middle class and baubles for the wealthy?
Are you saying these do not involve 'real' jobs because they bring enjoyment.
And what would life be for the mechanic, plumber, carpenter, factory worker, doctor, nurse, farmer, server, baker -- people with 'real' jobs -- if they didn't have entertainment to lift their spirits, give them inspiration, bring them joy, evoke a smile or shed a tear, soothe their soul, in other words, make them think, make them feel?
What a sterile world it would be if these not-real jobs didn't exist.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Night 2
(NY Times, Aug. 26, 2020)
I didn't see everyone who queued up to praise Trump for what he has done to help them so I may have missed it but did a billionaire step forward to say how grateful he and other members of the one percent class are for the vital assistance they received in the form of a tax cut that helped them when it was urgently needed?
You know, I might be wrong about this Trump feller.
After watching people from all walks of life deliver testimonials about him and reading reports about others I missed,
I now realize just much good he's done for the United States.
And then I think, wow, if a guy who lies, cheats, insults, bullies, betrays, and whines as much as he does to make America great again, imagine what a guy who's decent and good can do for his country and democracy.
The U.S. could go back to being No. 1 in the eyes of the world again.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Night 1
(NY Times, Aug. 25, 2020)
Nolalily, Gloucestershire, England
Let's not forget Donnie Jr's. weird and strange penchant for murdering endangered species and other wild animals. What kind of person goes in for that kind of thing?
@Nolalily
Don Jr also thinks Democrats are fair game but as long as there's a law against killing humans whaddya gonna do? Shoot animals, of course, animals that are so fierce and clever that only a brave man with a small arsenal can take them down for a photo op.
Which is very thoughtful of him, because we should have a record of what the last of these animals looked like before they became extinct at the hands of man.
Biden’s Loose Lips Could Sink His Chances
(NY Times, Aug. 25, 2020)
Biden said he would listen to the scientists and lock down the country if that were their counsel.
Stephens might be less troubled if their number included political scientists, who had weighed the risks of such a drastic measure and concluded they were manageable -- albeit difficult in the short term -- and well worth taking, in the best interests of the country.
Keep in mind, we're talking worst-case scenario – no, not Trump, although the two have become forever linked – where the situation has become dire after less disruptive interventions have proven ineffectual.
Implementing a restrictive regime is not likely to win over the majority of Republican supporters who think 175,000 and counting COVID-19 deaths is acceptable, so long as the economy is humming (and they're whistling past the graveyard).
Stephens ends by quoting Kennedy to bolster his argument.
Here's something else the president said that's just as relevant, and touches on the immense challenge Biden faces should he be elected: “In a time of domestic crisis, men of goodwill and generosity should be able to unite regardless of party or politics.”
Does anyone see that happening in the absence of the Democrats taking control of the Senate?
Four more years of Trump will only deepen and widen the existing divide.
The same holds true if the Senate remains in Republican hands.
Tom W, Illinois
@JohnBellyful well said
N.Y. Attorney General Asks Judge to Order Eric Trump’s Testimony
(NY Times, Aug. 24, 2020)
Bob, New York
This is yet anther egregious case of "Criminal Harassment."
@Bob
No, criminal harassment is repeatedly accusing the Democrats of wanting to destroy the country and mainstream news media being enemy of the people.
I wonder how many people named Trump but not related to the president in any way are seriously considering changing their name -- if they haven't already.
The alternative, I suppose, when asked, would be to hand out business cards that say: "No, no, a thousand times no, I am not related to him!"
This week Trump will boast about his track record.
Next year we'll chortle about his criminal record.
I get the feeling the Trumps think subpoena is Latin for "you don't hafta if you don't wanna."
Trump’s Reality TV Show Would Like You to Forget About Reality for a While
(NY Times, Aug. 24, 2020)
I liken Trump's disastrous administration to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
He gets away with doing detestable things but his image never changes in the eyes of his steadfast supporters.
Meanwhile hidden away in a room in the White House known only to Trump there's an American flag, not a portrait, growing ever more ragged. Each new outrage he commits leaves another star or stripe in tatters.
A Biden victory Nov. 3 will make the flag whole again.
Unfortunately, restoring the flag to its original pristine state will take years to accomplish.
Why Biden Needs a Landslide Just to Win
(NY Times, Aug. 23, 2020)
Bill C, Boston
The whole “Hillary got more popular votes” theme is so tired and shows intellectual ignorance or dishonesty on the part of people like Bruni making this argument. The only scorecard is the EC, where Trump won handily. This is akin to me saying, “the Boston Bruins scored more goals than the Blues in the Stanley Cup Finals so they REALLY won the Cup.” Despite losing 4 games to 3 in the series.
@Bill C
But what if the league were to award 5 goals to one team for every one its opponent scored? Hardly seems fair to have one team's goal count for more than the other's.
Given the amount of dirt the Republicans are certain to fling at Biden and Harris in the form of insults and -- paradoxically -- groundless accusations, an overwhelming victory by the Democrats would best be described as a mudslide.
A Glimmer of Hope for Trump? How Bush Mounted a Comeback in 1988
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
The Democrats should run a negative campaign – by running unedited clips of Trump talking and ranting, whining and moaning, boasting and blathering.
There's so much raw, incendiary material to sift through, their challenge will be to decide which clips to run and stay within budget.
The commercials will catch Trump's base off-guard as they won't be expecting the bad guys to pay 'tribute' to their hero, but, more importantly, it will cause the ultra-important minority who have yet to decide on a candidate to shake their head and think: “Good grief, why am I even considering voting for a corrupt, racist, egotistical, indolent blowhard?”
Trump in his own words – the unvarnished truth.
Yeah, that'll work.
I can't think of a better campaign script.
PS: A nice touch would be to have “Who's Sorry Now” playing in the background.
Also, they should open some of the commercials showing a clip of Obama speaking at the Democratic convention, with the words Your President on Point at the bottom, followed by clips of Trump and the words Your President Unhinged.
Barack Obama Delivers a Jeremiad
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
However insignificant your vote might seem in the great scheme of things, when millions of votes are cast, the individual act of casting a ballot should mean everything to you as a citizen --fulfilling a sacred duty to one's nation that is critical to it being managed well.
Even though it's an awesome responsibility, to be taken seriously, it is hardly onerous, requiring only that you be well-informed -- a task, unfortunately, made unnecessarily difficult by myriad elements determined to spread disinformation and sow division.
To throw up one's hands in the face of such obstacles and retire from the fray would be to give into forces that haven't your best interests at heart.
One vote is but an arrow, in the thousands they're a volley, capable of striking down an enemy and clearing the way for what is good and decent.
Elizabeth, CA
@JohnBellyful
Not onerous if you live in a place with well run voting. In many parts of the US, voting means standing in line for 5 hours, 7 hours, sometimes even longer. If you work 3 half time jobs to make ends meet, and you have small children, that is pretty much impossible.
Not to mention new voter ID laws, and how difficult it can be for poorer people to get the right type of ID.
@Elizabeth
It's terrible when a government is at war with the people it is supposed to serve and instead chooses sides as to who it will represent.
The world is witnessing a slow-motion implosion of the most powerful nation on earth and fearing what the consequences will be for everyone.
Robert, Out west
Would you like to keep your kids’ health care, Elizabeth? Then I suggest you watch any episode of “Eyes On the Prize,” and get ready to vote.
Lots of people are willing to help.
It might be wise to take another look at DeJoy's testimony, because sometimes the online audio isn't always the best.
Did he say the postal service is committed to delivering the nation's election mail on time or in time, as in eventually?
Nothing says improvement in efficiency more than the removal of machines that sort 30,000 pieces of mail an hour.
It also tells me the new postmaster general is keen on the USPS providing a service with a personal touch.
Me, Here
@JohnBellyful
When I promise the mail will be "on time", and my PO rules do not state what "on time" really means given the varieties of mail and distance but only give estimates, I have promised you nothing but my best effort. Meaningless and unprovable.
Joe’s Fearsome Weapon Against Trump: Simple Decency
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
Michelle Obama said Trump is “clearly in over his head.”
I think I know where it's stuck.
Trump Must Turn Over Tax Returns to D.A., Judge Rules
(NY Times, Aug. 20, 2020)
Boomer Here, Oregon
Mr. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, “This is a continuation of the witch hunt, the greatest witch hunt in history. There’s never been anything like it.”
If it’s a witch hunt ,wouldn’t releasing the requested documents exonerate the president?
Wouldn’t it benefit him to just cooperate and get it over with ?
Joe Rocco, Staten Island
You mean like producing birth certificate?
@Joe Rocco
Geez, I took it for granted that Trump was born in the U.S. but if you think it will help him with the 'witch hunt,' he should produce a birth certificate.
Then again, he might not, it might show he's way older than he is.
Louise Cavanaugh, Midwest
Sadly, Obama did produce a form of his birth certificate, despite the fact that there was never any legal reason for him to do so. Trump won’t produce his tax returns despite 1) saying he would, years ago, and 2) subpoenas litigated in the courts and from Congress. How are these two an equivalent thing in your mind? Your partisanship is pathetic, and you are allowing a man to run roughshod over our country because you need your “team” to win.
Hartford, CT
@JohnBellyful: The B/C will only show that the witch hunt and persecution of Mr. Trump started a long time before he became the greatest human being by far of all time -- at the very hour of his blessed birth.
"Witch hunt."
"Hoax"
"Fake News."
Turns out the 'star' of a reality show can't handle reality unless it's edited to make him look good.
The court system is one of the few places where Trump is appealing.
Everywhere else he is loathsome.
Democratic Convention: Best and Worst Moments of Night 3
(NY Times, Aug. 20, 2020)
Thomas, Hollywood
This is funny. McCarthy has it precisely backwards:
Daniel McCarthy Barack Obama is smooth, but when he says, “Political opponents aren’t un-American just because they disagree with you” only to criticize “those who enable him” — anyone who votes for Donald Trump? — in the next breath, he proves why the unity he symbolized in 2009 turned to national division and defeat for his party in 2016.
Unity was a dead issue as soon as McConnell declared war on Obama's presidency. The GOP reaped what it has sown for 20 years with Trump. And Clinton won by 3 million votes -- an enormous amount. "Enablers" refers to the criminals that surround him, like his family, Barr, Meadows and Giuliani. And yes, to the 35 percenters who back Trump because they like a reality TV game show more than the country.
@Thomas
Agree entirely. Obama was referring to the enablers, the ones who have the means to rein in Trump's worst instincts -- does he have any other kind? -- but choose not to, because his corruption aligns with theirs.
And when it crosses boundaries even they wouldn't dare to trespass, they're too cowardly to say or do anything.
Enablers of Trump also should be known as disablers of democracy, and have their hands on the levers of power removed.
99percent, downtown,
Nielsen Media Research viewership numbers:
1st night of convention: down 42% from 2016.
2nd night of convention: down 27% from 2016.
3rd night of convention: not reported - everybody fell asleep.
@99percent
If the numbers reflect Americans' interest in the state of their republic or are an indictment of their attention span, neither bodes well for the nation come Nov. 3.
But your last comment gives me hope that people watched the entire night and then fell into a calming sleep, untroubled by nightmares that have plagued them in recent months, buoyed instead by dreams of a better future as set out by the speakers.
Each delivered a powerful message well worth hearing and set a path for change to happen when people work together.
Will 2020’s Election Be the End of Our Democracy?
(NY Times, Aug. 19, 2020)
Inspired by TF's column ...
Dr. Seuss Goes to the Polls
I will walk, I will glide
I will even hitch a ride
I will run, I will jog
I will crawl, I will slog
I will skate – not skedaddle!
Ride a horse without a saddle
I will hop, I will hurry
I will make it, don't you worry
I will dart, I will dash
Through the puddles I will splash
I don't care if it's sloppy
Mother Nature will not stop me!
I will sprint, not once dawdle
My two feet I will not coddle
Over hills I will plod
Also dales I will trod
Mountains, too, I will climb
(I'll leave early, it takes time)
I will crawl if I must
Through the mud, through the dust
Here I'll end, and you can quote:
Yes, I'll skip -- but not the vote!
Getting to the polling station
Is so important to our nation
Is Trump set on making it difficult to vote by mail in blue states in order to force people to cast their ballot at polling stations -- outside which throngs of his supporters will gather to 'monitor' the election, and scare off fearful Democrats intimidated by their presence?
Who's to say they won't form a gauntlet of sorts, or operate as self-appointed crowd control agents should there be lineups, checking out who's wearing Biden buttons and in need of an escort.
Paranoid thoughts, perhaps, untethered to reality, but that's where a mind led astray by Trump's septic leadership could find itself, in a place that's dark and foreboding.
Americans are at the crossroads.
Which path will they choose? Empath or psychopath?
On Being a Biden Conservative
(NY Times, Aug. 18, 2020)
Steve P Kingston, Ontario
In any other western democracy, Biden would technically fall into a Conservative party. The "other" mainstream side of the aisle would generally encompass people like Sanders or AOC.
A truly radical party on the other hand, would be the Republican party from 1980 to 2017. Trump republicans simply don't fall into anything conservative, but something more like authoritarianism.
All is to say, politics in America have tilted so far to the right over the last 40 years that the evidence is all around you that the Republican party in all its forms does not work and is the main reason for the slow destruction of your once great country. What a shame.
GV, New York
@Steve P
Thanks for writing the obituary of our "once great" country. Of course, I could call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," but would anybody really care?
@GV
First of all, it's not an obituary but an outsider's diagnosis of your nation's health as a democracy. It isn't good.
Now you can take umbrage at my fellow Canadian having the audacity to suggest all is not well with our neighbour if you wish but plenty of your compatriots will tell you the same thing.
It's a sad fact that second opinions often deliver harsh truths that are no more palatable than the first.
We really do think it a shame that a once-great country -- a characterization Trump routinely conveyed with his slogan -- is stumbling badly, a condition that will only get worse until the cause of its waywardness is removed from the White House.
There was a time when the United States was a beacon. In the last four years it's turned into a dumpster fire.
So go ahead, call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," if it makes you feel better, even superior. We know you're hurting and could use an ego bump.
We've got used to Trump treating allies poorly and we've taken plenty of potshots at him as well so all's good.
Best of luck with the election.
The world is watching with anxious eyes.
Trump Might Cheat. Activists Are Getting Ready
(NY Times, Aug. 18, 2020)
It's with great reluctance that I make this suggestion but I am emboldened to do so by readers who identify themselves as seniors who are passionate about sending Trump packing.
Assuming many others of their generation share their feelings, why not have older Americans form the front ranks of protesters when they take to the streets should Trump refuse to leave office despite losing an election.
It's a terrible request to make of citizens who suffer from the infirmities of their age but are more concerned with their nation's well-being.
Many would require canes, walkers and wheelchairs to take part but their hatred of what Trump has done to their country would serve as their impetus.
The obvious fear is that they'd suffer harm at the hands of heavily armed agents set loose by an aspiring autocrat defying the will of the people.
The hope, however, is that their show of courage would be met by the staying of force, that those charged with maintaining 'law and order' would soon realize the folly of employing heavy-handed tactics against society's most vulnerable.
To do otherwise would generate horrifying images and result in a public backlash so intense that Trump would have to flee for his life and take refuge in another country.
A welcome end but at too great a cost.
Far better for Trump would be to let his fellow seniors send him into retirement with a going-away party in January, which they can begin planning after all the 'invitations' have been counted in November.
Trump as Candidate: Racist Attacks, Conspiracy Theories, War on the Post Office
(NY Times, Aug. 17, 2020)
Steve W, Portland, Oregon
Subverting the postal service is a move toward a coup.
Disenfranchising voters through delay or non-delivery of their ballots is an attempt to retain power by any means.
And it is not the only caper in play.
CBS broke the story yesterday about Presidential Emergency Action Documents that could be used to give cover to a bogus declaration of an emergency by the president. Imagine the chaos that could unleash.
Thank you CBS for dragging that ploy into the daylight while they may be time to counter such a move.
Meanwhile, the rest of us must vote early and deliver our ballots in such a way that it relieves the burden on a hindered postal service.
Here in Oregon, we have ballot collection stations set up by the state so you don't even have to use a stamp. They look like a big old-fashioned mail box. They are very effective and convenient.
@Steve W
My concern would be bogus ballot collection stations cropping up all over the place. Never underestimate how low Trump's gang members are willing to go to keep their boss in power.
The news media no longer needs to give oxygen to Trump's fabrications by repeating the specifics of his latest mistruth.
For TV and radio it would be enough to say: "Today President Trump lied about [fill in the blank]. Now for the news. [Proceed to then report on something that is actually news]
For newspapers they could set aside a little box in the corner -- the far right corner -- of the front page for a running tally of his lies, broken down by category: Democrats 2,702, coronavirus 1,068, voter fraud 2,841, Obama 1,844, news media 1,895, conspiracies 1,796, dishwashers/showers 633 ...
The risk, of course, is that the box would steadily grow larger as Trump expands his areas of prevarication and threaten to take over the entire front page.
It would be a Pandora's Box of Pinnochio proportions.
If Trump likes the out of bounds so much Americans would be doing him – and the world -- a favour by sending him there in November.
Learning to Love Joe Biden
(NY Times, Aug. 16, 2020)
Donald, NJ
Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President. Nothing in this article justifies a vote for Biden. If anything more justification was giving for not voting for him when the 1987 issues are described. Hopefully most readers will not attribute these faults to "doglike desire to please" but the the fact that he lied to the American public in order to become President of the USA.
@Donald
"Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President."
Apparently not. Greed and heartlessness, on the other hand, gets you a seat in the Oval Office behind the Resolute desk (since renamed Dissolute).
And serially lying, sadly, doesn't automatically disqualify one from leading the nation.
Whatever Biden's faults, they pale in comparison to the many that define Trump, who knows shame only as a word in the dictionary and thinks being decent is what chumps do.
Now there's a slogan for the Biden-Harris ticket: Make America Decent Again.
A herculean task, no question, akin to cleaning out stables where a White House once stood, in which manure has been piling up for the past four years.
The current tenants are a landlord's worst nightmare.
Let them find out what it feels like to be evicted (and convicted, if there is any justice).
(NY Times, Aug. 31, 2020)
Who would win more votes than lose them:
Biden currying favour with the law and order crowd by punching a protester in the nose?
Trump courting minorities by handing – not tossing – rolls of paper towel to Black hurricane victims and giving them a hug?
There was a time Trump aspired to be a Buffet and become a tycoon but the best he could do was to be a Buffoon.
Unfortunately the Buffoon's now in the White House which has driven down property values in the neighbourhood, and values across the nation.
Four more years of his tenancy would be catastrophic to the nation as a whole. The world would suffer as well.
Given the huge stakes of this election, Biden needs to pursue a more forceful campaign than issuing occasional statements that condemn the latest pronouncement by the president-in-name-only-but-a-despot-in-the-making.
He needs to make himself more visible, and more vigorous in his attacks on the Republicans, keeping his message simple and honest. It will be hard to land a knockout blow against an opponent as slippery as Trump but a constant barrage of jabs on Twitter, say, could prove as effective as the president's use of the medium in setting the agenda and creating narratives that stay with the public.
Sloganeering might not be the best way to enunciate policy but it can predispose voters to think in certain ways about issues and spur the thoughtful ones to do their own research.
In other words, Biden and the Democrats need to step up the pace and match Trump's energy, but not the content, of his virulent messaging.
Every day there's a report of what Trump said or did should also carry news of how Biden's campaigning sets him apart from the fellow he aims to replace, and the sordid conduct he vows to end.
The Lawbreakers Trump Loves
(NY Times, Aug. 30, 2020)
Meg, NY
I think Nick is missing the forest for the trees. Most commenters on both sides of the isle believe the Hatch Act is unconstitutional. But for sure, almost no one cares about it.
The fact is that most Americans are concerned about two things: the Corona virus and the riots. On one, the virus, we are inundated with news from the left, and appropriately so. But the political divide is between those who would shut down the economy at any cost, and those pushing to reopen—perhaps too fast but perhaps not. Obviously the left would shut it down and the right reopen. Trump gets low marks for this, but the stridency on the left—no jobs, no schools, may have played too long, and Trump may ultimately gain.
On the riots, most Americans support the protesters, and most of them are peaceful. But it is not clear that most protests remain peaceful. In a handful of cities the riots and looting continue night after night after night. And yet rarely a word from The NY Times. Watch Fox News sometimes. You will see Rand Paul, a Senator, and his wife attracted while walking home from the RNC. You will see another grey haired man sucker punched and knocked to the ground. You will see courthouses set afire (or attempts—while trapping people inside, EVERY night). Tellingly, the mayor of Portland asked rioters to stop for two reasons: one, attempted murder is a crime, and two, it will help Trump win. At least he asked them, finally, to stop, but he is absurd.
And no one trusts the media.
@Meg
I was going to point out that Fox News is media but then realized the absurdity of the assertion.
So to finish your thought:
"And no one trusts the media, only propaganda. It does the thinking for you."
Based on recent events why is the law-and-order crowd so quick to conclude that protesters are indistinguishable from looters, vandals and anarchists but fail to use the same logic and think of police officers as being no different from thugs and executioners?
Such sweeping generalizations would be a gross misrepresentation of the two sides, taking as their cue the unfortunate actions of a few bad actors.
If the federal government is intent on restoring peace in the streets no matter the cost it should apply the same robust effort to ridding police departments of officers who employ lethal force inexcusably.
Success in the latter area would eliminate the need for protests in the first place. Is that so difficult to understand?
After all when was the last time a violent uprising took place BEFORE a Black man or woman was killed without just cause?
Athletes Are Finished Playing America’s Rigged Game
(NY Times, Aug. 29, 2020)
bill smith, madison wisconsin
Let's face the facts: Most of the athletes standing up against social injustice are RICH and most of the people getting mistreated are poor. The biggest divide in America (or anywhere) is not Black, brown or white, but RICH or poor. What is refreshing about this stand, if indeed anything happens, is the possibility of some significant wealth redistribution from the RICH athletes and their "managers" to the poor, although it will only happen in a meaningful way if needed to preserve and maximize the profits of professional sports. That's America folks. LeBron said it right when he (apparently) expressed concern in a recent owners and players meeting about helping the people "below him". Yep, that says it all. We shall see what happens.
@bill smith
I'm waiting for white billionaires to show solidarity with wealthy athletes "below" them by joining in their push to end social injustice.
Is There Nothing Trump Won’t Say?
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Trump doesn't believe Black Lives Matter.
He doesn't believe facts matter.
He doesn't believe words matter.
He doesn't believe rules and traditions matter.
He doesn't believe scruples matter.
Conclusion: He's antimatter – the opposite of NORMAL matter.
And so are his followers.
You know what that means: Mutual annihilation when the two sides collide. Civil war, in other words.
The United States was fortunate to survive the first one. Another civil war and “the great American experiment” could come to an explosive end.
It's up to the electrons -- voters -- to stop it from happening.
(I think I might have watched way more of the Republican convention than was wise. The over-the-top rhetoric has stayed with me.)
Kenosha Tells Us More About Where the Right Is Headed Than the R.N.C. Did
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Kristina, DC
I think Trevor Noah explained it best. On the one hand, you have a man shot in the back seven times because he MIGHT have a weapon and therefore MIGHT be a threat, and on the other you have a man WITH a weapon, an AR15 no less, walking around and actively shooting people, and police just drove by and possibly thanked him at one point. If that isn't QED for the protests I don't know what is.
Paul Blart Mall Cop
@Kristina That a false choice because it implies that either would be happening in normal times. First of all, I don't think Rittenhouse should have shot anyone. However, he was only out there with a rifle because of the arson and rioting that was occurring. So really, the 'protests' (rioting always seem to accompany them) QED Rittenhouse shooting people.
We're leaving out two choices- the choice of Jacob Blake to comply with police and the choice of the protesters to turn a blind eye/stay silent about the arson and rioting that occurs along with the peaceful protests.
@Blart
Let's go through the choices:
1. Jacob Blake complies with police request
2. Blake ignores request, officers taser Blake
3. Taser doesn't work, Blake is seized by three officers and subdued
4. Blake somehow manages to break free of three police officers and continues to car. Blake is grabbed from behind by officer and pinned to the vehicle.
5. Blake somehow manages to break free of officer's arms wrapped underneath his arms and behind his neck. Officer knocks Blake on the head with pistol leaving him dazed.
6. Blake somehow manages to carry on with his intent to enter vehicle. Officer disables Blake by firing a couple of shots in his legs, and then waits to see if more shots are needed.
7. Blake somehow manages to reach inside the car, despite feeling groggy and being badly wounded. Officer fires weapon again, several times if necessary, if Blake continues to lurch backward toward him.
8. Protests, held to draw attention to what took place in Kenosha, turn violent and stores are destroyed. Rittenhouse decides to stay home and send thoughts and prayers to businesses.
9. Rittenhouse gets in touch with businesses and business leaders to ask if they need defending.
10. Rittenhouse decides to take action -- and a rifle -- to defend the property of strangers, knowing local police are outgunned by rioters and need reinforcements.
11. Rittenhouse spots a looter and fires a warning shot, saying the next bullet will find flesh.
12. Rittenhouse ... arrgh, out of spac
Yasser Taima, Pacific Palisades
@JohnBellyful In the late 1770s the world watched with amazement when Americans created the first modern republic and tugged the world firmly towards freedom and democracy.
In 2020 the world watches in horror as Americans attempt to justify the unjustifiable.
No one, anywhere in the world, would accept that an unarmed father with 3 of his children in his car would deserve a death sentence, unless the man is considered less than human.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Trump’s Big Night
(NY Times, Aug. 28, 2020)
Audrey Levenson, New York
As a 15 year old minor, unable to vote for a few years, Mr. Labash’s comment on refraining from voting this year seems negligent and irresponsible. Particularly in such an important and desperate election season, wasting or throwing away a vote is one of the most dangerous choices civilians can make. Though I cannot vote in this election, I firmly believe that those who have the power to do so must act. Voting this year is a step towards saving our democracy; even if the Democratic nominee is not ideal, he remains a far lesser evil than the myopic, self-interested incumbent currently exploiting the White House for his own personal gain. My generation will be left to deal with the consequences of this election- choose wisely.
Patricia, Huntington
@Audrey Levenson Everything you say is absolutely right, and I am glad you are our future. Mr. Labash is irresponsible; in the same comment, he included the falsehood that the DNC "lied" about peaceful protests. Of course they did not do this. The majority of the protests have been peaceful, and this is an important point.
TK, Cambridge
Thank you for sharing your conviction on how important Voting is for our country and democracy. I agree, using a personal platform to advocate for ‘sitting out the election’ is in poor form.
We’re witnessing folks who’ll sell out their country for some money or an edgy contrarian take.
While they scramble for whatever measly acclaim they can get their grubby little hands on, we’re seeing young people coming to age trying to grapple with issues that will be massively challenging for decades to come.
Please continue to be a guiding light on why Voting is so important. America’s future will be built by those who can put the nation’s interests ahead of oneself.
@Audrey Levenson
Labash should hold his nose if he must to perform his civic duty. Otherwise a duty becomes a mere fancy, to indulge when the mood strikes.
He needs to find a sturdier conscience that doesn't let him off so freely.
The White House is looking shabby today.
The tenants threw a party and the owners are upset.
Time to serve them a 60-day eviction notice.
What's that, they don't have to leave until January?
Well, that doesn't seem right.
They better not wreck the furniture.
They can move the deck chairs around, though.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Mike Pence Night
(NY Times, Aug. 27, 2020)
You wait and see, folks.
Tonight, when Trump unveils his years-in-the-making health care plan --AND the one to end systemic racism -- you'll be sorry you said those mean things about him.
Bob C., CA
@JohnBellyful, How much of what he will say do you think will be lies? We have had 4 years to judge the man, and we know that he very often reverses what he said the day before. This is an election year, so he will want to impress as many of his supporters as he can. As for the rest of us, we have already decided who is in the right and who is not. What happened during these past 4 years took place on HIS watch, not Joe's. He is responsible for it all. Yet, he does not accept any kind of responsibility. Yes, from this he is definitely a lousy Commander-in Chief!
Carole, CT
@JohnBellyful Mean things? His tweets and comments are mean, vicious and intended to injure.
This is not mean, it's an observation.
I have often wondered how Donald Trump's behavior (he who was born with a silver spoon) is excused when he retaliates, lashes out and is just downright petty, BUT anyone who calls him on it is MEAN and attacking poor Donald.
Lefty, Ohio
@JohnBellyful
Sarcasm right?
Arch,California
Thanks for the bellyful laugh.
JB, CA
@JohnBellyful And, we can add his yet to be unveiled plan to control the virus! Oh, right, Pence and Kudlow (two medical experts) said we are doing well.
All the alligators from the swamp will be on display tonight. Take a good look people!!
DChrest, Texas
@JohnBellyful hahaha, you are being sarcastic right? Especially since Trump has been "promising" the greatest health care plan EVER for ever now.
K, UK
@JohnBellyful hey if he also unveils some actual leadership that would be great too
Thomas Zaslavsky, Binghamton, N.Y.
@JohnBellyful
And the miracle cure. And the four-week remedy for global warming.
oscar jr, sandown nh
Aug. 27
@JohnBellyful
Ha Ha, that's so funny it's true
I'll say this about the Republicans. They put the con in convention.
They also put one in the White House.
Most Americans would rather see Trump not serve a second term in office but a first term in prison.
As Young Black Athletes Call for Racial Awakening, Some N.F.L. Retirees Declare Fealty to ‘Winner’ Trump
(NY Times, Aug. 27, 2020)
G, Edison, NJ
If the elite, privileged NB players don't want to play, they can all give up their $10 million mansions and vacation homes and fancy cars and go get a real job like the rest of us.
I am quite sure my boss would not stand for my refusing to work because I want to protest even a legitimate social injustice.
The world will continue without NBA games.
Maybe then the players would realize how privileged they are.
If they are not paid to play ball, they may need to learn how to say "do you want fries with that ?".
@G
Tell me exactly why playing professional sports isn't a 'real' job?
Does your demeaning athletes apply to all the workers behind the scenes whose jobs depend on sports for their livelihood, and the people employed in businesses that profit in any way from sports?
What about the multitudes employed in movies, theatre, music, dance, literature? And the people who make novelties for the lower and middle class and baubles for the wealthy?
Are you saying these do not involve 'real' jobs because they bring enjoyment.
And what would life be for the mechanic, plumber, carpenter, factory worker, doctor, nurse, farmer, server, baker -- people with 'real' jobs -- if they didn't have entertainment to lift their spirits, give them inspiration, bring them joy, evoke a smile or shed a tear, soothe their soul, in other words, make them think, make them feel?
What a sterile world it would be if these not-real jobs didn't exist.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Night 2
(NY Times, Aug. 26, 2020)
I didn't see everyone who queued up to praise Trump for what he has done to help them so I may have missed it but did a billionaire step forward to say how grateful he and other members of the one percent class are for the vital assistance they received in the form of a tax cut that helped them when it was urgently needed?
You know, I might be wrong about this Trump feller.
After watching people from all walks of life deliver testimonials about him and reading reports about others I missed,
I now realize just much good he's done for the United States.
And then I think, wow, if a guy who lies, cheats, insults, bullies, betrays, and whines as much as he does to make America great again, imagine what a guy who's decent and good can do for his country and democracy.
The U.S. could go back to being No. 1 in the eyes of the world again.
Republican Convention: Best and Worst Moments From Night 1
(NY Times, Aug. 25, 2020)
Nolalily, Gloucestershire, England
Let's not forget Donnie Jr's. weird and strange penchant for murdering endangered species and other wild animals. What kind of person goes in for that kind of thing?
@Nolalily
Don Jr also thinks Democrats are fair game but as long as there's a law against killing humans whaddya gonna do? Shoot animals, of course, animals that are so fierce and clever that only a brave man with a small arsenal can take them down for a photo op.
Which is very thoughtful of him, because we should have a record of what the last of these animals looked like before they became extinct at the hands of man.
Biden’s Loose Lips Could Sink His Chances
(NY Times, Aug. 25, 2020)
Biden said he would listen to the scientists and lock down the country if that were their counsel.
Stephens might be less troubled if their number included political scientists, who had weighed the risks of such a drastic measure and concluded they were manageable -- albeit difficult in the short term -- and well worth taking, in the best interests of the country.
Keep in mind, we're talking worst-case scenario – no, not Trump, although the two have become forever linked – where the situation has become dire after less disruptive interventions have proven ineffectual.
Implementing a restrictive regime is not likely to win over the majority of Republican supporters who think 175,000 and counting COVID-19 deaths is acceptable, so long as the economy is humming (and they're whistling past the graveyard).
Stephens ends by quoting Kennedy to bolster his argument.
Here's something else the president said that's just as relevant, and touches on the immense challenge Biden faces should he be elected: “In a time of domestic crisis, men of goodwill and generosity should be able to unite regardless of party or politics.”
Does anyone see that happening in the absence of the Democrats taking control of the Senate?
Four more years of Trump will only deepen and widen the existing divide.
The same holds true if the Senate remains in Republican hands.
Tom W, Illinois
@JohnBellyful well said
N.Y. Attorney General Asks Judge to Order Eric Trump’s Testimony
(NY Times, Aug. 24, 2020)
Bob, New York
This is yet anther egregious case of "Criminal Harassment."
@Bob
No, criminal harassment is repeatedly accusing the Democrats of wanting to destroy the country and mainstream news media being enemy of the people.
I wonder how many people named Trump but not related to the president in any way are seriously considering changing their name -- if they haven't already.
The alternative, I suppose, when asked, would be to hand out business cards that say: "No, no, a thousand times no, I am not related to him!"
This week Trump will boast about his track record.
Next year we'll chortle about his criminal record.
I get the feeling the Trumps think subpoena is Latin for "you don't hafta if you don't wanna."
Trump’s Reality TV Show Would Like You to Forget About Reality for a While
(NY Times, Aug. 24, 2020)
I liken Trump's disastrous administration to The Picture of Dorian Gray.
He gets away with doing detestable things but his image never changes in the eyes of his steadfast supporters.
Meanwhile hidden away in a room in the White House known only to Trump there's an American flag, not a portrait, growing ever more ragged. Each new outrage he commits leaves another star or stripe in tatters.
A Biden victory Nov. 3 will make the flag whole again.
Unfortunately, restoring the flag to its original pristine state will take years to accomplish.
Why Biden Needs a Landslide Just to Win
(NY Times, Aug. 23, 2020)
Bill C, Boston
The whole “Hillary got more popular votes” theme is so tired and shows intellectual ignorance or dishonesty on the part of people like Bruni making this argument. The only scorecard is the EC, where Trump won handily. This is akin to me saying, “the Boston Bruins scored more goals than the Blues in the Stanley Cup Finals so they REALLY won the Cup.” Despite losing 4 games to 3 in the series.
@Bill C
But what if the league were to award 5 goals to one team for every one its opponent scored? Hardly seems fair to have one team's goal count for more than the other's.
Given the amount of dirt the Republicans are certain to fling at Biden and Harris in the form of insults and -- paradoxically -- groundless accusations, an overwhelming victory by the Democrats would best be described as a mudslide.
A Glimmer of Hope for Trump? How Bush Mounted a Comeback in 1988
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
The Democrats should run a negative campaign – by running unedited clips of Trump talking and ranting, whining and moaning, boasting and blathering.
There's so much raw, incendiary material to sift through, their challenge will be to decide which clips to run and stay within budget.
The commercials will catch Trump's base off-guard as they won't be expecting the bad guys to pay 'tribute' to their hero, but, more importantly, it will cause the ultra-important minority who have yet to decide on a candidate to shake their head and think: “Good grief, why am I even considering voting for a corrupt, racist, egotistical, indolent blowhard?”
Trump in his own words – the unvarnished truth.
Yeah, that'll work.
I can't think of a better campaign script.
PS: A nice touch would be to have “Who's Sorry Now” playing in the background.
Also, they should open some of the commercials showing a clip of Obama speaking at the Democratic convention, with the words Your President on Point at the bottom, followed by clips of Trump and the words Your President Unhinged.
Barack Obama Delivers a Jeremiad
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
However insignificant your vote might seem in the great scheme of things, when millions of votes are cast, the individual act of casting a ballot should mean everything to you as a citizen --fulfilling a sacred duty to one's nation that is critical to it being managed well.
Even though it's an awesome responsibility, to be taken seriously, it is hardly onerous, requiring only that you be well-informed -- a task, unfortunately, made unnecessarily difficult by myriad elements determined to spread disinformation and sow division.
To throw up one's hands in the face of such obstacles and retire from the fray would be to give into forces that haven't your best interests at heart.
One vote is but an arrow, in the thousands they're a volley, capable of striking down an enemy and clearing the way for what is good and decent.
Elizabeth, CA
@JohnBellyful
Not onerous if you live in a place with well run voting. In many parts of the US, voting means standing in line for 5 hours, 7 hours, sometimes even longer. If you work 3 half time jobs to make ends meet, and you have small children, that is pretty much impossible.
Not to mention new voter ID laws, and how difficult it can be for poorer people to get the right type of ID.
@Elizabeth
It's terrible when a government is at war with the people it is supposed to serve and instead chooses sides as to who it will represent.
The world is witnessing a slow-motion implosion of the most powerful nation on earth and fearing what the consequences will be for everyone.
Robert, Out west
Would you like to keep your kids’ health care, Elizabeth? Then I suggest you watch any episode of “Eyes On the Prize,” and get ready to vote.
Lots of people are willing to help.
It might be wise to take another look at DeJoy's testimony, because sometimes the online audio isn't always the best.
Did he say the postal service is committed to delivering the nation's election mail on time or in time, as in eventually?
Nothing says improvement in efficiency more than the removal of machines that sort 30,000 pieces of mail an hour.
It also tells me the new postmaster general is keen on the USPS providing a service with a personal touch.
Me, Here
@JohnBellyful
When I promise the mail will be "on time", and my PO rules do not state what "on time" really means given the varieties of mail and distance but only give estimates, I have promised you nothing but my best effort. Meaningless and unprovable.
Joe’s Fearsome Weapon Against Trump: Simple Decency
(NY Times, Aug. 22, 2020)
Michelle Obama said Trump is “clearly in over his head.”
I think I know where it's stuck.
Trump Must Turn Over Tax Returns to D.A., Judge Rules
(NY Times, Aug. 20, 2020)
Boomer Here, Oregon
Mr. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, “This is a continuation of the witch hunt, the greatest witch hunt in history. There’s never been anything like it.”
If it’s a witch hunt ,wouldn’t releasing the requested documents exonerate the president?
Wouldn’t it benefit him to just cooperate and get it over with ?
Joe Rocco, Staten Island
You mean like producing birth certificate?
@Joe Rocco
Geez, I took it for granted that Trump was born in the U.S. but if you think it will help him with the 'witch hunt,' he should produce a birth certificate.
Then again, he might not, it might show he's way older than he is.
Louise Cavanaugh, Midwest
Sadly, Obama did produce a form of his birth certificate, despite the fact that there was never any legal reason for him to do so. Trump won’t produce his tax returns despite 1) saying he would, years ago, and 2) subpoenas litigated in the courts and from Congress. How are these two an equivalent thing in your mind? Your partisanship is pathetic, and you are allowing a man to run roughshod over our country because you need your “team” to win.
Hartford, CT
@JohnBellyful: The B/C will only show that the witch hunt and persecution of Mr. Trump started a long time before he became the greatest human being by far of all time -- at the very hour of his blessed birth.
"Witch hunt."
"Hoax"
"Fake News."
Turns out the 'star' of a reality show can't handle reality unless it's edited to make him look good.
The court system is one of the few places where Trump is appealing.
Everywhere else he is loathsome.
Democratic Convention: Best and Worst Moments of Night 3
(NY Times, Aug. 20, 2020)
Thomas, Hollywood
This is funny. McCarthy has it precisely backwards:
Daniel McCarthy Barack Obama is smooth, but when he says, “Political opponents aren’t un-American just because they disagree with you” only to criticize “those who enable him” — anyone who votes for Donald Trump? — in the next breath, he proves why the unity he symbolized in 2009 turned to national division and defeat for his party in 2016.
Unity was a dead issue as soon as McConnell declared war on Obama's presidency. The GOP reaped what it has sown for 20 years with Trump. And Clinton won by 3 million votes -- an enormous amount. "Enablers" refers to the criminals that surround him, like his family, Barr, Meadows and Giuliani. And yes, to the 35 percenters who back Trump because they like a reality TV game show more than the country.
@Thomas
Agree entirely. Obama was referring to the enablers, the ones who have the means to rein in Trump's worst instincts -- does he have any other kind? -- but choose not to, because his corruption aligns with theirs.
And when it crosses boundaries even they wouldn't dare to trespass, they're too cowardly to say or do anything.
Enablers of Trump also should be known as disablers of democracy, and have their hands on the levers of power removed.
99percent, downtown,
Nielsen Media Research viewership numbers:
1st night of convention: down 42% from 2016.
2nd night of convention: down 27% from 2016.
3rd night of convention: not reported - everybody fell asleep.
@99percent
If the numbers reflect Americans' interest in the state of their republic or are an indictment of their attention span, neither bodes well for the nation come Nov. 3.
But your last comment gives me hope that people watched the entire night and then fell into a calming sleep, untroubled by nightmares that have plagued them in recent months, buoyed instead by dreams of a better future as set out by the speakers.
Each delivered a powerful message well worth hearing and set a path for change to happen when people work together.
Will 2020’s Election Be the End of Our Democracy?
(NY Times, Aug. 19, 2020)
Inspired by TF's column ...
Dr. Seuss Goes to the Polls
I will walk, I will glide
I will even hitch a ride
I will run, I will jog
I will crawl, I will slog
I will skate – not skedaddle!
Ride a horse without a saddle
I will hop, I will hurry
I will make it, don't you worry
I will dart, I will dash
Through the puddles I will splash
I don't care if it's sloppy
Mother Nature will not stop me!
I will sprint, not once dawdle
My two feet I will not coddle
Over hills I will plod
Also dales I will trod
Mountains, too, I will climb
(I'll leave early, it takes time)
I will crawl if I must
Through the mud, through the dust
Here I'll end, and you can quote:
Yes, I'll skip -- but not the vote!
Getting to the polling station
Is so important to our nation
Is Trump set on making it difficult to vote by mail in blue states in order to force people to cast their ballot at polling stations -- outside which throngs of his supporters will gather to 'monitor' the election, and scare off fearful Democrats intimidated by their presence?
Who's to say they won't form a gauntlet of sorts, or operate as self-appointed crowd control agents should there be lineups, checking out who's wearing Biden buttons and in need of an escort.
Paranoid thoughts, perhaps, untethered to reality, but that's where a mind led astray by Trump's septic leadership could find itself, in a place that's dark and foreboding.
Americans are at the crossroads.
Which path will they choose? Empath or psychopath?
On Being a Biden Conservative
(NY Times, Aug. 18, 2020)
Steve P Kingston, Ontario
In any other western democracy, Biden would technically fall into a Conservative party. The "other" mainstream side of the aisle would generally encompass people like Sanders or AOC.
A truly radical party on the other hand, would be the Republican party from 1980 to 2017. Trump republicans simply don't fall into anything conservative, but something more like authoritarianism.
All is to say, politics in America have tilted so far to the right over the last 40 years that the evidence is all around you that the Republican party in all its forms does not work and is the main reason for the slow destruction of your once great country. What a shame.
GV, New York
@Steve P
Thanks for writing the obituary of our "once great" country. Of course, I could call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," but would anybody really care?
@GV
First of all, it's not an obituary but an outsider's diagnosis of your nation's health as a democracy. It isn't good.
Now you can take umbrage at my fellow Canadian having the audacity to suggest all is not well with our neighbour if you wish but plenty of your compatriots will tell you the same thing.
It's a sad fact that second opinions often deliver harsh truths that are no more palatable than the first.
We really do think it a shame that a once-great country -- a characterization Trump routinely conveyed with his slogan -- is stumbling badly, a condition that will only get worse until the cause of its waywardness is removed from the White House.
There was a time when the United States was a beacon. In the last four years it's turned into a dumpster fire.
So go ahead, call Canada "never great" or "insignificant," if it makes you feel better, even superior. We know you're hurting and could use an ego bump.
We've got used to Trump treating allies poorly and we've taken plenty of potshots at him as well so all's good.
Best of luck with the election.
The world is watching with anxious eyes.
Trump Might Cheat. Activists Are Getting Ready
(NY Times, Aug. 18, 2020)
It's with great reluctance that I make this suggestion but I am emboldened to do so by readers who identify themselves as seniors who are passionate about sending Trump packing.
Assuming many others of their generation share their feelings, why not have older Americans form the front ranks of protesters when they take to the streets should Trump refuse to leave office despite losing an election.
It's a terrible request to make of citizens who suffer from the infirmities of their age but are more concerned with their nation's well-being.
Many would require canes, walkers and wheelchairs to take part but their hatred of what Trump has done to their country would serve as their impetus.
The obvious fear is that they'd suffer harm at the hands of heavily armed agents set loose by an aspiring autocrat defying the will of the people.
The hope, however, is that their show of courage would be met by the staying of force, that those charged with maintaining 'law and order' would soon realize the folly of employing heavy-handed tactics against society's most vulnerable.
To do otherwise would generate horrifying images and result in a public backlash so intense that Trump would have to flee for his life and take refuge in another country.
A welcome end but at too great a cost.
Far better for Trump would be to let his fellow seniors send him into retirement with a going-away party in January, which they can begin planning after all the 'invitations' have been counted in November.
Trump as Candidate: Racist Attacks, Conspiracy Theories, War on the Post Office
(NY Times, Aug. 17, 2020)
Steve W, Portland, Oregon
Subverting the postal service is a move toward a coup.
Disenfranchising voters through delay or non-delivery of their ballots is an attempt to retain power by any means.
And it is not the only caper in play.
CBS broke the story yesterday about Presidential Emergency Action Documents that could be used to give cover to a bogus declaration of an emergency by the president. Imagine the chaos that could unleash.
Thank you CBS for dragging that ploy into the daylight while they may be time to counter such a move.
Meanwhile, the rest of us must vote early and deliver our ballots in such a way that it relieves the burden on a hindered postal service.
Here in Oregon, we have ballot collection stations set up by the state so you don't even have to use a stamp. They look like a big old-fashioned mail box. They are very effective and convenient.
@Steve W
My concern would be bogus ballot collection stations cropping up all over the place. Never underestimate how low Trump's gang members are willing to go to keep their boss in power.
The news media no longer needs to give oxygen to Trump's fabrications by repeating the specifics of his latest mistruth.
For TV and radio it would be enough to say: "Today President Trump lied about [fill in the blank]. Now for the news. [Proceed to then report on something that is actually news]
For newspapers they could set aside a little box in the corner -- the far right corner -- of the front page for a running tally of his lies, broken down by category: Democrats 2,702, coronavirus 1,068, voter fraud 2,841, Obama 1,844, news media 1,895, conspiracies 1,796, dishwashers/showers 633 ...
The risk, of course, is that the box would steadily grow larger as Trump expands his areas of prevarication and threaten to take over the entire front page.
It would be a Pandora's Box of Pinnochio proportions.
If Trump likes the out of bounds so much Americans would be doing him – and the world -- a favour by sending him there in November.
Learning to Love Joe Biden
(NY Times, Aug. 16, 2020)
Donald, NJ
Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President. Nothing in this article justifies a vote for Biden. If anything more justification was giving for not voting for him when the 1987 issues are described. Hopefully most readers will not attribute these faults to "doglike desire to please" but the the fact that he lied to the American public in order to become President of the USA.
@Donald
"Compassion & empathy doesn't make a President."
Apparently not. Greed and heartlessness, on the other hand, gets you a seat in the Oval Office behind the Resolute desk (since renamed Dissolute).
And serially lying, sadly, doesn't automatically disqualify one from leading the nation.
Whatever Biden's faults, they pale in comparison to the many that define Trump, who knows shame only as a word in the dictionary and thinks being decent is what chumps do.
Now there's a slogan for the Biden-Harris ticket: Make America Decent Again.
A herculean task, no question, akin to cleaning out stables where a White House once stood, in which manure has been piling up for the past four years.
The current tenants are a landlord's worst nightmare.
Let them find out what it feels like to be evicted (and convicted, if there is any justice).
Ex-F.B.I. Lawyer Expected to Plead Guilty in Review of Russia Inquiry
(NY Times, Aug. 15, 2020)
Howard F Jaeckel writes: “Readers should also note that the Times buries the facts suggesting Clinesmith's anti-Trump bias deep into this long story, following a long explanation of the insignificance of Clinesmith's imminent guilty plea.”
Hmmm.
The story is 32 paragraphs long. The fifth paragraph – yes, the fifth -- begins: “Mr. Clinesmith had written texts expressing opposition to Mr. Trump.”
That tipped me off right there – and perhaps others -- that bias might have played a part in his actions, and, sure enough, the story goes on to provide details.
Although I had to wonder initially if it would because that same paragraph – the fifth one -- pointed out the independent inspector general had concluded law enforcement officials had “sufficient reason to open the Russia investigation” and there was “no evidence that they acted with political bias.”
A small matter in the greater scheme of things for sure, this quibbling over the structure of a story, but it's one you thought important enough to mention, alleging as you did that the newspaper was trying to bury the facts.
I took that to mean Times readers have short attention spans and weren't likely to reach the article's end to find out the particulars.
But that gives short shrift to readers who are convinced there's a deep state, and are dogged in their pursuit of the truth.
Apparently I have more faith than you that they will get to the bottom of things, even if it means plowing through a whole bunch of paragraphs.
Postal Service Warns States It May Not Meet Mail-In Ballot Deadlines
(NY Times, Aug. 15, 2020)
What neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night could do to stay USPS couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds, Trump is accomplishing with the appointment of Louis DeJoy as postmaster general.
I understand DeJoy's latest initiative to reduce costs is to bring back the Pony Express. Its motto: “The mail must go through ... lots and lots of delays.”
The postal service is now warning that “ballots might not be returned by mail in time to be counted.”
Trump is pooh-poohing accusations the changes are being made to discourage people from taking part in the election.
Far from it, he says.
In fact, I'm told, he's now urging Americans to show their support for letter carriers -- “a great bunch of people!” -- by casting their ballots exclusively by mail.
His enthusiastic endorsement “is my way of saying the election's in the bag,” he said. Supposedly.
Kamala Harris, the Prosecutor Trump Fears Most
(NY Times, Aug. 14, 2020)
NVHustler, Las Vegas,NV
Trump is certainly not afraid of Mrs. Harris or anyone else. He has dealt with New York politicians for years in getting his properties built in NYC. Harris is just another politician. At the end of the day he will prevail. Politics is a dirty business. Wecome to the real world.
@NVHustler
The real world includes good things as well, although often they require far more effort than they should, to make happen.
Such as voting out a dim-witted narcissist who bullied his way into the White House and will stop at nothing to remain there.
Casting a vote should be straightforward but he's doing his damndest to make it as difficult as possible, employing all sorts of machinations.
If only he had spent as much time planning a pandemic response as he has plotting to stay in power.
I keep reading about the long lineups that are likely to occur on Nov. 3, which could dissuade large numbers of people from voting, and the tip the scale in Trump's favour.
Nonprofits and philanthropic individuals of ample means could support the fight to restore decency and intelligence in the Oval Office by making available wheeled walkers in key areas across the nation where bottlenecks are projected to happen.
A modest initiative, to be sure, but it would allow people to stand up for democracy ... while sitting down, as they ever so slowly make their way to the polling station.
Voters would be advised to go in pairs, taking turns resting in the seat while the other pushes.
(Hopefully, the weather isn't inclement, which would be a boon to the incumbent.)
Should Trump and Pence Be Worried About Kamala Harris? Let’s Go to the Tape
(NY Times, Aug. 14, 2020)
So Trump is now questioning where Harris was born.
Should be easy enough to rebut.
Not so for Trump when Harris asks him: Why do you suborn?
After Trump, America Needs Accountability for His Corruption
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
David Godinez, Kansas City, MO
One of the problems with an organized attempt at political retribution by a Democratic administration is that it presupposes Democratic office-holders are all pure as the driven snow. Since there is no more certainty about that than there is with President Trump's alleged crimes (are we really supposed to get in a froth over a golf course?), a politically smart new administration of either party will get on with the business of governing, and ignore the chattering coming from the peanut gallery of left-wing journalists and legal groups.
@David Godinez
Alleged crimes? And the best example you can come up with is a golf course? Good grief.
Geez, you guys are harsh.
Isn't capitol punishment -- defeating Trump at the polls -- more than enough?
I can understand the desire, though. Going after the deadbeat would be immensely satisfying.
Trump’s Cabinet From Hell
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
Just Ben, Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico
Still skeptical about whether this line of inquiry is really humorous.
It tends to obscure the big picture: Trump ignores the corruption and lunacy of all appointees, including Cabinet members, as long as the appointees pretend to be loyal to him.
Naturally, especially given that he never bothers to vet anyone, this yields crooked and incompetent appointees.
So it really comes down to the guy at the top--not the stooges and gangsters one level below
Me, NC
@Just Ben Humor is the sharpest weapon of the Resistance.
Just Be, Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico
@Me Sorry, don't agree. How has humor aided overthrowing Trump? Some things just ain't funny. In any case, humor won't bring down the humorless, any more than shame brings down the shameless.
@Just Ben
Humour won't bring down Trump. It's an antidote to despair so the battle can continue to be fought despite overwhelming odds..
QAnon Followers Are Hijacking the #SaveTheChildren Movement
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
Conspiracy propaganda is the equivalent of political pornography: Consumers of the lies are looking to gratify their biases the easiest way possible, with the least amount of thought.
At some point the perverse pleasure they derive from the outrage this nonsense provokes begins to wane and they must look for ever more extreme notions of a deep state to achieve the same intensity of feeling.
It's sad -- and terrifying -- that people would set aside their capacity to reason and let rumourmongers and peddlers of patently false narratives feed them lies so they can achieve a state of angry bliss.
The more this blight spreads the worse off society will be. Democracy can't survive when its citizens abandon reason.
Kamala Harris, a Political Fighter Shaped by Life in Two Worlds
(NY Times, Aug. 12, 2020)
P McGrath, USA
Harris will not be VP she will be the Democrat candidate for President. Joe will be forced to step aside once his current cognitive status is revealed. The media is doing rope a dope trying to stall the obvious. Joe is being carefully handled so he doesn't take any questions just has shot statements and everything else is taped.
Whereas the Republicans, by remaining silent on the sidelines, are giving their dope enough rope to hang himself politically. To compare the cognitive status of the two presidential candidates I've suggested they go head to head in an election game version of Jeopardy. Should one finish without any money he would have to step aside and let his choice for VP run for the presidency. Hmmm, even though Biden would be facing a genius, I'm fairly certain a Biden-Pence clash would be the end result.
Is this where Haley steps in to square off against Harris?
As expected Fox News hosts last night attacked Harris as Biden's VP choice, a fulminating fusillade that will continue for the next two-and-a-half months. Their ordnance, as always, will consist of ridicule and hyperbole, fiction and hate.
Tucker Carlson came under fire himself, however, for mispronouncing Harris's first name, even after being corrected by a guest.
But I can see his problem. I, myself, often mispronounce his first name.
JGresha, Charlotte NC
@JohnBellyful So do I.
Jean, Vancouver
@JohnBellyful Same here, it's weird. I keep getting the consonants wrong.
Jaggy Maya, Canada
I choose to mispronounce his name most of the time, with good reason.
M, CA
@JohnBellyful
Ridicule, hyperbole, fiction and hate would well describe every word the media has written about Trump.
Kamala Harris Is the Future, So Mike Pence May Well Be History
(NY Times, Aug. 11, 2020)
Michael Balter, Portland
I think it's funny how quickly you found favor with the democratic VP pick.
So how did it go?
Did you have the column written in advance with blanks for the name and you just filled in Kamala real quick?
Or
Did you write glowing columns for all the finalists and then you just clicked on the right file and then clicked send.
I wonder if others actually read this stuff and actually believe that they are getting wise and reasoned opinion or do they know its just hyper partisan narrative without an ounce of honesty or sincere reflection.
But hey.......its a great gig........the NYT.........money, respect, career builder.
Just don't write anything that is smart, insightful, or clever.
@Michael Balter
One might ask the same of your comment.
Did it come together in your mind long before you read the column, knowing no matter what it said you would find fault with it?
Or did the part about "hyper partisan narrative without an ounce of honesty or sincere reflection" suddenly dawn on you as you read what FB had to say?
Telling him not to write "anything that is smart, insightful, or clever" is a bit much, just because you find that sort of stuff off-putting. There are many who rather enjoy it.
Charles, CHARLOTTE, NC
This McClatchy lede on Harris shows exactly what kind of signal VP Biden is sending:
"In the Senate and on the campaign trail, Kamala Harris is opposing the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement targeting Israel, foreign aid cuts to the state, condemnatory votes on Israel at the United Nations and public criticism of its leadership — all tactics increasingly popular with the Democratic base and adopted by several of her Democratic presidential rivals.
Unlike those rivals, Harris is standing by her association with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
“Her support for Israel is central to who she is,” Harris’ campaign communications director, Lily Adams, told McClatchy."
Blow, dog whistle, blow.
@Charles Give her time, give her time. Let her grow into the office she will occupy for the next four years. After that ... I've already begun imagining a Mount Rushmore with her visage. Not that I want to put any pressure on her to overachieve. Being competent and incorruptible will suffice. BTW, Trump's no Tom Jefferson either. More a Warren Harding, whose administration was notorious for being corrupt, inept and scandal-ridden.
Charles, CHARLOTTE, NC
@JohnBellyful
I'm sure that she'll have her bust on Mount Rushmore carved by the Black inmates she sent to prison for marijuana possession.
And by the way, we Yanks do have more choices than Trump and Biden this year... I am voting for the Libertarian ticket of Jorgensen-Cohen.
The Revolt of the Republican Strategists
(NY Times, Aug. 11, 2020)
I would be curious to know just how many communicants really "believe they are actually eating and drinking the body and blood of Christ," and not participating in a ritual that is meant to be strictly symbolic.
Is it not possible they recognize communion for what it is, which is an expression of faith and not a rejection of reason?
Religious conviction is fine but when it requires adherents to perceive reality in a way that defies logic I would suggest it becomes problematic in how they conduct their lives.
Faith and common sense can go hand in hand.
Or so one would think.
Mary, Sampson
The one thing on which Marx was truly correct, was his statement ‘Religion is the opiate of the people’
Ross is probably correct that conservative Catholics believe in the Eucharist. However, as a cradle Catholic I know there are many who do not.
Ron Goodman, Menands, NY
@JohnBellyful I'm not a Catholic, or religious in any sense, but I believe that have to jump through a lot of philosophical hoops, via Aristotle through Thomas Aquinas, in order to defend that belief.
JRC, Metrowest Boston
@JohnBellyful When I was about 10 years old I learned about transubstantiation. Until that point I, of course, believed that communion was an expression of, and not actually, the body and blood of Christ. I questioned the CCD teacher about this and was shocked to learn that we were really, truly supposed to believe that the wafer and wine were the body and blood of Christ and only looked like what they were. Even at 10 I thought that was nuts. However, I went to Catholic schools after that and let me assure you that many of my classmates and teachers actually did believe that the elements were no longer a wafer and wine. They also accepted the virgin birth and other things I thought really must be and expression of purity of soul or etc. When Douthat wrote of Stevens dismissal of Catholic belief of transubstantiation I totally got the point he (Douthat) was making. As hard as it is for maybe you and I to believe what seems illogical, there are many, many people who do. Sincerely do. Understanding that is, I believe, important to the discussion of our country's psyche and why it's important to elect people who truly want to do public service, not serve their own need for power.
CF, Massachusetts
Aug. 11
@JohnBellyful
Ten years old. Catholic school. Yes, I was taught that.
Communion hosts were made by nuns somewhere. Unleavened, very flat and dense, they would immediately stick to the roof of my mouth and remain there until dissolved. We weren't allowed to touch the host, only the priest had clean enough hands. He would place in on our tongues and hence the direct route to the mouth roof.
I was also told not to chew it--that was disrespectful.
Even at ten years old I assumed it was symbolic. It was bread, and not even good bread. It represented the body of Christ and I was okay with that.
We didn't get any wine; the priest kept that all for himself.
That was my experience back in old days when the Mass was still celebrated in Latin.
John, LI, NY
@JohnBellyful According to a 2019 Pew Research Center study, 31% of U.S. Catholics believe in transubstantiation, i.e. "the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Christ."
JRC, Metrowest Boston
@CF I hated when it stuck to the roof of my mouth.
Trump Sends In the Economic Quacks
(NY Times, Aug. 10, 2020)
I'm beginning to think that Trump isn't the genius he says he is. Whatever made me believe that he was? It's clear now I wasn't seeing straight. I really need to re-think his staying in power. It could be bad for the country. -- ardent Trump supporter
A guy can dream, can't he?
Leigh, Qc
From her intelligence agencies to her postal service to her social safety net to her international friendships and once upon a time moral authority, Trump has been dismantling America's capability to defend herself from enemies foreign and domestic since taking office. If he took his solemn oath of office seriously, it was only in order to break it all the openly, utterly and completely.
@Leigh
The oath of office did contain a caveat: He swore to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY.
There you go. Everyone -- and I mean everyone -- should have realized then that things weren't going to go well, with a bankrupt -- moral and financial -- at the helm.
You just knew he would steer the ship of state onto a reef.
Too bad the Republicans didn't have the courage to mutiny.
(NY Times, Aug. 15, 2020)
Howard F Jaeckel writes: “Readers should also note that the Times buries the facts suggesting Clinesmith's anti-Trump bias deep into this long story, following a long explanation of the insignificance of Clinesmith's imminent guilty plea.”
Hmmm.
The story is 32 paragraphs long. The fifth paragraph – yes, the fifth -- begins: “Mr. Clinesmith had written texts expressing opposition to Mr. Trump.”
That tipped me off right there – and perhaps others -- that bias might have played a part in his actions, and, sure enough, the story goes on to provide details.
Although I had to wonder initially if it would because that same paragraph – the fifth one -- pointed out the independent inspector general had concluded law enforcement officials had “sufficient reason to open the Russia investigation” and there was “no evidence that they acted with political bias.”
A small matter in the greater scheme of things for sure, this quibbling over the structure of a story, but it's one you thought important enough to mention, alleging as you did that the newspaper was trying to bury the facts.
I took that to mean Times readers have short attention spans and weren't likely to reach the article's end to find out the particulars.
But that gives short shrift to readers who are convinced there's a deep state, and are dogged in their pursuit of the truth.
Apparently I have more faith than you that they will get to the bottom of things, even if it means plowing through a whole bunch of paragraphs.
Postal Service Warns States It May Not Meet Mail-In Ballot Deadlines
(NY Times, Aug. 15, 2020)
What neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night could do to stay USPS couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds, Trump is accomplishing with the appointment of Louis DeJoy as postmaster general.
I understand DeJoy's latest initiative to reduce costs is to bring back the Pony Express. Its motto: “The mail must go through ... lots and lots of delays.”
The postal service is now warning that “ballots might not be returned by mail in time to be counted.”
Trump is pooh-poohing accusations the changes are being made to discourage people from taking part in the election.
Far from it, he says.
In fact, I'm told, he's now urging Americans to show their support for letter carriers -- “a great bunch of people!” -- by casting their ballots exclusively by mail.
His enthusiastic endorsement “is my way of saying the election's in the bag,” he said. Supposedly.
Kamala Harris, the Prosecutor Trump Fears Most
(NY Times, Aug. 14, 2020)
NVHustler, Las Vegas,NV
Trump is certainly not afraid of Mrs. Harris or anyone else. He has dealt with New York politicians for years in getting his properties built in NYC. Harris is just another politician. At the end of the day he will prevail. Politics is a dirty business. Wecome to the real world.
@NVHustler
The real world includes good things as well, although often they require far more effort than they should, to make happen.
Such as voting out a dim-witted narcissist who bullied his way into the White House and will stop at nothing to remain there.
Casting a vote should be straightforward but he's doing his damndest to make it as difficult as possible, employing all sorts of machinations.
If only he had spent as much time planning a pandemic response as he has plotting to stay in power.
I keep reading about the long lineups that are likely to occur on Nov. 3, which could dissuade large numbers of people from voting, and the tip the scale in Trump's favour.
Nonprofits and philanthropic individuals of ample means could support the fight to restore decency and intelligence in the Oval Office by making available wheeled walkers in key areas across the nation where bottlenecks are projected to happen.
A modest initiative, to be sure, but it would allow people to stand up for democracy ... while sitting down, as they ever so slowly make their way to the polling station.
Voters would be advised to go in pairs, taking turns resting in the seat while the other pushes.
(Hopefully, the weather isn't inclement, which would be a boon to the incumbent.)
Should Trump and Pence Be Worried About Kamala Harris? Let’s Go to the Tape
(NY Times, Aug. 14, 2020)
So Trump is now questioning where Harris was born.
Should be easy enough to rebut.
Not so for Trump when Harris asks him: Why do you suborn?
After Trump, America Needs Accountability for His Corruption
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
David Godinez, Kansas City, MO
One of the problems with an organized attempt at political retribution by a Democratic administration is that it presupposes Democratic office-holders are all pure as the driven snow. Since there is no more certainty about that than there is with President Trump's alleged crimes (are we really supposed to get in a froth over a golf course?), a politically smart new administration of either party will get on with the business of governing, and ignore the chattering coming from the peanut gallery of left-wing journalists and legal groups.
@David Godinez
Alleged crimes? And the best example you can come up with is a golf course? Good grief.
Geez, you guys are harsh.
Isn't capitol punishment -- defeating Trump at the polls -- more than enough?
I can understand the desire, though. Going after the deadbeat would be immensely satisfying.
Trump’s Cabinet From Hell
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
Just Ben, Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico
Still skeptical about whether this line of inquiry is really humorous.
It tends to obscure the big picture: Trump ignores the corruption and lunacy of all appointees, including Cabinet members, as long as the appointees pretend to be loyal to him.
Naturally, especially given that he never bothers to vet anyone, this yields crooked and incompetent appointees.
So it really comes down to the guy at the top--not the stooges and gangsters one level below
Me, NC
@Just Ben Humor is the sharpest weapon of the Resistance.
Just Be, Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico
@Me Sorry, don't agree. How has humor aided overthrowing Trump? Some things just ain't funny. In any case, humor won't bring down the humorless, any more than shame brings down the shameless.
@Just Ben
Humour won't bring down Trump. It's an antidote to despair so the battle can continue to be fought despite overwhelming odds..
QAnon Followers Are Hijacking the #SaveTheChildren Movement
(NY Times, Aug. 13, 2020)
Conspiracy propaganda is the equivalent of political pornography: Consumers of the lies are looking to gratify their biases the easiest way possible, with the least amount of thought.
At some point the perverse pleasure they derive from the outrage this nonsense provokes begins to wane and they must look for ever more extreme notions of a deep state to achieve the same intensity of feeling.
It's sad -- and terrifying -- that people would set aside their capacity to reason and let rumourmongers and peddlers of patently false narratives feed them lies so they can achieve a state of angry bliss.
The more this blight spreads the worse off society will be. Democracy can't survive when its citizens abandon reason.
Kamala Harris, a Political Fighter Shaped by Life in Two Worlds
(NY Times, Aug. 12, 2020)
P McGrath, USA
Harris will not be VP she will be the Democrat candidate for President. Joe will be forced to step aside once his current cognitive status is revealed. The media is doing rope a dope trying to stall the obvious. Joe is being carefully handled so he doesn't take any questions just has shot statements and everything else is taped.
Whereas the Republicans, by remaining silent on the sidelines, are giving their dope enough rope to hang himself politically. To compare the cognitive status of the two presidential candidates I've suggested they go head to head in an election game version of Jeopardy. Should one finish without any money he would have to step aside and let his choice for VP run for the presidency. Hmmm, even though Biden would be facing a genius, I'm fairly certain a Biden-Pence clash would be the end result.
Is this where Haley steps in to square off against Harris?
As expected Fox News hosts last night attacked Harris as Biden's VP choice, a fulminating fusillade that will continue for the next two-and-a-half months. Their ordnance, as always, will consist of ridicule and hyperbole, fiction and hate.
Tucker Carlson came under fire himself, however, for mispronouncing Harris's first name, even after being corrected by a guest.
But I can see his problem. I, myself, often mispronounce his first name.
JGresha, Charlotte NC
@JohnBellyful So do I.
Jean, Vancouver
@JohnBellyful Same here, it's weird. I keep getting the consonants wrong.
Jaggy Maya, Canada
I choose to mispronounce his name most of the time, with good reason.
M, CA
@JohnBellyful
Ridicule, hyperbole, fiction and hate would well describe every word the media has written about Trump.
Kamala Harris Is the Future, So Mike Pence May Well Be History
(NY Times, Aug. 11, 2020)
Michael Balter, Portland
I think it's funny how quickly you found favor with the democratic VP pick.
So how did it go?
Did you have the column written in advance with blanks for the name and you just filled in Kamala real quick?
Or
Did you write glowing columns for all the finalists and then you just clicked on the right file and then clicked send.
I wonder if others actually read this stuff and actually believe that they are getting wise and reasoned opinion or do they know its just hyper partisan narrative without an ounce of honesty or sincere reflection.
But hey.......its a great gig........the NYT.........money, respect, career builder.
Just don't write anything that is smart, insightful, or clever.
@Michael Balter
One might ask the same of your comment.
Did it come together in your mind long before you read the column, knowing no matter what it said you would find fault with it?
Or did the part about "hyper partisan narrative without an ounce of honesty or sincere reflection" suddenly dawn on you as you read what FB had to say?
Telling him not to write "anything that is smart, insightful, or clever" is a bit much, just because you find that sort of stuff off-putting. There are many who rather enjoy it.
Charles, CHARLOTTE, NC
This McClatchy lede on Harris shows exactly what kind of signal VP Biden is sending:
"In the Senate and on the campaign trail, Kamala Harris is opposing the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement targeting Israel, foreign aid cuts to the state, condemnatory votes on Israel at the United Nations and public criticism of its leadership — all tactics increasingly popular with the Democratic base and adopted by several of her Democratic presidential rivals.
Unlike those rivals, Harris is standing by her association with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
“Her support for Israel is central to who she is,” Harris’ campaign communications director, Lily Adams, told McClatchy."
Blow, dog whistle, blow.
@Charles Give her time, give her time. Let her grow into the office she will occupy for the next four years. After that ... I've already begun imagining a Mount Rushmore with her visage. Not that I want to put any pressure on her to overachieve. Being competent and incorruptible will suffice. BTW, Trump's no Tom Jefferson either. More a Warren Harding, whose administration was notorious for being corrupt, inept and scandal-ridden.
Charles, CHARLOTTE, NC
@JohnBellyful
I'm sure that she'll have her bust on Mount Rushmore carved by the Black inmates she sent to prison for marijuana possession.
And by the way, we Yanks do have more choices than Trump and Biden this year... I am voting for the Libertarian ticket of Jorgensen-Cohen.
The Revolt of the Republican Strategists
(NY Times, Aug. 11, 2020)
I would be curious to know just how many communicants really "believe they are actually eating and drinking the body and blood of Christ," and not participating in a ritual that is meant to be strictly symbolic.
Is it not possible they recognize communion for what it is, which is an expression of faith and not a rejection of reason?
Religious conviction is fine but when it requires adherents to perceive reality in a way that defies logic I would suggest it becomes problematic in how they conduct their lives.
Faith and common sense can go hand in hand.
Or so one would think.
Mary, Sampson
The one thing on which Marx was truly correct, was his statement ‘Religion is the opiate of the people’
Ross is probably correct that conservative Catholics believe in the Eucharist. However, as a cradle Catholic I know there are many who do not.
Ron Goodman, Menands, NY
@JohnBellyful I'm not a Catholic, or religious in any sense, but I believe that have to jump through a lot of philosophical hoops, via Aristotle through Thomas Aquinas, in order to defend that belief.
JRC, Metrowest Boston
@JohnBellyful When I was about 10 years old I learned about transubstantiation. Until that point I, of course, believed that communion was an expression of, and not actually, the body and blood of Christ. I questioned the CCD teacher about this and was shocked to learn that we were really, truly supposed to believe that the wafer and wine were the body and blood of Christ and only looked like what they were. Even at 10 I thought that was nuts. However, I went to Catholic schools after that and let me assure you that many of my classmates and teachers actually did believe that the elements were no longer a wafer and wine. They also accepted the virgin birth and other things I thought really must be and expression of purity of soul or etc. When Douthat wrote of Stevens dismissal of Catholic belief of transubstantiation I totally got the point he (Douthat) was making. As hard as it is for maybe you and I to believe what seems illogical, there are many, many people who do. Sincerely do. Understanding that is, I believe, important to the discussion of our country's psyche and why it's important to elect people who truly want to do public service, not serve their own need for power.
CF, Massachusetts
Aug. 11
@JohnBellyful
Ten years old. Catholic school. Yes, I was taught that.
Communion hosts were made by nuns somewhere. Unleavened, very flat and dense, they would immediately stick to the roof of my mouth and remain there until dissolved. We weren't allowed to touch the host, only the priest had clean enough hands. He would place in on our tongues and hence the direct route to the mouth roof.
I was also told not to chew it--that was disrespectful.
Even at ten years old I assumed it was symbolic. It was bread, and not even good bread. It represented the body of Christ and I was okay with that.
We didn't get any wine; the priest kept that all for himself.
That was my experience back in old days when the Mass was still celebrated in Latin.
John, LI, NY
@JohnBellyful According to a 2019 Pew Research Center study, 31% of U.S. Catholics believe in transubstantiation, i.e. "the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Christ."
JRC, Metrowest Boston
@CF I hated when it stuck to the roof of my mouth.
Trump Sends In the Economic Quacks
(NY Times, Aug. 10, 2020)
I'm beginning to think that Trump isn't the genius he says he is. Whatever made me believe that he was? It's clear now I wasn't seeing straight. I really need to re-think his staying in power. It could be bad for the country. -- ardent Trump supporter
A guy can dream, can't he?
Leigh, Qc
From her intelligence agencies to her postal service to her social safety net to her international friendships and once upon a time moral authority, Trump has been dismantling America's capability to defend herself from enemies foreign and domestic since taking office. If he took his solemn oath of office seriously, it was only in order to break it all the openly, utterly and completely.
@Leigh
The oath of office did contain a caveat: He swore to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY.
There you go. Everyone -- and I mean everyone -- should have realized then that things weren't going to go well, with a bankrupt -- moral and financial -- at the helm.
You just knew he would steer the ship of state onto a reef.
Too bad the Republicans didn't have the courage to mutiny.
Based on what New York Times readers have had to say I would advise Over the Hillary Clinton and her hubby Billy Goat to decline with regret their invitation to speak at the Democratic convention. They should know their appearance with baggage in hand will send many of the party's faithful over the edge. Apparently there's no letting bygones be bygones with has-beens.
As for Bill of Goods No Holds Barr he should resign to devote himself full-time to helping -- wait a minute, he's already devoting all his time to engineering Trump's re-election.
How is that possible, he's a servant of the public, not an aide-de-campaign to the commander-in-chief.
Barr rants about fascists and communists but I have to ask, when did the Republicans become Bullsh**veks?
(Aug. 10, 2020)
Never a Dull Moment in Trump World
(NY Times, Aug. 10, 2020)
One can't help but think that Trump, in reaching new lows with everything he says and does, is engaged in a political game of limbo, for the express purpose of creating a state of uncertainty.
Chaos is his preferred management style as it provides a cover for the corrupt practices of his incompetent administration, although it must be said his efforts to enrich himself have grown more blatant the further along in his term.
He doesn't worry now that his grasping character will prove his undoing because he's found a Barr that rigs the game in his favour.
The dictionary also defines limbo as a place of oblivion, which we fervently hope will be where Trump ends up after all the votes are counted.
Beirut’s Blast Is a Warning for America
(NY Times, Aug. 9, 2020)
Rob Wilson, East Bay
Mr. Friedman, the main place I see people making everything political is here in the NYTimes and all other media. In my experience, most people who don't digest the "news" everyday don't think everything is political.
@Rob Wilson
I see all sorts of stories in the Times and other news outlets that have NOTHING to do with politics but everything to do with the arts, culture, sports, cooking, science, education, technology, nature ... I could go on but you get the idea.
The articles, in most cases, don't have an obvious political slant (although I am suspicious of recipes that call for a liberal amount of anything).
And you'll find plenty of readers responding to those pieces with comments, which suggests they're comfortable coming to the Times to talk about a variety of subjects, not just politics.
Yes, opinion writers and editorial boards tend to weigh in on political matters more than they do other issues but that might be because those subjects, broadly speaking, are significant to society as a whole, and impact to an extraordinary degree so much else of what goes on in people's lives.
At some point people who don't digest the news will inevitably discover they have been swallowed up by events unexpectedly.
Rob Wilson, East Bay
@JohnBellyful I stand corrected. I should not have used the word "everything".
Pompeo Warned Russia Against Bounties on U.S. Troops in Afghanistan
(NY Times, Aug. 7, 2020)
The State Department is offering a reward of up to $10 million for anyone who provides information on foreign interference in the upcoming election.
Perhaps it should also offer $10 million bounties to the hacker community to encourage its members to impede, impair and ultimately negate Russian efforts to influence the outcome of the presidential race.
Unlike the Russian bounty this one involves no loss of life in service to a country's interests.
New York Attorney General Sues N.R.A. and Seeks Its Closure
(NY Times, Aug. 6, 2020)
B, USA
Really? Does the AG of New York not have anything better to do? Every time I see the NY criminal and judicial system hit the news it is allways nothing to do with actually making New York a better place. NY government system must be trying to make up for their lack of ability and competency in every other area of their office
@B
Corruption, I would hope, is high on every attorney general's will-not-tolerate list. Getting rid of it would seem an obvious benefit, no matter where it occurs.
If filing lawsuits is an example of a government trying to make up for its lack of ability and competency in other areas, I know where New York looked for its model.
Brian, New Orleans
Well, I agree with her move on moral and legal terms. However, this action would have to be #1 on the list of answers to the question:
"Please name any high profile act by an elected or appointed official perceived as a partisan liberal that would mobilize Trump supporters and "close the gap" in his favor in time for the election."
@Brian
How many offended NRA members who are Democrats do you think will help "close the gap" with this move by New York's attorney general?
As for NRA members who are Republicans I find it hard to believe that many of them were planning to sit out the election and not vote for Trump before this development.
As for non-NRA members, I can't imagine there's a large contingent out there who have no opinion on the organization but will now be up in arms over it coming under attack for alleged corrupt practices by senior executives.
Freonpsandoz, CA
@JohnBellyful My immediate thought upon reading the headline was the same as Brian's. I fear there may be many conservatives who aren't NRA members, but who will see this as an attack on something that conservatives hold dear.
Brian, New Orleans
@JohnBellyful ...Thanks for input. The election is unlikely as close as the polls suggest. This will become a unifying call to arms, pun intended. Perhaps you are correct. But, Republicans will hammer this issue and distract from Trump's many many sins. Like the timing of the "Comey Report " in 2016.
Vote for Trump’s Worst!
(NY Times, Aug. 6, 2020)
Never has a cabinet had so many bottom drawers.
And every one of them is filled with dirty laundry.
Remember when Trump boasted, in 2017, there are those who say "it's one of the finest group of people ever assembled ... as a cabinet." he said.
"We have just gotten really, really, great people. I'm very proud of them."
So superb was his craftsmanship that he's had to rebuild it with shoddier parts.
Not only is he commander-in-chief, he's secretary of the inferior.
Well done, Donald.
Oh, who's the worst of the lot? The attorney general, Barr none. (He's so bad he's even corrupted the meaning of a perfectly good phrase.)
I like to refer to him as Bill of Goods because his modus operandi is deception.
I missed last season's announcement of the winner.
I bet the awards presentation ceremony got high ratings.
Did any of the nominees show up?
Probably not. They don't like being shown up.
Another Inspector General Resigns, Raising Questions About Pompeo
(NY Times, Aug. 5, 2020)
Trump appointees suspected of wrongdoing oppose having their conduct overseen but are okay with it being overlooked.
It's a sad state of affairs when the secretary of state is a sad sack.
Even sadder is that he hasn't been sacked.
Alternative headline:
West Point Grad's Appointment A Low Point In Nation's History
Good ole Trump, he defies convention, which some find appealing, and others find alarming.
To his ardent supporters he's an icon
To his fervent critics he's a moron.
Trump, in word and deed, has already provided enough fodder for either side to make its case.
Which is why I ask, do we really need a debate to settle the question: Is Trump an iconic moron or a moronic icon?
(Aug. 5, 2020)
To his ardent supporters he's an icon
To his fervent critics he's a moron.
Trump, in word and deed, has already provided enough fodder for either side to make its case.
Which is why I ask, do we really need a debate to settle the question: Is Trump an iconic moron or a moronic icon?
(Aug. 5, 2020)
How QAnon Creates a Dangerous Alternate Reality
(NY Times, Aug. 5, 2020)
I'm thinking of starting my own cult for conspiracy-minded folk: IQNon.
It's for people with really short attention spans.
Our motto: We connect the dots to give you the big picture.
An example:
Democracy + BideN + DemoN = DemoNcrat
It's so obvious when you make the connection:
"A vote for Joe spells the N of America."
(The scary part is there are those who will believe this nonsense.)
The Unemployed Stare Into the Abyss. Republicans Look Away
(NY Times, Aug. 4, 2020)
GregP
Unemployed are 'staring into an abyss'? Wow, how scary. I really feel badly for them. They get $600.00 more a week than I do working sometimes reduced hours because of various reasons and they don't have to work at all but the thought that the profit from this virus to them might end is very frightening indeed. What should be done? I have an idea, let's elect demented Joe Biden to save us all. Have to make sure he doesn't debate first. Priorities Paul, learn what they are, and set them.
@GregP
Biden isn't demented, he's old. As is Trump, who claims he's not demented because he "aced" a cognitive test.
Where he has failed miserably, throughout his entire administration, is a test of character.
Unfortunately, the miserable part is born by the majority of people he supposedly serves, because HIS priority is himself, each and every time.
Were he to be marked on performance, it would be a D grade. Which, coincidentally, is what he has done to the country he misleads.
Oh, as for Biden not debating, which some have suggested and others have lambasted, shouldn't the supporters of Trump admire him for NOT agreeing to a debate? It would be a departure from the norm, which Trump has done often to the delight of his base. Wouldn't Biden get a thumbs up from their quarter for doing the same?
Or are iconoclasts only acceptable when they're ruthless and amoral?
When the millions who have been evicted take to the streets -- because that's where they'll end up -- they should gather en masse and pitch camps in front of federal buildings in major cities across the United States.
Protests of this kind form a part of American history. A re-enactment at this time might prove useful in swaying public opinion.
How would the Trump administration respond to a non-violent protest intended to draw attention to the plight of people who find themselves suddenly homeless largely as a result of poor decisions made by the Senate and the president?
Would pepper spray, tear gas, flashbangs, and strongarm tactics be employed to uphold laws that target trespassing, vagrancy and public nuisance?
With Trump the answer seems obvious, even though -- theoretically -- it would be highly injurious to his re-election bid. Think of the video footage it would generate.
Trump Doesn’t Like What He Sees in the Crystal Ball
(NY Times, Aug. 3, 2020)
Trump is a vampire, and it goes beyond being batty.
When he looks into a mirror he sees a great leader but the rest of us see nothing.
Trump just isn't very good when it comes to reflection.
With his seeking re-election democracy is at stake -- the very solution voters will have at hand Nov. 3.
Voting by Mail Is Crucial for Democracy
(NY Times, Aug. 2, 2020)
decoflair, new york
I don't understand. We Americans buy and sell merchandise over the internet daily. We do our banking over the internet transferring funds between accounts, paying monthly bills, and receiving funds from the government or employers. We buy and sell stocks and bonds over the internet in firm belief that the transactions are safe. Then, why not find a way to set up a safe way to vote using the internet from the safety of our homes?
mjw, DC
Because prior attempts had no paper backup and were noticeably corrupt,opaque and featured cover-ups! Paper is still necessary, and voting machines in America have been caught rigging elections multiple times.
@mjw
" ... voting machines in America have been caught rigging elections multiple times."
Science fiction writers have long predicted machines would turn against their masters. Didn't think it would involve rigging an election.
(NY Times, Aug. 5, 2020)
I'm thinking of starting my own cult for conspiracy-minded folk: IQNon.
It's for people with really short attention spans.
Our motto: We connect the dots to give you the big picture.
An example:
Democracy + BideN + DemoN = DemoNcrat
It's so obvious when you make the connection:
"A vote for Joe spells the N of America."
(The scary part is there are those who will believe this nonsense.)
The Unemployed Stare Into the Abyss. Republicans Look Away
(NY Times, Aug. 4, 2020)
GregP
Unemployed are 'staring into an abyss'? Wow, how scary. I really feel badly for them. They get $600.00 more a week than I do working sometimes reduced hours because of various reasons and they don't have to work at all but the thought that the profit from this virus to them might end is very frightening indeed. What should be done? I have an idea, let's elect demented Joe Biden to save us all. Have to make sure he doesn't debate first. Priorities Paul, learn what they are, and set them.
@GregP
Biden isn't demented, he's old. As is Trump, who claims he's not demented because he "aced" a cognitive test.
Where he has failed miserably, throughout his entire administration, is a test of character.
Unfortunately, the miserable part is born by the majority of people he supposedly serves, because HIS priority is himself, each and every time.
Were he to be marked on performance, it would be a D grade. Which, coincidentally, is what he has done to the country he misleads.
Oh, as for Biden not debating, which some have suggested and others have lambasted, shouldn't the supporters of Trump admire him for NOT agreeing to a debate? It would be a departure from the norm, which Trump has done often to the delight of his base. Wouldn't Biden get a thumbs up from their quarter for doing the same?
Or are iconoclasts only acceptable when they're ruthless and amoral?
When the millions who have been evicted take to the streets -- because that's where they'll end up -- they should gather en masse and pitch camps in front of federal buildings in major cities across the United States.
Protests of this kind form a part of American history. A re-enactment at this time might prove useful in swaying public opinion.
How would the Trump administration respond to a non-violent protest intended to draw attention to the plight of people who find themselves suddenly homeless largely as a result of poor decisions made by the Senate and the president?
Would pepper spray, tear gas, flashbangs, and strongarm tactics be employed to uphold laws that target trespassing, vagrancy and public nuisance?
With Trump the answer seems obvious, even though -- theoretically -- it would be highly injurious to his re-election bid. Think of the video footage it would generate.
Trump Doesn’t Like What He Sees in the Crystal Ball
(NY Times, Aug. 3, 2020)
Trump is a vampire, and it goes beyond being batty.
When he looks into a mirror he sees a great leader but the rest of us see nothing.
Trump just isn't very good when it comes to reflection.
With his seeking re-election democracy is at stake -- the very solution voters will have at hand Nov. 3.
Voting by Mail Is Crucial for Democracy
(NY Times, Aug. 2, 2020)
decoflair, new york
I don't understand. We Americans buy and sell merchandise over the internet daily. We do our banking over the internet transferring funds between accounts, paying monthly bills, and receiving funds from the government or employers. We buy and sell stocks and bonds over the internet in firm belief that the transactions are safe. Then, why not find a way to set up a safe way to vote using the internet from the safety of our homes?
mjw, DC
Because prior attempts had no paper backup and were noticeably corrupt,opaque and featured cover-ups! Paper is still necessary, and voting machines in America have been caught rigging elections multiple times.
@mjw
" ... voting machines in America have been caught rigging elections multiple times."
Science fiction writers have long predicted machines would turn against their masters. Didn't think it would involve rigging an election.
Double, Double, Trump’s Toil, Our Trouble
(NY Times, Aug. 2, 2020)
Here's a suggestion to end the dispute over the $600 a week in additional unemployment benefits: Get the Republicans to agree that the extra funding will cease when the number of COVID-19 cases and resulting deaths over a 10-day period fall below thresholds set by the Democrats.
That would give the GOP a strong incentive to try a lot harder to halt the spread of the disease and thereby hasten the return of a full economy, which it desperately wants.
Similarly, the Democrats would be credited with having pushed the government to step up its pandemic response, which will result in thousands of lives being saved.
A clincher for both sides making such a deal would be the favourable news coverage they'd receive for their uncharacteristic show of bipartisanship.
M Dziewit, Michigan, USA
@JohnBellyful Clearly, this would not incentivize the administration to support additional testing.
Stonewrkr, Albany
@JohnBellyful People throw out the number of “cases” as though it is a meaningful measure of policy effectiveness. In fact without a vaccine and given the relatively benign health impact for most people, the spread of the virus can not be contained until a significant percentage of the population has been infected. A rapid increase in “cases” with declining death rates is a good thing.
The country will not return to normal until herd immunity is reached. That means the low risk population should be exposed rapidly not slowly while the high risk isolates.
Scott Newman, Chicago
Leave it to a Canadian to come up with a logical and intelligent approach the US government should take.
CM, Flyover country
Aug. 2
@JohnBellyful Good idea, but Republican governors would just underreport
Jim Muncy, Pensacola
@JohnBellyful
Good idea, JB, therefore, it will almost certainly not be acted upon. The decision-making process in Congress is convoluted and byzantine beyond description; if an idea makes it through that gauntlet, it's a miracle and a fluke, or it takes a herculean effort, like Obamacare.
Nonetheless, keep thinking and offering suggestions. Yours might catch hold someday; it's a mystery, the secrets that make the system work. It's only partly written down as, if you will, blueprints soon to be discarded, ignored, or improved upon.
Gabbyboy, Colorado
@JohnBellyful Not so fast; many, if not all, Rs were elected precisely because they rejected Bipartisanship.
Scarlet, NYC
@JohnBellyful. Love the thought, but fear they would just stop spending $ on tests.
JohnBellyful, Ontario
@Stonewrkr
Set a death rate that's acceptable to both parties, then, as the trigger for removing additional money that individuals receive during the pandemic.
It's coldly calculating I grant you -- which just might be enough to win over the Republicans.
Peter, CT
@JohnBellyful
Any plan that gives some credit to Democrats for having done something is a non-starter with this administration. Try again.
Allen82, Oxford
@JohnBellyful
You forgot the "line in the sand": Liability protection for all of those who put essential workers in harm's way for their own economic benefit. Mitch says he will die for that provision.
@JohnBellyful We live in the real world. When is the last time lawmakers did something useful?
Roger, Pa
@JohnBellyful Have you ever heard of Mitch McConnell and what he does for a living?
Suzanne, United Coastal States of America
@JohnBellyful Or how about no Republican lawmaker having access to any income or assets until relief is enacted? A taste of their own medicine might incentivize them and stimulate a little empathy as well.
Tessy, Amherst
@Stonewrkr Be my guest.
Mark Tele, Cali
@Stonewrkr "Herd" immunity, or flock immunity? Baaaa.
Arthur Person, Natchez
@Stonewrkr
Unfortunately, what you propose is not only not feasible, it’s dangerous. The “low risk” population is not totally without risk. While the severity of covid-19 as well as the morbidity is indeed less in this population, a fair number develop severe symptoms and some die. The second and more dangerous is your premise of isolation. First off older and at risk folks can not isolate completely. Like younger people, they still have to work, they need to shop for food and necessities and in many cases they share a home with younger family members. What you are advocating, “herd immunity” Is not feasible unless you want to kill a few hundred thousand more people to achieve your goal.Finally, there is no solid evidence thus far as to the duration of antibodies in the human body. There is some evidence that the half life of antibodies is around 30 days. If this holds up, then the concept of “herd immunity” is a myth. You get Covid-19 and survive it, only to find out that you could well be susceptible again in a few months!!
dogrunner1,, New York
@Stonewrkr Actually, as we have seen, even the age groups characterized as "low risk" seem to have a non-negligible, although lower than the average, risk of dying when infected. Although your approach may appear attractive from a statistical viewpoint, it would still bring about suffering and deaths that could be avoided.
Bruce Maier, Shoreham, BY
Aug. 2
@JohnBellyful Sounds reasonable, hence, the GOP will not agree to it.
Earthbound, San Francisco
@Stonewrkr Many will die unnecessarily if the development of herd immunity is more than a byproduct of time and a sincere effort to beat back the virus by other means. Many have already died unnecessarily. Apparently, that's okay with the president.
Robert, GA
@JohnBellyful But case reporting is actively being suppressed. No lie.
Steve Bolge, New York City
@JohnBellyful: The Republican Party doesn't want federal supervision of state's practices and courts.
Rober,t, GA
@Arthur Person COVID-19 survivors also are at risk for chronic medical problems which in turn adds additional economic burdens for our society. The only solution that makes sense is to start over with another (longer) nationwide shelter in place. (We didn't do it long enough the first time.) Andrew Yang's radical idea of the federal government simply paying people who don't work seemed ludicrous last year. But now, not so much. I fear the ballooning of the national debt, but once again, we've got to kick that can down the road.
dstellmm, Philadelphia
@JohnBellyful Absolutely brilliant. What a great idea!
Pgathome, Tobacco,nj
@JohnBellyful
The problems are the Republicans want a smaller package and have proposed a separate $600/ week relief bill . If the Republicans were sincere they would negotiate a 600/ week relief bill for an extended period. The demo would accept a six month horizon but, the repubs want a weekly relief and want to fight again and again. Complete insincerity.
J Marie, Upper Left WA
@Stonewrkr Herd immunity would require at least 70% of the US population of 320 million to get infected. That's 224 million sick people. If only 1% of those people die, that's still 2.24 million dead Americans. And many people that survive will likely have long term health issues. And scientists are finding immunity might be brief.
Leslie Geerdes, Minnesota
Excellent idea. Could you tweet your comment and tag @SpeakerPelosi @senatemjldr @SenSchumer ?
Bob W., Avon, CT
@Stonewrkr –– There is no other word for your callous approach to the pandemic than despicable. Herd immunity does not begin to be effective until upwards of 50% of the population has developed immunity. Even at at death rate of less than 1% you are talking about a number of additional deaths of order 1 million or more. Stop . . . and think about that number. Another 1 million plus deaths. Is that "the relatively benign health impact" you envision? And that assumes that immunity persists more than a few months, whether that immunity came from being infected and having survived or a vaccine. No one yet knows whether that is true.
Despicable.
JohnBellyful, Ontario
@Allen82
If he feels that strongly about it he should get his way.
I wonder how many ex-presidents will attend his funeral.
Dale Peterson, Copake Falls NY
@Stonewrkr Tell grandma about the "relatively benign health impact."
Reality, USA
@Stonewrkr We do not know what the long-term effects of this virus are. It is stupid and irresponsible to expose our entire healthy under 35 population to SARS-COV-2 when we do not know if it will later cause serious health effects. To do so would be short-sighted and reckless. It is better to wait the year or so that it will take to get a vaccine before reopening than expose our youth to potentially debilitating future illness so middle age and older Americans can make more money at their expense now. Seriously, at some point today’s big business owners and hedge fund managers need to start considering the best interest of the nation and their workers and stop focusing on profits and the stock market.
Our current focus should be on getting money to people who need it so they can get through this crisis. Individuals, families, and real small business owners who put their own money into their enterprises. Simply throwing our young to the wolves in the name of maintaining productivity is the solution of a person who doesn’t care about people.
Jim, Travis
@Stonewrkr You speak of "herd immunity" as if it's a permanent condition. There's zero indication that's true because there's no evidence that any level of immunity is lifelong in any individual. So far, every indication is that, because of early mismanagement of the situation, this virus is now endemic and will continue to injure and kill people until we have a vaccine.
Jakn, Stone Field
@Arthur Person
And to add another item to your list:
There are many indications that, even in the "low risk" demographic, severe and even life-altering long-term effects may ensue, even in some asymptomatic cases. This could be a long-term healthcare cost iceberg.
Susan, San Diego, Ca
@JohnBellyful
The GOP doesn’t need to compromise when they’re armed with their own “damned lies and statistics...”
rgl800, Florida
@Suzanne
Or perhaps have them live on $200 a week for two months. Since it is such a handsome sum, that should pose no problem. My guess is that these servants of the people whose salaries we pay could not even live on the $600.
atutu, Boston, MA
@MakesNoSense
"We live in the real world. When is the last time lawmakers did something useful?"
In the House? Yesterday.
In the Senate? That last vote on pandemic relief.
WZ, LA
@JohnBellyful The Administration is already manipulating the data by having hospitals report to HHS rather than the CDC. If a case rate is set as the trigger, the Administration will report fewer cases; if a death rate is set as the trigger, the Administration will report fewer deaths. You cannot expect to have a dishonest partner live up to his/her end of any deal, honest or not. Remember: Trump has a long history of corporate bankruptcies and both corporate and personal refusal to live up to contracts; what makes you think he won't do the same here?
WZ, LA
Aug. 2
@Stonewrkr No disease has EVER been controlled by natural herd immunity; only by precautions and vaccines.
NLL, Bloomington, IN
@Scott Newman Sadly, at this time, no logical, intelligent, helpful or even sane plan that would really improve the situation can be considered because Republicans are contrary to all of these things. The sad truth.
Susan in NH
@Stonewrkr
Follow up on those who have "recovered" from Covid shows that many have permanent heart damage. Naive to think that we just need to get on with infecting people and all will be well!
Mike Verdu, Ivins, Utah
@Stonewrkr It’s been estimated that to try for “herd immunity” would result in more than 7.5 million deaths.
Mail Delays Fuel Concern Trump Is Undercutting Postal System Ahead of Voting
(NY Times, AUg. 1, 2020)
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
Julien, Brooklyn
What a fantastic idea ! Thank you.
James Murdoch Resigns From News Corp, Ending Role in Family Empire
(NY Times, Aug. 1, 2020)
Murdoch isn't the first media mogul to build an empire intent on shaping public opinion with scant regard for the facts.
The first was Hearst but Murdoch's far worse.
His reach spans the globe, and the harm he inflicts is terrifying in its scope, doing damage to both humankind and the planet.
There is no apparent conscience, only naked greed, in the power he wields, especially in the MAGAphone he and his son Lachlan provide Trump, which allows him to spread his lies with impunity and thus subvert democracy.
Trump, astonishingly, is correct then in saying the news media IS the enemy of the people. What he conveniently leaves out, however, is that it's Fox News, in particular, that is the real foe of democracy.
Or Faux News if its owners were, in a moment of weakness, truthful about the nature of their enterprise.
Joe Gorczyca, San Francisco
Well stated!! Hear, hear!
(NY Times, Aug. 2, 2020)
Here's a suggestion to end the dispute over the $600 a week in additional unemployment benefits: Get the Republicans to agree that the extra funding will cease when the number of COVID-19 cases and resulting deaths over a 10-day period fall below thresholds set by the Democrats.
That would give the GOP a strong incentive to try a lot harder to halt the spread of the disease and thereby hasten the return of a full economy, which it desperately wants.
Similarly, the Democrats would be credited with having pushed the government to step up its pandemic response, which will result in thousands of lives being saved.
A clincher for both sides making such a deal would be the favourable news coverage they'd receive for their uncharacteristic show of bipartisanship.
M Dziewit, Michigan, USA
@JohnBellyful Clearly, this would not incentivize the administration to support additional testing.
Stonewrkr, Albany
@JohnBellyful People throw out the number of “cases” as though it is a meaningful measure of policy effectiveness. In fact without a vaccine and given the relatively benign health impact for most people, the spread of the virus can not be contained until a significant percentage of the population has been infected. A rapid increase in “cases” with declining death rates is a good thing.
The country will not return to normal until herd immunity is reached. That means the low risk population should be exposed rapidly not slowly while the high risk isolates.
Scott Newman, Chicago
Leave it to a Canadian to come up with a logical and intelligent approach the US government should take.
CM, Flyover country
Aug. 2
@JohnBellyful Good idea, but Republican governors would just underreport
Jim Muncy, Pensacola
@JohnBellyful
Good idea, JB, therefore, it will almost certainly not be acted upon. The decision-making process in Congress is convoluted and byzantine beyond description; if an idea makes it through that gauntlet, it's a miracle and a fluke, or it takes a herculean effort, like Obamacare.
Nonetheless, keep thinking and offering suggestions. Yours might catch hold someday; it's a mystery, the secrets that make the system work. It's only partly written down as, if you will, blueprints soon to be discarded, ignored, or improved upon.
Gabbyboy, Colorado
@JohnBellyful Not so fast; many, if not all, Rs were elected precisely because they rejected Bipartisanship.
Scarlet, NYC
@JohnBellyful. Love the thought, but fear they would just stop spending $ on tests.
JohnBellyful, Ontario
@Stonewrkr
Set a death rate that's acceptable to both parties, then, as the trigger for removing additional money that individuals receive during the pandemic.
It's coldly calculating I grant you -- which just might be enough to win over the Republicans.
Peter, CT
@JohnBellyful
Any plan that gives some credit to Democrats for having done something is a non-starter with this administration. Try again.
Allen82, Oxford
@JohnBellyful
You forgot the "line in the sand": Liability protection for all of those who put essential workers in harm's way for their own economic benefit. Mitch says he will die for that provision.
@JohnBellyful We live in the real world. When is the last time lawmakers did something useful?
Roger, Pa
@JohnBellyful Have you ever heard of Mitch McConnell and what he does for a living?
Suzanne, United Coastal States of America
@JohnBellyful Or how about no Republican lawmaker having access to any income or assets until relief is enacted? A taste of their own medicine might incentivize them and stimulate a little empathy as well.
Tessy, Amherst
@Stonewrkr Be my guest.
Mark Tele, Cali
@Stonewrkr "Herd" immunity, or flock immunity? Baaaa.
Arthur Person, Natchez
@Stonewrkr
Unfortunately, what you propose is not only not feasible, it’s dangerous. The “low risk” population is not totally without risk. While the severity of covid-19 as well as the morbidity is indeed less in this population, a fair number develop severe symptoms and some die. The second and more dangerous is your premise of isolation. First off older and at risk folks can not isolate completely. Like younger people, they still have to work, they need to shop for food and necessities and in many cases they share a home with younger family members. What you are advocating, “herd immunity” Is not feasible unless you want to kill a few hundred thousand more people to achieve your goal.Finally, there is no solid evidence thus far as to the duration of antibodies in the human body. There is some evidence that the half life of antibodies is around 30 days. If this holds up, then the concept of “herd immunity” is a myth. You get Covid-19 and survive it, only to find out that you could well be susceptible again in a few months!!
dogrunner1,, New York
@Stonewrkr Actually, as we have seen, even the age groups characterized as "low risk" seem to have a non-negligible, although lower than the average, risk of dying when infected. Although your approach may appear attractive from a statistical viewpoint, it would still bring about suffering and deaths that could be avoided.
Bruce Maier, Shoreham, BY
Aug. 2
@JohnBellyful Sounds reasonable, hence, the GOP will not agree to it.
Earthbound, San Francisco
@Stonewrkr Many will die unnecessarily if the development of herd immunity is more than a byproduct of time and a sincere effort to beat back the virus by other means. Many have already died unnecessarily. Apparently, that's okay with the president.
Robert, GA
@JohnBellyful But case reporting is actively being suppressed. No lie.
Steve Bolge, New York City
@JohnBellyful: The Republican Party doesn't want federal supervision of state's practices and courts.
Rober,t, GA
@Arthur Person COVID-19 survivors also are at risk for chronic medical problems which in turn adds additional economic burdens for our society. The only solution that makes sense is to start over with another (longer) nationwide shelter in place. (We didn't do it long enough the first time.) Andrew Yang's radical idea of the federal government simply paying people who don't work seemed ludicrous last year. But now, not so much. I fear the ballooning of the national debt, but once again, we've got to kick that can down the road.
dstellmm, Philadelphia
@JohnBellyful Absolutely brilliant. What a great idea!
Pgathome, Tobacco,nj
@JohnBellyful
The problems are the Republicans want a smaller package and have proposed a separate $600/ week relief bill . If the Republicans were sincere they would negotiate a 600/ week relief bill for an extended period. The demo would accept a six month horizon but, the repubs want a weekly relief and want to fight again and again. Complete insincerity.
J Marie, Upper Left WA
@Stonewrkr Herd immunity would require at least 70% of the US population of 320 million to get infected. That's 224 million sick people. If only 1% of those people die, that's still 2.24 million dead Americans. And many people that survive will likely have long term health issues. And scientists are finding immunity might be brief.
Leslie Geerdes, Minnesota
Excellent idea. Could you tweet your comment and tag @SpeakerPelosi @senatemjldr @SenSchumer ?
Bob W., Avon, CT
@Stonewrkr –– There is no other word for your callous approach to the pandemic than despicable. Herd immunity does not begin to be effective until upwards of 50% of the population has developed immunity. Even at at death rate of less than 1% you are talking about a number of additional deaths of order 1 million or more. Stop . . . and think about that number. Another 1 million plus deaths. Is that "the relatively benign health impact" you envision? And that assumes that immunity persists more than a few months, whether that immunity came from being infected and having survived or a vaccine. No one yet knows whether that is true.
Despicable.
JohnBellyful, Ontario
@Allen82
If he feels that strongly about it he should get his way.
I wonder how many ex-presidents will attend his funeral.
Dale Peterson, Copake Falls NY
@Stonewrkr Tell grandma about the "relatively benign health impact."
Reality, USA
@Stonewrkr We do not know what the long-term effects of this virus are. It is stupid and irresponsible to expose our entire healthy under 35 population to SARS-COV-2 when we do not know if it will later cause serious health effects. To do so would be short-sighted and reckless. It is better to wait the year or so that it will take to get a vaccine before reopening than expose our youth to potentially debilitating future illness so middle age and older Americans can make more money at their expense now. Seriously, at some point today’s big business owners and hedge fund managers need to start considering the best interest of the nation and their workers and stop focusing on profits and the stock market.
Our current focus should be on getting money to people who need it so they can get through this crisis. Individuals, families, and real small business owners who put their own money into their enterprises. Simply throwing our young to the wolves in the name of maintaining productivity is the solution of a person who doesn’t care about people.
Jim, Travis
@Stonewrkr You speak of "herd immunity" as if it's a permanent condition. There's zero indication that's true because there's no evidence that any level of immunity is lifelong in any individual. So far, every indication is that, because of early mismanagement of the situation, this virus is now endemic and will continue to injure and kill people until we have a vaccine.
Jakn, Stone Field
@Arthur Person
And to add another item to your list:
There are many indications that, even in the "low risk" demographic, severe and even life-altering long-term effects may ensue, even in some asymptomatic cases. This could be a long-term healthcare cost iceberg.
Susan, San Diego, Ca
@JohnBellyful
The GOP doesn’t need to compromise when they’re armed with their own “damned lies and statistics...”
rgl800, Florida
@Suzanne
Or perhaps have them live on $200 a week for two months. Since it is such a handsome sum, that should pose no problem. My guess is that these servants of the people whose salaries we pay could not even live on the $600.
atutu, Boston, MA
@MakesNoSense
"We live in the real world. When is the last time lawmakers did something useful?"
In the House? Yesterday.
In the Senate? That last vote on pandemic relief.
WZ, LA
@JohnBellyful The Administration is already manipulating the data by having hospitals report to HHS rather than the CDC. If a case rate is set as the trigger, the Administration will report fewer cases; if a death rate is set as the trigger, the Administration will report fewer deaths. You cannot expect to have a dishonest partner live up to his/her end of any deal, honest or not. Remember: Trump has a long history of corporate bankruptcies and both corporate and personal refusal to live up to contracts; what makes you think he won't do the same here?
WZ, LA
Aug. 2
@Stonewrkr No disease has EVER been controlled by natural herd immunity; only by precautions and vaccines.
NLL, Bloomington, IN
@Scott Newman Sadly, at this time, no logical, intelligent, helpful or even sane plan that would really improve the situation can be considered because Republicans are contrary to all of these things. The sad truth.
Susan in NH
@Stonewrkr
Follow up on those who have "recovered" from Covid shows that many have permanent heart damage. Naive to think that we just need to get on with infecting people and all will be well!
Mike Verdu, Ivins, Utah
@Stonewrkr It’s been estimated that to try for “herd immunity” would result in more than 7.5 million deaths.
Mail Delays Fuel Concern Trump Is Undercutting Postal System Ahead of Voting
(NY Times, AUg. 1, 2020)
Americans could increase the odds of their mail-in vote arriving in time by declaring October No Mail Month (except for bills and medication).
The resulting much reduced volume would allow the postal service to get caught up in its deliveries and leave it well-positioned to handle a huge influx of ballots in the days just before the vote is actually held.
Although voluntary and certain to cause inconvenience, even hardship for some, the sacrifice asked of citizens would be an appropriate way for them to demonstrate their patriotism at a time when it's most needed to preserve the union.
And after the election they can take great joy in sending defeated Republicans cards of condolence -- which you know will be delivered expeditiously.
Julien, Brooklyn
What a fantastic idea ! Thank you.
James Murdoch Resigns From News Corp, Ending Role in Family Empire
(NY Times, Aug. 1, 2020)
Murdoch isn't the first media mogul to build an empire intent on shaping public opinion with scant regard for the facts.
The first was Hearst but Murdoch's far worse.
His reach spans the globe, and the harm he inflicts is terrifying in its scope, doing damage to both humankind and the planet.
There is no apparent conscience, only naked greed, in the power he wields, especially in the MAGAphone he and his son Lachlan provide Trump, which allows him to spread his lies with impunity and thus subvert democracy.
Trump, astonishingly, is correct then in saying the news media IS the enemy of the people. What he conveniently leaves out, however, is that it's Fox News, in particular, that is the real foe of democracy.
Or Faux News if its owners were, in a moment of weakness, truthful about the nature of their enterprise.
Joe Gorczyca, San Francisco
Well stated!! Hear, hear!
More Than Just a Tweet: Trump’s Campaign to Undercut Democracy
(NY Times, July 31, 2020)
Voter fraud is extremely rare but it is consequential.
Four years ago a fraud was voted in and look at the harm that he's done.
It's “scholars ... normally sympathetic to the president” who give experts a bad name.
Only now, when Trump spews nonsense about delaying the election because it will be rigged, do they consider him a threat to democracy? What took them so long, these supposed men of learning who couldn't divine the threat he poses with almost everything he says and does?
“'It undermines the faith of the public in our electoral process,' said Jonathan Turley, a George Washington University law professor who testified on Mr. Trump’s side last year during the House impeachment hearings. 'Any constitutional system is ultimately held together by a leap of faith.'”
Well, surprise, surprise, Trump is asking his followers to jump over a cliff into authoritarianism, to be his lemmings at the polls.
The best outcome, of course, is that in the end it's his downfall we celebrate.
The Tanned Man Has a Green Monster
(NY Times, July 30, 2020)
“Fauci is no hero.”
Fauci is far closer to being a hero than the people who voted for Trump will ever be.
But they will have a chance to redeem themselves in November and it won't even require an act of bravery on their part. All they have to do is come to their senses.
A Wrinkle in Stores’ Mask Policies: Enforcement
(NY Times, July 29, 2020)
It's too bad retailers couldn't hire people who have tested positive for coronavirus but show no symptoms to greet customers at the door. For those wearing masks, the greeters would keep their face shield in place; for those not wearing masks they'd lift it up and spray, er, say: "Have a nice day."
Barr Testimony: Highlights of Combative Hearing on Protests, Stone Case and More
(NY Times, July 28, 2020)
It's apparent that peaceful protesters have "bad apples" in the same way that police departments do.
When the police departments figure out how to rid themselves of the bad apples they can pass on that knowledge to peaceful protesters -- which, incidentally, there will be fewer of because that particular reason for their protesting will have been eliminated.
Dr Rick Sjoquist, Seoul ROK
It wasn't a hearing but a tribunal. None of the Democrats were interested in Barr's answers. They were bent on berating and condemning instead. Despite their ranting, their excuse was a lack of time to hear a proper response. The only thing missing were the kangaroos. I am an independent voter who actually wants to see our elected officials make a sincere and concerted effort to be impartial when hearings are held rather. I find these charades repugnant, and they've only gotten worse in the past two decades. What a sad indictment on the state of republic today.
@Dr Rick Sjoquist
Hearings that deteriorate into sideshows are worthy of contempt but an even sadder indictment of the republic today is the sorry leadership that makes such hearings necessary.
It's too bad parties can't work in concert to get at the truth but their difficulty is understandable given how elusive it's become with Trump as president.
There’s Nothing Radical About a Female Vice President
(NY Times, July 28, 2020
Mike Pence routinely demonstrates how little is contributed to a nation's governance when a vice-president is subservient.
His submissiveness is no different from the acquiescent role that mid-level female employees are expected to play in troglodyte workplaces.
While Pence might be content to continue meekly playing that part for another term, you can be sure his Democratic opponent, a woman, will not allow herself to be so confined, given the resolute nature and independent spirit each of the party's prospects for the job possesses.
Biden's choice for VP is also more likely to bring to the job those traits traditionally associated with women, that of being kind, caring and considerate, as set out in the article.
These fine qualities, coupled with all their other attributes, will make any one of them a superior vice-president and a worthy successor to Biden when the opportunity arises.
Jackson, Virginia
@JohnBellyful None of his candidates come across as kind and caring. They come across as strident and political. And is that really what you want when someone is supposed to be able to run the country?
@Jackson
Trump has amply demonstrated that "strident and political" does not work as a strategy for governing well, so, no, that's not what you want to see in a nation's leadership.
However, I don't agree with your characterization of the Democrats' VP prospects.
But, that aside, they do show a strength of character that gives them an edge over the earnest milquetoast that is Pence.
Freshginger, Minnesota
@Jackson Hmmm. Isn't your attitude towards these women what this article is about? Biden is considering a dozen women and you find them ALL strident and political? Strident - that old chestnut used against women forever. I'm surprised you didn't trot out terms like aggressive and unfeminine. And it is political - this is a political office we're talking about here. The patriarchy is alive and well in your statement.
(NY Times, July 31, 2020)
Voter fraud is extremely rare but it is consequential.
Four years ago a fraud was voted in and look at the harm that he's done.
It's “scholars ... normally sympathetic to the president” who give experts a bad name.
Only now, when Trump spews nonsense about delaying the election because it will be rigged, do they consider him a threat to democracy? What took them so long, these supposed men of learning who couldn't divine the threat he poses with almost everything he says and does?
“'It undermines the faith of the public in our electoral process,' said Jonathan Turley, a George Washington University law professor who testified on Mr. Trump’s side last year during the House impeachment hearings. 'Any constitutional system is ultimately held together by a leap of faith.'”
Well, surprise, surprise, Trump is asking his followers to jump over a cliff into authoritarianism, to be his lemmings at the polls.
The best outcome, of course, is that in the end it's his downfall we celebrate.
The Tanned Man Has a Green Monster
(NY Times, July 30, 2020)
“Fauci is no hero.”
Fauci is far closer to being a hero than the people who voted for Trump will ever be.
But they will have a chance to redeem themselves in November and it won't even require an act of bravery on their part. All they have to do is come to their senses.
A Wrinkle in Stores’ Mask Policies: Enforcement
(NY Times, July 29, 2020)
It's too bad retailers couldn't hire people who have tested positive for coronavirus but show no symptoms to greet customers at the door. For those wearing masks, the greeters would keep their face shield in place; for those not wearing masks they'd lift it up and spray, er, say: "Have a nice day."
Barr Testimony: Highlights of Combative Hearing on Protests, Stone Case and More
(NY Times, July 28, 2020)
It's apparent that peaceful protesters have "bad apples" in the same way that police departments do.
When the police departments figure out how to rid themselves of the bad apples they can pass on that knowledge to peaceful protesters -- which, incidentally, there will be fewer of because that particular reason for their protesting will have been eliminated.
Dr Rick Sjoquist, Seoul ROK
It wasn't a hearing but a tribunal. None of the Democrats were interested in Barr's answers. They were bent on berating and condemning instead. Despite their ranting, their excuse was a lack of time to hear a proper response. The only thing missing were the kangaroos. I am an independent voter who actually wants to see our elected officials make a sincere and concerted effort to be impartial when hearings are held rather. I find these charades repugnant, and they've only gotten worse in the past two decades. What a sad indictment on the state of republic today.
@Dr Rick Sjoquist
Hearings that deteriorate into sideshows are worthy of contempt but an even sadder indictment of the republic today is the sorry leadership that makes such hearings necessary.
It's too bad parties can't work in concert to get at the truth but their difficulty is understandable given how elusive it's become with Trump as president.
There’s Nothing Radical About a Female Vice President
(NY Times, July 28, 2020
Mike Pence routinely demonstrates how little is contributed to a nation's governance when a vice-president is subservient.
His submissiveness is no different from the acquiescent role that mid-level female employees are expected to play in troglodyte workplaces.
While Pence might be content to continue meekly playing that part for another term, you can be sure his Democratic opponent, a woman, will not allow herself to be so confined, given the resolute nature and independent spirit each of the party's prospects for the job possesses.
Biden's choice for VP is also more likely to bring to the job those traits traditionally associated with women, that of being kind, caring and considerate, as set out in the article.
These fine qualities, coupled with all their other attributes, will make any one of them a superior vice-president and a worthy successor to Biden when the opportunity arises.
Jackson, Virginia
@JohnBellyful None of his candidates come across as kind and caring. They come across as strident and political. And is that really what you want when someone is supposed to be able to run the country?
@Jackson
Trump has amply demonstrated that "strident and political" does not work as a strategy for governing well, so, no, that's not what you want to see in a nation's leadership.
However, I don't agree with your characterization of the Democrats' VP prospects.
But, that aside, they do show a strength of character that gives them an edge over the earnest milquetoast that is Pence.
Freshginger, Minnesota
@Jackson Hmmm. Isn't your attitude towards these women what this article is about? Biden is considering a dozen women and you find them ALL strident and political? Strident - that old chestnut used against women forever. I'm surprised you didn't trot out terms like aggressive and unfeminine. And it is political - this is a political office we're talking about here. The patriarchy is alive and well in your statement.
Trump’s Nakedly Political Pandemic Pivot
(NY Times, July 27, 2020)
Democrats need to prepare for the possibility that late in the campaign, a week or so before the election, a deep fake video will surface showing Biden in the worst light possible.
Most likely it will be a manufactured scandal 'proving' he engaged in corruption of some sort, and the face and the voice 'secretly recorded' will uncannily resemble Biden's.
The revelation of 'wrongdoing' will be made public when it can do the most damage while leaving Democrats and investigative journalists the least amount of time to refute the allegations.
For that reason the Democrats might consider preparing an equally false narrative of Trump (that's even worse than the one he's created for himself), to have on hand should Republicans or Trump's supporters decide to proceed with their outrageous deception.
The Democrats could then hold a press conference to release their own deep fake video, with Trump as its star, and freely admit to its inauthenticity, in order to demonstrate how easily it is to manipulate the public into believing what purveyors of falsehoods have to offer.
It would be extraordinarily sad if something like this were to take place but that is where we're headed, a world where truth too often is cloaked in lies and can't be seen for what it is.
In Portland’s So-Called War Zone, It’s the Troops Who Provide the Menace
(NY Times, July 26, 2020)
The protesters might win over skeptics of their actions if they were to show up on the streets dressed as truck drivers, plumbers, carpenters, farmers, construction workers, waitresses, barbers, cashiers, crossing guards -- ordinary people, in other words.
And when they get assaulted by heavily armed agents of the government dressed in camouflage, Middle America will rise up in anger seeing their own attacked and spirited away for no apparent reason.
A.O.C. and the Jurassic Jerks
(NY Times, July 25, 2020)
Perhaps Yoho's wife and two daughters will work a little harder with him now on lessons about decency. It would appear their influence on his character development requires a more robust approach.
No Longer in Shadows, Pentagon’s U.F.O. Unit Will Make Some Findings Public
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Andy, San Francisco, CA
Very interesting article, to say the least. Am I correct in assuming one of the following is true?
1. The government, or people closely associated with it, have successfully conspired for decades to suppress evidence of alien visitation.
2. The government, or people closely associated with it, are currently conspiring to make us think alien visitation evidence has been suppressed.
3. A bunch of people in and around the government are very confused, not least Trump.
Zack, Texas
@Roger Thank you for the physics. It is kind of funny to think that an alien civilization could figure out the engineering to travel at or greater than lightspeed, across intergalactic distances, with hyper-accurate precision, and not be able to avoid crashing into the ground when they got here.
@Zack
Could be any number of reasons:
Maybe they skimped on maintenance.
Quality control is an issue.
Pilot error.
Outdated mapping.
Disgruntled crew member.
Collided with a bird too small to show up on the screen.
Msrodk touched the red button when he was told hundreds of times not to.
They ran out of dilithium even though the monitoring system, manufactured by the lowest bidder, showed there was plenty left.
Turf war with the Zimoleans.
Wrong turn at Albuquerque.
Planet Earth is hostile to strangers.
The Doctor From Nazi Germany and the Roots of the Hunt for Life on Mars
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Significantly the spacecraft from three different countries -- the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates -- are headed to Mars on individual missions, not one undertaken by humankind as a whole, which is how our species should explore the universe, united in purpose with shared values that express our noblest sentiments.
Unfortunately, that's not likely to be the case, as nations will look upon interstellar travel as a means to colonize and extract resources, and gain an advantage over rivals.
Kathleen Hale, Chagrin Falls, Ohio
@JohnBellyful Earlier models, like the exploitation of the "New World" by European nations in competition with each other, are not heartening.
EBL
"... not one undertaken by humankind as a whole ..."
That's a silly complaint. The scientific results are published, so they can be read by anyone.
"... the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates ..."
The NASA Perseverance rover has instruments contributed by American, French, Spanish, and Norwegian researchers, so it can be fairly described as an *international* collaboration.
The same could be said of the Mars Curiosity rover.
Thomas Zaslavsky, Binghamton, N.Y.
@JohnBellyful
It will be a long time before we have Interstellar travel.
The Future of Non-Conformity
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Lucy Cooke, California
@Red Sox, ‘04, ‘07, ‘13, ‘18
I disagree, after WWll the GI bill gave many the chance for a college education and minds were opened, new ideas explored.
Reagan and Newt Gingrich began the polarization, but Bill Clinton with NAFTA levered the polarization into a chasm.
The trade deals plus huge numbers of very cheap, hard working illegal immigrants took an axe to the American Dream... and the middle class foundered, particularly in the manufacturing dependent areas.
Establishment Democrats have been oblivious to the killing of the American Dream and the resulting grotesque level of inequality of opportunity and income,
My mentioning illegal immigration as a problem is politically incorrect for the usual Democrat.
But for Democrats who want to understand the why of people voting for Trump, understanding that illegal immigration took jobs, lowered wages, and understandably made many voters very angry, is basic.
Had the jobs and good wages remained, racism would likely be less an issue.
@Lucy Cooke
The same titans of industry in America who seized opportunities to produce goods overseas more cheaply are the same proud Americans who have taken up automation to produce goods domestically more cheaply.
Adding insult to injury would be to find out the machines replacing men are made overseas.
Forget about immigration, rise up against the machines!
Or, if you are really interested in fomenting change for a better world, rise up against their masters, the plutocrats who care so little for their fellow countrymen that they take an axe to their jobs and then do little if anything to help workers make a living by other means.
That would require empathy and a social conscience, both of which are notorious for not contributing to the bottom line.
There Is a ‘Great Silent Majority.’ But It Stands Against Trump.
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Based on readers' comments Americans face a terrible choice in this year's election: tyranny on the left, despotism on the right.
What the country obviously needs is a third party that speaks to people in the middle, the silent majority, and promises to unite the country through totalitarianism.
Trump Defends His Cognitive Testing Results on Fox News. Again.
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
If Trump truly wants to match wits with Biden, the two rivals should appear on a special presidential edition of a hugely popular game show.
Many Americans believe the country's already in Jeopardy so why not have the two candidates slug it out there to see who's the smarter candidate.
After explaining to Trump how the buzzer works, Trebek would announce the six categories for the first round: Animal Shapes, World History, Words That Rhyme, Bestsellers, Science, and the Bible.
Allowing for frequent interruptions so Trebek can repeatedly explain to Trump that answers are to be given in the form of a question in less than a minute, the show would offer viewers a relatively quick take on each man's fitness for office.
The second round would bring the two men's mental state into sharper focus with a new set of categories: Debunked Conspiracies, Famous Authors, Basic Arithmetic, Ethics, American Constitution, and Civil Rights.
Even if Trump were to end up in the hole after two rounds – and does anyone seriously think that he wouldn't?-- he would be allowed to play Final Jeopardy by 'borrowing' money from his friends overseas during the commercial break.
It would all be for naught, though. The last category is Facts.
Where an American Passport Doesn’t Work: The World, and Irish Pubs
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
Independent Citizen, Washington
About 8 years ago, we were on a cruise comprised of mostly Canadian passengers. When our dining companions discovered we were USA citizens, they exclaimed "Oh, so you are Democrats", and we asked why they thought that. Their answer was that Republicans don't travel.
Not entirely true, but an interesting observation.
Shaun Narine,
Fredericton, Canada
July 23
@Independent Citizen I am Canadian. A few years ago, I was on a river boat cruise of the Danube. Most of the passengers were Americans. I'm willing to be that the majority of them were Republicans, though not necessarily by much. This was reflected in their age and socioeconomic status. So, I think it depends. And, Sally -there is not much to know about Americans, contrary to what you seem to think. In Canada, we observe you because we need to stay aware of you, and pity you because that is the most appropriate response.
Ronn, Seoul
@Independent Citizen That is a very nice way of saying the believe Republicans tend to be narrow-minded, short-sighted and provincial.
I can not disagree with them either considering the Party of Trump.
Roca, Toronto
@Sally Even so, we know a lot more about you than you do about us. My extensive travels throughout the US have also demonstrated to me that a significant number of Canadians know more about US history, geography and current affairs than a lot of Americans do, especially Americans at the lower end of the income and education spectrum.
Sally, NYC
@Independent Citizen After living 22 years in Canada (now back in the U.S.), I have discovered that many Canadians THINK they know all about the U.S.
Zamboanga, Seattle
And they can’t wait to tell you in their bland oh-so-Canadian passive aggressive way.
@Zamboanga
In my travels around the world over the past 50 years, I have found Canadians overseas to be insufferable.
In the presence of foreigners, they go out of their way to make Americans feel bad about the US and work OT to tell anyone within earshot how great Canada is.
Constantly in search of validation, nothing empties a bar in Europe faster than a Canadian with a few beers under their belt.
njmonica, New Jersey
@Independent Citizen Au contraire. Republicans often travel to the cultural Meccas of Las Vegas and DisneyWorld.
Michele K, Ottawa
@Sally
We know everything we have to know.
A acule, Lexington Virginia
@Independent Citizen
"Not entirely true, but an interesting observation."
Not at all true and not an "interesting observation" but ignorance uttered by an apparent ignoramus.
Walker, DC
@Sally ..."all" about the US...yeah, no...
@EGD
Insufferable Canadians vs Ugly Americans.
We North Americans have an image problem abroad, no?
I was going to say something smug -- which, oddly enough, you've admitted is how you love to be criticized – but I changed my mind when I realized a mild reproach might strain relations with a neighbour whose Uncle's behaviour is growing increasingly erratic. Don't want to set him off, you know.
So insufferable I will remain and no word will I utter, for the nonce.
How Powerful Is the President?
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
Trump surrounds himself with people who prop him up who have no scruples. They further his agenda by whatever means and are known as his enablers.
They could also be called, with equal justification, disablers, for what they are doing collectively to the Constitution, the judicial system, convention, tradition, and myriad other checks and balances.
Power hasn't corrupted Trump and his cronies. They've corrupted power, their individual characters having been malformed long before their acquiring the means to do unprecedented harm to the nation they profess to love.
PJ, SOA
The bigger fear is this power in the hands of a progressive not a conservative.
@PJ
It's hard to imagine a progressive evokes greater fear than a president who's corrupt, incompetent, lazy, untruthful, racist, self-centered, obsequious to dictators and desperate to hang onto power.
Perhaps the focus should be dealing with the immediate problem rather than fretting about the future. Certainly, the remedy at hand if pursued -- restoring and reinforcing the checks and balances that had worked for so long -- will allay any worries you have about what progressives might do.
‘The Whole of Liberal Democracy Is in Grave Danger at This Moment’
(NY Times, July 22, 2020)
Trump's concept of law and order is that the law does as he orders.
Trump’s Request of an Ambassador: Get the British Open for Me
(NY Times, July 22, 2020)
All Shades Of Opinion, Atlanta
I find that most “career diplomats” are Democrats. I would not trust their comments when it comes to defeating a Republican President.
@All Shades Of Opinion It's a shame that a condition of party affiliation is the immediate discarding of personal integrity, rendering the person unfit to perform duties as a government employee in an impartial manner. But this might be solely an issue with Democrats as Republicans are known far and wide for their rectitude.
Trump is unique in American history.
He's the country's first president who's also its vice.
So Trump was hopin' for the Open ...
Doesn't he know that when citizens demand their government to be less secretive, hosting a golf tournament is not what they have in mind.
Trump, Unleashed
(NY Times, July 21, 2020)
JayK CT
"I also think Trump doesn’t have the guts. A guy who can’t fire people to their face is too much of a coward to attempt a coup."
"Thanks for reminding me of that. A guy who became famous pretending to fire people on TV very clearly doesn’t have the guts to do the real thing."
You two really ought to stop trying to out-glib each other and face up to the reality of what we are dealing with here.
The charges you make of "no guts" and "cowardice" are less than meaningless and are actually dangerous.
He is the President of the United States.
One way or another, he got there and now he is sending Federal, unmarked troops into cities.
I find your ongoing Abbott and Costello routine to be excruciatingly vapid, intellectually bankrupt and journalistic malpractice on top of that.
What a waste of space.
@JayK
Humour is a safety valve when tensions threaten to reach the exploding point.
Others handle mounting pressure by venting.
Feel better?
JayK CT
@JohnBellyful
If this "repartee" was funny, you might have a debatable point.
In any case, Trump is far beyond attempts at satire or lampooning, even for people who actually are funny like Stephen Colbert.
He is truly a comedic genius, but I can't bring myself to watch that moronic cartoon president show that he's involved with on Showtime.
Repeating over and over that that "Trump has no guts" and "he's a coward" as if it's some kind of mystical incantation that's going to save us all is simply irresponsible and completely irrelevant.
When evil crosses a certain threshold, the time for humor has passed. Hopefully, if maybe this country is still around in 200 years, somebody here can dig out the tapes of this evil ignoramus and have some fun with it.
Until then, excuse me if I can't find anything funny about it.
Incredulous PA
@JayK
Who’s on first, Jay?
..........................
Trump is truly a transformative president.
He's turning democracy into demoncracy.
If the Devil in Chief hangs around for another four years there will be hell to pay.
What You Don’t Know Can’t Hurt Trump
(NY Times, July 20, 2020)
Trump's base might start to crumble and faith in his handling of the pandemic weaken if a good many of his diehard fans were to die hard.
There is a way Trump, in his desperation, could yet spin the crisis to his advantage: Tell Americans they ALL have been exposed to the coronavirus -- thanks to the Chinese, Democrats and fake news outlets! -- and then announce every day only the number of people who have tested negative.
The numbers nationwide of people who HAVEN'T been infected would be quite impressive and provide solid evidence that the administration is winning the war against COVID-19.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if hordes of people, gladdened by the news, celebrated in the streets.
(If they did end up getting sick, well, they'd still have time to recover and be able to vote in the November election.)
Where Is the Outrage?
(NY Times, July 20, 2020)
ExPatMX Ajijic, Jalisco Mexico
@Ambroisine
" It’s not Congress that does nothing, it’s the Republicans in Congress that do nothing. Particularly Mitch McConnell, who will not bring up bills that have passed in the House."
I agree with you completely about the Republicans but I believe every Democrat in Congress should be on every media available on a daily basis expressing their outrage and offering viable solutions. They should be so visible and so loud that the heavens shake.
@ExPatMX
Their constant thundering would soon become unendurable and eventually fall on deaf ears.
Better they pick their spots to deliver well-orchestrated salvos that don't cross the line but nonetheless manage to weaken their Republican opponents to such an extent that they can't recover.
.......
The column has left me feeling discouraged.
I had been under the impression that our collective outrage as expressed in readers' comments was finding its way into the mainstream of American thought and fomenting an overwhelming desire for change at the highest level.
Now I'm led to believe our influence might not be enough to remove from office the DETRITUS* that POTUS has become.
For that reason I urge readers in whose hands the fate of United States rests to redouble their efforts to restore sanity, compassion and equanimity in the White House.
We're counting on you.
And should it mercifully come to pass don't worry about what it could mean for this corner of the Times, I'm sure we and the columnists will find something else to rail about, but with a good deal more optimism about what the future holds.
*Determinedly Evil Trump Ruining Inexorably The United States
The Doctor Versus the Denier
(NY Times, July 19, 2020)
The U.S. shouldn't pin its hopes on developing a vaccine to put an end to the pandemic.
The country would be better off in so many ways if scientists were to develop a truth serum instead to administer to the president, cabinet and Republicans.
Only then will be they be seen for who they are and what they stand for by more Americans than is currently the case, and with that knowledge will come changes in attitude and perspective that are needed to subdue the coronavirus.
Philip Brown Australia
@JohnBellyful
There is not enough sodium pentothal in the world to extract truth from Trump. And barely enough to extract it from his VP.
Unfortunately, even if you got the "truth", millions of "In-duh-viduals" would not believe it.
cathy farris Mountaindale NY
@JohnBellyful
True, wishful thinking
(NY Times, July 27, 2020)
Democrats need to prepare for the possibility that late in the campaign, a week or so before the election, a deep fake video will surface showing Biden in the worst light possible.
Most likely it will be a manufactured scandal 'proving' he engaged in corruption of some sort, and the face and the voice 'secretly recorded' will uncannily resemble Biden's.
The revelation of 'wrongdoing' will be made public when it can do the most damage while leaving Democrats and investigative journalists the least amount of time to refute the allegations.
For that reason the Democrats might consider preparing an equally false narrative of Trump (that's even worse than the one he's created for himself), to have on hand should Republicans or Trump's supporters decide to proceed with their outrageous deception.
The Democrats could then hold a press conference to release their own deep fake video, with Trump as its star, and freely admit to its inauthenticity, in order to demonstrate how easily it is to manipulate the public into believing what purveyors of falsehoods have to offer.
It would be extraordinarily sad if something like this were to take place but that is where we're headed, a world where truth too often is cloaked in lies and can't be seen for what it is.
In Portland’s So-Called War Zone, It’s the Troops Who Provide the Menace
(NY Times, July 26, 2020)
The protesters might win over skeptics of their actions if they were to show up on the streets dressed as truck drivers, plumbers, carpenters, farmers, construction workers, waitresses, barbers, cashiers, crossing guards -- ordinary people, in other words.
And when they get assaulted by heavily armed agents of the government dressed in camouflage, Middle America will rise up in anger seeing their own attacked and spirited away for no apparent reason.
A.O.C. and the Jurassic Jerks
(NY Times, July 25, 2020)
Perhaps Yoho's wife and two daughters will work a little harder with him now on lessons about decency. It would appear their influence on his character development requires a more robust approach.
No Longer in Shadows, Pentagon’s U.F.O. Unit Will Make Some Findings Public
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Andy, San Francisco, CA
Very interesting article, to say the least. Am I correct in assuming one of the following is true?
1. The government, or people closely associated with it, have successfully conspired for decades to suppress evidence of alien visitation.
2. The government, or people closely associated with it, are currently conspiring to make us think alien visitation evidence has been suppressed.
3. A bunch of people in and around the government are very confused, not least Trump.
Zack, Texas
@Roger Thank you for the physics. It is kind of funny to think that an alien civilization could figure out the engineering to travel at or greater than lightspeed, across intergalactic distances, with hyper-accurate precision, and not be able to avoid crashing into the ground when they got here.
@Zack
Could be any number of reasons:
Maybe they skimped on maintenance.
Quality control is an issue.
Pilot error.
Outdated mapping.
Disgruntled crew member.
Collided with a bird too small to show up on the screen.
Msrodk touched the red button when he was told hundreds of times not to.
They ran out of dilithium even though the monitoring system, manufactured by the lowest bidder, showed there was plenty left.
Turf war with the Zimoleans.
Wrong turn at Albuquerque.
Planet Earth is hostile to strangers.
The Doctor From Nazi Germany and the Roots of the Hunt for Life on Mars
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Significantly the spacecraft from three different countries -- the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates -- are headed to Mars on individual missions, not one undertaken by humankind as a whole, which is how our species should explore the universe, united in purpose with shared values that express our noblest sentiments.
Unfortunately, that's not likely to be the case, as nations will look upon interstellar travel as a means to colonize and extract resources, and gain an advantage over rivals.
Kathleen Hale, Chagrin Falls, Ohio
@JohnBellyful Earlier models, like the exploitation of the "New World" by European nations in competition with each other, are not heartening.
EBL
"... not one undertaken by humankind as a whole ..."
That's a silly complaint. The scientific results are published, so they can be read by anyone.
"... the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates ..."
The NASA Perseverance rover has instruments contributed by American, French, Spanish, and Norwegian researchers, so it can be fairly described as an *international* collaboration.
The same could be said of the Mars Curiosity rover.
Thomas Zaslavsky, Binghamton, N.Y.
@JohnBellyful
It will be a long time before we have Interstellar travel.
The Future of Non-Conformity
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Lucy Cooke, California
@Red Sox, ‘04, ‘07, ‘13, ‘18
I disagree, after WWll the GI bill gave many the chance for a college education and minds were opened, new ideas explored.
Reagan and Newt Gingrich began the polarization, but Bill Clinton with NAFTA levered the polarization into a chasm.
The trade deals plus huge numbers of very cheap, hard working illegal immigrants took an axe to the American Dream... and the middle class foundered, particularly in the manufacturing dependent areas.
Establishment Democrats have been oblivious to the killing of the American Dream and the resulting grotesque level of inequality of opportunity and income,
My mentioning illegal immigration as a problem is politically incorrect for the usual Democrat.
But for Democrats who want to understand the why of people voting for Trump, understanding that illegal immigration took jobs, lowered wages, and understandably made many voters very angry, is basic.
Had the jobs and good wages remained, racism would likely be less an issue.
@Lucy Cooke
The same titans of industry in America who seized opportunities to produce goods overseas more cheaply are the same proud Americans who have taken up automation to produce goods domestically more cheaply.
Adding insult to injury would be to find out the machines replacing men are made overseas.
Forget about immigration, rise up against the machines!
Or, if you are really interested in fomenting change for a better world, rise up against their masters, the plutocrats who care so little for their fellow countrymen that they take an axe to their jobs and then do little if anything to help workers make a living by other means.
That would require empathy and a social conscience, both of which are notorious for not contributing to the bottom line.
There Is a ‘Great Silent Majority.’ But It Stands Against Trump.
(NY Times, July 24, 2020)
Based on readers' comments Americans face a terrible choice in this year's election: tyranny on the left, despotism on the right.
What the country obviously needs is a third party that speaks to people in the middle, the silent majority, and promises to unite the country through totalitarianism.
Trump Defends His Cognitive Testing Results on Fox News. Again.
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
If Trump truly wants to match wits with Biden, the two rivals should appear on a special presidential edition of a hugely popular game show.
Many Americans believe the country's already in Jeopardy so why not have the two candidates slug it out there to see who's the smarter candidate.
After explaining to Trump how the buzzer works, Trebek would announce the six categories for the first round: Animal Shapes, World History, Words That Rhyme, Bestsellers, Science, and the Bible.
Allowing for frequent interruptions so Trebek can repeatedly explain to Trump that answers are to be given in the form of a question in less than a minute, the show would offer viewers a relatively quick take on each man's fitness for office.
The second round would bring the two men's mental state into sharper focus with a new set of categories: Debunked Conspiracies, Famous Authors, Basic Arithmetic, Ethics, American Constitution, and Civil Rights.
Even if Trump were to end up in the hole after two rounds – and does anyone seriously think that he wouldn't?-- he would be allowed to play Final Jeopardy by 'borrowing' money from his friends overseas during the commercial break.
It would all be for naught, though. The last category is Facts.
Where an American Passport Doesn’t Work: The World, and Irish Pubs
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
Independent Citizen, Washington
About 8 years ago, we were on a cruise comprised of mostly Canadian passengers. When our dining companions discovered we were USA citizens, they exclaimed "Oh, so you are Democrats", and we asked why they thought that. Their answer was that Republicans don't travel.
Not entirely true, but an interesting observation.
Shaun Narine,
Fredericton, Canada
July 23
@Independent Citizen I am Canadian. A few years ago, I was on a river boat cruise of the Danube. Most of the passengers were Americans. I'm willing to be that the majority of them were Republicans, though not necessarily by much. This was reflected in their age and socioeconomic status. So, I think it depends. And, Sally -there is not much to know about Americans, contrary to what you seem to think. In Canada, we observe you because we need to stay aware of you, and pity you because that is the most appropriate response.
Ronn, Seoul
@Independent Citizen That is a very nice way of saying the believe Republicans tend to be narrow-minded, short-sighted and provincial.
I can not disagree with them either considering the Party of Trump.
Roca, Toronto
@Sally Even so, we know a lot more about you than you do about us. My extensive travels throughout the US have also demonstrated to me that a significant number of Canadians know more about US history, geography and current affairs than a lot of Americans do, especially Americans at the lower end of the income and education spectrum.
Sally, NYC
@Independent Citizen After living 22 years in Canada (now back in the U.S.), I have discovered that many Canadians THINK they know all about the U.S.
Zamboanga, Seattle
And they can’t wait to tell you in their bland oh-so-Canadian passive aggressive way.
@Zamboanga
In my travels around the world over the past 50 years, I have found Canadians overseas to be insufferable.
In the presence of foreigners, they go out of their way to make Americans feel bad about the US and work OT to tell anyone within earshot how great Canada is.
Constantly in search of validation, nothing empties a bar in Europe faster than a Canadian with a few beers under their belt.
njmonica, New Jersey
@Independent Citizen Au contraire. Republicans often travel to the cultural Meccas of Las Vegas and DisneyWorld.
Michele K, Ottawa
@Sally
We know everything we have to know.
A acule, Lexington Virginia
@Independent Citizen
"Not entirely true, but an interesting observation."
Not at all true and not an "interesting observation" but ignorance uttered by an apparent ignoramus.
Walker, DC
@Sally ..."all" about the US...yeah, no...
@EGD
Insufferable Canadians vs Ugly Americans.
We North Americans have an image problem abroad, no?
I was going to say something smug -- which, oddly enough, you've admitted is how you love to be criticized – but I changed my mind when I realized a mild reproach might strain relations with a neighbour whose Uncle's behaviour is growing increasingly erratic. Don't want to set him off, you know.
So insufferable I will remain and no word will I utter, for the nonce.
How Powerful Is the President?
(NY Times, July 23, 2020)
Trump surrounds himself with people who prop him up who have no scruples. They further his agenda by whatever means and are known as his enablers.
They could also be called, with equal justification, disablers, for what they are doing collectively to the Constitution, the judicial system, convention, tradition, and myriad other checks and balances.
Power hasn't corrupted Trump and his cronies. They've corrupted power, their individual characters having been malformed long before their acquiring the means to do unprecedented harm to the nation they profess to love.
PJ, SOA
The bigger fear is this power in the hands of a progressive not a conservative.
@PJ
It's hard to imagine a progressive evokes greater fear than a president who's corrupt, incompetent, lazy, untruthful, racist, self-centered, obsequious to dictators and desperate to hang onto power.
Perhaps the focus should be dealing with the immediate problem rather than fretting about the future. Certainly, the remedy at hand if pursued -- restoring and reinforcing the checks and balances that had worked for so long -- will allay any worries you have about what progressives might do.
‘The Whole of Liberal Democracy Is in Grave Danger at This Moment’
(NY Times, July 22, 2020)
Trump's concept of law and order is that the law does as he orders.
Trump’s Request of an Ambassador: Get the British Open for Me
(NY Times, July 22, 2020)
All Shades Of Opinion, Atlanta
I find that most “career diplomats” are Democrats. I would not trust their comments when it comes to defeating a Republican President.
@All Shades Of Opinion It's a shame that a condition of party affiliation is the immediate discarding of personal integrity, rendering the person unfit to perform duties as a government employee in an impartial manner. But this might be solely an issue with Democrats as Republicans are known far and wide for their rectitude.
Trump is unique in American history.
He's the country's first president who's also its vice.
So Trump was hopin' for the Open ...
Doesn't he know that when citizens demand their government to be less secretive, hosting a golf tournament is not what they have in mind.
Trump, Unleashed
(NY Times, July 21, 2020)
JayK CT
"I also think Trump doesn’t have the guts. A guy who can’t fire people to their face is too much of a coward to attempt a coup."
"Thanks for reminding me of that. A guy who became famous pretending to fire people on TV very clearly doesn’t have the guts to do the real thing."
You two really ought to stop trying to out-glib each other and face up to the reality of what we are dealing with here.
The charges you make of "no guts" and "cowardice" are less than meaningless and are actually dangerous.
He is the President of the United States.
One way or another, he got there and now he is sending Federal, unmarked troops into cities.
I find your ongoing Abbott and Costello routine to be excruciatingly vapid, intellectually bankrupt and journalistic malpractice on top of that.
What a waste of space.
@JayK
Humour is a safety valve when tensions threaten to reach the exploding point.
Others handle mounting pressure by venting.
Feel better?
JayK CT
@JohnBellyful
If this "repartee" was funny, you might have a debatable point.
In any case, Trump is far beyond attempts at satire or lampooning, even for people who actually are funny like Stephen Colbert.
He is truly a comedic genius, but I can't bring myself to watch that moronic cartoon president show that he's involved with on Showtime.
Repeating over and over that that "Trump has no guts" and "he's a coward" as if it's some kind of mystical incantation that's going to save us all is simply irresponsible and completely irrelevant.
When evil crosses a certain threshold, the time for humor has passed. Hopefully, if maybe this country is still around in 200 years, somebody here can dig out the tapes of this evil ignoramus and have some fun with it.
Until then, excuse me if I can't find anything funny about it.
Incredulous PA
@JayK
Who’s on first, Jay?
..........................
Trump is truly a transformative president.
He's turning democracy into demoncracy.
If the Devil in Chief hangs around for another four years there will be hell to pay.
What You Don’t Know Can’t Hurt Trump
(NY Times, July 20, 2020)
Trump's base might start to crumble and faith in his handling of the pandemic weaken if a good many of his diehard fans were to die hard.
There is a way Trump, in his desperation, could yet spin the crisis to his advantage: Tell Americans they ALL have been exposed to the coronavirus -- thanks to the Chinese, Democrats and fake news outlets! -- and then announce every day only the number of people who have tested negative.
The numbers nationwide of people who HAVEN'T been infected would be quite impressive and provide solid evidence that the administration is winning the war against COVID-19.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if hordes of people, gladdened by the news, celebrated in the streets.
(If they did end up getting sick, well, they'd still have time to recover and be able to vote in the November election.)
Where Is the Outrage?
(NY Times, July 20, 2020)
ExPatMX Ajijic, Jalisco Mexico
@Ambroisine
" It’s not Congress that does nothing, it’s the Republicans in Congress that do nothing. Particularly Mitch McConnell, who will not bring up bills that have passed in the House."
I agree with you completely about the Republicans but I believe every Democrat in Congress should be on every media available on a daily basis expressing their outrage and offering viable solutions. They should be so visible and so loud that the heavens shake.
@ExPatMX
Their constant thundering would soon become unendurable and eventually fall on deaf ears.
Better they pick their spots to deliver well-orchestrated salvos that don't cross the line but nonetheless manage to weaken their Republican opponents to such an extent that they can't recover.
.......
The column has left me feeling discouraged.
I had been under the impression that our collective outrage as expressed in readers' comments was finding its way into the mainstream of American thought and fomenting an overwhelming desire for change at the highest level.
Now I'm led to believe our influence might not be enough to remove from office the DETRITUS* that POTUS has become.
For that reason I urge readers in whose hands the fate of United States rests to redouble their efforts to restore sanity, compassion and equanimity in the White House.
We're counting on you.
And should it mercifully come to pass don't worry about what it could mean for this corner of the Times, I'm sure we and the columnists will find something else to rail about, but with a good deal more optimism about what the future holds.
*Determinedly Evil Trump Ruining Inexorably The United States
The Doctor Versus the Denier
(NY Times, July 19, 2020)
The U.S. shouldn't pin its hopes on developing a vaccine to put an end to the pandemic.
The country would be better off in so many ways if scientists were to develop a truth serum instead to administer to the president, cabinet and Republicans.
Only then will be they be seen for who they are and what they stand for by more Americans than is currently the case, and with that knowledge will come changes in attitude and perspective that are needed to subdue the coronavirus.
Philip Brown Australia
@JohnBellyful
There is not enough sodium pentothal in the world to extract truth from Trump. And barely enough to extract it from his VP.
Unfortunately, even if you got the "truth", millions of "In-duh-viduals" would not believe it.
cathy farris Mountaindale NY
@JohnBellyful
True, wishful thinking
Jamaal Bowman Proves Ocasio-Cortez Was No Fluke
(NY Times, July 17, 2020)
Frank Rao Chattanooga, TN
@Mel Vigman Biden's appeal as a moderate is long gone. He will pander to the progressives.
@Frank Rao
That shouldn't be a problem unless progressivism is seen as more of a threat to the republic than corruption, incompetence, racism, prevarication, and narcissism.
Tahuaya Armijo Sautee Nachoochee
You do not need a weather man to know which way the winds are blowing.
For too long, the winds have blown to the right. Now, they have changed directions and perhaps might bring the nation back to some form of rational behavior.
You do not move the right with moderation. They need in your face opposition to get anything done.
I wish Mr Bowman well.
Frank Rao Chattanooga, TN
@Tahuaya Armijo It is unlikely that the progressives within the Democrat part will bring pack rational behavior. They just scream their thoughtless opinions.
@Frank Rao
You could be right about progressives not bringing back rational behavior but screaming thoughtless opinions could get them elected. It's worked for the Republicans.
Are We Overreacting on Climate Change?
(NY Times, July 17, 2020)
Bill Keating Long Island, NY
@Mo Rage Have you heard of the Great Dust Bowl of the Plains states in the 30's? Poor soil management had left a lot of "dust" on the ground. But the forces that propelled it so high and so far that some of the soil fell on Chicago, and the great cloud could be seen from New York were all due to nature.
For over half the decade there were record high temperatures that still stand in many places. Year after year of drought and the wind velocity of the windstorms that are frequent in the area rose to very non-frequent levels.
If this had occurred within the last 30 years, do you doubt that it would have been blamed on climate change?
I guess we should be grateful that the Times decided to review the book at all and at least let some counter-arguments back into the light.
The scientific response to the coronavirus has only confirmed to me that science has not a clue when it comes to predicting the future.
There is no doubt that climate change exists. Just look out at the Great Lakes, excavated during a prior Ice Age. But even if the worst of the predictions is true, climate change is not speedy, our species has shown great flexibility in the past, and over a number of years we can surely adapt.
Rather than the doomsday scenario always cited to get people's attention, climate change is slow and will leave us time to adapt. Those who say that there will be winning areas and losing areas and it is not far-fetched to believe that we will migrate towards the winners.
@Bill Keating
Hasn't science shown that human activity is responsible for accelerating the pace of climate change, thus reducing the amount of time we have left to adapt?
You have little faith in science being able to predict the future with any kind of credibility. I'm equally dubious that science will discover the means for people of all classes to cope with the rampant changes sure to come.
There are limits to what science can achieve, especially with the extensive demands being made of it to address society's abundant ills.
pete rochester
So, as mankind has done since the beginning, we should move to higher ground. There's rarely a conversation about underpopulated areas of the world that will actually be rendered liveable and relatively attractiive by climate change such as Siberia which is vast and rich in natural resources.
@pete
That shouldn't be a problem. Countries with "higher ground" will have no problem welcoming hundreds of thousands of immigrants from lower lying areas around the world, recognizing, of course, their duty to mankind to provide a haven -- no, a new home -- for those threatened by climate change.
Russia should begin planning now for a huge migration of flood-fearing folk seeking refuge and promise of a better life in Siberia, once a place of exile.
Paradoxically, it's not only too much water that will force people to pick up stakes but also too little of it, drought posing as much of a risk as submerging coastlines.
Who Can Make Trump Miserable This Fall?
(NY Times, July 16, 2020)
KathyW USA
I keep having the impression that Trump has had a stroke. The weird walking, labored two-hand glass lifting, rambling speeches, and extra medical visits all point to some kind of neurological event. (In addition to his obvious, severe, longstanding neurological deficits.)
@KathyW
Trump will tell you it was a stroke of genius on his part(s).
Perhaps Trump could be persuaded not to challenge Biden for the presidency if Joe promised, upon assuming office, to:
-- name a naval vessel after him (a small harbor tug)
-- arrange for his face to be sculpted on the side of a mountain (at Disney World)
-- declare him among the top 50 American presidents of all time
-- have a statuette erected in his honour (in Grand Canyon)
-- put his face put on a three-dollar bill
-- declare Feb. 30 Donald Trump Day
-- get Obama to say something nice about him on national TV
Trump Raises New Objections to Subpoena Seeking His Tax Returns
(NY Times, July 15, 2020)
James Whitters Boston, MA
If Donald Trump devoted more time to dealing with COVID-19 and less time on preventing his tax returns from becoming public information the nation might be able to cope better with what is now a raging pandemic.
@James Whitters
Trump is at the center of a pandemic raging out of control AND a pandemic of rage.
As long as it's all about him he's fine.
Given Trump's propensity for the peculiar it should come as no surprise that his tax returns are an audity and so of special interest to the public.
Trevor Diaz NYC
He will resign once Trump lost Nov 3, 2020 Election and get a Presidential Pardon from Mike Pence before January 21, 2021. People has no interest for Trump's taxes once he lost Nov 3, 2020 Election.
@Trevor Diaz
Strenuously disagree. The information would make for great reading.
Books about Trump invariably end up making the bestsellers list.
What Is Betsy DeVos Thinking?
(NY Times, July 15, 2020)
DeVos is a person of means, combining as she does in one person what it is to be mean in all its forms: dishonorable, contemptible, dull, stingy and malicious.
Why is it so many of the super-rich are never satisfied with what they have and strive to deny others the opportunity to earn a fraction of what they accumulate annually?
A poorly educated populace will one day prove the country's undoing, but apparently that is of no matter to the affluent, so long as they can shield themselves from the worst consequences of a failing economy and widespread social unrest.
They should know, however, that history is replete with examples of the reckoning that awaits the privileged who blithely ignore the anger they stoke and the hopes they suppress.
The QAnon Candidates Are Here. Trump Has Paved Their Way
(NY Times, July 14, 2020)
With all the idiocy in the world, and the rate at which it's spreading, thanks to the internet and lunatics who find each other, I can only conclude that humanity is being tested.
I just haven't figured out by whom.
God?
Satan?
Aliens?
A coterie of mad scientists engaged in a massive social experiment who are intent on destroying civilization so that mankind can start with a fresh slate led by a master race created in the lab?
Worst case scenario: They're ALL in cahoots!
Liar, Liar, Nation on Fire
(NY Times, July 12, 2020)
Every week the Trump administration does something so repugnant that it makes Charlie Chaplin's "The Great Dictator" as relevant today as it was topical back in 1940.
The film concludes with a message of hope spoken by a common man swept up in events that propel the narrative because he resembles the title character.
A few excerpts:
“I should like to help everyone if possible: Jew, Gentile, black man, white. We all want to help one another. Human beings are like that."
"In this world there’s room for everyone and the good earth is rich, and can provide for everyone. The way of life can be free and beautiful, but we have lost the way.
Greed has poisoned men's souls, has barricaded the world with hate, has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed. We have developed speed, but we have shut ourselves in. Machinery that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical. Our cleverness hard and unkind. We think too much, and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. Without these qualities life will be violent, and all will be lost.”
“You the people have the power to make life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure ... Let us fight for a new world, a decent world that will give men a chance to work, that will give youth a future and old age a security.”
The full text is available at www.charliechaplin.com/en/articles/29-The-Final-Speech-from-The-Great-Dictator-
The Mistakes That Will Haunt Our Legacy
(NY Times, July 11, 2020)
It would certainly help if meat substitutes in the near future were to more closely rival in taste and texture the protein they're meant to replace.
Not only would it ultimately render factory farms superfluous and put an end to their cruel practices, but it would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated by animal agriculture, in particular the production of beef, pork and chicken on a massive scale, requiring as they do that crops be grown to feed livestock.
Soybeans and peas apparently have less of a carbon footprint.
Trump Commutes Sentence of Roger Stone in Case He Long Denounced
(NY Times, July 11, 2020)
Alex Kent Westchester
Trump’s view is, “He lied? So what? I lie all the time and get away with it. Why shouldn’t he?”
@Alex Kent
Trump is an outlier among presidents.
He outlies them all.
Thoughts on a warm summer's day ...
Stone's commutation secures the reputation the presidency has earned as an Offal Office.
Trump boasted this week of having “aced” a cognitive assessment, a test so arduous it includes drawing a clock and identifying animals.
Shouldn't presidents be tested for ethics as well throughout their term, to make certain they still possess a moral compass and haven't lost their bearings?
(In Trump's case it's clear he's never had a compass, or if he did, never thought it more than a gimcrack.)
Stone is what you find under a rock, a creepy-crawly that makes you cringe.
What's the difference between the Confederates who fought to divide the country and Trump's confederates who are helping him do the same? One group wore uniforms and had statues raised in their honor.
There's no honour attached to the second group, Rush Limbaugh's Medal of Freedom notwithstanding.
An Unexpected Struggle for Trump: Defining an Elusive Biden
(NY Times, July 10, 2020)
Jason Shapiro Santa Fe , NM
Biden is doing an excellent impression of Mohammed Ali's Rope-A-Dope. Either Biden or his advisors understand that right here, right now, less is more. This may change, but the worst thing Biden can do is to provide Trump any opportunity to deflect away from the corrupt train wreck of his presidency. Sometimes not doing or saying much is the best offense.
@Jason Shapiro
Rope-A-Dope is an apt turn of phrase in describing Biden's opponent and how he is to be sent packing by voters.
Hog-tied would be another.
It's amazing how much criticism is directed at Biden for his gaffes when those making the complaint should be alarmed by what comes out of Trump's mouth.
Trump's verbal miscues far exceed in number those of Biden and his incoherence is unrivaled.
But the most dismaying aspect of Trump's utterances is the amount of hate and animus that inform them. The poison in his soul washes over his words. He's most comfortable when he's assailing another -- or wailing about a grievance, usually of his own making.
Biden, in contrast, does not immerse himself in vitriol and comes across as a decent guy.
Yes, he is capable of embarrassing gaffes, but he has shown he will acknowledge his missteps. Trump, never.
Here's hoping Americans will acknowledge their mistake by denying Trump a second term.
Make him a one-hit blunder.
Tammy Duckworth: Tucker Carlson Doesn’t Know What Patriotism Is
(NY Times, July 9, 2020)
Yang California
Ms Duckworth is surely a patriot but this piece seems condescending - as though only she knows the truth.
@Yang
Considering she had been called a "moron" and a "coward" who hates her country, I thought she showed remarkable restraint in replying to an extremely personal attack on her character.
She would have been well within her rights to reply with a few choice epithets had she been so inclined. Fortunately she possesses a keener mind than Carlson whose air of smug superiority is as laughable as it is unwarranted.
Top Manhattan Prosecutor Ousted by Trump Details Firing
(NY Times, July 9, 2020)
Barr seems to have a problem with precis.
He bungled the summary of the Mueller report and then he botched the retelling of what took place between him and Berman.
However, to be charitable, maybe in the latter instance he simply misheard what was said at the meeting, and that Berman hadn't declared he was stepping down but was in fact sticking around.
(NY Times, July 17, 2020)
Frank Rao Chattanooga, TN
@Mel Vigman Biden's appeal as a moderate is long gone. He will pander to the progressives.
@Frank Rao
That shouldn't be a problem unless progressivism is seen as more of a threat to the republic than corruption, incompetence, racism, prevarication, and narcissism.
Tahuaya Armijo Sautee Nachoochee
You do not need a weather man to know which way the winds are blowing.
For too long, the winds have blown to the right. Now, they have changed directions and perhaps might bring the nation back to some form of rational behavior.
You do not move the right with moderation. They need in your face opposition to get anything done.
I wish Mr Bowman well.
Frank Rao Chattanooga, TN
@Tahuaya Armijo It is unlikely that the progressives within the Democrat part will bring pack rational behavior. They just scream their thoughtless opinions.
@Frank Rao
You could be right about progressives not bringing back rational behavior but screaming thoughtless opinions could get them elected. It's worked for the Republicans.
Are We Overreacting on Climate Change?
(NY Times, July 17, 2020)
Bill Keating Long Island, NY
@Mo Rage Have you heard of the Great Dust Bowl of the Plains states in the 30's? Poor soil management had left a lot of "dust" on the ground. But the forces that propelled it so high and so far that some of the soil fell on Chicago, and the great cloud could be seen from New York were all due to nature.
For over half the decade there were record high temperatures that still stand in many places. Year after year of drought and the wind velocity of the windstorms that are frequent in the area rose to very non-frequent levels.
If this had occurred within the last 30 years, do you doubt that it would have been blamed on climate change?
I guess we should be grateful that the Times decided to review the book at all and at least let some counter-arguments back into the light.
The scientific response to the coronavirus has only confirmed to me that science has not a clue when it comes to predicting the future.
There is no doubt that climate change exists. Just look out at the Great Lakes, excavated during a prior Ice Age. But even if the worst of the predictions is true, climate change is not speedy, our species has shown great flexibility in the past, and over a number of years we can surely adapt.
Rather than the doomsday scenario always cited to get people's attention, climate change is slow and will leave us time to adapt. Those who say that there will be winning areas and losing areas and it is not far-fetched to believe that we will migrate towards the winners.
@Bill Keating
Hasn't science shown that human activity is responsible for accelerating the pace of climate change, thus reducing the amount of time we have left to adapt?
You have little faith in science being able to predict the future with any kind of credibility. I'm equally dubious that science will discover the means for people of all classes to cope with the rampant changes sure to come.
There are limits to what science can achieve, especially with the extensive demands being made of it to address society's abundant ills.
pete rochester
So, as mankind has done since the beginning, we should move to higher ground. There's rarely a conversation about underpopulated areas of the world that will actually be rendered liveable and relatively attractiive by climate change such as Siberia which is vast and rich in natural resources.
@pete
That shouldn't be a problem. Countries with "higher ground" will have no problem welcoming hundreds of thousands of immigrants from lower lying areas around the world, recognizing, of course, their duty to mankind to provide a haven -- no, a new home -- for those threatened by climate change.
Russia should begin planning now for a huge migration of flood-fearing folk seeking refuge and promise of a better life in Siberia, once a place of exile.
Paradoxically, it's not only too much water that will force people to pick up stakes but also too little of it, drought posing as much of a risk as submerging coastlines.
Who Can Make Trump Miserable This Fall?
(NY Times, July 16, 2020)
KathyW USA
I keep having the impression that Trump has had a stroke. The weird walking, labored two-hand glass lifting, rambling speeches, and extra medical visits all point to some kind of neurological event. (In addition to his obvious, severe, longstanding neurological deficits.)
@KathyW
Trump will tell you it was a stroke of genius on his part(s).
Perhaps Trump could be persuaded not to challenge Biden for the presidency if Joe promised, upon assuming office, to:
-- name a naval vessel after him (a small harbor tug)
-- arrange for his face to be sculpted on the side of a mountain (at Disney World)
-- declare him among the top 50 American presidents of all time
-- have a statuette erected in his honour (in Grand Canyon)
-- put his face put on a three-dollar bill
-- declare Feb. 30 Donald Trump Day
-- get Obama to say something nice about him on national TV
Trump Raises New Objections to Subpoena Seeking His Tax Returns
(NY Times, July 15, 2020)
James Whitters Boston, MA
If Donald Trump devoted more time to dealing with COVID-19 and less time on preventing his tax returns from becoming public information the nation might be able to cope better with what is now a raging pandemic.
@James Whitters
Trump is at the center of a pandemic raging out of control AND a pandemic of rage.
As long as it's all about him he's fine.
Given Trump's propensity for the peculiar it should come as no surprise that his tax returns are an audity and so of special interest to the public.
Trevor Diaz NYC
He will resign once Trump lost Nov 3, 2020 Election and get a Presidential Pardon from Mike Pence before January 21, 2021. People has no interest for Trump's taxes once he lost Nov 3, 2020 Election.
@Trevor Diaz
Strenuously disagree. The information would make for great reading.
Books about Trump invariably end up making the bestsellers list.
What Is Betsy DeVos Thinking?
(NY Times, July 15, 2020)
DeVos is a person of means, combining as she does in one person what it is to be mean in all its forms: dishonorable, contemptible, dull, stingy and malicious.
Why is it so many of the super-rich are never satisfied with what they have and strive to deny others the opportunity to earn a fraction of what they accumulate annually?
A poorly educated populace will one day prove the country's undoing, but apparently that is of no matter to the affluent, so long as they can shield themselves from the worst consequences of a failing economy and widespread social unrest.
They should know, however, that history is replete with examples of the reckoning that awaits the privileged who blithely ignore the anger they stoke and the hopes they suppress.
The QAnon Candidates Are Here. Trump Has Paved Their Way
(NY Times, July 14, 2020)
With all the idiocy in the world, and the rate at which it's spreading, thanks to the internet and lunatics who find each other, I can only conclude that humanity is being tested.
I just haven't figured out by whom.
God?
Satan?
Aliens?
A coterie of mad scientists engaged in a massive social experiment who are intent on destroying civilization so that mankind can start with a fresh slate led by a master race created in the lab?
Worst case scenario: They're ALL in cahoots!
Liar, Liar, Nation on Fire
(NY Times, July 12, 2020)
Every week the Trump administration does something so repugnant that it makes Charlie Chaplin's "The Great Dictator" as relevant today as it was topical back in 1940.
The film concludes with a message of hope spoken by a common man swept up in events that propel the narrative because he resembles the title character.
A few excerpts:
“I should like to help everyone if possible: Jew, Gentile, black man, white. We all want to help one another. Human beings are like that."
"In this world there’s room for everyone and the good earth is rich, and can provide for everyone. The way of life can be free and beautiful, but we have lost the way.
Greed has poisoned men's souls, has barricaded the world with hate, has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed. We have developed speed, but we have shut ourselves in. Machinery that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical. Our cleverness hard and unkind. We think too much, and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. Without these qualities life will be violent, and all will be lost.”
“You the people have the power to make life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure ... Let us fight for a new world, a decent world that will give men a chance to work, that will give youth a future and old age a security.”
The full text is available at www.charliechaplin.com/en/articles/29-The-Final-Speech-from-The-Great-Dictator-
The Mistakes That Will Haunt Our Legacy
(NY Times, July 11, 2020)
It would certainly help if meat substitutes in the near future were to more closely rival in taste and texture the protein they're meant to replace.
Not only would it ultimately render factory farms superfluous and put an end to their cruel practices, but it would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated by animal agriculture, in particular the production of beef, pork and chicken on a massive scale, requiring as they do that crops be grown to feed livestock.
Soybeans and peas apparently have less of a carbon footprint.
Trump Commutes Sentence of Roger Stone in Case He Long Denounced
(NY Times, July 11, 2020)
Alex Kent Westchester
Trump’s view is, “He lied? So what? I lie all the time and get away with it. Why shouldn’t he?”
@Alex Kent
Trump is an outlier among presidents.
He outlies them all.
Thoughts on a warm summer's day ...
Stone's commutation secures the reputation the presidency has earned as an Offal Office.
Trump boasted this week of having “aced” a cognitive assessment, a test so arduous it includes drawing a clock and identifying animals.
Shouldn't presidents be tested for ethics as well throughout their term, to make certain they still possess a moral compass and haven't lost their bearings?
(In Trump's case it's clear he's never had a compass, or if he did, never thought it more than a gimcrack.)
Stone is what you find under a rock, a creepy-crawly that makes you cringe.
What's the difference between the Confederates who fought to divide the country and Trump's confederates who are helping him do the same? One group wore uniforms and had statues raised in their honor.
There's no honour attached to the second group, Rush Limbaugh's Medal of Freedom notwithstanding.
An Unexpected Struggle for Trump: Defining an Elusive Biden
(NY Times, July 10, 2020)
Jason Shapiro Santa Fe , NM
Biden is doing an excellent impression of Mohammed Ali's Rope-A-Dope. Either Biden or his advisors understand that right here, right now, less is more. This may change, but the worst thing Biden can do is to provide Trump any opportunity to deflect away from the corrupt train wreck of his presidency. Sometimes not doing or saying much is the best offense.
@Jason Shapiro
Rope-A-Dope is an apt turn of phrase in describing Biden's opponent and how he is to be sent packing by voters.
Hog-tied would be another.
It's amazing how much criticism is directed at Biden for his gaffes when those making the complaint should be alarmed by what comes out of Trump's mouth.
Trump's verbal miscues far exceed in number those of Biden and his incoherence is unrivaled.
But the most dismaying aspect of Trump's utterances is the amount of hate and animus that inform them. The poison in his soul washes over his words. He's most comfortable when he's assailing another -- or wailing about a grievance, usually of his own making.
Biden, in contrast, does not immerse himself in vitriol and comes across as a decent guy.
Yes, he is capable of embarrassing gaffes, but he has shown he will acknowledge his missteps. Trump, never.
Here's hoping Americans will acknowledge their mistake by denying Trump a second term.
Make him a one-hit blunder.
Tammy Duckworth: Tucker Carlson Doesn’t Know What Patriotism Is
(NY Times, July 9, 2020)
Yang California
Ms Duckworth is surely a patriot but this piece seems condescending - as though only she knows the truth.
@Yang
Considering she had been called a "moron" and a "coward" who hates her country, I thought she showed remarkable restraint in replying to an extremely personal attack on her character.
She would have been well within her rights to reply with a few choice epithets had she been so inclined. Fortunately she possesses a keener mind than Carlson whose air of smug superiority is as laughable as it is unwarranted.
Top Manhattan Prosecutor Ousted by Trump Details Firing
(NY Times, July 9, 2020)
Barr seems to have a problem with precis.
He bungled the summary of the Mueller report and then he botched the retelling of what took place between him and Berman.
However, to be charitable, maybe in the latter instance he simply misheard what was said at the meeting, and that Berman hadn't declared he was stepping down but was in fact sticking around.
Biden Should Not Debate Trump Unless …
(NY Times, July 7, 2020)
William Johnson Kaua’i
Fact checking in real time? The same way that Romney was "fact checked" about Russia during his debate with Obama? Having read many of the "fact checking" columns over the past three years, I often find their claims to accuracy to be worthy of fact checking as well.
As for tax returns, I personally loathe the 16th amendment as an unwarranted intrusion of government into the private lives of citizens and would enthusiastically support its repeal and replacement with a consumption tax or, at the very least, a Steve Forbes-style flat tax. Biden was free to publish or not publish his tax returns, and Trump should be as well. These are private matters that never should have been imposed on American citizens in the first place.
And finally, I see that many commenters are opposed to Biden participating in any debate. I understand their concern. But we should all be concerned with the possibility of a president being incapable of stringing a coherent sentence together.
@William Johnson
Trump has repeatedly shown that incoherence is not a hurdle to becoming president so that should ease any concerns you have about Biden.
Of greater concern, I would hope, is having a person remain in power who's incapable of speaking at length without larding his words with lies.
Grace Bronx
The terms of the debates ave already been agreed on, so now Biden wants to change the rules?
@Grace
See, that's the difference between the two men.
Biden would ask for rules to be changed.
Trump would go ahead and smash the ones he chose not to ignore
J D Ct
Can we stop coddling Biden? If he is as defenseless as many suspect (and evidently the Times fears), then better know that before the election. If he can’t handle Trump in a debate, what hope does he have against international adversaries? He is running for President. There won’t be Fact Checkers around when he deals with China, the Middle East and Russia.
@J D
I have more faith in Biden standing up to a bully in debates than Trump has ever shown going head to head with despotic heads of state.
Two laudable suggestions but ...
Trump is used to having his tax audits go on forever.
To have his words undergo a truth audit contemporaneously would probably unsettle him.
Mary Trump’s Book Accuses the President of Embracing ‘Cheating as a Way of Life’
(NY Times, July 7, 2020)
I know of only one other 'character' who proclaimed himself a genius: Wile E. Coyote.
Like Trump he doesn't care what destruction he causes in pursuit of his goal, but for all his scheming Wile E. is never able to catch the roadrunner.
Trump, on the other hand, is one election away from bringing down the American eagle.
Maybe This Isn’t Such a Good Time to Prosecute a Culture War
[NY Times, July 7, 2020]
I wonder how many voted for Trump last time thinking he was a populist only to learn to their horror how much more he is a fabulist.
States May Curb ‘Faithless Electors,’ Supreme Court Rules
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
It's obvious the Electoral College needs reforming. One change worth making would be to require the candidate poised to become president to pass a civics exam, a history test, and a geography quiz.
It would be a mix of short answer, fill-in-the-blank and multiple choice questions.
A failing grade -- anything less than 75 per cent -- would disqualify the person from holding the highest office in the land.
At which point the candidate's vice-president choice would be given the same opportunity to become the country's leader.
If both fail to obtain the necessary marks, well, the other party would be given the chance to do better.
Surely the parties wouldn't precipitate a constitutional crisis by nominating more than one doofus for POTUS.
Jaroslaw Rudnycky'Winnipeg
@JohnBellyful - With Trump thinking Finland was part of Russia, he'd surely have failed a civics test, and probably literacy assessments as well, given his short, childlike sentences with repetitive phrases.
kenneth nyc
@JohnBellyful The preferred "solution" from another country. Thank you, John.
As the Virus Surged, Florida Partied. Tracking the Revelers Has Been Tough
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
Marc B Paris
The young are rightfully sick of having their lives destroyed to protect old people.
So yes, we do party and as we can't do it officially we did it clandestinely. And yes, if the authorities do call, we do not answer or will answer minimally with info they already have. This is resistance against sanitary dictature. And before you think these words are too strong, take some time to reflect that even under Vichy life went on in my city.
Never in history had people stopped a whole country to protect people in their eighties who will be dead from other causes in short time. Most dead were already in nursing home. Stopping a country for that is crazy. You are destroying the economy and the future of young generations. And let me tell you that in the long run, your generation will be judged for that.
I hated Donald Trump before the pandemic, but this thing made him sympathetic to me.
@Marc B
It's clear you are not bound by the social contract that undergirds nations because, in your opinion, it isn't worth the paper it's not written on.
You probably have issues with civility as well.
Empathy? Well, it is an acquired trait, no?
Respect for others? You don't even know these people, what have they done to earn it?
Agreed, repetitive washing of the hands is a bit of imposition – okay, it's “sanitary dictature.”
Imagine, having to keep oneself clean -- for the benefit of others! – when we all know hygiene is personal!
Life did go on in Vichy during the war, its people having made compromises with the scourge that threatened to destroy the rest of the world if left unchecked.
Perhaps modern-day Vichy could assert its going alone once again by declaring itself Party Central and welcoming hedonists from around the world with open arms, a thumb-your-nose embrace in a too uptight world.
‘Tell the Truth and Shame the Devil’
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
About Mount Rushmore
According to Wikipedia the original plan was to carve the four presidents from head to waist but insufficient funding prevented it from happening.
Perhaps Congress could see fit to have the work completed and go one step further by insisting the granite sculpture include feet of clay for historical accuracy.
(NY Times, July 7, 2020)
William Johnson Kaua’i
Fact checking in real time? The same way that Romney was "fact checked" about Russia during his debate with Obama? Having read many of the "fact checking" columns over the past three years, I often find their claims to accuracy to be worthy of fact checking as well.
As for tax returns, I personally loathe the 16th amendment as an unwarranted intrusion of government into the private lives of citizens and would enthusiastically support its repeal and replacement with a consumption tax or, at the very least, a Steve Forbes-style flat tax. Biden was free to publish or not publish his tax returns, and Trump should be as well. These are private matters that never should have been imposed on American citizens in the first place.
And finally, I see that many commenters are opposed to Biden participating in any debate. I understand their concern. But we should all be concerned with the possibility of a president being incapable of stringing a coherent sentence together.
@William Johnson
Trump has repeatedly shown that incoherence is not a hurdle to becoming president so that should ease any concerns you have about Biden.
Of greater concern, I would hope, is having a person remain in power who's incapable of speaking at length without larding his words with lies.
Grace Bronx
The terms of the debates ave already been agreed on, so now Biden wants to change the rules?
@Grace
See, that's the difference between the two men.
Biden would ask for rules to be changed.
Trump would go ahead and smash the ones he chose not to ignore
J D Ct
Can we stop coddling Biden? If he is as defenseless as many suspect (and evidently the Times fears), then better know that before the election. If he can’t handle Trump in a debate, what hope does he have against international adversaries? He is running for President. There won’t be Fact Checkers around when he deals with China, the Middle East and Russia.
@J D
I have more faith in Biden standing up to a bully in debates than Trump has ever shown going head to head with despotic heads of state.
Two laudable suggestions but ...
Trump is used to having his tax audits go on forever.
To have his words undergo a truth audit contemporaneously would probably unsettle him.
Mary Trump’s Book Accuses the President of Embracing ‘Cheating as a Way of Life’
(NY Times, July 7, 2020)
I know of only one other 'character' who proclaimed himself a genius: Wile E. Coyote.
Like Trump he doesn't care what destruction he causes in pursuit of his goal, but for all his scheming Wile E. is never able to catch the roadrunner.
Trump, on the other hand, is one election away from bringing down the American eagle.
Maybe This Isn’t Such a Good Time to Prosecute a Culture War
[NY Times, July 7, 2020]
I wonder how many voted for Trump last time thinking he was a populist only to learn to their horror how much more he is a fabulist.
States May Curb ‘Faithless Electors,’ Supreme Court Rules
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
It's obvious the Electoral College needs reforming. One change worth making would be to require the candidate poised to become president to pass a civics exam, a history test, and a geography quiz.
It would be a mix of short answer, fill-in-the-blank and multiple choice questions.
A failing grade -- anything less than 75 per cent -- would disqualify the person from holding the highest office in the land.
At which point the candidate's vice-president choice would be given the same opportunity to become the country's leader.
If both fail to obtain the necessary marks, well, the other party would be given the chance to do better.
Surely the parties wouldn't precipitate a constitutional crisis by nominating more than one doofus for POTUS.
Jaroslaw Rudnycky'Winnipeg
@JohnBellyful - With Trump thinking Finland was part of Russia, he'd surely have failed a civics test, and probably literacy assessments as well, given his short, childlike sentences with repetitive phrases.
kenneth nyc
@JohnBellyful The preferred "solution" from another country. Thank you, John.
As the Virus Surged, Florida Partied. Tracking the Revelers Has Been Tough
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
Marc B Paris
The young are rightfully sick of having their lives destroyed to protect old people.
So yes, we do party and as we can't do it officially we did it clandestinely. And yes, if the authorities do call, we do not answer or will answer minimally with info they already have. This is resistance against sanitary dictature. And before you think these words are too strong, take some time to reflect that even under Vichy life went on in my city.
Never in history had people stopped a whole country to protect people in their eighties who will be dead from other causes in short time. Most dead were already in nursing home. Stopping a country for that is crazy. You are destroying the economy and the future of young generations. And let me tell you that in the long run, your generation will be judged for that.
I hated Donald Trump before the pandemic, but this thing made him sympathetic to me.
@Marc B
It's clear you are not bound by the social contract that undergirds nations because, in your opinion, it isn't worth the paper it's not written on.
You probably have issues with civility as well.
Empathy? Well, it is an acquired trait, no?
Respect for others? You don't even know these people, what have they done to earn it?
Agreed, repetitive washing of the hands is a bit of imposition – okay, it's “sanitary dictature.”
Imagine, having to keep oneself clean -- for the benefit of others! – when we all know hygiene is personal!
Life did go on in Vichy during the war, its people having made compromises with the scourge that threatened to destroy the rest of the world if left unchecked.
Perhaps modern-day Vichy could assert its going alone once again by declaring itself Party Central and welcoming hedonists from around the world with open arms, a thumb-your-nose embrace in a too uptight world.
‘Tell the Truth and Shame the Devil’
(NY Times, July 6, 2020)
About Mount Rushmore
According to Wikipedia the original plan was to carve the four presidents from head to waist but insufficient funding prevented it from happening.
Perhaps Congress could see fit to have the work completed and go one step further by insisting the granite sculpture include feet of clay for historical accuracy.
Is Trump Toast?
(NY Times, July 1, 2020)
I pray what you predict will come to pass.
Today in Canada we celebrate the birth of our country and view with alarm the slow death of another.
It's suicide by degrees.
EGD, California
@JohnBellyful
Canadians have been predicting the demise of the US for a hundred years.
We’re still here.
In a hundred years, the same cannot be said of Canada.
(NY Times, July 1, 2020)
I pray what you predict will come to pass.
Today in Canada we celebrate the birth of our country and view with alarm the slow death of another.
It's suicide by degrees.
EGD, California
@JohnBellyful
Canadians have been predicting the demise of the US for a hundred years.
We’re still here.
In a hundred years, the same cannot be said of Canada.
Trump’s New Russia Problem: Unread Intelligence and Missing Strategy
(NY Times, July 1, 2020)
Trump is a Russian doll.
His identity is closely tied to Mother Russia and the more you learn about what's inside the man the smaller he becomes.
But the danger that he poses never lessens.
(NY Times, July 1, 2020)
Trump is a Russian doll.
His identity is closely tied to Mother Russia and the more you learn about what's inside the man the smaller he becomes.
But the danger that he poses never lessens.
Fighting Over Masks in Public Is the New American Pastime
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
Sadly, wearing a mask has become too politicized to ever look upon it simply as a safeguard against the transmission of coronavirus.
Perhaps tensions could be eased if conservatives were given the choice of wearing masks of Trump. Complimentary ones, of course, not the exaggerated kind you see at Halloween.
They'd be making a statement: "Trump's my man! And, look, I'm thinking of others! Happy?"
Liberals would be encouraged NOT to wear masks of Biden to avoid escalating tensions once again, grateful deluded fellow Americans are finally coming around to showing respect for others -- in a mean-spirited sort of way.
Ben Florida
John Oliver made the point that Trump was too stupid to think of making red MAGA masks, an obvious missed opportunity.
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
Sadly, wearing a mask has become too politicized to ever look upon it simply as a safeguard against the transmission of coronavirus.
Perhaps tensions could be eased if conservatives were given the choice of wearing masks of Trump. Complimentary ones, of course, not the exaggerated kind you see at Halloween.
They'd be making a statement: "Trump's my man! And, look, I'm thinking of others! Happy?"
Liberals would be encouraged NOT to wear masks of Biden to avoid escalating tensions once again, grateful deluded fellow Americans are finally coming around to showing respect for others -- in a mean-spirited sort of way.
Ben Florida
John Oliver made the point that Trump was too stupid to think of making red MAGA masks, an obvious missed opportunity.
Why Does Trump Put Russia First?
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
Since Trump's election it's now understood that it's always darkest after the Don.
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
Since Trump's election it's now understood that it's always darkest after the Don.
Exclusive interview with a really old guy who knew Carl Reiner
(June 30, 2020)
Interviewer: How does it feel losing your best friend?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: It sucks. It was his turn to buy coffee.
Interviewer: You two were inseparable, weren't you?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He was the yin to my yang, the gum to my shoe, the appen to my dectomy.
He used to bug me at times, though, his hanging around all the time. Carl, I'd say, I can tuck myself in.
Interviewer: So he could be annoying?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: You betcha! Questions, always with the questions! What am I, an encyclopedia? People say he was a straight man, the best there ever was. Hah! I never got a straight answer outta him in all the years I knew him! I'd ask him his age, he'd wink. I'd ask him about his sex life, he'd shrug. I'd ask him for a loan, he'd start talking about his sex life.
Interviewer: What will you miss most about him?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: The arm wrestling. And rides to the zoo.
Interviewer: Did you ever exchange harsh words?
2,000-Year-Old Man? No, just neckties and sniffles.
Interviewer: Are you looking forward to seeing him again in heaven?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: For sure. But I'm little worried, though.
Interviewer: Why?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He'll have fact checked all my stories about the people I said I met! Gawd -- I mean, good grief -- I thought he'd catch on at some point! Boy, was he gullible!
And lovable. Did I mention that? Lovable.
You got a Kleenex?
Hey, wanna hear a funny story about the guy who invented facial tissue? Had the Niagara Falls of noses. Anyways ...
(June 30, 2020)
Interviewer: How does it feel losing your best friend?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: It sucks. It was his turn to buy coffee.
Interviewer: You two were inseparable, weren't you?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He was the yin to my yang, the gum to my shoe, the appen to my dectomy.
He used to bug me at times, though, his hanging around all the time. Carl, I'd say, I can tuck myself in.
Interviewer: So he could be annoying?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: You betcha! Questions, always with the questions! What am I, an encyclopedia? People say he was a straight man, the best there ever was. Hah! I never got a straight answer outta him in all the years I knew him! I'd ask him his age, he'd wink. I'd ask him about his sex life, he'd shrug. I'd ask him for a loan, he'd start talking about his sex life.
Interviewer: What will you miss most about him?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: The arm wrestling. And rides to the zoo.
Interviewer: Did you ever exchange harsh words?
2,000-Year-Old Man? No, just neckties and sniffles.
Interviewer: Are you looking forward to seeing him again in heaven?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: For sure. But I'm little worried, though.
Interviewer: Why?
2,000-Year-Old-Man: He'll have fact checked all my stories about the people I said I met! Gawd -- I mean, good grief -- I thought he'd catch on at some point! Boy, was he gullible!
And lovable. Did I mention that? Lovable.
You got a Kleenex?
Hey, wanna hear a funny story about the guy who invented facial tissue? Had the Niagara Falls of noses. Anyways ...
Carl Reiner, Multifaceted Master of Comedy, Is Dead at 98
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
I can only echo what everyone has said thus far about this comedic legend. He was a genius and, just as important, nice.
I loved The Dick Van Dyke Show and never tire of watching its episodes.
In addition to his movies, I always enjoyed the interviews Mr. Reiner gave, and the praise from others that he'd receive without fail.
He's one artist whose exit leaves us laughing, conjuring as it does fond memories of the great work that he did as a humorist.
I suppose Mr. Reiner will bide his time in heaven chatting up lesser celebrities -- saints and so on -- until his favourite interviewee shows up -- the 2,000-year-old man.
(NY Times, June 30, 2020)
I can only echo what everyone has said thus far about this comedic legend. He was a genius and, just as important, nice.
I loved The Dick Van Dyke Show and never tire of watching its episodes.
In addition to his movies, I always enjoyed the interviews Mr. Reiner gave, and the praise from others that he'd receive without fail.
He's one artist whose exit leaves us laughing, conjuring as it does fond memories of the great work that he did as a humorist.
I suppose Mr. Reiner will bide his time in heaven chatting up lesser celebrities -- saints and so on -- until his favourite interviewee shows up -- the 2,000-year-old man.
Obamacare Versus the G.O.P. Zombies
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
With Trump kowtowing to despots and bullying allies to pay more for their defence, the U.S. will be able to defund the military -- that is, reduce the outrageously inordinate amount it receives -- and redirect a good portion into universal health care for its citizens.
Perhaps this has been Trump's thinking all along and we don't give him enough credit for playing the long game.
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
With Trump kowtowing to despots and bullying allies to pay more for their defence, the U.S. will be able to defund the military -- that is, reduce the outrageously inordinate amount it receives -- and redirect a good portion into universal health care for its citizens.
Perhaps this has been Trump's thinking all along and we don't give him enough credit for playing the long game.
Don’t Cancel That Newspaper Subscription
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
Held in low esteem, hollowed out by layoffs and buyouts, deserted by advertisers and readers, attacked by politicians and magnates, journalism is in a precarious state. Newspapers are dying off or shriveling.
That is not a good thing, though many would welcome their demise. Society would be weaker for it.
To attract new readers and retain those they have mainstream newspapers might consider publishing one edition each day with two front pages (you'd have to turn the paper over to start with the cover you prefer). One would be informed by a liberal perspective, the other a conservative one.
The choice and presentation of stories inside would reflect the leanings of the editors and their staff – separate entities within the organization who would remain cordially aloof so as to maintain corporate peace and departmental independence. Obviously, the two sides' stories would end up meeting in the middle, and this where, it's hoped, readers by then will have done the same, arriving at a better understanding of what constitutes the truth, having worked their way through both sections, or points of view.
t's a proposal made somewhat tongue in cheek – a su-jest-ion, you might say -- but not worth dismissing out of hand. Perhaps in laughing it off or tossing it aside, a germ of an idea will present itself that's worth pursuing.
Something needs to be done to bridge the ever-widening divide among people in the States. Newspapers at the end of their rope no longer have the means.
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
Held in low esteem, hollowed out by layoffs and buyouts, deserted by advertisers and readers, attacked by politicians and magnates, journalism is in a precarious state. Newspapers are dying off or shriveling.
That is not a good thing, though many would welcome their demise. Society would be weaker for it.
To attract new readers and retain those they have mainstream newspapers might consider publishing one edition each day with two front pages (you'd have to turn the paper over to start with the cover you prefer). One would be informed by a liberal perspective, the other a conservative one.
The choice and presentation of stories inside would reflect the leanings of the editors and their staff – separate entities within the organization who would remain cordially aloof so as to maintain corporate peace and departmental independence. Obviously, the two sides' stories would end up meeting in the middle, and this where, it's hoped, readers by then will have done the same, arriving at a better understanding of what constitutes the truth, having worked their way through both sections, or points of view.
t's a proposal made somewhat tongue in cheek – a su-jest-ion, you might say -- but not worth dismissing out of hand. Perhaps in laughing it off or tossing it aside, a germ of an idea will present itself that's worth pursuing.
Something needs to be done to bridge the ever-widening divide among people in the States. Newspapers at the end of their rope no longer have the means.
Supreme Court Lifts Limits on Trump’s Power to Fire Consumer Watchdog
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
JR, CA
The president should put himself in charge of the Consumer Protection Bureau. Few people know the intricacies of declaring bankruptcy as well as Trump does.
@JR
In the eyes of many, Trump is the consummate businessman, although most people shorten it to conman.
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
JR, CA
The president should put himself in charge of the Consumer Protection Bureau. Few people know the intricacies of declaring bankruptcy as well as Trump does.
@JR
In the eyes of many, Trump is the consummate businessman, although most people shorten it to conman.
Lawmakers Press for Answers on Russian Bounty Offers to Taliban to Kill U.S. Troops
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
If true, Trump should give Putin the cold shoulder and ignore his instructions for a week
(NY Times, June 29, 2020)
If true, Trump should give Putin the cold shoulder and ignore his instructions for a week
Spies and Commandos Warned Months Ago of Russian Bounties on U.S. Troops
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
Trump's denial of unpleasant facts shouldn't come as a surprise, as we've seen throughout his presidency.
The natural inclination of a draft dodger is to avoid an ill wind.
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
Trump's denial of unpleasant facts shouldn't come as a surprise, as we've seen throughout his presidency.
The natural inclination of a draft dodger is to avoid an ill wind.
Trump’s Napalm Politics? They Began With Newt
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
Give Gingrich and the Republicans their due.
They know how to bargain
They sold their souls in exchange for power and personal enrichment -- an extraordinary deal, you have to admit, receiving so much for so little.
KEF, Lake Oswego, OR
@JohnBellyful The final bill has yet to come due
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
Give Gingrich and the Republicans their due.
They know how to bargain
They sold their souls in exchange for power and personal enrichment -- an extraordinary deal, you have to admit, receiving so much for so little.
KEF, Lake Oswego, OR
@JohnBellyful The final bill has yet to come due
Trump Didn’t ‘Send In the Troops.’ They Were Already There.
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
fed up, las pulgas
As rioters are not scripted, this is a somewhat narrow view of the use of force necessary to quell violence.
To predict the scope of a riot or it's prospective duration are nearly impossible to predict. It's not necessarily about getting in touch with your feelings.
When one has exited an armored vehicle and is on the ground, face-to-face with someone, who may well kill you, you'll be glad that you had enough supporting arms and equipment to restore something resembling law and order.
The real tragedy is that we keep focused upon the symptoms and colorful media reporting of the same, and less so upon addressing the causes.
@fed up
ALL news is false? Really?
How, then, do you acquire your facts? Personal observation? Eyewitness accounts posted on Facebook and Twitter? Talk show radio? Scholarly journals? Well-informed family members, friends and neighbours whose wellsprings of information are impeccable? A political party beyond reproach? Barbershop talk? Conversations overheard in restaurants and bars? Brief encounters with strangers? ESP?
It's a scary thought to think that you actually believe EVERY news article produced in your country and around the world is nothing more than artifice.
If most people are of the same view democracy is doomed.
(NY Times, June 28, 2020)
fed up, las pulgas
As rioters are not scripted, this is a somewhat narrow view of the use of force necessary to quell violence.
To predict the scope of a riot or it's prospective duration are nearly impossible to predict. It's not necessarily about getting in touch with your feelings.
When one has exited an armored vehicle and is on the ground, face-to-face with someone, who may well kill you, you'll be glad that you had enough supporting arms and equipment to restore something resembling law and order.
The real tragedy is that we keep focused upon the symptoms and colorful media reporting of the same, and less so upon addressing the causes.
@fed up
ALL news is false? Really?
How, then, do you acquire your facts? Personal observation? Eyewitness accounts posted on Facebook and Twitter? Talk show radio? Scholarly journals? Well-informed family members, friends and neighbours whose wellsprings of information are impeccable? A political party beyond reproach? Barbershop talk? Conversations overheard in restaurants and bars? Brief encounters with strangers? ESP?
It's a scary thought to think that you actually believe EVERY news article produced in your country and around the world is nothing more than artifice.
If most people are of the same view democracy is doomed.
Biden’s Best Veep Pick Is Obvious -- Tammy Duckworth
(NY Times, June 27, 2020)
Charles Wilson, Columbus, Ohio
So, we are reduced to picking a VP candidate because they annoy the president. Sheesh. Maybe that’s a good choice for out of touch people like Biden and Bruni. The actual fight for the soul of America will not be waged by someone who has done quite well by the existing system. The real fight is happening out in the streets of our cities.
@Charles Wilson
"The actual fight for the soul of America will not be waged by someone who has done quite well by the existing system. The real fight is happening out in the streets of our cities."
Given what she's had to overcome growing up and then in battle, the senator sounds like a fighter to me who could handle what's happening out in the city streets.
As for having done quite well by the system, Duckworth wasn't born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Which is just as well. It made Trump unable to swallow cold, hard facts. He found it easier to mouth lies spun out of thin air
JK, Oregon
Mr. Bruni, where have you been? Of course Sen. Duckworth is an honorable person and may make an excellent VP. But do not imagine for one little minute that DJT will not mercilessly attack and ridicule her. She may be an excellent candidate, but not for the reason the headline suggests. Let her qualify on her character and accomplishments alone.
@JK
Lameduckworth or Duckworthless would be two nicknames Tromp would be sure to trot out. Name calling is the first resort of a scoundrel in no position to impugn the character of an opponent, especially one with her record of service and personal triumph.
To be honest, getting under Trump's skin is no great feat, considering how thin it is.
What Texas Would Look Like Without Obamacare
(NY Times, June 26,2020)
Why would Texans who lose coverage if the Affordable Care Act is overturned then shoot themselves in the foot by voting for Trump?
(NY Times, June 27, 2020)
Charles Wilson, Columbus, Ohio
So, we are reduced to picking a VP candidate because they annoy the president. Sheesh. Maybe that’s a good choice for out of touch people like Biden and Bruni. The actual fight for the soul of America will not be waged by someone who has done quite well by the existing system. The real fight is happening out in the streets of our cities.
@Charles Wilson
"The actual fight for the soul of America will not be waged by someone who has done quite well by the existing system. The real fight is happening out in the streets of our cities."
Given what she's had to overcome growing up and then in battle, the senator sounds like a fighter to me who could handle what's happening out in the city streets.
As for having done quite well by the system, Duckworth wasn't born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Which is just as well. It made Trump unable to swallow cold, hard facts. He found it easier to mouth lies spun out of thin air
JK, Oregon
Mr. Bruni, where have you been? Of course Sen. Duckworth is an honorable person and may make an excellent VP. But do not imagine for one little minute that DJT will not mercilessly attack and ridicule her. She may be an excellent candidate, but not for the reason the headline suggests. Let her qualify on her character and accomplishments alone.
@JK
Lameduckworth or Duckworthless would be two nicknames Tromp would be sure to trot out. Name calling is the first resort of a scoundrel in no position to impugn the character of an opponent, especially one with her record of service and personal triumph.
To be honest, getting under Trump's skin is no great feat, considering how thin it is.
What Texas Would Look Like Without Obamacare
(NY Times, June 26,2020)
Why would Texans who lose coverage if the Affordable Care Act is overturned then shoot themselves in the foot by voting for Trump?
Russia Secretly Offered Afghan Militants Bounties to Kill U.S. Troops, Intelligence Says
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
@AnObserver Upstate NY
This is very much like deja vu. This "warm war" is becoming the same as the proxy wars of the Cold War. Not entirely surprising since that's the era where Putin learned his tactics at the KGB. Trump's response isn't all that surprising either, especially considering the likely amount of debt currently that numerous Russian parties hold on the Trumps, all of whom are beholden to Putin for their existence too.
@AnObserver
Maybe the answer is for the Democrats in Congress to put forward bills saying the federal government will assume all of Trump's debts to the Russians if he agrees to resign immediately. There would have to be a limit, though. Would a billion dollars be enough to cover them? The government would recover its money by raising taxes on the ultra-rich after the Democrats win the election.
Mark Milwaukee
So Trump comes to Wisconsin to praise our military, then proceeds to look the other way while Russia takes out bounties on...our military. I don't know whether to laugh or cry about this.
@Mark
The right response is to vote in November.
Maybe then you'll get to cry tears of joy and laugh hysterically that good has prevailed.
Joe From Boston
@JohnBellyful
AMEN.
People who describe Trump's actions as malign, or describe him as unfit to hold office, and then ask "What to do?" need to take a deep breath, look in the mirror, and ask themself the question "What did I do (or fail to do) to let this situation come about?"
The most fundamental thing that citizens do is VOTE.
Meredith New York
@JohnBellyful .....for some time, we've already gotten a bellyful ----of commenters telling us we should VOTE IN NOV.
I'm up to here with it. We don't need any lectures.
Do you really think anyone who would take the trouble to write Times comments would neglect the duty to VOTE? In this historic election?
Or does it just feel good to lecture people from on high, instead of thinking up a comment that's more interesting?
J.C. Hayes San Francisco
@Meredith Making sure you vote can involve additional steps, like signing up for an absentee ballot and ensuring your name shows up on the voter registration rolls. While your at it you can also urge friends and relatives to do the same.
It is certain that we will have fewer places to vote in the 2020 general election and that in-person voting is going to pose a coronavirus risk (it happened in Wisconsin). More than just voting you've got to actively oppose conservative efforts to suppress voter turnout of the type that occurred in Wisconsin and succeeded in electing a Republican governor the 2018 Georgia general election.
These battles to protect the right to vote are already underway in multiple states and the results are going to be consequential. In the worst case scenario they could give Trump a second term.
Doc Weaver Santa Fe NM
@Meredith
Meredith, be sure to vote in November!
You Want a Confederate Monument? My Body Is a Confederate Monument
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Those who would remain unpersuaded by your forceful condemnation of slavery and the righteousness of your argument that monuments celebrating America's shameful past must be removed are a lost cause.
Your powerful voice certainly drowns out any of their pitiable utterances to respect history (by not examining it too closely).
@Jake
If you're against slavery why aren't you opposed to monuments that glorify men who fought to preserve it?
Their infamy will live on in textbooks and archives, no statues are needed.
If you're looking for visible reminders of their place in history, the evil they wrought, look no further than black communities that continue to struggle to this day because of the legacy that was left them.
Honorable men of the South would have laid down their arms, and not their lives, to put an end to the wickedness.
How can there be respect for those who would die without questioning the sacrifice they were being asked to make, who would kill others putting their lives on the line to preserve the union against insurrection?
If it's statues you want, to make visible the past, why not ones of slaves in chains, of slaves being beaten and raped?
Repulsive, I grant you, but a more accurate depiction of what was real for so many for too long a time.
If You Want to Let Freedom Ring, Hammer on Economic Injustice
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Jonathan Berlin
Honestly, I am tired with all that scepticism toward capitalism. May anyone who is not happy with that, simply point anywhere in the space and time, and show us where average people live or lived better, then in todays US?
@Jonathan
That's akin to telling the impoverished crammed into a closet in a mansion there's no room for improvement in their lives.
Yeah, the closet's bigger than the one they had before but a guest room would be nice.
@JohnBellyful You may like it or not but people deserve only what they earned. Salaries in US way higher then anywhere in the world, for any milleu from meatpacking worker to blue chip CEO. What do you want more? Equality? Equality always ends in Gulag
America Is Facing 5 Epic Crises All at Once
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Glenn New Jersey
"I thank God that Joe Biden is going to be nominated by the Democratic Party"
Right, because he won't do anything that really counts, and the rich will be able to take a deep sigh of relief.
@Glenn
Biden doing nothing to undermine science, justice, democracy, race relations, diplomacy, and the environment would count for something.
A great deal, in fact, after what Trump has done to the United States.
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
@AnObserver Upstate NY
This is very much like deja vu. This "warm war" is becoming the same as the proxy wars of the Cold War. Not entirely surprising since that's the era where Putin learned his tactics at the KGB. Trump's response isn't all that surprising either, especially considering the likely amount of debt currently that numerous Russian parties hold on the Trumps, all of whom are beholden to Putin for their existence too.
@AnObserver
Maybe the answer is for the Democrats in Congress to put forward bills saying the federal government will assume all of Trump's debts to the Russians if he agrees to resign immediately. There would have to be a limit, though. Would a billion dollars be enough to cover them? The government would recover its money by raising taxes on the ultra-rich after the Democrats win the election.
Mark Milwaukee
So Trump comes to Wisconsin to praise our military, then proceeds to look the other way while Russia takes out bounties on...our military. I don't know whether to laugh or cry about this.
@Mark
The right response is to vote in November.
Maybe then you'll get to cry tears of joy and laugh hysterically that good has prevailed.
Joe From Boston
@JohnBellyful
AMEN.
People who describe Trump's actions as malign, or describe him as unfit to hold office, and then ask "What to do?" need to take a deep breath, look in the mirror, and ask themself the question "What did I do (or fail to do) to let this situation come about?"
The most fundamental thing that citizens do is VOTE.
Meredith New York
@JohnBellyful .....for some time, we've already gotten a bellyful ----of commenters telling us we should VOTE IN NOV.
I'm up to here with it. We don't need any lectures.
Do you really think anyone who would take the trouble to write Times comments would neglect the duty to VOTE? In this historic election?
Or does it just feel good to lecture people from on high, instead of thinking up a comment that's more interesting?
J.C. Hayes San Francisco
@Meredith Making sure you vote can involve additional steps, like signing up for an absentee ballot and ensuring your name shows up on the voter registration rolls. While your at it you can also urge friends and relatives to do the same.
It is certain that we will have fewer places to vote in the 2020 general election and that in-person voting is going to pose a coronavirus risk (it happened in Wisconsin). More than just voting you've got to actively oppose conservative efforts to suppress voter turnout of the type that occurred in Wisconsin and succeeded in electing a Republican governor the 2018 Georgia general election.
These battles to protect the right to vote are already underway in multiple states and the results are going to be consequential. In the worst case scenario they could give Trump a second term.
Doc Weaver Santa Fe NM
@Meredith
Meredith, be sure to vote in November!
You Want a Confederate Monument? My Body Is a Confederate Monument
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Those who would remain unpersuaded by your forceful condemnation of slavery and the righteousness of your argument that monuments celebrating America's shameful past must be removed are a lost cause.
Your powerful voice certainly drowns out any of their pitiable utterances to respect history (by not examining it too closely).
@Jake
If you're against slavery why aren't you opposed to monuments that glorify men who fought to preserve it?
Their infamy will live on in textbooks and archives, no statues are needed.
If you're looking for visible reminders of their place in history, the evil they wrought, look no further than black communities that continue to struggle to this day because of the legacy that was left them.
Honorable men of the South would have laid down their arms, and not their lives, to put an end to the wickedness.
How can there be respect for those who would die without questioning the sacrifice they were being asked to make, who would kill others putting their lives on the line to preserve the union against insurrection?
If it's statues you want, to make visible the past, why not ones of slaves in chains, of slaves being beaten and raped?
Repulsive, I grant you, but a more accurate depiction of what was real for so many for too long a time.
If You Want to Let Freedom Ring, Hammer on Economic Injustice
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Jonathan Berlin
Honestly, I am tired with all that scepticism toward capitalism. May anyone who is not happy with that, simply point anywhere in the space and time, and show us where average people live or lived better, then in todays US?
@Jonathan
That's akin to telling the impoverished crammed into a closet in a mansion there's no room for improvement in their lives.
Yeah, the closet's bigger than the one they had before but a guest room would be nice.
@JohnBellyful You may like it or not but people deserve only what they earned. Salaries in US way higher then anywhere in the world, for any milleu from meatpacking worker to blue chip CEO. What do you want more? Equality? Equality always ends in Gulag
America Is Facing 5 Epic Crises All at Once
(NY Times, June 26, 2020)
Glenn New Jersey
"I thank God that Joe Biden is going to be nominated by the Democratic Party"
Right, because he won't do anything that really counts, and the rich will be able to take a deep sigh of relief.
@Glenn
Biden doing nothing to undermine science, justice, democracy, race relations, diplomacy, and the environment would count for something.
A great deal, in fact, after what Trump has done to the United States.
America Didn’t Give Up on Covid-19. Republicans Did.
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Josh G WA
Well it is one way to reduce the Trump base. Dead people cannot vote.
@Josh G
No, but they can collect stimulus payments.
I guess that's why they're called the Grateful Dead.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/us/politics/coronavirus-stimulus-dead-people.html
Trump Speaks! And Speaks. And Speaks
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Jackson Virginia
And of course, no one cared that Obama NEVER communicated unless he had a teleprompter. But then, Gail is a one trick pony - anti Trump every column.
@Jackson
But Obama's teleprompter worked.
Trump's not so much, apparently, judging by the stuff that comes out of his mouth, when he's forced to improv lies.
Is it fair to say Trump is a nattering nay-boob of negativism?
I really don't understand why he doesn't have a closer relationship with the truth. I thought opposites attract.
Appeals Court Panel Orders End to Michael Flynn Case
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Matt Miami
The whole Russian collusion conspiracy was a farce and this was part of it. I am not a fan of Trump, but also not a fan of witch hunts.
@Matt
I think the Russians were right to do the dirty work on their own and not let the Trump people get involved.
You need smart folks to rig an election.
Flynn should consider himself lucky: The DOJ dropped his case because voters dropped the ball four years ago.
All three branches of government are badly diseased.
Voters will have a lot of pruning to do come November.
Biden Takes Dominant Lead as Voters Reject Trump on Virus and Race
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Trump can't help himself, he's a racist at heart. Telling voters Biden, who's 77, is too old to be president when he's 74 is a clear case of the POT(US) calling the kettle black.
Tax the Rich and Their Heirs
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Loopholes -- nooses by another name -- strangle equality.
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Josh G WA
Well it is one way to reduce the Trump base. Dead people cannot vote.
@Josh G
No, but they can collect stimulus payments.
I guess that's why they're called the Grateful Dead.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/us/politics/coronavirus-stimulus-dead-people.html
Trump Speaks! And Speaks. And Speaks
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Jackson Virginia
And of course, no one cared that Obama NEVER communicated unless he had a teleprompter. But then, Gail is a one trick pony - anti Trump every column.
@Jackson
But Obama's teleprompter worked.
Trump's not so much, apparently, judging by the stuff that comes out of his mouth, when he's forced to improv lies.
Is it fair to say Trump is a nattering nay-boob of negativism?
I really don't understand why he doesn't have a closer relationship with the truth. I thought opposites attract.
Appeals Court Panel Orders End to Michael Flynn Case
(NY Times, June 25, 2020)
Matt Miami
The whole Russian collusion conspiracy was a farce and this was part of it. I am not a fan of Trump, but also not a fan of witch hunts.
@Matt
I think the Russians were right to do the dirty work on their own and not let the Trump people get involved.
You need smart folks to rig an election.
Flynn should consider himself lucky: The DOJ dropped his case because voters dropped the ball four years ago.
All three branches of government are badly diseased.
Voters will have a lot of pruning to do come November.
Biden Takes Dominant Lead as Voters Reject Trump on Virus and Race
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Trump can't help himself, he's a racist at heart. Telling voters Biden, who's 77, is too old to be president when he's 74 is a clear case of the POT(US) calling the kettle black.
Tax the Rich and Their Heirs
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Loopholes -- nooses by another name -- strangle equality.
Biden Takes Dominant Lead as Voters Reject Trump on Virus and Race
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Sadly, the Electoral College has as much credibility as Trump University, but its one graduate does secure a lucrative, high-profile job.
The accuracy of polls has been called into question, with one criticism being individuals will tell pollsters one thing and vote the opposite.
Or choose not to participate at all.
Perhaps the accuracy of polling could be greatly improved if the people surveyed were assured that $10 would be paid to the campaign of the candidate they say they support.
In a poll of 1,500 people, $15,000 is a small price to pay to obtain a truer reading of the political landscape.
Mochilero Mazatlan June 24
How do you know that people will do that? It is just another Republican talking point with no underlying evidence.
@Mochilero
I don't know that people would do that.
Hence the use of the word 'perhaps' in suggesting the offering of an incentive might encourage participation that honestly reflects a person's preference in candidates.
I wasn't aware it was a Republican talking point. Could you please provide evidence that this might be so.
RL Houston
Well I just cannot for the life of me see how anyone would support Trump now that they’ve seen what he’s like. Biden isn’t my first choice either but I’m hopeful for the VP choice. I’m hoping and praying that Trump is a one-termer who we can quickly forget about!
@RL
If history is as unkind to Trump as he is to minorities, immigrants, allies, reporters, Democrats, judges, scientists, and inspector generals, he'll be reduced to a footnote with bone spurs.
Unfortunately, the footprint of his presidency will be too large to cover by the sands of time.
(NY Times, June 24, 2020)
Sadly, the Electoral College has as much credibility as Trump University, but its one graduate does secure a lucrative, high-profile job.
The accuracy of polls has been called into question, with one criticism being individuals will tell pollsters one thing and vote the opposite.
Or choose not to participate at all.
Perhaps the accuracy of polling could be greatly improved if the people surveyed were assured that $10 would be paid to the campaign of the candidate they say they support.
In a poll of 1,500 people, $15,000 is a small price to pay to obtain a truer reading of the political landscape.
Mochilero Mazatlan June 24
How do you know that people will do that? It is just another Republican talking point with no underlying evidence.
@Mochilero
I don't know that people would do that.
Hence the use of the word 'perhaps' in suggesting the offering of an incentive might encourage participation that honestly reflects a person's preference in candidates.
I wasn't aware it was a Republican talking point. Could you please provide evidence that this might be so.
RL Houston
Well I just cannot for the life of me see how anyone would support Trump now that they’ve seen what he’s like. Biden isn’t my first choice either but I’m hopeful for the VP choice. I’m hoping and praying that Trump is a one-termer who we can quickly forget about!
@RL
If history is as unkind to Trump as he is to minorities, immigrants, allies, reporters, Democrats, judges, scientists, and inspector generals, he'll be reduced to a footnote with bone spurs.
Unfortunately, the footprint of his presidency will be too large to cover by the sands of time.
Trump Family Asks Court to Stop Publication of Tell-All by President’s Niece
(NY Times, June 23, 2020)
Society -- and history -- would be better served by full disclosure agreements.
You have to figure any memoir Trump wrote would be classified ... as fiction.
tom harrison seattle
@JohnBellyful - I think a children's cartoon book might be more apropos. Maybe Mother Pence could illustrate it.
beaujames Portland Oregon
One more example of the self-proclaimed "most transparent president in history." This goes alongside his tax returns, his health history, and everything else that this pathological liar says.
@beaujames
Trump almost got it right.
He's "the most transparently dishonest president in history."
The Boy Who Cried Fake News
(NY Times, June 23, 2020)
Mark Nuckols Moscow
So Trump "cannot thrive without a constant stream of attention, adulation and affirmation." He lives in a "bubble" to protect himself from unwelcome ideas or information. That sounds like almost all NYT columnists I read.
@Mark Nuckols
They're columnists. Of course they're looking for attention.
If adulation and affirmation follow, it means what they're writing has resonated with a certain number of readers, but it's not what they're seeking.
But to say they live in a bubble that protects them from unwelcome ideas or information, you obviously gloss over readers' comments.
If they were living in a bubble, readers' comments wouldn't be allowed at all.
Can you imagine standing up at a Trump rally and challenging one of the many lies he spews at these events. You'd be lucky to escape with your life. Certainly not unscathed.
(NY Times, June 23, 2020)
Society -- and history -- would be better served by full disclosure agreements.
You have to figure any memoir Trump wrote would be classified ... as fiction.
tom harrison seattle
@JohnBellyful - I think a children's cartoon book might be more apropos. Maybe Mother Pence could illustrate it.
beaujames Portland Oregon
One more example of the self-proclaimed "most transparent president in history." This goes alongside his tax returns, his health history, and everything else that this pathological liar says.
@beaujames
Trump almost got it right.
He's "the most transparently dishonest president in history."
The Boy Who Cried Fake News
(NY Times, June 23, 2020)
Mark Nuckols Moscow
So Trump "cannot thrive without a constant stream of attention, adulation and affirmation." He lives in a "bubble" to protect himself from unwelcome ideas or information. That sounds like almost all NYT columnists I read.
@Mark Nuckols
They're columnists. Of course they're looking for attention.
If adulation and affirmation follow, it means what they're writing has resonated with a certain number of readers, but it's not what they're seeking.
But to say they live in a bubble that protects them from unwelcome ideas or information, you obviously gloss over readers' comments.
If they were living in a bubble, readers' comments wouldn't be allowed at all.
Can you imagine standing up at a Trump rally and challenging one of the many lies he spews at these events. You'd be lucky to escape with your life. Certainly not unscathed.
Trump Fires U.S. Attorney in New York Who Investigated His Inner Circle
(NY Times, June 21, 2020)
With all the corrupt goings-on it's amazing the Trump administration is still able to function. At what point will it be too much to handle and the swamp becomes swamped?
Letters of the law, as they're now understood:
OJ -- Justice denied
DOJ -- Justice corrupted
Mike Pompeo Dishonors the State Department
(NY Times, June 20, 2020)
How is it that in a country of 330 million people it wasn't possible to install an administration populated by ethical, empathic, knowledgeable people?
Trump's election wasn't a case of cream rising to the top but sludge sinking to the bottom, contaminating everything it touches.
Are there any members of his cabinet who haven't soiled the office they hold?
Five Takeaways From John Bolton’s Memoir
(NY Times, June 18, 2020)
I'm confident that Bolton, being the patriot that he is, will dedicate the money he earns from his book to efforts to making sure the upcoming election is above board and that no voter's right to elect a better government is suppressed.
Does Trump Want to Fight for a Second Term? His Self-Sabotage Worries Aides
(NY Times, June 17, 2020)
It's losers like Trump who give victory a bad name.
Is Trump Trying to Spread Covid-19?
(NY Times, June 16, 2020)
Is it possible Trump is a virus that poses a greater threat to the body politic than COVID-19?
Scary stuff, but on the bright side, a vaccine will be ready by November, for distribution at the polls.
What Should Be Done About the Police?
(NY Times, June 16, 2020)
Police unions are the reason "bad apples" have local governments over the barrel. Unions serve a useful purpose but there is a line they cross when they go to extraordinary lengths defending members whose conduct warrants disciplinary action or dismissal.
If they insist on throwing up obstacles to justice being done they should also commit to working with employers to ensure all officers understand and accept that use of force should be employed as a last resort when all other efforts at de-escalating situations fail.
The unions should also dismantle the silent blue wall that protects rogue cops from being called out by their colleagues and their criminal behaviour exposed. Solidarity in the performance of duty and the safeguarding of life does not extend to protecting officers who disgrace the badge and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
(NY Times, June 21, 2020)
With all the corrupt goings-on it's amazing the Trump administration is still able to function. At what point will it be too much to handle and the swamp becomes swamped?
Letters of the law, as they're now understood:
OJ -- Justice denied
DOJ -- Justice corrupted
Mike Pompeo Dishonors the State Department
(NY Times, June 20, 2020)
How is it that in a country of 330 million people it wasn't possible to install an administration populated by ethical, empathic, knowledgeable people?
Trump's election wasn't a case of cream rising to the top but sludge sinking to the bottom, contaminating everything it touches.
Are there any members of his cabinet who haven't soiled the office they hold?
Five Takeaways From John Bolton’s Memoir
(NY Times, June 18, 2020)
I'm confident that Bolton, being the patriot that he is, will dedicate the money he earns from his book to efforts to making sure the upcoming election is above board and that no voter's right to elect a better government is suppressed.
Does Trump Want to Fight for a Second Term? His Self-Sabotage Worries Aides
(NY Times, June 17, 2020)
It's losers like Trump who give victory a bad name.
Is Trump Trying to Spread Covid-19?
(NY Times, June 16, 2020)
Is it possible Trump is a virus that poses a greater threat to the body politic than COVID-19?
Scary stuff, but on the bright side, a vaccine will be ready by November, for distribution at the polls.
What Should Be Done About the Police?
(NY Times, June 16, 2020)
Police unions are the reason "bad apples" have local governments over the barrel. Unions serve a useful purpose but there is a line they cross when they go to extraordinary lengths defending members whose conduct warrants disciplinary action or dismissal.
If they insist on throwing up obstacles to justice being done they should also commit to working with employers to ensure all officers understand and accept that use of force should be employed as a last resort when all other efforts at de-escalating situations fail.
The unions should also dismantle the silent blue wall that protects rogue cops from being called out by their colleagues and their criminal behaviour exposed. Solidarity in the performance of duty and the safeguarding of life does not extend to protecting officers who disgrace the badge and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
A War Against Climate Science, Waged
by Washington’s Rank and File
(NY Times, June 15, 2020)
The climate we have now does seem to be causing us a bit of a problem, though. Perhaps we could look to earlier civilizations to see how they dealt with the impact of climates like that of ours today. Back when the Sahara started turning to sand, did people stick their heads inside it to stay cool?
Brooklyncowgirl
Disturbing to say the least. I can completely sympathize with these scientists and mid level managers. It's a choice between their integrity as scientists and their ability to keep their jobs, their pensions and their ability to perhaps shape policy at least a little against an administration determined to advance the interests of the fossil fuel industry at any cost
I know I would not want to be in their position
@Brooklyncowgirl
What's needed are dog whistle blowers -- insiders able to reveal the shady goings-on behind the scenes in a way that catches the ear of Trump supporters and makes them supporters of principled climate scientists.
Mike, Monroe, NY
Sad but it's no surprise as our economy and culture is about short- term business/profits and gratification. If there are no acute adverse effects, it's not worth undertaking research or taking action. The coronavirus is another good example.
@Mike
It sounds counter-intuitive but perhaps the solution to short-term thinking among elected officials is to give them longer terms, say 15 years.
The first dozen they could devote their time and energy to actually addressing the major issues of the day, including climate change, by taking the long approach, without having to think much about their re-election
That they could leave to the last three years of their term in office but maybe by then they will have developed a social conscience and a sense of stewardship that will make them keenly aware of their responsibility to present and future generations, as well as sensitive to their own legacy, and how they wish to be perceived by history.
by Washington’s Rank and File
(NY Times, June 15, 2020)
The climate we have now does seem to be causing us a bit of a problem, though. Perhaps we could look to earlier civilizations to see how they dealt with the impact of climates like that of ours today. Back when the Sahara started turning to sand, did people stick their heads inside it to stay cool?
Brooklyncowgirl
Disturbing to say the least. I can completely sympathize with these scientists and mid level managers. It's a choice between their integrity as scientists and their ability to keep their jobs, their pensions and their ability to perhaps shape policy at least a little against an administration determined to advance the interests of the fossil fuel industry at any cost
I know I would not want to be in their position
@Brooklyncowgirl
What's needed are dog whistle blowers -- insiders able to reveal the shady goings-on behind the scenes in a way that catches the ear of Trump supporters and makes them supporters of principled climate scientists.
Mike, Monroe, NY
Sad but it's no surprise as our economy and culture is about short- term business/profits and gratification. If there are no acute adverse effects, it's not worth undertaking research or taking action. The coronavirus is another good example.
@Mike
It sounds counter-intuitive but perhaps the solution to short-term thinking among elected officials is to give them longer terms, say 15 years.
The first dozen they could devote their time and energy to actually addressing the major issues of the day, including climate change, by taking the long approach, without having to think much about their re-election
That they could leave to the last three years of their term in office but maybe by then they will have developed a social conscience and a sense of stewardship that will make them keenly aware of their responsibility to present and future generations, as well as sensitive to their own legacy, and how they wish to be perceived by history.
rump Speaks at West Point Graduation
Amid Tensions With Military Leaders
(NY Times, June 14, 2020)
Robin, Portland
Trump didn't love the military enough to serve. But he did point out to graduates that he and the US Army share the same June 14 birthday. “Unrelated: it’s going to be my birthday also," Trump told the cadets. "I don’t know if that happened by accident. Did that happen by accident?”
He always seeks attention for himself. Yet he never accepts responsibility. More than 115,000 Americans have now died from coronavirus.
@Robin
Let's see, Trump's Uncle Sam was born on the Fourth of July.
Does being born on the same day as the U.S. Army make him a Yankee Doodle Donny?
Coco Pazzo
Once again, Trump's delivery made it appear that he either had never seen the speech prior to its recitation, or if he had, he didn't feel it necessary to rehearse, even a little bit. Easily one of the worst presentations I have ever witnessed and am embarrassment to the graduating cadets and West Point.
Mary Travers Manhattan
@Coco Pazzo Why did you witness it then?
@Mary Travers
To counter attacks from the right-wing that she reached her conclusion by reading 'fake news' accounts of what took place.
Mind you, eyes and ears are notorious for getting things wrong. That's why people are encouraged to believe the president's versions of events. Their accuracy is extraordinary and said to rival transcripts in their level of detail.
PRB Pittsburgh
A four time draft dodger speaking at West Point. Goodness gracious America, the leader of the Republican Party.
@PRB
I've often wondered how was it possible that Trump, with all his family's money, never received the treatment that would have been available at the time to rid him of the bone spurs that plagued him.
I'm sure if his genius had been put to use while he served in the military, the war in Vietnam would have been shortened considerably.
Roger, Sydney
“that which is permanent, timeless, enduring and eternal”
This speech has been brought to you by Stephen Miller Lite and Roger’s Thesaurus.
@Roger
What, no "forever and a day"?
Amid Tensions With Military Leaders
(NY Times, June 14, 2020)
Robin, Portland
Trump didn't love the military enough to serve. But he did point out to graduates that he and the US Army share the same June 14 birthday. “Unrelated: it’s going to be my birthday also," Trump told the cadets. "I don’t know if that happened by accident. Did that happen by accident?”
He always seeks attention for himself. Yet he never accepts responsibility. More than 115,000 Americans have now died from coronavirus.
@Robin
Let's see, Trump's Uncle Sam was born on the Fourth of July.
Does being born on the same day as the U.S. Army make him a Yankee Doodle Donny?
Coco Pazzo
Once again, Trump's delivery made it appear that he either had never seen the speech prior to its recitation, or if he had, he didn't feel it necessary to rehearse, even a little bit. Easily one of the worst presentations I have ever witnessed and am embarrassment to the graduating cadets and West Point.
Mary Travers Manhattan
@Coco Pazzo Why did you witness it then?
@Mary Travers
To counter attacks from the right-wing that she reached her conclusion by reading 'fake news' accounts of what took place.
Mind you, eyes and ears are notorious for getting things wrong. That's why people are encouraged to believe the president's versions of events. Their accuracy is extraordinary and said to rival transcripts in their level of detail.
PRB Pittsburgh
A four time draft dodger speaking at West Point. Goodness gracious America, the leader of the Republican Party.
@PRB
I've often wondered how was it possible that Trump, with all his family's money, never received the treatment that would have been available at the time to rid him of the bone spurs that plagued him.
I'm sure if his genius had been put to use while he served in the military, the war in Vietnam would have been shortened considerably.
Roger, Sydney
“that which is permanent, timeless, enduring and eternal”
This speech has been brought to you by Stephen Miller Lite and Roger’s Thesaurus.
@Roger
What, no "forever and a day"?
ourt Seems Open to Allowing Judge
to Scrutinize Bid to Drop Flynn Case
-- NY Times June 12
Steve Holman, Bainbridge Island WA
Flynn filed a motion to withdraw his plea of guilty, and the government filed a motion to have the court enter an order of dismissal. A motion is a request that the judge take some action. It is not automatic. The judge is there to exercise discretion. If it were otherwise, then there would be no need for motions. Parties could simply appear in court and tell the judge what to do. No court of appeals should ever preempt the function of the judge to exercise discretion in such a matter. I am a retired judge. It would be quite shocking if either the COA or SCOTUS were to undermine the function of the trial court. Then again, these are shocking times.
@Steve Holman
They say justice is blind.
Now they're trying to tie its hands.
What's next? Chokeholding evidence?
Mike, Oregon
And now John Bolton appears to be claiming in his new book that Trump committed high crimes and misdemeanors as President in virtually every one of our international relationships, not just Ukraine. It has to make one proud to be American when we have a criminal in the White House and mercenaries working for him who refuse to testify under oath only to spill beans in a tell all book for profit.
@Mike
A just fate for Bolton would be for his book to end up in remainder bins and him in the dustbin of history.
rich williams, Long Island
We all know that the legal system can be manipulated. This Judge is showing that. He is really working with Obama and the Dems. He is repeating the offense the FBI committed and should be embarrassed as such. He is also acting in a racist manner against a white US General. He legacy is now seriously tainted. But he may be able to sit with Obama and feel that is more important than his duty.
@rich williams
I must have missed it in the earlier proceedings but based on what you say did the DoJ argue that "it would be a travesty of justice to send General Flynn to prison for telling white lies"?
rich williams Long Island
@JohnBellyful That's funny.
Trump’s Grotesque Tulsa Trip
NY Times June 11, 2020
Will they be carrying torches at Trump's rally next week?
If asked, he'd probably say he'd be OKKKay with it.
Attendees could prevent the spread of COVID-19 among themselves by wearing ... hoods.
to Scrutinize Bid to Drop Flynn Case
-- NY Times June 12
Steve Holman, Bainbridge Island WA
Flynn filed a motion to withdraw his plea of guilty, and the government filed a motion to have the court enter an order of dismissal. A motion is a request that the judge take some action. It is not automatic. The judge is there to exercise discretion. If it were otherwise, then there would be no need for motions. Parties could simply appear in court and tell the judge what to do. No court of appeals should ever preempt the function of the judge to exercise discretion in such a matter. I am a retired judge. It would be quite shocking if either the COA or SCOTUS were to undermine the function of the trial court. Then again, these are shocking times.
@Steve Holman
They say justice is blind.
Now they're trying to tie its hands.
What's next? Chokeholding evidence?
Mike, Oregon
And now John Bolton appears to be claiming in his new book that Trump committed high crimes and misdemeanors as President in virtually every one of our international relationships, not just Ukraine. It has to make one proud to be American when we have a criminal in the White House and mercenaries working for him who refuse to testify under oath only to spill beans in a tell all book for profit.
@Mike
A just fate for Bolton would be for his book to end up in remainder bins and him in the dustbin of history.
rich williams, Long Island
We all know that the legal system can be manipulated. This Judge is showing that. He is really working with Obama and the Dems. He is repeating the offense the FBI committed and should be embarrassed as such. He is also acting in a racist manner against a white US General. He legacy is now seriously tainted. But he may be able to sit with Obama and feel that is more important than his duty.
@rich williams
I must have missed it in the earlier proceedings but based on what you say did the DoJ argue that "it would be a travesty of justice to send General Flynn to prison for telling white lies"?
rich williams Long Island
@JohnBellyful That's funny.
Trump’s Grotesque Tulsa Trip
NY Times June 11, 2020
Will they be carrying torches at Trump's rally next week?
If asked, he'd probably say he'd be OKKKay with it.
Attendees could prevent the spread of COVID-19 among themselves by wearing ... hoods.
Outsider Tapped in Flynn Case Calls
Justice Dept. Reversal a ‘Gross Abuse’ of Power
NY Times June 11 2020
Corruption now fuels America's beacon on the hill and going up in smoke is the Constitution that sets out the separation of powers. Clearly the aim of the Trump misadministration is to have one branch, the executive, rule all.
Justice Dept. Reversal a ‘Gross Abuse’ of Power
NY Times June 11 2020
Corruption now fuels America's beacon on the hill and going up in smoke is the Constitution that sets out the separation of powers. Clearly the aim of the Trump misadministration is to have one branch, the executive, rule all.