Donald Trump tried to overthrow the American republic because he lost an election. Nearly every single Republican member of Congress helped him do it by suborning his ceaseless and premeditated lies. They stoked the fires of incitement that led to Trump’s coup as his collaborators and partners. Ambition and fear overwhelmed their duty and patriotism.
My Rep in the House is a MAGA Republican, who voted against certifying the election. I went on Twitter to see what he was saying. The word that instantly came to my mind was was hysterical. Tweet after tweet of hysterical lies. The likes for his insanity were a high number. Somehow this all must end. I realize that at some point there will be trials and I do believe convictions, but the Trump damage is so great, that I fear how we come back from this, if ever.
And mine, as a DC resident, is non-voting. Were we to have taxation WITH voting representation, it would be a strong Dem House seat. Yes I can and do provide support outside DC. If only the Party and all of you worked too for us to have rights the current House is trying to undermine further.
I live in FloriDUH, and while I completely understand the DC dilemma, my daughter is a DC resident and I’m thinking of moving there to be near her. But imagine living in the ‘Sunshine State!’ Our governor who is running for the rethug nomination just stated today that when he is potus he will start ‘slitting throats.’
So along with my MAGA member if Congress, two rethug US Senators, and a wild ass governor who thinks he can rule the country, make the US FloriDUH, trust me, I have taxation and zero representation.
Oh I understand. We’ve considered moving and more than climate, politics matter. It’s painful when we receive emails to contact our Senators or House member and know we have no Senator and a non-voting delegate. Better than PR or Guam who are treated even worse.
I live in West Virginia. All of our representatives in Washington are MAGA Republicans. Oh yes, Joe Manchin is a Democrat but one in MAGA clothing. Like you, I have noone to represent me either.
I also share your concerns Susan & respect Steve's warnings. Today around 10:30 a.m. Eastern, the former president who lost the 2023 election is the 1,097th J6 defendant to brought before the DC Court at the scene of the crimes in a system created by James Madison and, many, many other first citizens of this Republic. 12 Jurors will weigh tne evidence but, the facts & the many criminal acts are no longer in dispute.
H:ere is a sad and simple fact: as long as Fox News exists in its current form, we cannot make progress politically. Do the arithmetic. There is a large overlap between Fox viewers - those that get their news primarily from Fox - and Trump voters. If you discount all those Fox viewers from the polls, what is the result? Biden in a landslide. But those voters will not change. They cannot be won over. They will not read the indictments. They will form their worldview from what Fox News tells them, day after day, week after week. That is the major cause of our troubles: ignorant fanatics fed by Fox.
And it's not just Fox anymore. There's a fervent competition of media sources to out-extreme each other. More hate, more lies, more cries for violence. Fox is bleeding viewers to Newsmax and others. They are searching for an authoritarian leader with the inane assumption that said dictator would dictate the country in just the way "they" would wish him to run it.
What drives a person to seek out conspiracies and lies to justify their own dissatisfaction? A place to lay blame? Meanwhile, those conspiracies and lies are conditioning them to accept control over their lives. A very frightening psychology experiment, written about in books, played out in movies. And now in real life.
I feel that what Faux News and DJT and his co-conspirators have put in motion is an angry mass-cult following of millions of people. Faux News and the insane media algorithms keep looping the same propaganda that say Democrats are the 'enemy' and this indoctrinated belief has infiltrated and polarized families, friends, and significant sectors of our country. Out here in rural Montana, one must be careful who they talk to. Many people are armed and dangerous, including people in my own extended family. It is dangerous. It is a tragedy. Some of what has been put in motion, I feel, will continue on in our country for a long time. For those who come out of the MAGA-CULT insanity, I hope there is outreach and support.
This problem is bigger than Trump. As Steve mentions in his post, the entire Republican Congress voted to throw out the election. We have a party that is a dangerous authoritarian movement and a significant amount of the population that supports it. I’m not sure how we reel that back.
Shortly after J6 I heard some Rs were “playing along” after their families were threatened. Again hearsay vs fact, but for some that may be their rationale
Very likely. Steve's use of the word "thuggery" in today's piece was on point. This is a mafia-like operation lead by a violent, pathologically deranged fascist leader. Not giving up and using whatever means necessary is part of Trump's pathology. That's evident reading the indictment. His pathology is contagious, as evidenced in his cabal (another Steve word) and mob of cultists. Violence is part of the sickness and it spreads. Dr. Bandy Lee is a world expert on this, and it's tragic for the country that major networks don't interview her. People are understandably scared, but this is the time for courage, because appeasing this dangerous, violent cult leader will only make him stronger. Tuesday's indictment was definitely a great step. Smith is awesome and a profile in courage.
I moved from NYC to rural north NJ. It was not a good idea for me, I had lived in rural NJ (elsewhere)in my earlier life. When I moved here, I soon found out that I was in a region where no Dems even bothered to run for local offices. I had an (very) old pickup truck that had an old Eisenhower quote against war and poverty on it. He was the last decent 'R' we ever had, anyway I also had stickers supporting equality, and other "liberal" notions. A friend came up to me and quietly asked if I weren't afraid of being attacked over those stickers. I was shocked, but decided I would get even more stickers and put them on my car as well. So far, I'm still alive, LOL. NJ is reliably Blue in major/presidential elections, but even here there are pockets of MAGA believers, believing they hold all the "rights" and "power" that matters. Fortunately, I've accumulated a group of activists that have the courage of their convictions. We keep the rallies, protests, meetings, canvassing, letters-to-the-editors going non-stop. It takes a lot of energy, but I'm thrilled whenever we are able to add some younger ones to our causes.
Steve ( if I may), I imagine all of us are doing everything we deem essential in an effort to ensure, as you say, that 2024 is not the last U.S. election not decided in advance. Still, while I expect everyone here is receiving guidance from various sources as to how best to direct their efforts, I greatly would appreciate hearing your thoughts regarding actions you deem most critical.
If you aren't connected with your local Democrats, I would like to suggest that you join The Union. They are a pro-democracy coalition of organizations dedicated to saving our democracy from the authoritarian attacks it currently faces. They were established in connection with The Lincoln Project, who I have been a big supporter of since Steve was a founder in 2019.
Carol, Thank you for writing. Notwithstanding how engaged I am in federal, state, and local politics, admittedly, while I was aware of The Union, I had not joined, but will do so as soon as I return home this evening. Thanks again for your comment.
We can write letters for VoteForward and canvas. We are more likely to pick up some voters by working to get out the vote than by working to change the minds of Trump supporters.
Carol, Thank you for writing. Currently, aside from phone banking, I write letters for VoteForward and postcards for ActivateAmerica and Postcards to Voters. While, like you, I’m most interested in boosting turnout, I also believe, barring extremists, that, through dialogue, we can induce voters who hold different beliefs to become less sure of themselves and perhaps even re-examine their perceptions.
Thanks for asking this. I posed this as well a week or so ago. Getting out the vote, supporting non-MAGA candidates and voting in every election ( local; primaries) help.
These do not feel “urgent” enough. I wonder what we can do in a relatively short time
Meryl, I appreciate you writing. Because I’m on the road, I will have to be brief. Nonetheless, I would note, per Carol McMahon’s suggestion (she is part of this thread), that I plan to join The Union when I return home this evening. Carol’s comment included the link.
Today is the first historical marker towards a historic decision. Will a jury of his peers hold DJT , a private citizen, responsible for crimes as described in the indictment
If I read one commentary correctly, insurrection is the second-most serious crime that can be committed, with treason the worst.
We all have s responsibility to hold the focus on what occurred. No “what about”-ism, no 1st amendment arguments.
I do hope it is televised. I hope it is by C-SPAN or PBS, as neither has a political stance. People need to see this in action
I also heard last PM DA Bragg may cede his court date for a March 2024 date.
The only way we reach the other side is go through this as a Nation. Let us begin
It is hard to believe, given all the available facts and information that is already available that there is any question regarding his fate. That such a significant number of Americans can still believe anything other than guilty as charged. I believe that he will be found guilty, what I am most concerned about is what the guilty verdict will produce.
We are facing not only the “Freedom Caucus” now the even further right group, “The Twenty”, senators like Tommy “coach” Tuberville and MTG to name just a few of the of the elected officials which represent the mood and mindset of so many Americans, we cannot ignore the cataclysmic potential for chaos.
This will be a major historical period, right up there with “The Dark Ages” ... it will be interestingly disgusting to see the spin DiSantis puts on it. I am seriously frightened!
I 100% agree. Some of DJT's followers are highly armed and dangerous and he has given the go-ahead for violence. There will be chaos, but to what degree I don't know.
Yes our focus must be: "insurrection is the second-most serious crime that can be committed, with treason the worst." We must re-direct attention to that focus over and over again, and go through this as a Nation. Thank you, Liz, as focus now is of utmost importance.
I believe that Donald J. Trump is a traitor and that he has been a Russian asset for a very long time. I wish he could be charged with treason and executed.
What to do about entities like Fox "News"? That channel daily helps to perpetuate the lies tRump's base believes. What about people like Marjorie Taylor "Space Lasers" Green and Andy Biggs and other members of Congress? Then there's Cancun Ted Cruz and "Run Josh Run" Hawley. How to deal with them or the seditionists in the House? So many questions, so few answers.
We need massive reform to the federal electoral process, please look at the Canadian process. The campaign time is limited to a max of 51 days. They want people to vote and provide a variety of options. Here’s a link for a nice simplified look: https://electionsanddemocracy.ca/canadas-elections/canadas-election-process. We need a federal system for our federal elections that promotes access and fairness. DJT is the result of a flawed system that relies on big money donors, giving them far too much power and influence. Why don’t politicians and political pundits & media call for this? It’s simple they are the beneficiaries. We the people are becoming more diminished. No one who profits from politics should scream about saving democracy from one party or one man unless they also advocate for reforming the election process that caused it.
Thank you Steve for another wonderful article and also thanks to so many others in this community. It is eerie and strange to experience this momentous, historic moment that hopefully (please) changes everything for the better- a chance for accountability for Trump at long last. But here I am, maybe many of you too, who see people, their fellow Americans, passing by on the street or in stores, restaurants as if absolutely nothing has happened. Polite conversations about the weather. This feels NUTS to me!
I am halfway through the indictment and will finish today. Had trouble sleeping last night.
The language used is wonderfully clean and uncomplicated. As a lawyer since 1979 I’ve read my share of absurdly long sentences but nothing as unlegalese (a word?) as this. The authors have set a standard for writing for all of us.
The chronology of what happened is compelling. I was moved by the actions of the many Republican public officials who honored their oaths and said no to the scheme in real time. None are named but we know who they are - and giving credit where it’s due - bless them all. As bad as things got, what if they had gone along?
Would agree ( accountant not attorney but work hand in hand with the legal profession). It is written so a layperson can follow the logical arguments as they are laid out. I hope it will serve as a model for future legal writing
I am just as concerned about the unhinged MAGA people in power who are not reasonable, not sane, and don’t care about anything but their own power and saving Donald Trump. It is inexcusable and inexplicable.
Not inexplicable. Cultists are programmed to follow the cult leader. They revere the dear leader and will do anything for him. That's the nature of a cult. Not sure who in Congress are brainwashed cultists and who are conservative opportunists. My best guess is that folks like Greene and maybe Turberville are actual MAGA/ Qanon cultists and Cruz Hawley are opportunists. Graham probably falls under opportunist and may be the target of blackmail (photos with men, possibly underage that kind of thing).
I appreciate that you're informing people about how cults function. Some MAGA followers are indoctrinated and some are just opportunists. We may start seeing who falls into which category soon. Humans are highly programmable. Cult leaders exploit this to the fullest capacity they can. Of course they are interfering with 'education'!
Yes. State houses in too many cases are far more dangerous collectively. If/when trump falls, they will grow stronger. The schools, libraries, all under MAGA influence, must be a priority. An uneducated next gen will hurt more. Regardless of great media about diverse and inclusive generation, without knowledge, no voting and no change.
Donald Trump is an abomination. That just about says it all on a personal level. But being a traitor to your country is more than an abomination and aiding and abetting a clear and present danger to our democracy makes his supporters complicit in his campaign to undermine our nations most cherished democratic traditions. Now, where do we go from here? The Fox Fake News and Propaganda machine has nothing to do with free speech nor is it protected by the First Amendment either. Shouting “fire” in a crowded theater when their is no fire is not protected free speech. That’s their stock and trade at Fox Propaganda...shouting fire in a crowded theater when there is no fire in order to incite panic or strike false fear and create a dangerous situation where innocents can be killed is not protected under the constitution.
💯, Steve. And yet many Opinion pieces today “both-sides” this issue and distort the truth by convoluted and illogical claims that if Trump believed his lies, he’s not guilty. David Brooks asks “ what if we’re the bad guys?” WTAF. Well, David, if Trump regains power, aided and abetted by a greedy press, we’ll all find out very quickly who the bad guys are. And it’s not us.
A female judge in FL. A female judge in DC. Female prosecutors in GA and NY. Devine justice since he is notoriously abusive, dismissive, and disrespectful to women.
Given T’s deep and flamboyant racism, it is also particularly satisfying to see that many of the judges and prosecutors are people of color. Fani Willis --- her mere presence -- must be a torture for Orange Devil. She is brilliant and steady. Her behavior is like roasting that bloated beast on a spit!!!!
Steve, a few minutes ago, a Bluejay was squawking and squawking, then all the birds at the feeders, flew away. At that instant, a Hawk flew through. Bluejays sound warnings. So you are our Bluejay.
Thanks, Steve, for writing so clearly and summarizing what so many of us have known all along. And thanks, Susan, for saying “the Trump damage is so great that I fear how we come back from this, if ever.” This may not even end in my lifetime ( I’m 76!) and yet who this man is has been known in his quest for publicity for decades and yet he was seen as “fit” for this country’s highest office.
History lessons abound in substack writings but never to be found in mainstream media. Front page of the Inquirer and much local media coverage this week was that the Eagles changed their uniform shade of green. Sold out in every sports store. Though I haven’t given up yet, while reading the NYT, WAPO and Inquirer every morning I say to my husband, “We are so doomed!”
Susan, I hold on to a scintilla of hope by chanting to myself a quote from Michael Moore, “There are more of us than there are of them.” And hope I have the stamina to get out the vote. Not being a billionaire I have limitations though I am at least a hundred-aire.
Susan, your newsletter post 'Clearing the path' is of true inspiration to myself and some friends I've shared with yesterday and today. Thank you so much! Lisa
Another 76 yo who wanted to have some political peace in these years. Be grateful you have a newspaper still. Encourage more coverage with letters and social media posts.
Many years ago I was involved in a truly horrific positional issue with much vitriol on all sides. The woman who had to facilitate the 8 hour meeting said all of her professional life had led to this time. She knew why she was there and what she needed to complete.
We are at this time for a reason. We are called to be active and speak the truth. I
I know nothing about your age but I certainly know rancid ageism when see it. Anyway old people can be ageist too. Women can be misogynist, etc., etc. Maybe you don’t know the purpose of newspapers to begin with. Maybe you never saw that us oldies were those marching time and again for social justice from the 60’s until now. Maybe you’ve never seen seniors band together at a coffee shop to write letters, join other activist groups, and fight for democracy and social justice. At 76 I’m often the baby in the group. Must be nice to sit on your throne and give orders. Oh wouldn’t life be just peachy if all us old people would get the hell out of the way!
@Marie Lachat - this seems to be directed to me and I'm uncertain by admitting my age and saying it was good to still have newspapers. Was this to someone else? Thanks.
My Rep in the House is a MAGA Republican, who voted against certifying the election. I went on Twitter to see what he was saying. The word that instantly came to my mind was was hysterical. Tweet after tweet of hysterical lies. The likes for his insanity were a high number. Somehow this all must end. I realize that at some point there will be trials and I do believe convictions, but the Trump damage is so great, that I fear how we come back from this, if ever.
And mine, as a DC resident, is non-voting. Were we to have taxation WITH voting representation, it would be a strong Dem House seat. Yes I can and do provide support outside DC. If only the Party and all of you worked too for us to have rights the current House is trying to undermine further.
I live in FloriDUH, and while I completely understand the DC dilemma, my daughter is a DC resident and I’m thinking of moving there to be near her. But imagine living in the ‘Sunshine State!’ Our governor who is running for the rethug nomination just stated today that when he is potus he will start ‘slitting throats.’
So along with my MAGA member if Congress, two rethug US Senators, and a wild ass governor who thinks he can rule the country, make the US FloriDUH, trust me, I have taxation and zero representation.
Here’s Desantis at is best: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/ron-desantis-says-he-will-start-slitting-throats-day-one-executive-branch
Oh I understand. We’ve considered moving and more than climate, politics matter. It’s painful when we receive emails to contact our Senators or House member and know we have no Senator and a non-voting delegate. Better than PR or Guam who are treated even worse.
I live in West Virginia. All of our representatives in Washington are MAGA Republicans. Oh yes, Joe Manchin is a Democrat but one in MAGA clothing. Like you, I have noone to represent me either.
I also share your concerns Susan & respect Steve's warnings. Today around 10:30 a.m. Eastern, the former president who lost the 2023 election is the 1,097th J6 defendant to brought before the DC Court at the scene of the crimes in a system created by James Madison and, many, many other first citizens of this Republic. 12 Jurors will weigh tne evidence but, the facts & the many criminal acts are no longer in dispute.
H:ere is a sad and simple fact: as long as Fox News exists in its current form, we cannot make progress politically. Do the arithmetic. There is a large overlap between Fox viewers - those that get their news primarily from Fox - and Trump voters. If you discount all those Fox viewers from the polls, what is the result? Biden in a landslide. But those voters will not change. They cannot be won over. They will not read the indictments. They will form their worldview from what Fox News tells them, day after day, week after week. That is the major cause of our troubles: ignorant fanatics fed by Fox.
Fox News is one of the most powerful among the unindicted co-conspirators.
great insight! great comment!
I 💯 % agree
And it's not just Fox anymore. There's a fervent competition of media sources to out-extreme each other. More hate, more lies, more cries for violence. Fox is bleeding viewers to Newsmax and others. They are searching for an authoritarian leader with the inane assumption that said dictator would dictate the country in just the way "they" would wish him to run it.
What drives a person to seek out conspiracies and lies to justify their own dissatisfaction? A place to lay blame? Meanwhile, those conspiracies and lies are conditioning them to accept control over their lives. A very frightening psychology experiment, written about in books, played out in movies. And now in real life.
Does Fox have a criminal liability in this threat to our nation?
Rupert Murdoch got ousted from Australia for very good reason.
I share your well placed concerns
I feel that what Faux News and DJT and his co-conspirators have put in motion is an angry mass-cult following of millions of people. Faux News and the insane media algorithms keep looping the same propaganda that say Democrats are the 'enemy' and this indoctrinated belief has infiltrated and polarized families, friends, and significant sectors of our country. Out here in rural Montana, one must be careful who they talk to. Many people are armed and dangerous, including people in my own extended family. It is dangerous. It is a tragedy. Some of what has been put in motion, I feel, will continue on in our country for a long time. For those who come out of the MAGA-CULT insanity, I hope there is outreach and support.
This problem is bigger than Trump. As Steve mentions in his post, the entire Republican Congress voted to throw out the election. We have a party that is a dangerous authoritarian movement and a significant amount of the population that supports it. I’m not sure how we reel that back.
We have the shame of Bobbert in our state. I hope Adam wins this time. I think he will. She is such an embarrassment to our state of Colorado
Shortly after J6 I heard some Rs were “playing along” after their families were threatened. Again hearsay vs fact, but for some that may be their rationale
Very likely. Steve's use of the word "thuggery" in today's piece was on point. This is a mafia-like operation lead by a violent, pathologically deranged fascist leader. Not giving up and using whatever means necessary is part of Trump's pathology. That's evident reading the indictment. His pathology is contagious, as evidenced in his cabal (another Steve word) and mob of cultists. Violence is part of the sickness and it spreads. Dr. Bandy Lee is a world expert on this, and it's tragic for the country that major networks don't interview her. People are understandably scared, but this is the time for courage, because appeasing this dangerous, violent cult leader will only make him stronger. Tuesday's indictment was definitely a great step. Smith is awesome and a profile in courage.
Yes, intimidation, threats, and thuggery are a huge part of the MAGA strategy.
All fascist tactics.
I moved from NYC to rural north NJ. It was not a good idea for me, I had lived in rural NJ (elsewhere)in my earlier life. When I moved here, I soon found out that I was in a region where no Dems even bothered to run for local offices. I had an (very) old pickup truck that had an old Eisenhower quote against war and poverty on it. He was the last decent 'R' we ever had, anyway I also had stickers supporting equality, and other "liberal" notions. A friend came up to me and quietly asked if I weren't afraid of being attacked over those stickers. I was shocked, but decided I would get even more stickers and put them on my car as well. So far, I'm still alive, LOL. NJ is reliably Blue in major/presidential elections, but even here there are pockets of MAGA believers, believing they hold all the "rights" and "power" that matters. Fortunately, I've accumulated a group of activists that have the courage of their convictions. We keep the rallies, protests, meetings, canvassing, letters-to-the-editors going non-stop. It takes a lot of energy, but I'm thrilled whenever we are able to add some younger ones to our causes.
We all have to keep up persisting!
I too wonder about this all the time.
I vaguely remember something like that. Unbelievable
Ok, you win today for the worst Rep!
We need to create an award plaque for you for the worst most rotten reprehensible rep!
Steve ( if I may), I imagine all of us are doing everything we deem essential in an effort to ensure, as you say, that 2024 is not the last U.S. election not decided in advance. Still, while I expect everyone here is receiving guidance from various sources as to how best to direct their efforts, I greatly would appreciate hearing your thoughts regarding actions you deem most critical.
If you aren't connected with your local Democrats, I would like to suggest that you join The Union. They are a pro-democracy coalition of organizations dedicated to saving our democracy from the authoritarian attacks it currently faces. They were established in connection with The Lincoln Project, who I have been a big supporter of since Steve was a founder in 2019.
https://jointheunion.us/
If possible, I would suggest donating to The Lincoln Project, to support their fantastic ads, podcast and LPTVs The Breakdown.
https://lincolnproject.us/
They know how to get under Trump's skin and mess with his mind.
https://youtu.be/quUWGERR3DQ
Carol, Thank you for writing. Notwithstanding how engaged I am in federal, state, and local politics, admittedly, while I was aware of The Union, I had not joined, but will do so as soon as I return home this evening. Thanks again for your comment.
Thank you. The Union, Field Team 6, Activate America, Vote Riders, all need help and need it right now.
Yes, call your local democratic party headquarters and volunteer.
We can write letters for VoteForward and canvas. We are more likely to pick up some voters by working to get out the vote than by working to change the minds of Trump supporters.
Carol, Thank you for writing. Currently, aside from phone banking, I write letters for VoteForward and postcards for ActivateAmerica and Postcards to Voters. While, like you, I’m most interested in boosting turnout, I also believe, barring extremists, that, through dialogue, we can induce voters who hold different beliefs to become less sure of themselves and perhaps even re-examine their perceptions.
Thanks for asking this. I posed this as well a week or so ago. Getting out the vote, supporting non-MAGA candidates and voting in every election ( local; primaries) help.
These do not feel “urgent” enough. I wonder what we can do in a relatively short time
Meryl, I appreciate you writing. Because I’m on the road, I will have to be brief. Nonetheless, I would note, per Carol McMahon’s suggestion (she is part of this thread), that I plan to join The Union when I return home this evening. Carol’s comment included the link.
Today is the first historical marker towards a historic decision. Will a jury of his peers hold DJT , a private citizen, responsible for crimes as described in the indictment
If I read one commentary correctly, insurrection is the second-most serious crime that can be committed, with treason the worst.
We all have s responsibility to hold the focus on what occurred. No “what about”-ism, no 1st amendment arguments.
I do hope it is televised. I hope it is by C-SPAN or PBS, as neither has a political stance. People need to see this in action
I also heard last PM DA Bragg may cede his court date for a March 2024 date.
The only way we reach the other side is go through this as a Nation. Let us begin
Yes, it must be televised... and every one should watch, start to finish.
For many of us, it is the #WatergateSummer all over and with far greater stakes. Now there is greater ability for many more to watch proceedings.
Yes was a high school Hill intern the Watergate Summer. Great time to be on the Hill. J6 was not
It is hard to believe, given all the available facts and information that is already available that there is any question regarding his fate. That such a significant number of Americans can still believe anything other than guilty as charged. I believe that he will be found guilty, what I am most concerned about is what the guilty verdict will produce.
We are facing not only the “Freedom Caucus” now the even further right group, “The Twenty”, senators like Tommy “coach” Tuberville and MTG to name just a few of the of the elected officials which represent the mood and mindset of so many Americans, we cannot ignore the cataclysmic potential for chaos.
This will be a major historical period, right up there with “The Dark Ages” ... it will be interestingly disgusting to see the spin DiSantis puts on it. I am seriously frightened!
I 100% agree. Some of DJT's followers are highly armed and dangerous and he has given the go-ahead for violence. There will be chaos, but to what degree I don't know.
Thanks Liz. It is 6:30 in California. Your comment is rousing.
Good morning from the East Coast (Rehoboth to be exact). Waiting for this afternoon’s activity
Yes our focus must be: "insurrection is the second-most serious crime that can be committed, with treason the worst." We must re-direct attention to that focus over and over again, and go through this as a Nation. Thank you, Liz, as focus now is of utmost importance.
I believe that Donald J. Trump is a traitor and that he has been a Russian asset for a very long time. I wish he could be charged with treason and executed.
The documents case in Florida may tell us one way or the other
Totally agree about Russian asset. Melania too
I hope information about DJT's involvement with Russia will become more evident in the near future. I believe the waters are deep.
Surprised that he has not been an assassination target
Things may get a lot more interesting...
I completely agree that DT is likely a Russian asset, but he's too stupid to even realize he's being used. He thinks he's being "smart".
What to do about entities like Fox "News"? That channel daily helps to perpetuate the lies tRump's base believes. What about people like Marjorie Taylor "Space Lasers" Green and Andy Biggs and other members of Congress? Then there's Cancun Ted Cruz and "Run Josh Run" Hawley. How to deal with them or the seditionists in the House? So many questions, so few answers.
Logically they would be voted out. But all logic seems to be thrown out the window.
Humans are highly programmable -this is being exploited to the detriment of Democracy.
Logic is really twisted. We have our logic and MAGA has theirs. I believe ours is correct..... but we will soon see what that gets us.
We need massive reform to the federal electoral process, please look at the Canadian process. The campaign time is limited to a max of 51 days. They want people to vote and provide a variety of options. Here’s a link for a nice simplified look: https://electionsanddemocracy.ca/canadas-elections/canadas-election-process. We need a federal system for our federal elections that promotes access and fairness. DJT is the result of a flawed system that relies on big money donors, giving them far too much power and influence. Why don’t politicians and political pundits & media call for this? It’s simple they are the beneficiaries. We the people are becoming more diminished. No one who profits from politics should scream about saving democracy from one party or one man unless they also advocate for reforming the election process that caused it.
So correct. We waste so many resources and so many people’s time on constant politicking and fundraising. It is pathetic and exhausting.
Thank you Steve for another wonderful article and also thanks to so many others in this community. It is eerie and strange to experience this momentous, historic moment that hopefully (please) changes everything for the better- a chance for accountability for Trump at long last. But here I am, maybe many of you too, who see people, their fellow Americans, passing by on the street or in stores, restaurants as if absolutely nothing has happened. Polite conversations about the weather. This feels NUTS to me!
I feel the same way, Lynn. I'm glad we can share here on The Warning. Best to you, Lisa
Same Lisa! Be well.
So true
I am halfway through the indictment and will finish today. Had trouble sleeping last night.
The language used is wonderfully clean and uncomplicated. As a lawyer since 1979 I’ve read my share of absurdly long sentences but nothing as unlegalese (a word?) as this. The authors have set a standard for writing for all of us.
The chronology of what happened is compelling. I was moved by the actions of the many Republican public officials who honored their oaths and said no to the scheme in real time. None are named but we know who they are - and giving credit where it’s due - bless them all. As bad as things got, what if they had gone along?
Would agree ( accountant not attorney but work hand in hand with the legal profession). It is written so a layperson can follow the logical arguments as they are laid out. I hope it will serve as a model for future legal writing
I am just as concerned about the unhinged MAGA people in power who are not reasonable, not sane, and don’t care about anything but their own power and saving Donald Trump. It is inexcusable and inexplicable.
Not inexplicable. Cultists are programmed to follow the cult leader. They revere the dear leader and will do anything for him. That's the nature of a cult. Not sure who in Congress are brainwashed cultists and who are conservative opportunists. My best guess is that folks like Greene and maybe Turberville are actual MAGA/ Qanon cultists and Cruz Hawley are opportunists. Graham probably falls under opportunist and may be the target of blackmail (photos with men, possibly underage that kind of thing).
I appreciate that you're informing people about how cults function. Some MAGA followers are indoctrinated and some are just opportunists. We may start seeing who falls into which category soon. Humans are highly programmable. Cult leaders exploit this to the fullest capacity they can. Of course they are interfering with 'education'!
Write on, Elizabeth!
Yes. State houses in too many cases are far more dangerous collectively. If/when trump falls, they will grow stronger. The schools, libraries, all under MAGA influence, must be a priority. An uneducated next gen will hurt more. Regardless of great media about diverse and inclusive generation, without knowledge, no voting and no change.
Bravo!!! Civics and critical thinking skills are glaringly missing
Grateful to have a niece who teaches both.
Without proper education in history, civics and critical thinking skills, we're doomed.
We must all do what we can.
Donald Trump is an abomination. That just about says it all on a personal level. But being a traitor to your country is more than an abomination and aiding and abetting a clear and present danger to our democracy makes his supporters complicit in his campaign to undermine our nations most cherished democratic traditions. Now, where do we go from here? The Fox Fake News and Propaganda machine has nothing to do with free speech nor is it protected by the First Amendment either. Shouting “fire” in a crowded theater when their is no fire is not protected free speech. That’s their stock and trade at Fox Propaganda...shouting fire in a crowded theater when there is no fire in order to incite panic or strike false fear and create a dangerous situation where innocents can be killed is not protected under the constitution.
Excellent point!
If recent events - and Steve's analysis - has convinced you that George Washington was prescient in his warning, you might want to read Simone Weil's essay on the same subject: "On the Abolition of All Political Parties" (1957). Read it here - https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/simone-weil-on-the-abolition-of-all-political-parties or get it from Bookshop (instead of Amazon:) https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-the-abolition-of-all-political-parties-simone-weil/11769846
Thank you
💯, Steve. And yet many Opinion pieces today “both-sides” this issue and distort the truth by convoluted and illogical claims that if Trump believed his lies, he’s not guilty. David Brooks asks “ what if we’re the bad guys?” WTAF. Well, David, if Trump regains power, aided and abetted by a greedy press, we’ll all find out very quickly who the bad guys are. And it’s not us.
Janet, here you hit the big point: Even we liberals can respect a sane and rational conservative. If only the reverse would reciprocate the respect.
A female judge in FL. A female judge in DC. Female prosecutors in GA and NY. Devine justice since he is notoriously abusive, dismissive, and disrespectful to women.
Given T’s deep and flamboyant racism, it is also particularly satisfying to see that many of the judges and prosecutors are people of color. Fani Willis --- her mere presence -- must be a torture for Orange Devil. She is brilliant and steady. Her behavior is like roasting that bloated beast on a spit!!!!
Steve, a few minutes ago, a Bluejay was squawking and squawking, then all the birds at the feeders, flew away. At that instant, a Hawk flew through. Bluejays sound warnings. So you are our Bluejay.
Beautiful!
That gave me goose bumps
Thanks, Steve, for writing so clearly and summarizing what so many of us have known all along. And thanks, Susan, for saying “the Trump damage is so great that I fear how we come back from this, if ever.” This may not even end in my lifetime ( I’m 76!) and yet who this man is has been known in his quest for publicity for decades and yet he was seen as “fit” for this country’s highest office.
History lessons abound in substack writings but never to be found in mainstream media. Front page of the Inquirer and much local media coverage this week was that the Eagles changed their uniform shade of green. Sold out in every sports store. Though I haven’t given up yet, while reading the NYT, WAPO and Inquirer every morning I say to my husband, “We are so doomed!”
Marie, as I was typing this morning, the thought of “will I live to see the change”. I’m 68. Guess I am a little short on hope this morning.
Susan, I hold on to a scintilla of hope by chanting to myself a quote from Michael Moore, “There are more of us than there are of them.” And hope I have the stamina to get out the vote. Not being a billionaire I have limitations though I am at least a hundred-aire.
Getting ready for meditation time, I will think on that quote!
Susan, your newsletter post 'Clearing the path' is of true inspiration to myself and some friends I've shared with yesterday and today. Thank you so much! Lisa
Thank you for telling me that. Been couple months of thinking, exploring. Hope to write again soon.
I will go back to Sec Colin Powell’s 8 rules—one of which is optimism. We will make it through and will be stronger after the ordeal
Another 76 yo who wanted to have some political peace in these years. Be grateful you have a newspaper still. Encourage more coverage with letters and social media posts.
Many years ago I was involved in a truly horrific positional issue with much vitriol on all sides. The woman who had to facilitate the 8 hour meeting said all of her professional life had led to this time. She knew why she was there and what she needed to complete.
We are at this time for a reason. We are called to be active and speak the truth. I
Much work ahead.
Empowering. Thanks.
I know nothing about your age but I certainly know rancid ageism when see it. Anyway old people can be ageist too. Women can be misogynist, etc., etc. Maybe you don’t know the purpose of newspapers to begin with. Maybe you never saw that us oldies were those marching time and again for social justice from the 60’s until now. Maybe you’ve never seen seniors band together at a coffee shop to write letters, join other activist groups, and fight for democracy and social justice. At 76 I’m often the baby in the group. Must be nice to sit on your throne and give orders. Oh wouldn’t life be just peachy if all us old people would get the hell out of the way!
@Marie Lachat - this seems to be directed to me and I'm uncertain by admitting my age and saying it was good to still have newspapers. Was this to someone else? Thanks.
So completely crazy!!