None of this would have gotten as far as it has without the financial support of the super wealthy. It should not be a surprise; the massive concentration of wealth is a warning sign of a society that is unhealthy, like a cancer within.
The failure of the Democrats to deal with massive income inequality created by Republican tax cuts from Reagan to Trump is a major reason they lost the election. Oligarchs like Jeff Bezoz have created a virulent anti-worker, anti-union, low-wage environment that resulted in the working class abandoning them.
So because the Democrats didn't do enough to FIX the problematic environment created by the Republicans, Americans voted for the party that CREATED their economic problems?! Sounds about right, but how do you effect change in so many people who are uninformed, misinformed/ propogandized, unconcerned, or uninterested in what is happening in our government? How do we make them care?
Barbara, you have asked the key question. How do we educate the ENVs (eligible non-voters) and make them care? Approximately 1/3 of the electorate did not vote in 2024. They are the ones who are going to determine the midterms and whether we can save our democracy.
But none of the Democratic pundits are providing answers to your question. We have Bluesky now, but in just a few weeks, it has become a blue-painted information silo and echo chamber. The memes and their responses may be cathartic, but there is NO evidence that it is reaching the ENVs. Substack has excellent analysis, but again NO evidence of outreach. It does have opposite views, like the far-right extremist Curtis Yarvin, behind paywalls, but the feed algorithms keep us blind to them. Meidas is wracking up views, but again, there is NO evidence that they are reaching ENVs. How do I know? The replies rarely pose questions or clarifications, and the vast majority of replies are either completely aligned with the post or obvious trolls. We are talking an awful lot to ourselves.
The only media outlet where I see genuine interaction beyond a committed blue core is at
Democratic politicians are not addressing the question either. We are almost 2 months post-election, 1/12 of the time before midterms. I don't know who the voice of the Democratic party is. I was hopeful about the Democratic Governors' initiative when it was announced, but "I ain't seen nothin' yet." Or to quote an old commercial, "Where's the beef?" There is no Democratic equivalent of an evergreen policy agenda. Iterations of Project 2025 were developed for every election cycle since Reagan, and the majority of every Republican administration's accomplishments were out of that playbook. We seem incapable of replicating their extremely successful strategy.
Building Coalitions Amongst Non-Traditional Allies
Luke Beasley is doing exactly what I think needs to be done, but it's not easy. He is going on as a guest on Alt.Right podcasts and inviting MAGAsphere influencers onto his show. to debate policy. We can get involved by debate with folks in the comments or attending forums where we can practice the fine art of debate with the MAGASPHERE.
Let's face it - the two-party system is weaponized against us via a well-oiled, fine-tuned, and vastly powerful and invasive propaganda apparatus. A decentralized Fascist Aristocracy that operates above the rule of law and wields control of the masses by way of an insidious ‘divide and conquer' agenda. It's the worst gaslighting EVER. For example, there's always good ideas on the left and good ideas on the right, and then also very bad ideas on the left and very bad ideas on the right, which leaves me politically homeless, confused about who to vote for, and ultimately feeling like I just don’t have any agency and that I should focus my energy elsewhere. We just talk past each other and seem a lot more interested in being right and winning, rather then finding consensus or compromise.
The Kingpins strategically pit the two parties against each other via identity politics that have grown so hostile that now the slinging of threats and insults, lies and conspiracy, all tied up nicely with the dark money/deep state corruption ribbon has been normalized. Also, this keeps populations divided that must be in solidarity if they want a seat at the Table of Freedom - I see this amongst women, African Americans, Latinos, and Arabs, for example. It's complicated and reparations amongst divided groups is a good idea. There is strength in numbers, therefore we want a social contract that commits us all to masking an equal effort to show each other consideration, compromise, and the benefit of the doubt. This is the ONLY way a democracy will work.
If you can know the Bible and the teachings of Christianity it will be very helpful in gaining their ear. Many have been radicalized to think liberal people are demons - I mean literally. These folks can be scary and thety might live in a very different world than ours with very different parameters and ways of grounding our thinking. It takes practice.
We need to practice the Golden Rule by listening to each other's ideas and showing willingness to compromise just as we would appreciate such being done for us. I love going to events at the nearby colleges and Universities - they often have evening lectures, political organization meetings, etc. Go talk to the younger generation and let them know we are there to support them however we can. We are leaving our children and grandchildren a very hard situation. We have to do whatever we can for them.
Also, hire a professional facilitator or study communication facilitation and host bi-partisan townhall to discuss and organize around common goals. Sponsor regular Movie Nights where you show films about social justice movements or how people survive in times of war. I recommend The Corporation, Harriot, Selma, Long Walk to Freedom, The Iron-Jawed Angels, Malcolm X, and Ghandi to name a few.
It very well may be too late in a post-Citizens United world where oligarchs have bought and paid for both parties...or more likely One party that pretends to be two. Using propaganda to split the American populace has been a game to make abortion, religion, and race appear to be more important than equality, democracy, and humanity. The oligarchs have been able to operate in secrecy while everyone else points fingers at one another. As a result of more propaganda upholding the idea that individuality and gaining personal wealth are the most important American values they've been able to oppress workers and devalue human beings while they take the value of our labor, steal money from Social Security, and hand each other huge tax breaks that also come out of our pockets. Wages are threatened daily but no one discusses lowering prices because that's nasty socialism or communism. We certainly can't consider an economic model that prevents evil, narcissistic monsters from controlling and negatively impacting every life on the planet! Sure Putin, Musk, and Trump deserve so much money and power that they can act as little creepy gods and hurt everything everywhere...that's what they thrive on...hurting others, because nothing makes them feel more powerful. Good luck to us all...
We can thank the corrupt Roberts Supreme Court for Citizens United…so now the billionaires have bought their very own president and Trump is more than happy to oblige.
Building Coalitions Amongst Non-Traditional Allies
Luke Beasley is doing exactly what I think needs to be done, but it's not easy. He is going on as a guest on Alt.Right podcasts and inviting alt.right influencers onto his show to debate policy. We can get involved by debating with folks in the comments or attending alt.right forums where we can practice the fine art of debate with the MAGASPHERE.
Let's face it - the two-party system is weaponized against us via a well-oiled, fine-tuned, and vastly powerful and invasive propaganda apparatus wielded by a decentralized Fascist Aristocracy that operates above the rule of law. They control the masses by way of an insidious ‘divide and conquer' agenda. It's the worst gaslighting EVER.
For example, there's always some good ideas on the left and other good ideas on the right, and then there's also very bad ideas on the left, and also very bad ideas on the right, which leaves me feeling politically homeless and confused and torn about who to vote for, and ultimately feeling like I just don’t have any agency and, thus, I should focus my energy elsewhere. The polarized sides of the aisle just talk past each other, and seem a lot more interested in being right and winning then finding consensus or compromise.
The Kingpins strategically pit the two parties against each other via hostile identity politics that has been normalized. The slinging of threats, insults, lies, and conspiracy are all tied up nicely with a dark money/deep state corruption ribbon. This hostility keeps populations divided that must be in solidarity if they want a seat at the Table of Freedom. The in-fighting amongst women, African Americans, Latinos, Arabs, and the LBTGQ+ community, for example. It's complicated and often persistent determination to listen, communicate and come to understandings amongst the divided groups. But, our strength in our numbers, thereforeall marginalized, exploited and oppressed minorities want to enter into a collective social contract that commits us all to reciprocity of consideration, compromise, giving each other the benefit of the doubt and mutual protection. This is the ONLY way a democracy will work.
If you know the Bible and the teachings of Christianity it is very helpful in gaining their ear. Many have been radicalized to think liberal people are demons - I mean literally. These folks can be aggressive, resentful, and obtuse and they usually live in a very different world than ours with very different parameters and ways of grounding our thinking. Respectful communication amongst entrenched ideology and superiority takes practice.
We need to practice the Golden Rule by listening and showing willingness to compromise just as we would appreciate being done for us. I love going to events at the nearby colleges and Universities - they often have evening lectures, political organization meetings, etc. I enjoy talking to the younger generation. I let them know I am there to support them however I can. We are leaving our children and grandchildren a very hard situation. We have to do whatever we can for them.
Also, hire a professional facilitator or study group communication facilitation, and host bi-partisan townhalls to discuss and organize around common goals. I also enjoy hosting Movie series where we watch films about social justice movements or how people survive in times of war and then discuss afterwards. Movies I recommend are The Corporation, The Big Short, Handmaids Tale (Hulu Series), The French Village (French TV Series on Amazon Prime), Harriot, Selma, Long Walk to Freedom, The Iron-Jawed Angels, Malcolm X, and Ghandi to name a few.
RambleOn, I like your ideas, but I think you’re making it too difficult. The 2 party system has its flaws, but it’s what we have to work with. It’s going to take a very long time to change it and we don’t have that kind of time.
Republicans have used the divide and conquer tactic
masterfully, but notice what each effort to divide us is about—culture & feelings. Like the alleged, “War
on Christmas,” or the book bans—“we don’t want our (white)kids to feel bad about slavery,” or owning guns, or the whole “woke” drivel.
Rational arguments like, “If you do this, X will happen, then Y, and finally Z! We don’t want Y or Z, so don’t do that,” don’t work. Magas have literally
been trained to NOT respond to logic & rational thought. I would even say they’ve been trained to
respond to logic with vitriol & hate—but don’t realize they’ve been manipulated & trained to reactions to certain things.
I’m at the point where I believe most magas who interact in online forums are being paid—in other words they are mostly paid operatives, and many of them are Russian. Think about it, they are either paid operatives, high school/college students, journalists writing about politics, or political orgs, the disabled who can’t work, or ppl who are retired. Everyone else is at work, getting groceries, picking up their dry cleaning, getting the oil changed and running any
number of other errands.
They don’t have time to engage in what is now a political scene filled with lies & hate. It’s also for the same reason I don’t watch movies that depict a lot of violence—I don’t want images of violence in my head. Many people don’t want to be exposed to hate on a regular basis—they avoid it. Others take pleasure in it. We need to appeal to those who avoid it.
Logic & facts don’t work. So what we’re left with is to find a way to reach magas on an emotional level.
We need to entertain them, appeal to their humanity and invite them into a culture that doesn’t revolve around cruelty & hate.
Barbara, my husband and I were just sharing this sentiment this morning. Democrats and Biden are responsible for creating, at the very least, a way to move up the ladder for ordinary Americans and Trump and his cronies will tear this down to benefit the wealthy. Republicans and MAGAs, you will get what you voted for.
But WE also get what they voted for. What can be done to expose Trump's feet of clay? He has already done and been convicted of some terrible acts, and he is only more beloved by his base. And boring to non voters who don't care.
I’m frustrated, too, at what seems to be a lack of Dem messaging leadership, although I can also appreciate that we’re only a few weeks out from the election and it’s the holidays.
I’ve become increasingly committed to “commenting” less and “reaching out” more, as I do believe much great writing has an audience of only like-minded people. And the reality is I have no influence at the national party strategy level.
What are other ways to reach people? Might one possibility be rural, small town papers that also accept letters to the editor and reach a broader audience? I write to and am occasionally published in my DALLAS MORNING NEWS, but recently I compiled a list of 20ish smaller town Texas papers, and I sent my letters there as well—at least one has been published. I’m also willing to “crowdsource” such letters—I’m happy for people to use mine as a starting point (or the whole thing) for their own. I write them with a nonpartisan, persuadable audience in mind.
I’d like others’ thoughts. These two links are to 1) a recent letter and 2) Texas newspaper LTE submission info.
I give the example because I am referencing history, you didn’t even say that that kind of denial of human beings and more importantly, American values is and should not ever happen in this country.
Of course, I’m concerned about it, from either the right or the left.
I lost tens of thousands of followers because I dared to tell the truth," Li said. "In a cult, you can't tell the truth or ask questions, but I'm done with that."
Li compared leaving the Democratic Party to "leaving a cult," saying in the interview, "It's like leaving a cult
I lost tens of thousands of followers because I dared to tell the truth," Li said. "In a cult, you can't tell the truth or ask questions, but I'm done with that."
Li compared leaving the Democratic Party to "leaving a cult," saying in the interview, "It's like leaving a cult
Since at least the 80s Republicans have caused problems and Democrats are blamed for not solving them. Could they do more? Sure, but it would be nice to hear a little shade thrown at the Rs for screwing us over in the first place.
So true - the Dems have NEVER really dealt with this, even when they have held power. I believe Obama could have gotten more done than the Affordable Care Act in the first two years where Dems held a big majority in Congress. Ugh.
President elect Donald Trump said Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has asked to visit him at the president-elect's Mar-a-Lago home in Florida on Friday night.
There are some who estimate Putin is even wealthier than Musk. Is it any wonder Trump and Musk are trying to emulate him? How sick Russian society is, is further evidence that concentrated wealth is toxic.
Trump says on day 1, he'll be a dictator. He obviously identifies with other dictators
Senate Democrats have called for an investigation into Musk's contacts with Putin and his top aides. Putin expects a quid pro quo for his psy ops. Although we put him in business, Musks largest investments these days are in China, which is working with Putin and even our "ally" Saudi Arabia to undermine the dollar through BRIC.
President elect Donald Trump said Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has asked to visit him at the president-elect's Mar-a-Lago home in Florida on Friday night.
Just subscribed. I’m struggling with how much to spend on (now several) VERY worthy independent media outlets versus, say, campaigns or nonprofit groups (e.g., LWV), but I’m starting to see this as a needed investment in a new media landscape that is essential. We cannot have threats to sovereign nations reduced to “teasing” in (CNN) headlines.
Carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation have declined 61% due to increased use of natural gas over other sources like coal, according to The American Gas Association.
The restarting of coal plants underscores the real issue, which is the need to build more gas-fired power plants fairly soon.
U.S. utilities and investors plan to add 133 new natural gas-fired power plants to the nation's grid, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data, by 2030.
Renewable energy sources can't keep up with our growing energy needs.
It's not just the media. I actually saw a post from an alleged Democrat that read, "55% of American men voted for Trump. He is the preference of the majority of the country. It's time to accept that and move on."
My response was,"Move on where? To Trump 2.0? Or Hitler 2.0? Because I'm afraid the distinctions are becoming inconsequential.
If liberals, moderates, Democrats and others who recognize the gravity of the threat that Trump and his allies, enablers and sycophants represent and the uniquely despicable nature of their figurehead throw up their hands and meekly accept that MAGA "vermin" can do whatever they want without a scintilla of resistance, then we really will be lost.
At my advanced age (77) and with my legal career concluded, all I really care about are my family, my health and my country, and I'll be damned if I'm going to just sit back and watch the Orange Hoodlum and his thugs desecrate the country I've always loved without doing anything and everything I possibly can to disrupt their march toward authoritarian nirvana.
Also at the advanced age of 77. I’m retired from a 32 year career as a naval officer and carrier aviator - proudly serving and defending this nation I love. I too will be damned if I will allow this orange turd to desecrate two and a half centuries of the great American experiment.
It's beyond---we have NO IDEA who really voted much less who they voted for and won't until February when all the data is in.....what is disgusting is the circular firing squad as Democrats are having a great time saying we are all wrong and blah blah blah is the reason and it's always we did something wrong......and that is another way to acquiesce! We must stop.....
We don't need self flagellation any more. Pick up, dust off, find a different path to take. Republicans don't have the market cornered on influence. We must get a level field, if we have to get less politically correct, then let's. We can still be the champions of human rights and dignity, just firmer in our presentation.
I totally agree with you. I don't have your legal background but I really feel the Democratic Senate judiciary committee really dropped the ball defending our constitution. After the expose by ProPublica on the violation of ethics on the Supreme Court - what did the Democrats do ? Nothing ! They did the old cartoon- " I haven't tried anything but run out of ideas " . No hearings on the obvious abuse of accepting cash, gifts and trips. Legitimate reasons to investigate. Where are the defenders of Democracy in leadership positions? I calm myself down by realizing that the Republicans won by a small margin. There are just as many of us ! I would rather be on our side! We must continue to resist the oligarchs .
The legacy media is practically done, but like everything else in the world is rises and then falls. In the meantime we can hope that publications like this take up the slack and maybe even grow into something more powerful.
I'm proud of the Philadelphia Inquirer for being free of the shackles of Trumpism. In editorials, columns, and cartoons, the paper keeps the faith. Because it is financed by a private philanthropy and other community support, its ownership sees no reason to kiss the ring. I hope it can maintain that independence.
Sounds like it's time to subscribe to the Philadelphia Inquirer since I've unsubscribed from every major newspaper, including our local newspaper, since the election. Am putting my money towards supporting journalists here on Substack like Harry Littman, Heather Cox Richardson, Scott Dworkin, and any newpaper or magazine that refuses to bow down to the wannabe king(s) and dictator(s).
I'm so glad you're here on Substack, Harry. This is indeed a great and growing community, and we will not be cowed into silence or passivity. I think a lot of us here, and on other Substacks (thinking of Heather Cox Richardson, Joyce Vance, etc) are folks of a certain age -- many of us are old enough to remember the pre-Roe era, the Civil Rights, Anti-War and Anti-Nuke movements. We remember what it felt like to take to the streets, and I hope we are prepared to do it again and again, for as long as it takes to right this ship before it sinks. Here's hoping 2025 will be a year of progressive activism and community building!
Thank you for your intelligent distillation of the abdication of truth by major media outlets. I was disturbed and highly disappointed by abc’s payout to the orange man-baby. No good thing will come from it. The fourth estate has been severely degraded. Please keep speaking truth.
Harry, thanks for your courage. We need to hear the TRUTH..........no matter what. Thanks for sticking your neck out. I applaud you for your principles in a Country that seems to be loosing them right and left.
Appeasement has never worked. I don’t know how many times we have to re-learn this lesson, but the last 9 years should be sufficient. If you give someone like DFG enough rope to hang himself, he’ll just use it to tie you up, dangle you out of a 75th floor window, and drop you on a group of small children on a field trip.
How about Musk gets evaluated. Self-medicating with Ketamine can be VERY problematic. How did Theil and Musk consolidate so much power without anyone noticing?
None of this would have gotten as far as it has without the financial support of the super wealthy. It should not be a surprise; the massive concentration of wealth is a warning sign of a society that is unhealthy, like a cancer within.
The failure of the Democrats to deal with massive income inequality created by Republican tax cuts from Reagan to Trump is a major reason they lost the election. Oligarchs like Jeff Bezoz have created a virulent anti-worker, anti-union, low-wage environment that resulted in the working class abandoning them.
So because the Democrats didn't do enough to FIX the problematic environment created by the Republicans, Americans voted for the party that CREATED their economic problems?! Sounds about right, but how do you effect change in so many people who are uninformed, misinformed/ propogandized, unconcerned, or uninterested in what is happening in our government? How do we make them care?
Barbara, you have asked the key question. How do we educate the ENVs (eligible non-voters) and make them care? Approximately 1/3 of the electorate did not vote in 2024. They are the ones who are going to determine the midterms and whether we can save our democracy.
But none of the Democratic pundits are providing answers to your question. We have Bluesky now, but in just a few weeks, it has become a blue-painted information silo and echo chamber. The memes and their responses may be cathartic, but there is NO evidence that it is reaching the ENVs. Substack has excellent analysis, but again NO evidence of outreach. It does have opposite views, like the far-right extremist Curtis Yarvin, behind paywalls, but the feed algorithms keep us blind to them. Meidas is wracking up views, but again, there is NO evidence that they are reaching ENVs. How do I know? The replies rarely pose questions or clarifications, and the vast majority of replies are either completely aligned with the post or obvious trolls. We are talking an awful lot to ourselves.
The only media outlet where I see genuine interaction beyond a committed blue core is at
https://www.youtube.com/@BeauoftheFifthColumn/featured
Democratic politicians are not addressing the question either. We are almost 2 months post-election, 1/12 of the time before midterms. I don't know who the voice of the Democratic party is. I was hopeful about the Democratic Governors' initiative when it was announced, but "I ain't seen nothin' yet." Or to quote an old commercial, "Where's the beef?" There is no Democratic equivalent of an evergreen policy agenda. Iterations of Project 2025 were developed for every election cycle since Reagan, and the majority of every Republican administration's accomplishments were out of that playbook. We seem incapable of replicating their extremely successful strategy.
We have to do what republicans did—make it a cultural war. . . on their lies. We need to scare the
ENVs into paying attention. We need to harness the power of Hollywood. There are some very powerful
democrats in Hollywood. We need screenwriters to
come up with stories that illustrate what the political
“right” is attempting to do, heck—what they’ve already done! Terrorizing women of childbearing age
is gold mine of stories! Women who die because they
got pregnant and were refused treatment that would have saved their lives is murder.
Building Coalitions Amongst Non-Traditional Allies
Luke Beasley is doing exactly what I think needs to be done, but it's not easy. He is going on as a guest on Alt.Right podcasts and inviting MAGAsphere influencers onto his show. to debate policy. We can get involved by debate with folks in the comments or attending forums where we can practice the fine art of debate with the MAGASPHERE.
Let's face it - the two-party system is weaponized against us via a well-oiled, fine-tuned, and vastly powerful and invasive propaganda apparatus. A decentralized Fascist Aristocracy that operates above the rule of law and wields control of the masses by way of an insidious ‘divide and conquer' agenda. It's the worst gaslighting EVER. For example, there's always good ideas on the left and good ideas on the right, and then also very bad ideas on the left and very bad ideas on the right, which leaves me politically homeless, confused about who to vote for, and ultimately feeling like I just don’t have any agency and that I should focus my energy elsewhere. We just talk past each other and seem a lot more interested in being right and winning, rather then finding consensus or compromise.
The Kingpins strategically pit the two parties against each other via identity politics that have grown so hostile that now the slinging of threats and insults, lies and conspiracy, all tied up nicely with the dark money/deep state corruption ribbon has been normalized. Also, this keeps populations divided that must be in solidarity if they want a seat at the Table of Freedom - I see this amongst women, African Americans, Latinos, and Arabs, for example. It's complicated and reparations amongst divided groups is a good idea. There is strength in numbers, therefore we want a social contract that commits us all to masking an equal effort to show each other consideration, compromise, and the benefit of the doubt. This is the ONLY way a democracy will work.
If you can know the Bible and the teachings of Christianity it will be very helpful in gaining their ear. Many have been radicalized to think liberal people are demons - I mean literally. These folks can be scary and thety might live in a very different world than ours with very different parameters and ways of grounding our thinking. It takes practice.
We need to practice the Golden Rule by listening to each other's ideas and showing willingness to compromise just as we would appreciate such being done for us. I love going to events at the nearby colleges and Universities - they often have evening lectures, political organization meetings, etc. Go talk to the younger generation and let them know we are there to support them however we can. We are leaving our children and grandchildren a very hard situation. We have to do whatever we can for them.
Also, hire a professional facilitator or study communication facilitation and host bi-partisan townhall to discuss and organize around common goals. Sponsor regular Movie Nights where you show films about social justice movements or how people survive in times of war. I recommend The Corporation, Harriot, Selma, Long Walk to Freedom, The Iron-Jawed Angels, Malcolm X, and Ghandi to name a few.
It very well may be too late in a post-Citizens United world where oligarchs have bought and paid for both parties...or more likely One party that pretends to be two. Using propaganda to split the American populace has been a game to make abortion, religion, and race appear to be more important than equality, democracy, and humanity. The oligarchs have been able to operate in secrecy while everyone else points fingers at one another. As a result of more propaganda upholding the idea that individuality and gaining personal wealth are the most important American values they've been able to oppress workers and devalue human beings while they take the value of our labor, steal money from Social Security, and hand each other huge tax breaks that also come out of our pockets. Wages are threatened daily but no one discusses lowering prices because that's nasty socialism or communism. We certainly can't consider an economic model that prevents evil, narcissistic monsters from controlling and negatively impacting every life on the planet! Sure Putin, Musk, and Trump deserve so much money and power that they can act as little creepy gods and hurt everything everywhere...that's what they thrive on...hurting others, because nothing makes them feel more powerful. Good luck to us all...
We can thank the corrupt Roberts Supreme Court for Citizens United…so now the billionaires have bought their very own president and Trump is more than happy to oblige.
Building Coalitions Amongst Non-Traditional Allies
Luke Beasley is doing exactly what I think needs to be done, but it's not easy. He is going on as a guest on Alt.Right podcasts and inviting alt.right influencers onto his show to debate policy. We can get involved by debating with folks in the comments or attending alt.right forums where we can practice the fine art of debate with the MAGASPHERE.
Let's face it - the two-party system is weaponized against us via a well-oiled, fine-tuned, and vastly powerful and invasive propaganda apparatus wielded by a decentralized Fascist Aristocracy that operates above the rule of law. They control the masses by way of an insidious ‘divide and conquer' agenda. It's the worst gaslighting EVER.
For example, there's always some good ideas on the left and other good ideas on the right, and then there's also very bad ideas on the left, and also very bad ideas on the right, which leaves me feeling politically homeless and confused and torn about who to vote for, and ultimately feeling like I just don’t have any agency and, thus, I should focus my energy elsewhere. The polarized sides of the aisle just talk past each other, and seem a lot more interested in being right and winning then finding consensus or compromise.
The Kingpins strategically pit the two parties against each other via hostile identity politics that has been normalized. The slinging of threats, insults, lies, and conspiracy are all tied up nicely with a dark money/deep state corruption ribbon. This hostility keeps populations divided that must be in solidarity if they want a seat at the Table of Freedom. The in-fighting amongst women, African Americans, Latinos, Arabs, and the LBTGQ+ community, for example. It's complicated and often persistent determination to listen, communicate and come to understandings amongst the divided groups. But, our strength in our numbers, thereforeall marginalized, exploited and oppressed minorities want to enter into a collective social contract that commits us all to reciprocity of consideration, compromise, giving each other the benefit of the doubt and mutual protection. This is the ONLY way a democracy will work.
If you know the Bible and the teachings of Christianity it is very helpful in gaining their ear. Many have been radicalized to think liberal people are demons - I mean literally. These folks can be aggressive, resentful, and obtuse and they usually live in a very different world than ours with very different parameters and ways of grounding our thinking. Respectful communication amongst entrenched ideology and superiority takes practice.
We need to practice the Golden Rule by listening and showing willingness to compromise just as we would appreciate being done for us. I love going to events at the nearby colleges and Universities - they often have evening lectures, political organization meetings, etc. I enjoy talking to the younger generation. I let them know I am there to support them however I can. We are leaving our children and grandchildren a very hard situation. We have to do whatever we can for them.
Also, hire a professional facilitator or study group communication facilitation, and host bi-partisan townhalls to discuss and organize around common goals. I also enjoy hosting Movie series where we watch films about social justice movements or how people survive in times of war and then discuss afterwards. Movies I recommend are The Corporation, The Big Short, Handmaids Tale (Hulu Series), The French Village (French TV Series on Amazon Prime), Harriot, Selma, Long Walk to Freedom, The Iron-Jawed Angels, Malcolm X, and Ghandi to name a few.
RambleOn, I like your ideas, but I think you’re making it too difficult. The 2 party system has its flaws, but it’s what we have to work with. It’s going to take a very long time to change it and we don’t have that kind of time.
Republicans have used the divide and conquer tactic
masterfully, but notice what each effort to divide us is about—culture & feelings. Like the alleged, “War
on Christmas,” or the book bans—“we don’t want our (white)kids to feel bad about slavery,” or owning guns, or the whole “woke” drivel.
Rational arguments like, “If you do this, X will happen, then Y, and finally Z! We don’t want Y or Z, so don’t do that,” don’t work. Magas have literally
been trained to NOT respond to logic & rational thought. I would even say they’ve been trained to
respond to logic with vitriol & hate—but don’t realize they’ve been manipulated & trained to reactions to certain things.
I’m at the point where I believe most magas who interact in online forums are being paid—in other words they are mostly paid operatives, and many of them are Russian. Think about it, they are either paid operatives, high school/college students, journalists writing about politics, or political orgs, the disabled who can’t work, or ppl who are retired. Everyone else is at work, getting groceries, picking up their dry cleaning, getting the oil changed and running any
number of other errands.
They don’t have time to engage in what is now a political scene filled with lies & hate. It’s also for the same reason I don’t watch movies that depict a lot of violence—I don’t want images of violence in my head. Many people don’t want to be exposed to hate on a regular basis—they avoid it. Others take pleasure in it. We need to appeal to those who avoid it.
Logic & facts don’t work. So what we’re left with is to find a way to reach magas on an emotional level.
We need to entertain them, appeal to their humanity and invite them into a culture that doesn’t revolve around cruelty & hate.
did you watch the video I posted?
What the fuck are you running on about??
Almost incoherent drivel Learn how to form a senteence, you run on somehing awful
Hi Peter- thank you for your feedback. I wrote it late last night. I just edited it. Hope it's more coherent now.
You are welcome Wow a polite human being…we might disagree but still break bread
As long as well informed people like you keep telling it as it is….. thank you.
Better yet, how do we make them pay attention to whose actually hurting them?
Barbara, my husband and I were just sharing this sentiment this morning. Democrats and Biden are responsible for creating, at the very least, a way to move up the ladder for ordinary Americans and Trump and his cronies will tear this down to benefit the wealthy. Republicans and MAGAs, you will get what you voted for.
But WE also get what they voted for. What can be done to expose Trump's feet of clay? He has already done and been convicted of some terrible acts, and he is only more beloved by his base. And boring to non voters who don't care.
I’m frustrated, too, at what seems to be a lack of Dem messaging leadership, although I can also appreciate that we’re only a few weeks out from the election and it’s the holidays.
I’ve become increasingly committed to “commenting” less and “reaching out” more, as I do believe much great writing has an audience of only like-minded people. And the reality is I have no influence at the national party strategy level.
What are other ways to reach people? Might one possibility be rural, small town papers that also accept letters to the editor and reach a broader audience? I write to and am occasionally published in my DALLAS MORNING NEWS, but recently I compiled a list of 20ish smaller town Texas papers, and I sent my letters there as well—at least one has been published. I’m also willing to “crowdsource” such letters—I’m happy for people to use mine as a starting point (or the whole thing) for their own. I write them with a nonpartisan, persuadable audience in mind.
I’d like others’ thoughts. These two links are to 1) a recent letter and 2) Texas newspaper LTE submission info.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13slC02l-z5uqxDqfv3CLr6tTuz0qQ-oE41ayMxfvxaI/edit?usp=sharing
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1F1IZYgfw096r7IEegVzaiUMSKlIl0PPZ6vj88Go4Mrc/edit?usp=sharing
precisely. thank you
I’ve wondered about that and there are examples in history that can be studied.
Reeducation Camps have been used to ensure the message of the ruling party is taught and more importantly
Given the only choice of either you are with us or against us.
The consequences are severe if the latter is chosen.
It’s not democratic but it is effective if what you are suggesting is a viable option that you might consider Barb.
I completely disagree with that option, but you might find it appealing.
Have a happy new year, Barb.😇
So, you have to jump to an extreme example to make your point? WTF?
This kind of response is what kills discussion round finding a solution.
I give the example because I am referencing history, you didn’t even say that that kind of denial of human beings and more importantly, American values is and should not ever happen in this country.
Of course, I’m concerned about it, from either the right or the left.
I am not an ideologue.
Have a happy new year😇
I lost tens of thousands of followers because I dared to tell the truth," Li said. "In a cult, you can't tell the truth or ask questions, but I'm done with that."
Li compared leaving the Democratic Party to "leaving a cult," saying in the interview, "It's like leaving a cult
Exactly the right questions.
Senator Warren’s wealth tax should be a priority if/when Democrats regain control of the government- and their own plutocrats.
It's not for lack of trying, Paul. But, when you have a constituency hellbent on believing lies...because it's easier, then we are all fucked.
exactly. stop blaming the fucking democrats. we had two traitorous senators, Manchun and Semema that blocked much of our agenda.
I lost tens of thousands of followers because I dared to tell the truth," Li said. "In a cult, you can't tell the truth or ask questions, but I'm done with that."
Li compared leaving the Democratic Party to "leaving a cult," saying in the interview, "It's like leaving a cult
Try the old tried and true reeducation camps against the people that you disagree with
Even up to their demise if you deem it necessary.
Since at least the 80s Republicans have caused problems and Democrats are blamed for not solving them. Could they do more? Sure, but it would be nice to hear a little shade thrown at the Rs for screwing us over in the first place.
So true - the Dems have NEVER really dealt with this, even when they have held power. I believe Obama could have gotten more done than the Affordable Care Act in the first two years where Dems held a big majority in Congress. Ugh.
President elect Donald Trump said Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has asked to visit him at the president-elect's Mar-a-Lago home in Florida on Friday night.
😳😳😳😳😳😳😳
Agreed ♥️👏
...and the Russians. We elevate them, a second rate country, to be our masters.
https://www.state.gov/u-s-department-of-state-takes-actions-to-counter-russian-influence-and-interference-in-u-s-elections/
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-disrupts-russian-intelligence-spear-phishing-efforts
https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy2559
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_espionage_in_the_United_States
There are some who estimate Putin is even wealthier than Musk. Is it any wonder Trump and Musk are trying to emulate him? How sick Russian society is, is further evidence that concentrated wealth is toxic.
Trump says on day 1, he'll be a dictator. He obviously identifies with other dictators
Senate Democrats have called for an investigation into Musk's contacts with Putin and his top aides. Putin expects a quid pro quo for his psy ops. Although we put him in business, Musks largest investments these days are in China, which is working with Putin and even our "ally" Saudi Arabia to undermine the dollar through BRIC.
Biden needs to stand up. .
What should he do? Please reveal your list.
President elect Donald Trump said Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has asked to visit him at the president-elect's Mar-a-Lago home in Florida on Friday night.
I do know they will not allow anyone under the age of 18 to have their private cut off.
Just subscribed. I’m struggling with how much to spend on (now several) VERY worthy independent media outlets versus, say, campaigns or nonprofit groups (e.g., LWV), but I’m starting to see this as a needed investment in a new media landscape that is essential. We cannot have threats to sovereign nations reduced to “teasing” in (CNN) headlines.
Scary times.
Carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation have declined 61% due to increased use of natural gas over other sources like coal, according to The American Gas Association.
The restarting of coal plants underscores the real issue, which is the need to build more gas-fired power plants fairly soon.
U.S. utilities and investors plan to add 133 new natural gas-fired power plants to the nation's grid, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data, by 2030.
Renewable energy sources can't keep up with our growing energy needs.
It's not just the media. I actually saw a post from an alleged Democrat that read, "55% of American men voted for Trump. He is the preference of the majority of the country. It's time to accept that and move on."
My response was,"Move on where? To Trump 2.0? Or Hitler 2.0? Because I'm afraid the distinctions are becoming inconsequential.
If liberals, moderates, Democrats and others who recognize the gravity of the threat that Trump and his allies, enablers and sycophants represent and the uniquely despicable nature of their figurehead throw up their hands and meekly accept that MAGA "vermin" can do whatever they want without a scintilla of resistance, then we really will be lost.
At my advanced age (77) and with my legal career concluded, all I really care about are my family, my health and my country, and I'll be damned if I'm going to just sit back and watch the Orange Hoodlum and his thugs desecrate the country I've always loved without doing anything and everything I possibly can to disrupt their march toward authoritarian nirvana.
Also at the advanced age of 77. I’m retired from a 32 year career as a naval officer and carrier aviator - proudly serving and defending this nation I love. I too will be damned if I will allow this orange turd to desecrate two and a half centuries of the great American experiment.
Well said, Sir.
You too William!
Right on!! Orange turd indeed
And 55% of men is not 55% of voters! Even if it were true it doesn’t mean we should accept it. What they are doing is wrong. This makes me so angry.
It's beyond---we have NO IDEA who really voted much less who they voted for and won't until February when all the data is in.....what is disgusting is the circular firing squad as Democrats are having a great time saying we are all wrong and blah blah blah is the reason and it's always we did something wrong......and that is another way to acquiesce! We must stop.....
We don't need self flagellation any more. Pick up, dust off, find a different path to take. Republicans don't have the market cornered on influence. We must get a level field, if we have to get less politically correct, then let's. We can still be the champions of human rights and dignity, just firmer in our presentation.
I totally agree with you. I don't have your legal background but I really feel the Democratic Senate judiciary committee really dropped the ball defending our constitution. After the expose by ProPublica on the violation of ethics on the Supreme Court - what did the Democrats do ? Nothing ! They did the old cartoon- " I haven't tried anything but run out of ideas " . No hearings on the obvious abuse of accepting cash, gifts and trips. Legitimate reasons to investigate. Where are the defenders of Democracy in leadership positions? I calm myself down by realizing that the Republicans won by a small margin. There are just as many of us ! I would rather be on our side! We must continue to resist the oligarchs .
Didn’t the Justices refuse to sit for a public inquiry?
Jeff we need you!
Thanks for telling it like it is, Harry. No fear, no favor.
Harry is Pennsyltucky courageous and proud!
The legacy media is practically done, but like everything else in the world is rises and then falls. In the meantime we can hope that publications like this take up the slack and maybe even grow into something more powerful.
I'm proud of the Philadelphia Inquirer for being free of the shackles of Trumpism. In editorials, columns, and cartoons, the paper keeps the faith. Because it is financed by a private philanthropy and other community support, its ownership sees no reason to kiss the ring. I hope it can maintain that independence.
Sounds like it's time to subscribe to the Philadelphia Inquirer since I've unsubscribed from every major newspaper, including our local newspaper, since the election. Am putting my money towards supporting journalists here on Substack like Harry Littman, Heather Cox Richardson, Scott Dworkin, and any newpaper or magazine that refuses to bow down to the wannabe king(s) and dictator(s).
Thanks for continuing to call out Patrick Soon-Shiong’s actions. It is shocking how the mainstream press is kowtowing to Trump.
I'm so glad you're here on Substack, Harry. This is indeed a great and growing community, and we will not be cowed into silence or passivity. I think a lot of us here, and on other Substacks (thinking of Heather Cox Richardson, Joyce Vance, etc) are folks of a certain age -- many of us are old enough to remember the pre-Roe era, the Civil Rights, Anti-War and Anti-Nuke movements. We remember what it felt like to take to the streets, and I hope we are prepared to do it again and again, for as long as it takes to right this ship before it sinks. Here's hoping 2025 will be a year of progressive activism and community building!
Thank you for your intelligent distillation of the abdication of truth by major media outlets. I was disturbed and highly disappointed by abc’s payout to the orange man-baby. No good thing will come from it. The fourth estate has been severely degraded. Please keep speaking truth.
Thank you, Harry. My heroes have always been journalists and watching the fourth estate sink slowly away is breaking my heart.
Harry, thanks for your courage. We need to hear the TRUTH..........no matter what. Thanks for sticking your neck out. I applaud you for your principles in a Country that seems to be loosing them right and left.
Appeasement has never worked. I don’t know how many times we have to re-learn this lesson, but the last 9 years should be sufficient. If you give someone like DFG enough rope to hang himself, he’ll just use it to tie you up, dangle you out of a 75th floor window, and drop you on a group of small children on a field trip.
Thanks for always choosing truth and sharing it with us.
Harry: Welcome! Many of us are thrilled and delighted you have chosen to be here!
"Sentence Donald Trump to a Mandatory Psychiatric Examination - Political/Legal Maneuverings do Not Change Medical Need"
by Dr. BANDY X.LEE
https://open.substack.com/pub/bandyxlee/p/sentence-donald-trump-to-a-mandatory?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=280c3q
I don’t care WHAT he is sentenced to, just SENTENCE the MFer already! WTF is Merchan up to??!
How about Musk gets evaluated. Self-medicating with Ketamine can be VERY problematic. How did Theil and Musk consolidate so much power without anyone noticing?
Having a lot of money buys you a lot of secrecy.
Could not be said better. Thanks, Harry.
These are troubling times. I only hope our country survives, turns around, and becomes more progressive.