For decades, the GOP has perfected the art of sabotage, turning government into a racket where the suffering of millions is simply the cost of keeping billionaires happy…
Republicans understand that no one will vote for someone who openly advocates for making himself rich at taxpayer expense. So of course they have to mirror Democrats in expressing concern for the less fortunate, then offer alternative solutions that just so happen to transfer public funds into corporate profits. Let's refurbish Reagan's quote: "Republicans are not the solution to our problems; Republicans are the problem."
Money in politics is the root of much evil. The Democratic donor class prevents Dems from attacking the Republicans head-on, always preferring “pragmatism” to FDR-like idealism. Bill Clinton and Jim Clyburn, for example, recently endorsed corrupt, discredited Andrew Cuomo over Zohran Mamdani in the recent NYC mayoral primary because the latter sounds so much like a genuine, sincere Democrat, and few if any in Dem leadership have seen fit to endorse him since his massive victory in that race. Charlamagne the God refers to Hakeem Jeffries as “AIPAC Shakur” for obvious reasons. Democratic polling numbers are in the tank because the party’s leadership continue to whine that “those guys are bad but we’re in the minority” while simultaneously demonstrating through their actions or inactions that they don’t believe in much of anything. Despite Mamdani’s success, the crowds Bernie and AOC have attracted, the protesters in the streets, columns like this one, etc., etc., “leadership” continues to behave as if we should just wait it out. If we don’t overcome this risk aversion and go on the attack like Newsom, Pritzker, and a few others, fascism will win.
That's what Donald and JD are having at our expense. TRump meets his boyfriend in Alaska on our dime, JD runs off to discuss our future with Murdoch in Montana, and we foot the bill for travel and security. Truth is we need to be protected from them.
The polls show that the Psychopath is way down. He's being supported by a smaller base, yet he is STILL begging them for money to support him. The merch shop is up and running right out of the White House. WTF!
The Nazis didn't win. This slow rolling coup is as ridiculous as that squeaky tank at Orange Hitler's birthday parade. There is defiance at the agencies. The Cabinet keeps proving what a bunch of stupid suck-ups they are.
The GOP voters thought they were going to get an invitation to TRump's party, but they are just going to be snubbed and pay for it. Let's help them figure that out. You are invited to a party on Labor Day. See you in the streets.
"For decades, the GOP has perfected the art of sabotage, turning government into a racket where the suffering of millions is simply the cost of keeping billionaires happy…"-Thom
They do some excellent propaganda work concerning crime, and in the end it is costing us a fortune for the troops and concentration camps. To be continued.
Defenestration of the government, with the firings is the plan alis. Remember government is the problem, so get rid of government for a libertarian paradise
In a libertarian paradise there are only two roles for government, police and judiciial.
He is building up the first, and realigning the latter.
Hmmm. libertarianism is fascism. I've been on forums with avowed libertarians who thought that women who had abortions should be executed for murder.
Okay I believe what you say as I remember you mentioning your epiphany about the other side.
To be clearer I meant in reading what they are up to currently more people will understand their goals and we might have prevented where we are right now in our nation.
Very kind, Jon. It's great to be "in therapy" with folks like you. We have to keep it together as best we can, and having my say helps. I have to add, it's a bit like Hartmann University too.
In America, money is power. The richer you are, the more power you wield. However, the more power you wield, the more arrogant it tends to make most people feel.
In society generally, many, if not most, men who have the biggest snazziest pick-up truck on the block likely feel superior to their neighbors. Maybe it is an RV, or speed boat, or motorcycle, or a sports car. The stuff you possess is, for most people, a sign of wealth and entitlement to influence others. "I'm better than you." or "Donald Trump is a billionaire, so he is entitled to rule America."
So often, I hear my super-rich friends and acquaintances boast that they are "self-made" men. They owe their success to working harder than everybody else, being more clever than most, etc. I have to laugh sometimes because the majority are nepos. They were entitled to their power by their family ties. Most got richer than daddy because, as Thom pointed out, the laws changed to enable them to harvest more cash from the bottom 99%. That arrogance, in their minds, justifies their feeling entitled to their power - entitled to tell others (losers?) how to live their lives.
60 years ago when I was 12, I asked my mother what the difference was between Democrats and Republicans. Her answer was so ridiculously simple and still is evident today. She looked at me and said “ Democrats are interested in helping people, Republicans are only interested in money.” Her wonderful words still ring true today….RIP, Mom. I have no doubt that you’re rolling in your grave over what’s happening in the United States right now.
This will be a case of the snake swallowing its own tail. Eventually there will be nothing left to consume. We all, rich and poor, sink or swim together. Repubs don’t seem to realize that.
Fitzpatrick is bipartisan on only one issue,and that is quite apparently calculated to woo his voters. Otherwise he is he very opposite of bipartisan, his voting record is that of a right wing culture warrior.
It is probably too obvious to say but it bears repeating over and over. MAGA “Christians” are not Christians. They are fake and they need to be called out over and over on non Christian values that they put forward. The epitome of this is in the picture at top combining Christmas with guns. What are these people thinking? And no Jesus would NOT own a gun or an automatic weapon if he were in physical firm today. MAGA don’t hide behind your values using Jesus as your shield. Jesus has compassion for you but you have not learned nor do you follow his values.
One needs a decoder ring when listening to Christians.
Family Values has nothing to do with family, except that the father is the tyrant of the home,and like Augustus Caesars law of Pater Familia, the goal in which the father had life and death control over wife and children, this is what they want, and with full dictatorship, this is what they will get.
Prolife, has nothing to do with pro life, and everything to do with male supremacy, and female submission.
Absolutely. What fake Christians claim to be Christian values are prevalent cultural values of the time. And over 2,000 years the predominant cultural value in most "Christian" countries for most of the time have centered around male supremacy. Had Jesus had 6 principle male and 6 principle female disciples maybe this would have created a different unfoldment of Christianity. I don't think Jesus was either expecting that his story or the interpretations of his story would affect the destiny of humanity for 2,000 years, or that not clearly stating the equality of women would be so important. He probably believed this was important but he did not emphasize it or anticipate the misogynism by men would last so long. He would be appalled by what people have done in his name. And are still doing. I am not a Christian but I studied Jesus and I know who he was, or at least as represented in the Bible.
In a game of telephone over 2000 years Christians now think that holding guns in front of a (pagan) Christmas tree shows their Christian values. Jesus: "But that is not what I said".
Christianity is an Abrahamic religion, as is Judaism and Islam.
Abrahamic religions are patriarchal and thus misogynistic.
The role of women in those religions is essentially that of Madonna or whore.
A mans mother is a saint to be worshiped and other women are whores and Jezebels to be monitored and controlled.
Culturally, and this is an observation, those cultures that coddle the male infant and child, produce very misogynistic men, at one fearful of mothers dissapproval, and simultaneously disrespectful and distrustful of women.
In particular Mediterranean and Levantine cultures from Spain on into Asia
But I've noticed it mostly among Italians, Islamic and Jewish people (The rabbi's morning prayer, thanks ha shem that I wasn't born a woman.)
The Scythians, Sarmatians had women warriors and revered ones at that, per archaeological digs of kurgans. Sarmatians, per Pliny, required of their women to fight in battle .kill a foe, to win the right to marry. Vikings, had warrior women (shield maidens) and warrior queens. Testified to by the swords and riches found in their graves.
AS Charlemagne spread the Church of Rome across Gaul and Germany, the status of women diminished.
Yes right. We have a tortured history. And yes “we” were already misogynists at the time of Jesus. It appears he revered women but a failure to make absolutely clear they are equal to men is a shortcoming in his beachings. He demonstrated in his actions by breaking traditional norms that men can talk to women and have them on par with men, but he did not specifically emphasise this from all that I have read. So there has been an ecumenical vacuum on this point. And there are no female cardinals in the Catholic Church and no women vote for the new pope.
I wish this could be read by everyone. It took years of me not paying attention, and then doing my own "research". That research eventually brought me to people that understand history and politics, such as Thom. Yet, I find it very easy to understand so much of this but so frustrated that so few people have any clue about this. But every time someone such as Bernie or AOC talk like this, they will be shouted down by the "Propaganda Machine".
At what rate would billionaires have to be taxed to equal the amount they willingly donate to politicians who legislate to help them avoid paying taxes?
It’s not about money. It’s about control and disdain for those the morbidly wealthy consider beneath them, not only in terms of wealth but of basic humanity!
Trump and his ilk, and all republicans in congress must be removed from power NOW! We won't survive three more years of this evil. This will take nothing less than a uprising of American citizens through protests, lawsuits, and ultimately, war. If that's what it takes then so be it.
Then, we need to impeach and convict the six fascists on the Supreme Court. Next, pass laws preventing all of the anit-American acts of this regime. After that, we can concentrate on prosecuting trump and his scum for the their treasonous acts, and rebuilding our government to be a true democracy.
On September 3, the witnesses in Trumpepstein will be in DC. If Trump is identified as one of the beneficiaries of the Acosta deal of the century for Epstein, all bets are off.
According to the internet, Trump's political vulnerability is high due to public perception, scrutiny, and potential base fracturing. Even if, his legal vulnerability remains limited unless new criminal charges or evidence directly linking him to Epstein's crimes.
Why this fascination with Fitzpatrick Daniel, his only "liberal" action is to cosponsor legislation for unions, his legislative actions have been to squash women's rights, anti abortion. He is not a liberal, and I doubt that he can be turned.
His pro union actions are pure politics,to woo the labor vote.
Idon't care what you believe Daniel. You are acting like a surrender monkey.
What vulnerable underbelly of MAGA and Trump? His base of fearful ignorants are with him whatever he does, as are the billionaires, the tech bros. Even Jamie Dimon feels helpless against him, and he has intimidated investment bankers, private equity, well private equity are courting him as he hands out lucrative contracts.
So tell me where is this vulnerable underbelly
This is Khe Sanh Daniel, it is do or diem the enemy has surrounded us, and digging trenches to our perimeter, we need air power, napalm, 500 lb bombs.
You're right that most Republican politicians only care about money. "Greed is their principle animating force, and is what binds them to their morbidly rich donors."
IMHO this should make them vulnerable politically and legally.
It's apparent that Trump is the extorter in chief, and has been raking it in. Esimates say he and his family have made $3.4 billion since innauguration. I'm unable to find how much Republican Congressional members have acquired collectively and individually, but they have to file financial statements and if they trade, monthly STOCK reports.
I wasn't able to obtain current stats but I do know several Republican House members who are recidivist violators of the Stock Act. In July 2025, the House Ethics Committee formally reprimanded Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) who re[resents my ol' district for violating the code of conduct related to his wife's 2020 stock trade. The investigation was based on concerns of insider trading, an appearance of impropriety, and a lack of cooperation with the committee. I don't think this stuff was ever fully reported in my ol' home town newspaper.
Findings from the Ethics Committee
Insider Trading: The investigation, which began in 2021, focused on Victoria Kelly's purchase of stock in the steel company Cleveland-Cliffs. The transaction took place one day after the congressman's office was informed of a federal decision that would benefit the company, but before the news was public. The committee ultimately concluded it could not confirm whether she used non-public information, partly due to a lack of cooperation from her and inconsistent responses from Representative Kelly.
Conflict of Interest: The committee found that Kelly advocated for policies to help Cleveland-Cliffs while his wife held a financial stake in the company. While it did not find a "clear violation" of conflict of interest laws, it noted his actions created a significant appearance of impropriety.
Additional Stock Purchases: The report also noted that Victoria Kelly made an additional purchase of Cleveland-Cliffs stock in 2024, despite the ongoing investigation. This occurred while her husband was again advocating for policies affecting the company.
Lack of Candor and Respect: The committee determined that Kelly violated the House's Code of Official Conduct due to a "lack of candor" during the inquiry and his dismissive attitude toward the process. He "has not demonstrated sufficient appreciation for the harm to the institution caused by the appearance of impropriety," the report stated.
Failure to Cooperate: Both Mike and Victoria Kelly were cited for failing to fully cooperate with the investigation. The committee decided against subpoenaing Victoria Kelly, citing her communication and health concerns.
Committee's action and Kelly's response
Reproval and Divestment: Instead of a formal sanction, the committee issued a reproval of Kelly's conduct via its report. It also recommended that the Kellys divest their Cleveland-Cliffs stock if the congressman intends to take further action on matters related to the company.
Kelly's Statement: In a statement, Kelly said his family was looking forward to putting the "distraction behind us". He noted the investigation had lasted for nearly five years and that his actions were focused on supporting the workers in his district.
Currently there are disputes that include interparty recognition of how and why some Republicans are so vulnerable. The currfent bill -- the HONEST Act, which stands for the Halting Ownership of Non-Ethical Securities and Trusts -- was recently modified so that the ban on insider trading includes the president and vice president. That provision wouldn't go into effect until after Trump and Vance leave office, however. MAGA Trogyldite Hawley voted with Democrats to pass the bill through committee by a vote of 8-7.
Bills in Congress like the ETHICS Act, for instance, proposed significantly higher penalties for violations, imposing a fine of a member's monthly salary or 10% of the asset's value, whichever is greater. This is far more substantial than the current $200 fine for many STOCK Act violations. https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1171.
This bill had 23 co-sponsors. This bill was introduced on July 24, 2024, in a previous session of Congress, but it did not receive a vote. Although this bill was not enacted, its provisions could have become law by being included in another bill. It is common for legislative text to be introduced concurrently in multiple bills (called companion bills), re-introduced in subsequent sessions of Congress in new bills, or added to larger bills (sometimes called omnibus bills).
Provisions.
Mandatory audits: To ensure compliance, proposals suggest implementing mandatory, periodic audits of financial disclosure reports by the supervising ethics office.
Disgorgement of profits: Under some proposals, any profit made from a prohibited transaction would have to be turned over to the U.S. Treasury.
Challenges to reform
Despite significant public support for banning congressional stock trading, legislative eff
From Google:
According to reports, 40 Republican members of the 117th Congress (which ended in January 2023) violated the STOCK Act, Business Insider reports. Some of these violations included delays in disclosing stock trades, with some members waiting months or even more than a year to file their reports. The standard penalty for a STOCK Act violation is a $200 fine.
However, the House Committee on Ethics has, in some cases, absolved members of penalties, finding that there was not "clear evidence" of "knowing or willful" violations. This was the case for Republican Representative Pat Fallon of Texas, who reportedly violated the STOCK Act multiple times and waited months to disclose up to $17 million in trades.
Furthermore, investigations by the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) have sometimes found "substantial reason to believe" that members of Congress violated ethics rules, including financial reporting requirements, but the House Ethics Committee has not always pursued these cases.
In December 2024, the House Ethics Committee closed investigations into four members, including two Republicans (Representatives Wesley Hunt of Texas and Ronny Jackson of Texas) for alleged campaign finance violations. The OCE had referred these cases to the committee, but the committee declined to disclose further details on their conclusions.
And the government bought a 10% stake in Intel, So much for the government owning the means of production. Do you think the anti communists in the right are embarrassed? Maybe among the never trumpers but not among the fire breathers in MAGA
Just partway through the article but I needed to make it very, very clear: No teacher, or at most very few, goes into teaching for the paycheck. Taking a quick look at the data, for careers that require a college education, out of the 6 lowest mid-career salaries, 5 of them go to teachers. The other one goes to social services. I'm pretty sure teachers spend more time working beyond contractual hours (aka, they don't get paid for developing lesson plans or grading paper) than any other profession. One in six have/need second jobs. Along with nursing, they have the highest burnout rate. Teachers definitely aren't in it for the money.
In our heads and hearts, we know all this to be true. Why are we not acting upon it appropriately ?
What we as progressives seem to lack in this moment can be summed up in one word "Courage": the courage to persist and endure, to live and to die, to hold out, fight, resist, persevere. Spinoza calls tenacity the "desire by which one strives, solely from the dictate of reason, to preserve his being". But courage resides in the desire, not in reason; in the striving, not in the dictate. To be courageous is to persevere in our being...and all courage is the courage of willing".
Andre Comt-Sponville in "A Small Treatise on the Great Virtues"
What happens when the politics of greed results in a diminished work force no longer able to fuel the avarice that animates the lives of those in power. Poverty, access to quality health, air quality, will end in a population that cannot work to create the materials of wealth, or thrive in a make-belief environment of built on slogans like "you can be anything you want to be" or everyone can "pull themselves up from their bootstraps". You too can earn this cherished and much-admired place in society, if only you keep your nose to the grindstone -- that you have been chained too.
And as birth rates decline -- not voluntarily, but because of impossible economics, health, and necessity, who will replace the workers who do the dirty work of the wealthy. We are disappearing the very immigrants the economy relies on, as many are declining to chase "the American dream". Who will be the chauffeurs? The cooks? The landscapers?
Republicans understand that no one will vote for someone who openly advocates for making himself rich at taxpayer expense. So of course they have to mirror Democrats in expressing concern for the less fortunate, then offer alternative solutions that just so happen to transfer public funds into corporate profits. Let's refurbish Reagan's quote: "Republicans are not the solution to our problems; Republicans are the problem."
Jeff, many actually do. In essence they offer the spoils sysyem. "Elect me and I may get you a job."
"I may get you some insider info."
Vote for me and the gold will trickle down on you! (As he zips up his pants...)
Money in politics is the root of much evil. The Democratic donor class prevents Dems from attacking the Republicans head-on, always preferring “pragmatism” to FDR-like idealism. Bill Clinton and Jim Clyburn, for example, recently endorsed corrupt, discredited Andrew Cuomo over Zohran Mamdani in the recent NYC mayoral primary because the latter sounds so much like a genuine, sincere Democrat, and few if any in Dem leadership have seen fit to endorse him since his massive victory in that race. Charlamagne the God refers to Hakeem Jeffries as “AIPAC Shakur” for obvious reasons. Democratic polling numbers are in the tank because the party’s leadership continue to whine that “those guys are bad but we’re in the minority” while simultaneously demonstrating through their actions or inactions that they don’t believe in much of anything. Despite Mamdani’s success, the crowds Bernie and AOC have attracted, the protesters in the streets, columns like this one, etc., etc., “leadership” continues to behave as if we should just wait it out. If we don’t overcome this risk aversion and go on the attack like Newsom, Pritzker, and a few others, fascism will win.
" The Democratic donor class prevents Dems from attacking the Republicans head-on..." is Republican psy ops.
IN REALITY Virtually all Dems in Congress supported all versions of attempts to stop members from trading, which I describe in detail elsewhere.
Charlamagne the God is a Black Republican and you credit him? Any Black person who supports MAGA is an idiot.
One Big Party
That's what Donald and JD are having at our expense. TRump meets his boyfriend in Alaska on our dime, JD runs off to discuss our future with Murdoch in Montana, and we foot the bill for travel and security. Truth is we need to be protected from them.
The polls show that the Psychopath is way down. He's being supported by a smaller base, yet he is STILL begging them for money to support him. The merch shop is up and running right out of the White House. WTF!
The Nazis didn't win. This slow rolling coup is as ridiculous as that squeaky tank at Orange Hitler's birthday parade. There is defiance at the agencies. The Cabinet keeps proving what a bunch of stupid suck-ups they are.
The GOP voters thought they were going to get an invitation to TRump's party, but they are just going to be snubbed and pay for it. Let's help them figure that out. You are invited to a party on Labor Day. See you in the streets.
The polls show Trump is UP on crime.
Keith Olbermann this morning TRUMP MIGHT AS WELL HAVE SHOT THOSE KIDS IN MINNEAPOLIS HIMSELF - 8.28.25 | Keith Olbermann. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpE883R4KF0
Imaginary crimes vs real crime. Wrong guns, wrong hands, wrong places.
The criminals are the politicians who enable guns.
"For decades, the GOP has perfected the art of sabotage, turning government into a racket where the suffering of millions is simply the cost of keeping billionaires happy…"-Thom
They do some excellent propaganda work concerning crime, and in the end it is costing us a fortune for the troops and concentration camps. To be continued.
Defenestration of the government, with the firings is the plan alis. Remember government is the problem, so get rid of government for a libertarian paradise
In a libertarian paradise there are only two roles for government, police and judiciial.
He is building up the first, and realigning the latter.
Hmmm. libertarianism is fascism. I've been on forums with avowed libertarians who thought that women who had abortions should be executed for murder.
Rugged individuals, no doubt. What a g-damn joke that is in this day and age.
You called it, William. Fascists, fascists everywhere and they come in all flavors.
My goodness, William, you keep bad company. I understand. I like to get a look at the other side of democracy’s enemy.
I keep no company Carol.
I don't need a look at the other side of democacy's enemy. I was on that side, in that movement for 50years, then had a "come to Jesus" movement.
Okay I believe what you say as I remember you mentioning your epiphany about the other side.
To be clearer I meant in reading what they are up to currently more people will understand their goals and we might have prevented where we are right now in our nation.
Thanks for always writing something worth reading.
Very kind, Jon. It's great to be "in therapy" with folks like you. We have to keep it together as best we can, and having my say helps. I have to add, it's a bit like Hartmann University too.
Therapy indeed. I'm fortunate there are at least a few who are gracious enough to take my seeming pessimism with a grain of salt.
I'll check out Hartmann University.
Once again, you’ve hit the mark - succinctly providing “ truth to power” with a clarity of simple truth. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
In America, money is power. The richer you are, the more power you wield. However, the more power you wield, the more arrogant it tends to make most people feel.
In society generally, many, if not most, men who have the biggest snazziest pick-up truck on the block likely feel superior to their neighbors. Maybe it is an RV, or speed boat, or motorcycle, or a sports car. The stuff you possess is, for most people, a sign of wealth and entitlement to influence others. "I'm better than you." or "Donald Trump is a billionaire, so he is entitled to rule America."
So often, I hear my super-rich friends and acquaintances boast that they are "self-made" men. They owe their success to working harder than everybody else, being more clever than most, etc. I have to laugh sometimes because the majority are nepos. They were entitled to their power by their family ties. Most got richer than daddy because, as Thom pointed out, the laws changed to enable them to harvest more cash from the bottom 99%. That arrogance, in their minds, justifies their feeling entitled to their power - entitled to tell others (losers?) how to live their lives.
Agree.
At the next level are the "light blues" who aspire to be super sich.
60 years ago when I was 12, I asked my mother what the difference was between Democrats and Republicans. Her answer was so ridiculously simple and still is evident today. She looked at me and said “ Democrats are interested in helping people, Republicans are only interested in money.” Her wonderful words still ring true today….RIP, Mom. I have no doubt that you’re rolling in your grave over what’s happening in the United States right now.
Glad you listened to your mom, Dudley. She is more likely to be "up there" cheering you on.
This will be a case of the snake swallowing its own tail. Eventually there will be nothing left to consume. We all, rich and poor, sink or swim together. Repubs don’t seem to realize that.
Hoping that some do. Privately some agree. They're intimidated. Got to repeat what I said yesterday.
See you in September in DC.
https://removalcoalition.org/
Congress returns. There are many issues we can use to convince a few Congressional Republicans. Brian Fitzpatrick is a case study.
Pressure them directly, their donors, families, social friends etc. Picket. Sit in.
Proportionally 4 x more crime in MAGA Mike's home town than in DC. Memphis is the most crimeridden city in the US. Jackson, Mississippi! Bessemer, AL!
Interview the National Guardsmen. Odds are more crime at home.
Labor Day 2025, Workers Over Billionaires https://maydaystrong.org/
In reference to Brian Fitzpatrick, the only "liberal" thing about him is he is cosponsoring a bill for unions.
His voting record is 100% misogynistic, anti abortion, pro life.
Why is he co sponsoring a pro union bill,because he represents a district with over 175,000 workers.
Where does he stand on other issues in the culture war.?
Only one isue. OUR SURVIVAL.
Actually he is trending biprtisan in his current co-sponsorhips. People like AOC are cosponsors. https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ocasio-cortez-fitzpatrick-mills-krishnamoorthi-launch-bipartisan-effort
Fitzpatrick is bipartisan on only one issue,and that is quite apparently calculated to woo his voters. Otherwise he is he very opposite of bipartisan, his voting record is that of a right wing culture warrior.
Just to be clear, the snake swallowing its own tail, Ouroborus, is the symbol of cyclic renewal.
More specifically destruction and then rebirth ad infinitum. So first destruction and it seems that we are well on our way.
At least for my metaphysics, a more sensible presentation of how the universe and all therein dance.
Give that snake a half twist and one has the Mõbiuis strip.
It is probably too obvious to say but it bears repeating over and over. MAGA “Christians” are not Christians. They are fake and they need to be called out over and over on non Christian values that they put forward. The epitome of this is in the picture at top combining Christmas with guns. What are these people thinking? And no Jesus would NOT own a gun or an automatic weapon if he were in physical firm today. MAGA don’t hide behind your values using Jesus as your shield. Jesus has compassion for you but you have not learned nor do you follow his values.
One needs a decoder ring when listening to Christians.
Family Values has nothing to do with family, except that the father is the tyrant of the home,and like Augustus Caesars law of Pater Familia, the goal in which the father had life and death control over wife and children, this is what they want, and with full dictatorship, this is what they will get.
Prolife, has nothing to do with pro life, and everything to do with male supremacy, and female submission.
Absolutely. What fake Christians claim to be Christian values are prevalent cultural values of the time. And over 2,000 years the predominant cultural value in most "Christian" countries for most of the time have centered around male supremacy. Had Jesus had 6 principle male and 6 principle female disciples maybe this would have created a different unfoldment of Christianity. I don't think Jesus was either expecting that his story or the interpretations of his story would affect the destiny of humanity for 2,000 years, or that not clearly stating the equality of women would be so important. He probably believed this was important but he did not emphasize it or anticipate the misogynism by men would last so long. He would be appalled by what people have done in his name. And are still doing. I am not a Christian but I studied Jesus and I know who he was, or at least as represented in the Bible.
In a game of telephone over 2000 years Christians now think that holding guns in front of a (pagan) Christmas tree shows their Christian values. Jesus: "But that is not what I said".
Christianity is an Abrahamic religion, as is Judaism and Islam.
Abrahamic religions are patriarchal and thus misogynistic.
The role of women in those religions is essentially that of Madonna or whore.
A mans mother is a saint to be worshiped and other women are whores and Jezebels to be monitored and controlled.
Culturally, and this is an observation, those cultures that coddle the male infant and child, produce very misogynistic men, at one fearful of mothers dissapproval, and simultaneously disrespectful and distrustful of women.
In particular Mediterranean and Levantine cultures from Spain on into Asia
But I've noticed it mostly among Italians, Islamic and Jewish people (The rabbi's morning prayer, thanks ha shem that I wasn't born a woman.)
The Scythians, Sarmatians had women warriors and revered ones at that, per archaeological digs of kurgans. Sarmatians, per Pliny, required of their women to fight in battle .kill a foe, to win the right to marry. Vikings, had warrior women (shield maidens) and warrior queens. Testified to by the swords and riches found in their graves.
AS Charlemagne spread the Church of Rome across Gaul and Germany, the status of women diminished.
Yes right. We have a tortured history. And yes “we” were already misogynists at the time of Jesus. It appears he revered women but a failure to make absolutely clear they are equal to men is a shortcoming in his beachings. He demonstrated in his actions by breaking traditional norms that men can talk to women and have them on par with men, but he did not specifically emphasise this from all that I have read. So there has been an ecumenical vacuum on this point. And there are no female cardinals in the Catholic Church and no women vote for the new pope.
I wish this could be read by everyone. It took years of me not paying attention, and then doing my own "research". That research eventually brought me to people that understand history and politics, such as Thom. Yet, I find it very easy to understand so much of this but so frustrated that so few people have any clue about this. But every time someone such as Bernie or AOC talk like this, they will be shouted down by the "Propaganda Machine".
At what rate would billionaires have to be taxed to equal the amount they willingly donate to politicians who legislate to help them avoid paying taxes?
It’s not about money. It’s about control and disdain for those the morbidly wealthy consider beneath them, not only in terms of wealth but of basic humanity!
Trump and his ilk, and all republicans in congress must be removed from power NOW! We won't survive three more years of this evil. This will take nothing less than a uprising of American citizens through protests, lawsuits, and ultimately, war. If that's what it takes then so be it.
Then, we need to impeach and convict the six fascists on the Supreme Court. Next, pass laws preventing all of the anit-American acts of this regime. After that, we can concentrate on prosecuting trump and his scum for the their treasonous acts, and rebuilding our government to be a true democracy.
Need to replicate Brian Fitzpatrick.
On September 3, the witnesses in Trumpepstein will be in DC. If Trump is identified as one of the beneficiaries of the Acosta deal of the century for Epstein, all bets are off.
https://jerryweiss.substack.com/
According to the internet, Trump's political vulnerability is high due to public perception, scrutiny, and potential base fracturing. Even if, his legal vulnerability remains limited unless new criminal charges or evidence directly linking him to Epstein's crimes.
Why this fascination with Fitzpatrick Daniel, his only "liberal" action is to cosponsor legislation for unions, his legislative actions have been to squash women's rights, anti abortion. He is not a liberal, and I doubt that he can be turned.
His pro union actions are pure politics,to woo the labor vote.
I can't believe you served in combat.
Only hope for survival. The vulnerable underside of the enemy.
Idon't care what you believe Daniel. You are acting like a surrender monkey.
What vulnerable underbelly of MAGA and Trump? His base of fearful ignorants are with him whatever he does, as are the billionaires, the tech bros. Even Jamie Dimon feels helpless against him, and he has intimidated investment bankers, private equity, well private equity are courting him as he hands out lucrative contracts.
So tell me where is this vulnerable underbelly
This is Khe Sanh Daniel, it is do or diem the enemy has surrounded us, and digging trenches to our perimeter, we need air power, napalm, 500 lb bombs.
To do any of that Jean, We need a majority of progressives, not DINO's, in the House, Senate and Executive.
First have to stop them.
And we need everyone. And we need to set aside differences while we try.
You're right that most Republican politicians only care about money. "Greed is their principle animating force, and is what binds them to their morbidly rich donors."
IMHO this should make them vulnerable politically and legally.
It's apparent that Trump is the extorter in chief, and has been raking it in. Esimates say he and his family have made $3.4 billion since innauguration. I'm unable to find how much Republican Congressional members have acquired collectively and individually, but they have to file financial statements and if they trade, monthly STOCK reports.
I wasn't able to obtain current stats but I do know several Republican House members who are recidivist violators of the Stock Act. In July 2025, the House Ethics Committee formally reprimanded Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) who re[resents my ol' district for violating the code of conduct related to his wife's 2020 stock trade. The investigation was based on concerns of insider trading, an appearance of impropriety, and a lack of cooperation with the committee. I don't think this stuff was ever fully reported in my ol' home town newspaper.
Findings from the Ethics Committee
Insider Trading: The investigation, which began in 2021, focused on Victoria Kelly's purchase of stock in the steel company Cleveland-Cliffs. The transaction took place one day after the congressman's office was informed of a federal decision that would benefit the company, but before the news was public. The committee ultimately concluded it could not confirm whether she used non-public information, partly due to a lack of cooperation from her and inconsistent responses from Representative Kelly.
Conflict of Interest: The committee found that Kelly advocated for policies to help Cleveland-Cliffs while his wife held a financial stake in the company. While it did not find a "clear violation" of conflict of interest laws, it noted his actions created a significant appearance of impropriety.
Additional Stock Purchases: The report also noted that Victoria Kelly made an additional purchase of Cleveland-Cliffs stock in 2024, despite the ongoing investigation. This occurred while her husband was again advocating for policies affecting the company.
Lack of Candor and Respect: The committee determined that Kelly violated the House's Code of Official Conduct due to a "lack of candor" during the inquiry and his dismissive attitude toward the process. He "has not demonstrated sufficient appreciation for the harm to the institution caused by the appearance of impropriety," the report stated.
Failure to Cooperate: Both Mike and Victoria Kelly were cited for failing to fully cooperate with the investigation. The committee decided against subpoenaing Victoria Kelly, citing her communication and health concerns.
Committee's action and Kelly's response
Reproval and Divestment: Instead of a formal sanction, the committee issued a reproval of Kelly's conduct via its report. It also recommended that the Kellys divest their Cleveland-Cliffs stock if the congressman intends to take further action on matters related to the company.
Kelly's Statement: In a statement, Kelly said his family was looking forward to putting the "distraction behind us". He noted the investigation had lasted for nearly five years and that his actions were focused on supporting the workers in his district.
https://thehill.com/homenews/house/5420787-ethics-panel-pennsylvania-republican-mike-kelly/
https://ethics.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/20250725-Committee-Report.pdf
Currently there are disputes that include interparty recognition of how and why some Republicans are so vulnerable. The currfent bill -- the HONEST Act, which stands for the Halting Ownership of Non-Ethical Securities and Trusts -- was recently modified so that the ban on insider trading includes the president and vice president. That provision wouldn't go into effect until after Trump and Vance leave office, however. MAGA Trogyldite Hawley voted with Democrats to pass the bill through committee by a vote of 8-7.
Bills in Congress like the ETHICS Act, for instance, proposed significantly higher penalties for violations, imposing a fine of a member's monthly salary or 10% of the asset's value, whichever is greater. This is far more substantial than the current $200 fine for many STOCK Act violations. https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1171.
This bill had 23 co-sponsors. This bill was introduced on July 24, 2024, in a previous session of Congress, but it did not receive a vote. Although this bill was not enacted, its provisions could have become law by being included in another bill. It is common for legislative text to be introduced concurrently in multiple bills (called companion bills), re-introduced in subsequent sessions of Congress in new bills, or added to larger bills (sometimes called omnibus bills).
Provisions.
Mandatory audits: To ensure compliance, proposals suggest implementing mandatory, periodic audits of financial disclosure reports by the supervising ethics office.
Disgorgement of profits: Under some proposals, any profit made from a prohibited transaction would have to be turned over to the U.S. Treasury.
Challenges to reform
Despite significant public support for banning congressional stock trading, legislative eff
From Google:
According to reports, 40 Republican members of the 117th Congress (which ended in January 2023) violated the STOCK Act, Business Insider reports. Some of these violations included delays in disclosing stock trades, with some members waiting months or even more than a year to file their reports. The standard penalty for a STOCK Act violation is a $200 fine.
However, the House Committee on Ethics has, in some cases, absolved members of penalties, finding that there was not "clear evidence" of "knowing or willful" violations. This was the case for Republican Representative Pat Fallon of Texas, who reportedly violated the STOCK Act multiple times and waited months to disclose up to $17 million in trades.
Furthermore, investigations by the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) have sometimes found "substantial reason to believe" that members of Congress violated ethics rules, including financial reporting requirements, but the House Ethics Committee has not always pursued these cases.
In December 2024, the House Ethics Committee closed investigations into four members, including two Republicans (Representatives Wesley Hunt of Texas and Ronny Jackson of Texas) for alleged campaign finance violations. The OCE had referred these cases to the committee, but the committee declined to disclose further details on their conclusions.
The day before the government awarded a contract to Peter Thiel's Palantir, MTG bought shares.
I'm sure she wasn't alone. We have the capacity to track trades via STOCK Act filiings. I tried to ask AI to track it....
I am in a discussion on a financial site about Intel....
Intel got $5.7 bil last night from CHIPS funds.
And the government bought a 10% stake in Intel, So much for the government owning the means of production. Do you think the anti communists in the right are embarrassed? Maybe among the never trumpers but not among the fire breathers in MAGA
Just partway through the article but I needed to make it very, very clear: No teacher, or at most very few, goes into teaching for the paycheck. Taking a quick look at the data, for careers that require a college education, out of the 6 lowest mid-career salaries, 5 of them go to teachers. The other one goes to social services. I'm pretty sure teachers spend more time working beyond contractual hours (aka, they don't get paid for developing lesson plans or grading paper) than any other profession. One in six have/need second jobs. Along with nursing, they have the highest burnout rate. Teachers definitely aren't in it for the money.
You are the conscience of America. I am so grateful for everything that comes out of your brain and heart.
In our heads and hearts, we know all this to be true. Why are we not acting upon it appropriately ?
What we as progressives seem to lack in this moment can be summed up in one word "Courage": the courage to persist and endure, to live and to die, to hold out, fight, resist, persevere. Spinoza calls tenacity the "desire by which one strives, solely from the dictate of reason, to preserve his being". But courage resides in the desire, not in reason; in the striving, not in the dictate. To be courageous is to persevere in our being...and all courage is the courage of willing".
Andre Comt-Sponville in "A Small Treatise on the Great Virtues"
What happens when the politics of greed results in a diminished work force no longer able to fuel the avarice that animates the lives of those in power. Poverty, access to quality health, air quality, will end in a population that cannot work to create the materials of wealth, or thrive in a make-belief environment of built on slogans like "you can be anything you want to be" or everyone can "pull themselves up from their bootstraps". You too can earn this cherished and much-admired place in society, if only you keep your nose to the grindstone -- that you have been chained too.
And as birth rates decline -- not voluntarily, but because of impossible economics, health, and necessity, who will replace the workers who do the dirty work of the wealthy. We are disappearing the very immigrants the economy relies on, as many are declining to chase "the American dream". Who will be the chauffeurs? The cooks? The landscapers?