Tag: politics

  • Could we lose our First Amendment Rights?

    There has been significant concern surrounding President-elect Donald Trump’s intentions to utilize the extensive authority of the Justice Department and the FBI to pursue retaliatory prosecutions against his political adversaries. This is a troubling notion, as criminal investigations can result in individuals being incarcerated, even if they are innocent.

    At the core of every democratic society lies a fundamental principle that serves as its foundation: the right to be informed. This principle is closely tied to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which guarantees freedoms related to religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition the government. 

    Democracy relies on an informed citizenry, and the First Amendment plays a crucial role in ensuring that citizens have the necessary information to actively participate in the political process.

    Democracy hinges on the belief that governance should reflect the desires of the people. However, for this reflection to be accurate, citizens must be well-informed. An informed electorate can make informed decisions, hold leaders accountable, and engage in meaningful civic discussions. Without access to information, citizens are susceptible to misinformation, propaganda, and manipulation, all of which can erode the foundations of democratic governance.

    The First Amendment guarantees the right to free speech and a free press, creating a framework for the flow of information within society. It empowers journalists to investigate, report, and share information, enabling citizens to stay informed about government actions, societal issues, and global events. The press acts as a watchdog, promoting transparency and accountability, both of which are essential for a healthy democracy.

    A free and independent press is often referred to as the Fourth Estate, serving as a critical check on governmental power. The Founding Fathers understood that without a vigilant press, the government could operate in secrecy, leading to corruption and tyranny. The ability of journalists to investigate and report on matters of public concern is not merely a privilege; it is a right that upholds the very essence of democracy.

    In recent years, there has been a rise in attacks on press freedom and attempts to undermine the credibility of journalists by Donald Trump. However, it is essential to recognize the vital role that a free press plays in upholding democracy and ensuring that citizens have access to the information they need to make informed decisions. 

  • Must Read from Keith Olbermann…MSNBC

    In light of the unprecedented challenges presented by the Trump presidency, MSNBC must adapt and evolve to meet the expectations of its audience and fulfill the responsibilities of a free press. 

    It is imperative for MSNBC confront the pressures of the Trump era, and reaffirm its dedication to serving the public interest. MSNBC has the potential to shape public discourse and uphold the pillars of a healthy democracy.

    As media outlets navigate the challenges of political reporting in today’s environment, the importance of responsible journalism and unwavering dedication to truth cannot be overstated. 

    MSNBC does not need to or should they bow down to Trump but stand up for Democracy.  Their readers except it, no demand it!!

    Keith Olbermann: How Can MSNBC Save Itself After Trump’s Win? First Step: Fire Mika and Joe

  • Trump’s Christmas Present to America

    Elon Musk, the man who seems to have more influence in government than some actual politicians, has managed to capture the attention of President Trump and the Republican party. Despite not holding an official government position, Musk has somehow convinced everyone that he can magically find $2 trillion in budget cuts without touching any of the sacred cows like Medicare, Social Security, or the military. It’s truly a mystery where he plans to find this money, but hey, who needs specifics when you have Elon Musk on your side, right?

    Well, isn’t Trump just a ray of sunshine? On Wednesday, he decided to throw a wrench in a perfectly good bipartisan budget deal, potentially leading to a government shutdown after midnight on Saturday. And then, as if that wasn’t enough, he proudly presented a deal with Republicans on Thursday that even Democratic lawmakers and President Joe Biden found utterly unacceptable. Surprise, surprise, it didn’t even come close to passing in the House. And let’s not forget about Trump’s brilliant idea to slap tariffs left and right, which the Congressional Budget Office warned would only end up hurting the economy instead of actually bringing in more revenue to cover his precious tax cuts. Oh, what a genius we have in the White House. Merry Christmas America.

    Trump Was Poised To Inherit A Strong Economy. Then Things Got Rocky And He Added To The Uncertainty

    Elon Musk’s role in taking down a bipartisan budget deal shows his ascendance as a political force

    Here’s what happens if the government shuts down right before the holidays

  • No to Vaccine, Crowd Really?

    The rapid development of effective COVID vaccines in less than a year during the pandemic was a groundbreaking achievement in the long history of vaccination. It seemed like we were finally entering an era where we could protect ourselves against infectious diseases.

    But hold on a second! Just when we thought we were making progress, President-elect Donald Trump decides to nominate an antivaccine activist, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as the top health official in the nation. What could possibly go wrong, right?

    Now, we have infectious disease and public health experts warning us that we might be heading towards deadly epidemics of measles, whooping cough, meningitis, and even polio. All thanks to Kennedy and former House member Dave Weldon potentially leading the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    These two geniuses, Kennedy and Weldon, have decided to endorse debunked theories linking vaccines to autism and other chronic diseases. Because who needs reputable scientific studies when you have these guys spreading misinformation, right? And let’s not forget Weldon’s star appearances in antivaccine films after leaving Congress. Bravo, gentlemen, bravo.

    The president-elect also appeared open to the groundbreaking polio vaccine being “looked at.”

  • His decisions will have a direct impact on your health – RFK JR.

    The individual nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services should possess the necessary management and professional experience to effectively oversee one of the largest health agencies in the world. Their decisions will have a direct impact on the health of every American.

    Unfortunately, the current nominee chosen by President-elect Trump lacks these essential qualities. In fact, 77 Nobel Prize Winners have publicly opposed the appointment of RFK Jr.

    It is imperative that politics be set aside in this matter, as the primary focus should be on selecting a leader who prioritizes the health and well-being of the American people to effectively lead this agency.

    77 Nobel Prize Winners Write Message To The Senate: Don’t Confirm RFK Jr.

  • Tulsi Gabbard -will she really for us – the (US) ?

    The controversial 2017 meeting between former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, as well as her previous statements regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have come under renewed scrutiny following President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of her to lead America’s intelligence agencies.

    If confirmed as the US Director of National Intelligence (DNI), Gabbard would be entrusted with safeguarding the nation’s most critical secrets, overseeing 18 US intelligence agencies, and serving as a key advisor to the President.

    Can we truly risk the security of America by entrusting it to someone with such a vague stance on their allegiance to our country? It is imperative that we have unwavering loyalty and commitment to America in order to protect and defend our nation. Let us not gamble with the safety and well-being of our citizens by allowing uncertainty to cloud our judgment. The stakes are too high to ignore the importance of absolute dedication to our country.

  • Pardons

    It is important to consider the implications of the incoming Trump administration’s statements regarding their intentions to target individuals in the media, the January 6 committee, and create an enemies list upon taking office.

    If we take them at their word, these pardons would protect individuals who have exercised their first amendment rights and acted in what they believed to be the best interest of America. These individuals may face scrutiny from the new administration, including a potentially biased FBI director, and be at risk of government overreach and prosecution.

    Therefore, pardons for individuals who have not been found guilty of any wrongdoing may be necessary to protect them from unjust persecution. Just as we immunize ourselves against the flu annually, these pardons would serve as a safeguard against the incoming administration’s potential efforts to unfairly target and prosecute individuals. It is crucial for Americans to be aware of these risks and take action to protect their rights.

    White House Discussing Preemptive Pardons Of Trump’s Enemies: Reports. See link to story.

    https://www.huffpost.com/entry/biden-pardon-trump-enemies_n_67524196e4b0036b951e2465

    Bill Clinton backs president’s pardon of Hunter Biden

  • Justice – Really? Trump

    A jury of New Yorkers declared Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts in a case centered around a $130,000 payment to the actress Stormy Daniels just days before the 2016 presidential election. This payment was orchestrated by Trump’s personal attorney at the time, Michael Cohen, who was later repaid in monthly installments over the course of about a year. Looks like Trump’s shady dealings have finally caught up with him!

    Oh, but of course, did you not realize there are two distinct versions of justice? One tailored for the wealthy elite, such as Trump, and another for the rest of us common folk.

    It appears that Lady Justice is not actually blind, but rather conveniently blinded by the allure of money and the influence of politics. How surprising.

    Trump’s Lawyers Formally Ask Hush Money Judge To Dismiss Case

  • Keith Olbermann is right!

    I had the pleasure of listening to Keth today, and let me tell you, he hit the nail on the head! It’s absolutely imperative that everyone tunes in to what he has to say.

    The constant bickering between Republicans and Democrats is just laughable. Seriously, when Trump decided to pardon his son-in-law’s father, did anyone really bat an eye? It’s all just a big joke.

    THE PARDON IS ABOUT THE TRUMP MOB’S THREATS

  • The Bigger picture – Biden Pardon

    Biden went out of his way to avoid interfering with this prosecution, even though it cost his family a pretty penny. He didn’t remove or alter the Trump-appointed prosecutor handling the case, even when that prosecutor’s investigation was upgraded to special counsel status last year. That was a questionable move in its-self and demanded by republicans!!

    Biden pointed out in his statement announcing the pardon, his son was unfairly targeted and prosecuted. The president rightly pointed out that people aren’t usually hauled into court on felony charges just for messing up a gun form, and those who pay their overdue taxes with interest and penalties due to serious addictions (like Hunter) typically get off with a slap on the wrist. But Hunter was treated differently to smear Biden and sabotage his election campaign, according to the president.

    He’s got a point – but don’t just take my word for it. Trey Gowdy, a former House member and federal prosecutor, said on Fox News that there probably weren’t even ten cases nationwide of addicts or drug users getting prosecuted for possessing firearms or lying on applications. Senator Lindsey Graham also chimed in, saying the average American wouldn’t have been charged for the gun incident. These charges are so minor they wouldn’t have made it to court if Hunter Biden wasn’t, well, Hunter Biden.

    To the republicans criticizing President Biden for this decision, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. A lot has changed since June when he said he wouldn’t pardon Hunter. Trump won the White House, not Biden or Kamala Harris, and the president-elect seems dead set on getting payback, with his nominations hinting at plans to weaponize the FBI and the Justice Department. He’s even talking about axing the current FBI director before his term ends and replacing him with Kash Patel, who’s vowed to “shake things up.” Oh, what a surprise!