And yes, when we regain the White House, there's lots to fix before moving in: removing the trash, the glitter, the gilt, the stench -- a major fumigation, wash-down, and sweep for bugs, the alteration of work at the East Wing in order to rebuild and restore it to normal functioning.
I am 74 years of age young! AND ..... In my lifetime, it has always been that, after every single republican president losing to a new democratic president, they have to come in and clean up the mess & debt created by the republicans. However, this time is different. Because the the mess & debt created by Trump and his regime may not be able to be corrected in a suitable amount of time to satisfy anyone. Trump has done that much damage !!!!!
I'll be glad when Trump and his henchmen are gone but, the work ahead to correct the country is enormous. I doubt I will live long enough to see it ............
Also 74 going on 75 this August and feel the same way. I have hope I will see some of it corrected but it will take at least a generation to get the bigger part done . maybe even 2-3 generations
And what few have pointed out, maybe Paul Krugman and a few other Substack writers, is GWB and especially Drumpf have so increased the national debt that any FDR type New Deal or LBJ Great Society program after the flood is stopped to fix the GOP mess is fiscally nearly impossible.
Thank you Gregg. Maybe from rolling back the GWB and Drumpf 1 and 2 tax cuts for the wealthy. Greatly raising or eliminating the Social Security withholding income cap. Some type of wealth tax on the ultra wealthy. Increasing the extraction royalties on natural resources grown or mined on federal lands, some of which date from the late nineteenth century. And a realization that taxes are for raising revenue to pay for the goals decided upon by the fairly elected representatives in a republic form of a just democracy and not as a product of back-room deal making economic policy favoritism. If MAGAts want to live in the Ozzie and Harriet 1950’s world, bring back the up to ninety percent tax brackets.
Righto -- there's no shortage of money. Just collect the fair shares. I like to say tax wealth, not work, but I think there should be nominal taxes for the lowest earners, so they can fairly claim they are honest tax-payers, too. Of course, they pay on products -- and we should look into that, too (none on food).
I am 72 years old and do not expect to see a GREAT AMERICA again. With this election we can make a start. We are learning to fight back against this hate and there are lots of us. Where do we start? Racism? Women's rights? Food and Healthcare? Bail out social security? A REAL Post office? Human rights? Immigration? The list goes on and on.
As simplistic as this may sound, many issues are linked to massive economic inequality, which distorts political agency to its currently absurd standing. Job One is this to democratize the economy -- a suite of actions we've taken before and need to make permanent, completing the Revolution of 1776. Next, recognize the slippery slope from the personal agency of citizenship, a matter of actually doing the work, to the lazy convenience of treating everything as a consumer good we passively purchase, a button we push, choosing among other people's preferences.
We'll also need an outstanding attorney General to clean up the DOJ. I nominate Jack Smith. Esq. There have to be Nuremberg sized prosecutions. If Merrick Garland had done his job, trump wouldn't be president today.
“I know that my writing too often only serves to confirm what my enlightened readers already think. While I’d like a wider audience, I believe I perform a necessary function, because sometimes just knowing you aren’t alone with your worry can provide the strength to carry on with saving yourself first, and America second.”
Yes - a very necessary function. I suspect many others NEED to know that we’re not alone. And you are wonderfully giving us a little strength to save ourselves and our country. There are too many days when I wonder if that’s even possible, but your writing keeps my hope alive - many thanks.
And the US tax payer gets to pay for it and the increased national debt. When the bill comes due, the Democrats will be in Congress and count on the Republicans giving them all the blame.
First, virtually all of Trump's sycophants and near sycophants will support him. In a month you'll hear about how well Trump did with the war. And, second, Trump's function is to dismantle America. That's his job, (that of) the rest of Project 2025 and the uber-wealthy. Trump is not trying to do something that improves the US; only his own portfolio. He certainly doesn't like when he isn't universally admired but that doesn't mean he's not making progress on the techno-feudal society he's implementing.
Another excellent article and hopefully one that some sane Republicans read it and have the courage to do the right thing. Now, please pardon my rant but, here it goes.
The Democrats also have to expand SCOTUS, rebuild the East Wing, Rose Garden and fix the WH lawn to be paid for by the man who did the damage ot the taxpayers. Garnished his assets and sell them off if necessary.
They also need to bring war crime charges against Hegseth and dereliction of duty against Patel, Ludnick(sp?) and the rest of the regime appointees along with the military brass that followed illegal orders and of course ICE members, many of who are Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. I want every one of the thugs tried, onvi ted and imprisoned including tRump.
I also am disappointed Macron didn't had that pile of trash over to the Hague when he had the chance.
Wow...Bret Stephens took the side against the GOP...is hell freezing over? That is how bad Trump effed up the Iran "Special (forget about Epstein) Operation". I hope all the rat bastards running for the Senate in the GOP get their asses handed to them this November...looking at you South Carolina...Lindsay Graham needs to go!!
This is a fantastic piece, Earl. Possibly my all-time favorite, after following your superb Substack column for nearly a year. You really nailed it. Your writing always shines, but this one topped them all. Keep on keepin' on!
P.S. Possible error:
" . . . as we so painfully discovered in 2021, when an entire party welcomed the American-attacking monster back in, . . . "
(Shouldn't that be 2025? In 2021, we welcomed Biden in, right?)
I just watched the Obama Presidential Library opening on C-Span. And I do have hope. Now we need to get to work electing progressive young Democrats to turn the tide.
First I have to say that what you have to say and explain by sharing your wisdom and insight, are very much needed by all of us who make a point of seeking out your posts. Doesn't matter if your pieces are not reaching those who need to be educated, although that would be great and badly needed! You always express for us what we may not quite be capable of doing ourselves in a way we can relate to and understand. Each piece you post is followed by comments expressing that as well as appreciation. Everything you write is "your best work yet", because all your pieces are right on target - every time! This piece does not disappoint. Thank you for giving us a reason to remain hopeful and in the fight for our democracy - and for what you do so well!
Of all days to bear down on Trump’s desecration of America, it is appropriate to recall the job former President Obama performed to correct course on our economy, right the ship and proceed forward with a profound sense of, “HOPE.” Michelle Obama laid out her husband’s accomplishments and brought back a time we severely needed a steady hand at the helm.
Now is a time that will never be considered, “The good old days.” But we know of 8 years that could be…
As a Chicagoan, it's good to see the Obama Presidential Center completed. The entertainers included Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder and others. I know trump is gnashing his teeth!
Watching the ceremony of the opening of the Obama Library on Youtube. Goosebumps and some tears - remember when we could sleep at night?
Yes! I could also sleep at night during Biden's first 3 years in office.
So right! Thank you!
And yes, when we regain the White House, there's lots to fix before moving in: removing the trash, the glitter, the gilt, the stench -- a major fumigation, wash-down, and sweep for bugs, the alteration of work at the East Wing in order to rebuild and restore it to normal functioning.
All that, Charley.
And never, ever trust the GOP again.
Never have, never will. Most hypocritical, lying, untrustworthy, and untruthful bunch on the planet.
Truth
I am 74 years of age young! AND ..... In my lifetime, it has always been that, after every single republican president losing to a new democratic president, they have to come in and clean up the mess & debt created by the republicans. However, this time is different. Because the the mess & debt created by Trump and his regime may not be able to be corrected in a suitable amount of time to satisfy anyone. Trump has done that much damage !!!!!
I'll be glad when Trump and his henchmen are gone but, the work ahead to correct the country is enormous. I doubt I will live long enough to see it ............
Also 74 going on 75 this August and feel the same way. I have hope I will see some of it corrected but it will take at least a generation to get the bigger part done . maybe even 2-3 generations
And what few have pointed out, maybe Paul Krugman and a few other Substack writers, is GWB and especially Drumpf have so increased the national debt that any FDR type New Deal or LBJ Great Society program after the flood is stopped to fix the GOP mess is fiscally nearly impossible.
I won’t accept that it’s nearly impossible to fix this mess. It’s definitely daunting. Where’s the money going to go?
US Blues .... I think the question you should be asking is: Where's the money going to come from?
Thank you Gregg. Maybe from rolling back the GWB and Drumpf 1 and 2 tax cuts for the wealthy. Greatly raising or eliminating the Social Security withholding income cap. Some type of wealth tax on the ultra wealthy. Increasing the extraction royalties on natural resources grown or mined on federal lands, some of which date from the late nineteenth century. And a realization that taxes are for raising revenue to pay for the goals decided upon by the fairly elected representatives in a republic form of a just democracy and not as a product of back-room deal making economic policy favoritism. If MAGAts want to live in the Ozzie and Harriet 1950’s world, bring back the up to ninety percent tax brackets.
Righto -- there's no shortage of money. Just collect the fair shares. I like to say tax wealth, not work, but I think there should be nominal taxes for the lowest earners, so they can fairly claim they are honest tax-payers, too. Of course, they pay on products -- and we should look into that, too (none on food).
I am 72 years old and do not expect to see a GREAT AMERICA again. With this election we can make a start. We are learning to fight back against this hate and there are lots of us. Where do we start? Racism? Women's rights? Food and Healthcare? Bail out social security? A REAL Post office? Human rights? Immigration? The list goes on and on.
As simplistic as this may sound, many issues are linked to massive economic inequality, which distorts political agency to its currently absurd standing. Job One is this to democratize the economy -- a suite of actions we've taken before and need to make permanent, completing the Revolution of 1776. Next, recognize the slippery slope from the personal agency of citizenship, a matter of actually doing the work, to the lazy convenience of treating everything as a consumer good we passively purchase, a button we push, choosing among other people's preferences.
Don’t forget heavy sage use everywhere to remove all the negative energy. Smudge pots to the fore!
Thanks for the reminder -- bring back harmony with the earth...
Bring back KINDNESS and EMPATHY.
We'll also need an outstanding attorney General to clean up the DOJ. I nominate Jack Smith. Esq. There have to be Nuremberg sized prosecutions. If Merrick Garland had done his job, trump wouldn't be president today.
Love you writing!
Garland ...
<sigh>
One of your best pieces ever.
Thanks you, Ann. Appreciate that.
“I know that my writing too often only serves to confirm what my enlightened readers already think. While I’d like a wider audience, I believe I perform a necessary function, because sometimes just knowing you aren’t alone with your worry can provide the strength to carry on with saving yourself first, and America second.”
Yes - a very necessary function. I suspect many others NEED to know that we’re not alone. And you are wonderfully giving us a little strength to save ourselves and our country. There are too many days when I wonder if that’s even possible, but your writing keeps my hope alive - many thanks.
Well, thanks for your readership, Judy.
To those who opposed Biden’s Infrastructure Act…
Trump just signed a Huge Infrastructure Deal…
For Iran…
And the US tax payer gets to pay for it and the increased national debt. When the bill comes due, the Democrats will be in Congress and count on the Republicans giving them all the blame.
First, virtually all of Trump's sycophants and near sycophants will support him. In a month you'll hear about how well Trump did with the war. And, second, Trump's function is to dismantle America. That's his job, (that of) the rest of Project 2025 and the uber-wealthy. Trump is not trying to do something that improves the US; only his own portfolio. He certainly doesn't like when he isn't universally admired but that doesn't mean he's not making progress on the techno-feudal society he's implementing.
All true, man, but he is a thin-skinned coward, and it kills him when people hate him.
You bring it home, Stevens. Keep us awake, D. Earl! I watch for you at 10ish am Central! Every day.
Thank you!
Another excellent article and hopefully one that some sane Republicans read it and have the courage to do the right thing. Now, please pardon my rant but, here it goes.
The Democrats also have to expand SCOTUS, rebuild the East Wing, Rose Garden and fix the WH lawn to be paid for by the man who did the damage ot the taxpayers. Garnished his assets and sell them off if necessary.
They also need to bring war crime charges against Hegseth and dereliction of duty against Patel, Ludnick(sp?) and the rest of the regime appointees along with the military brass that followed illegal orders and of course ICE members, many of who are Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. I want every one of the thugs tried, onvi ted and imprisoned including tRump.
I also am disappointed Macron didn't had that pile of trash over to the Hague when he had the chance.
Rant away, Diane!
Wow...Bret Stephens took the side against the GOP...is hell freezing over? That is how bad Trump effed up the Iran "Special (forget about Epstein) Operation". I hope all the rat bastards running for the Senate in the GOP get their asses handed to them this November...looking at you South Carolina...Lindsay Graham needs to go!!
Yeah, he's got to be close to the top of the list, Sharon. What a slimy, gutless weasel he is.
I prefer earthworm to describe Ms Lindsay.
This is a fantastic piece, Earl. Possibly my all-time favorite, after following your superb Substack column for nearly a year. You really nailed it. Your writing always shines, but this one topped them all. Keep on keepin' on!
P.S. Possible error:
" . . . as we so painfully discovered in 2021, when an entire party welcomed the American-attacking monster back in, . . . "
(Shouldn't that be 2025? In 2021, we welcomed Biden in, right?)
Understand the confusion, but he should have been gone after 2020 ... and jailed in 2021, not welcomed back by his revolting party.
I just watched the Obama Presidential Library opening on C-Span. And I do have hope. Now we need to get to work electing progressive young Democrats to turn the tide.
New blood for sure, Sharon.
It is officially overdue.
First I have to say that what you have to say and explain by sharing your wisdom and insight, are very much needed by all of us who make a point of seeking out your posts. Doesn't matter if your pieces are not reaching those who need to be educated, although that would be great and badly needed! You always express for us what we may not quite be capable of doing ourselves in a way we can relate to and understand. Each piece you post is followed by comments expressing that as well as appreciation. Everything you write is "your best work yet", because all your pieces are right on target - every time! This piece does not disappoint. Thank you for giving us a reason to remain hopeful and in the fight for our democracy - and for what you do so well!
Well, thanks as always for your kind words, and support, Susan. They mean a lot.
Wow, awesome writing. Thank you. America, let’s remove this wretched being from “our house”.
Of all days to bear down on Trump’s desecration of America, it is appropriate to recall the job former President Obama performed to correct course on our economy, right the ship and proceed forward with a profound sense of, “HOPE.” Michelle Obama laid out her husband’s accomplishments and brought back a time we severely needed a steady hand at the helm.
Now is a time that will never be considered, “The good old days.” But we know of 8 years that could be…
As a Chicagoan, it's good to see the Obama Presidential Center completed. The entertainers included Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder and others. I know trump is gnashing his teeth!