I am giving until it hurts! Two months ago I received a terminal cancer diagnosis, and I do NOT intend for my last election to turn us all over to an autocratic Christian Nationalist oligarchy without doing everything I can to prevent it. This has brought me hope and more energy than I've felt in weeks. Go KHive!
Thank you so much! I feel very much bolstered by the righteousness of this cause. I would be more than happy if G*d would be with Harris, although I suspect the Divine doesn't ration blessing.
Deborah Martin Shorter: Whew -- am I ever sorry for the diagnosis! I hope you have loved and dear ones close to you to show how much you are loved and how much you are treasured for your goodness and strength.
Thank you for sharing. I want loved ones to be at your side and listen to you and share with you.
You earn love and respect.
Your note moves me very deeply, and there are those of us out here that care!
Thank you so much for your kind words. I feel part of a community - including but certainly not limited to those of us here - and that has given more hope and resolve than anything else could. Hold the lantern high!
I am sending incredible karma your way, Deb, and hope beyond hope that you beat this terrible disease. Thank you for your strength. I hope it causes you to beat the odds.
I feel utterly blessed to be able to do what I can to further this cause. I know you're talking about the cancer - it's a rare and aggressive type and it was very clear to me (I'm a hospice nurse) what the diagnosis meant - but it only furthers my determination to know that my time is short. And that's okay. And is probably the most strengthening thing of all!
What grace. The thought of you makes me smile, and even though you are at the end of your journey, you are still making your life count. As a nurse, too, I will take your lesson of strength with me in my journey for as long as it lasts.
Joyce: "Vote.org announced a nearly 700% increase in daily voter registrations in the 48 hours following President Biden’s announcement on Sunday that he would step down. That’s more than 38,500 newly registered voters, and younger voters, those between 18 and 34, make up 83% of them."
Yesterday, volunteers used up 200,000 FT 6 texts into Florida in about an hour. I sent 2800 myself.
Deborah, I LOVE your enthusiasm -- and I would not be at all surprised if you are with us for longer than your diagnosis would suggest! I myself, a two-time survivor of cancer, have stated that I don't want the last president of my life to be the one intent on killing the American dream. You go, Girl!
Lois, thanks so much for your encouraging words. With the response that we're seeing to Kamala's candidacy, I am increasingly hopeful that we may do a lot more than just "squeak by" - a blue tsunami? I was heartbroken for President Biden, even as that same heart swelled with pride that we elected that superb American to lead us through the darkness. I still ache for his sacrifice. And I'm resolved to make it meaningful in any way I can. As are we all.
Thanks, Derek! Actually, I was going to say "... when Biden passes the torch to Kamala Harris." But then, I thought it would sound too tacky, given that the Olympics start in a few days. While I doubt I'll be watching very much of the games, I do hope that the US wins everything in a huge landslide.
Here we go with another pun, Derek: " ...a huge landslide, just like the Democrats will be doing in November." Can't stop myself.
We just donated again to Ira's project. www.turnup.us is a powerfully effective way for young people to get involved - get registered and get others to do so as well.
It uses an app that he developed (as a college kid!) - I keep it on my phone to show people how cool it is.
Thank you but give all the credit to Zev Shapiro and a brilliant group of Harvard students concentrating their registration and turnout efforts only in less than 25 “truly competitive” congressional districts and competitive Senate states! Very efficient and brilliant! All registration based on protecting abortion and IVF nationwide, plus controlling assault weapons and effectively fighting climate change just after the hottest day in HISTORY!
And probably beyond, though perhaps without media attention. He will be an Elder Statesman, in every meaning of that phrase, and part of the Presidential Alumni Association with Bill, George W., and Barack. Good men, all.
It broke my heart when Rosalyn passed away. They made such a beautiful couple, spreading kindness wherever they went. They were inseparable from the day they met years ago, then onto the start of his Presidential campaign, living at the White House but not in an ostentatious manner, Jimmy's calming manner, and most of all, their dedication to those less fortunate, by making Habitat for Humanity a reality that to this day still exists. It was not beneath this beautiful team to get out there with the volunteers, working as hard as they could. [Off topic, but can ANYONE on this Substack imagine Trump and Wife No. 4 putting on hardhats, having dirty hands, and getting out there doing things for others, without cameras around, and free of charge? I can't, either!]
Please excuse typos or grammatical errors. Been a weird day, but it's almost over. Thanks!
I agree. The Carters' marriage was -- and still is -- an inspiration to all of us. And their inclination to always put their convictions to use in practical action is as much an inspiration as their love for each other. Their love expanded to all, especially those in great need. I detected not typos nor grammatical errors. Well written, Dianne!
I cannot imagine ANY of these men going online, criticizing a sitting president, vice president, or any Democrat for that matter, or holding rallies for the purpose of bashing opponents, just to stir things up.
And don't get me started about 1/6, and all the hatred and violence that ensued.
Why are some, excuse me, a lot of Republicans like myself voting for Harris? It's because they know who Donald John Trump is. They know how he screwed contractors out of their rightful payments and Trump never gave it a second thought.
Trump signed contracts he never meant to honor, Trump never paid certain vendors he contracted with wiping family businesses off the map. Then he was convicted of fraud on top of that. Trump has NO honor, he speaks but you cannot know if it is the truth or not. He seems to lie all the time, he has no honor! People are enamored because they believe the statements he makes. I will make this statement,
if Donald John Trump is elected, America and its Constitution will never see 250 years; it will cease to exist! Remember, the Constitution is America!
President Joseph R. Biden has never stopped giving. Tonight was his extraordinary gift to us
and to American Democracy. He was humbly from Scranton and deeply honored to serve as the president of this country that he loves. Joe Biden is a model for us. He spoke from his heart, from his experience and with determination, which he passed on to Kamala Harris and every single one of us.
This is exactly how I feel. Joe Biden gave this whole country a gift. I was all in on Biden, and was sad he dropped out, but when I woke up on Monday morning and read about the excitement, it made my old heart beat so fast and so proud! I am grateful, so grateful that we get to live in this time. 💗 There are so many Democrats that are heroes right now. I’m looking at you, Nancy P! Overcome with gratitude.
George Clooney and so many other rich friends matching 700% for the 5.00 local donations from the 7.95 an hour gang called the Republic makes for big MONEY donations alright. Voting for Biden. Shalom.
As we heard him say tonight, in America a person has opportunities to accomplish his/her desires. Well, that speech was his having to sacrifice his own desire. For him, what America stands wasn't afforded to him. It is too clear that the idea we all have opportunities only pertains if you aren't too old based on someone else's opinion. No one has that right to decide another's destiny. I am saddened for him. Ageism must cease and age must be afforded the same respect as other federally protected groups.
Thank you, Kay. As an older person (not quite as old as Joe Biden), I have been amazed at his stamina - something I no longer have. I still believe he has what it takes to do four more years, and am still upset that all this happened as the result of a poor "debate" performance. At the same time, I'm very happy to see the democratic party finally come together and move forward.
I am in the "older" range, too. I, also love President Biden and all he has done for this country. However, as I listen to the enthusiasm of my grandchildren and those where VP Harris speaks, I am energized! It is a time for passing the torch to a new generation, as he said. They need a "seat at the table" of power. They are the ones who will be living in the future and are the future. While I do think there is age bias, I also know that age does change a person. I'm actually thankful that now President Biden can concentrate on running our country rather than campaigning (which I think goes on way too long!) VP Harris has had some WONDERFUL lines, lately: "Republicans want to ban books. Democrats want to ban assault weapons." "We will not go back." "Bring it on!" - and many more. Buckle up, everyone! This is a whole new election cycle! Bless you, Joe Biden!
I agree with you, Ruth. It's difficult to not recognize the new energy, and deep down, no matter how much I like Biden, at this point it's difficult to not see how the original matchup did not invigorate people. I, too, bless Joe Biden.
I agree that we would be so fortunate to have him lead us for four more years! There is No question of his ability. However, because age has never been focused on regarding rights etc, ignorance and the discrimination that goes with it remains and seems to be rampant. After the debate, media grabbed it, and age became a detrimental quality from then on 24/7! Heard over and over, it becomes truth & impossible to overcome which led to an American being denied his dream!
I remember that when Hillary ran, my Middle School held a mock election. 90% of the students voted for her. Our students were ages 12-15. Middle School is a good place to start to cultivate "habitual voters".
I agree! I was in middle school when JFK was running. My mom was a Dem activist. I proudly wore a large button to school that said "If I were 21, I'd vote for JFK!" I still have her state Dem convention JFK rally hat. My parents took their 3 kids to the polls every election from the time we were very little. I still love casting my ballot. Democracy is at risk. I'd be pumped to find out, after Nov 5th, that we won because our younger generations came out and took a stand at the ballot box.
And in the three-room school where I spent graces 1-4, our teacher showed us the inside of the voting booth and explained how the curtain would close if we pulled the lever, and make it completely private so we could vote for whomever we pleased. That impressed me as a six-year-old. And then, when I questioned my mother why she would allow Daddy to tell her who to vote for, Mom's answer was "I go into the voting booth on my own, and he never knows who I have voted for." My first lesson in a wife's freedom to be her own person. Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Mrs. Gill.
I’m finally feeling better about the November election. Obama mobilized young people too and won. The Democratic Party is uniting and there are more of us than there are of them! Kamala is full steam ahead.
Because he’s trying to make it not look like an anointment, which is exactly what Trump did at the RNC convention.
And now, the Republicans are again projecting, claiming Kamala Harris is being anointed!
Kamala Harris has not had an anointment, she’s had a massive outpouring of widespread support by people from all walks of life looking to save our Democracy.
Obama was The Ditherer in Chief. He could have been a better president. Thankfully he had the best VP in Joe Biden. That’s one of the reasons he won. Very disappointed with the Obamas.
IMO, Obama had a tough row to hoe. He had to deal with a lot of bigotry and be careful about what he did, if he wanted to get anything done. We've seen how the republicans have tried over and over to undo everything Obama did, especially the ACA. and trump was part of the backlash to having our first Black president. I am hoping that we are past that kind of reaction now, and that we can be comfortable with having a Black/Asian female president.
I am going out on a limb on this. Barak Obama is being smart here by staying out of the limelight right now. All the attention is where it should be...the future of democracy.....Kamala taking the torch from Joe.......
There was this poll calling for Michelle to run as she is very popular. That was not going to happen.
Someone posted that Barak will endorse at the convention....that would be good to have Michelle up there as well............Kamala Harris deserves to have 100% backing from the Democratic Party.
Obama and Pelosi have been orchestrating this from the beginning. Obama's fingers are in Clooney's OpEd pieces. And the drip-drip of leaks was classic Pelosi.
But you saw BLM are already complaining about Harris being handpicked by elites? And they are not the only ones. So there is a lot of logic to Obama holding off publicly in order to help create the message that it was us common folk who drove Joe out of office, not back-room stabbing.
And anyway, no rush. You gotta save something for the DNC.
p.s. Btw. Can you imagine how miserable we would be today if Obama and Pelosi had done nothing:: no hope. no coconuts..... I am so grateful to them..
Honestly, I know Kamala is the right move but I am still weeping over Joe. I can feel his sadness despite the move to pass the torch. Remember when elections weren't life and death but this one certainly is. :(
Well, perhaps memories are short but we watched the life drain out of Bobby Kennedy on TV, lying on the floor of a hotel kitchen.
I don’t want to see any more of the good guys dying along with my dreams. It is outrageous to read that Governor Whitmer experiences more threats every time Trump mentions her name. The man (Trump) is the most ghoulish and criminal mind to ever have been president not to mention once again a candidate.
As Joe stated, history is now in our hands. Let’s make it a good moment in history.
Bobby's death hit me hard. I met Bobby on the steps of the Capitol in '66. He stopped to say hello, tousled my hair, and with a smile, continued on his way. I walked on air for two years. Then Bobby was shot. I was crushed. 1968 was a tough year.
here's link to his speech the day MLK died, 4 Apr 68.
I still watch videos of Bobby Kennedys train ride back to Washington. The people who lined up along the tracks with flags and saluting. True patriots showing respect for a man that would have helped to prevent an Orange cancer of hatred from infecting and threatening the future of a nation.
I was timing labor pains while RFK lay dying on that kitchen floor. My son was born a few hours after Bobby died. It was such a bittersweet day. The date, June 6, is also the anniversary of D-Day. For me it was even more consequential.
I’ll miss Joe, he has led us through a once in a lifetime pandemic, one of the worst economic crises, and of course the fallout from the insurrection. His grace and dignity were on full display in his speech. We owe him a monumental debt of gratitude.
Do not take your focus off of Bobby Kennedy's son either. We all know that he and tRump are scheming to unite against democracy and science. An even bigger blue wave needed to overcome their alliance. What will Stein and West do in their political quests? That piece still feels a bit 2016 to me, and certainly Stein knows the damage she can and did cause then.
Katherine, I'm right there with you. Not only was I sad that Joe wouldn't be President again, but I was so angry that the Democratic leadership did this to him. I was terrified that people wouldn't accept Kamala. Boy, was I wrong. I think Joe is sad, but I get the feeling that he is also tired. I think Joe Biden was the greatest President in my lifetime... I'm hoping that Kamala will carry on his good work.
Well. I'm sure the poll results helpfully provided by Pelosi and company helped him clarify his decision too.
If Joe had believed he had a chance of a path to winning then his love of country would have led him to the conclusion to fight on. It's a testament to his honor and dignity that instead he faced reality and stepped up and did the right thing. Not a lot of politicians would have done that.
Absolutely, ZsusEB! If we have supported President Biden, then we need to honor his judgement and support Vice President Harris. I've already signed up with Activate America and Vote Forward. Let's not forget to support the down-ballot candidates, also. As someone earlier in the thread mentioned, Obama had trouble because Congress fought him whenever they could.
I’m all in. Way to go. A sweep awaits and a massive blue wave with super majorities so we can get things done including 4 added Supreme Court justices.
Trump's hateful comment about Biden's selfless speech crowning more than 50 years as a dedicated public servant fully reflects the extent of Trump's own malignant, irredeemable, vicious, soulless rotten core. Biden's humility and patriotism are qualities Trump (pathetic excuse for a human being that he is) completely lacks the capacity to understand or appreciate.
The gradual rightwing successes that resulted in Trump's personality cult and Project 2025 actually started in the early '70s. I heartily recommend Kurt Andersen's "Evil Geniuses; The Unmaking of America" for a well researched explanation of how they pulled it off.
The power is now in our hands. President Biden reminds us what integrity is, what America is, what it means to be able to trust a leader. We have an intelligent person to vote for, it will take time to see if she can match President Biden's heart. Now let's elect her and send the litter off to the trash where he and his supporters belong.
I don't know that anyone can match Biden's heart, but if anyone can come close, Kamala will. She knows what it's like to be the victim of bigotry, and I'm sure she doesn't want anything like that for anyone else.
I watched President Biden’s speech with a mixture of sadness and pride ,that he has been a part of our government for so long! His compassionate, steadying hand has steered us through so many uncertain times. I especially teared up learning that his family was near his side as he spoke. I will not start comparing others now. This was Joseph Biden’s night Thank you for your service, Sir!!
As long as Vance is on his knees taking care of the "tiny muchroom sized...." and keeping his lips super glued to the Orange ass..........his going nowhere fast...
Many people who read Joyce’s posts regularly are older, have cared about politics for most of their lives, and have long been concerned about what could happen in this election. Many more people do not have the time or interest to stay so involved. However, over that last eight years the less involved people have become even less involved. Their experience is that politics has become a mess, that Trump and the Republicans are running things into the ground and no one has enough power to stop them. The looks and sounds of Joe Biden made them feel as if getting involved was a waste of time.
During this long, drawn-out campaign Trump has looked and sounded even meaner and crazier than he ever has. He’s been convicted of crimes, and yet he rolls on.
Suddenly, the old and weak looking Biden is out, and just as suddenly he is replaced with a dynamic, upbeat, quick witted, charismatic woman to whom people never paid much attention.
In two days people went from apathy, to confusion and doubt, to WOW, we can do this! This woman is who we have been wanting for the last seven years!
People, especially young people, now feel that they can begin to take over shaping the world so it will make their lives better. The power that comes with getting involved can be one of the greatest feelings in the world. That’s what democracy is for. Let’s sweep away those old crumbling, negative men, and build a future.
If the trend continues; if people bring a friend who brings a friend, then the cavalry will have arrived on time. This time it is the fat, old, cranky, white men who will be on the losing end.
Yes. I spoke with a young woman a few weeks ago. She wasn’t going to vote. She said she didn’t like the choices:”a deranged criminal vs someone who lost their marbles.”
I encouraged her to sign up for an absentee ballot in the meantime. I reminded her our democracy and women’s reproductive rights are on the ballot.
After it was announced that Kamala Harris was running for President, I saw this young woman who cheerfully said she had signed the paperwork for an absentee ballot! She was VERY happy Kamala was running.
So talk about it. Encourage people to sign up for an absentee ballot. And make sure they vote ALL democratic. We need to win the House, the Senate as well as the presidency.
I am giving until it hurts! Two months ago I received a terminal cancer diagnosis, and I do NOT intend for my last election to turn us all over to an autocratic Christian Nationalist oligarchy without doing everything I can to prevent it. This has brought me hope and more energy than I've felt in weeks. Go KHive!
You are an amazing, strong lady. (Of course, being a woman gives you the super power!)
Thank you, a great example of transgenerational altruism ❤️
Bless you for what you are doing and may the hope and energy continue for you on the road ahead.
You spur us on with your determination and positive spirit. Thank you, Deborah Martin Shorter.
May God be with you in your fight!
Thank you so much! I feel very much bolstered by the righteousness of this cause. I would be more than happy if G*d would be with Harris, although I suspect the Divine doesn't ration blessing.
You go, girl!!!! We're with you!!!! Very impressive!!!
You are an amazing, inspiring woman, Deborah. Kamala would be so proud. Blessings on you!
Your strength and resolve inspires me and I’m sure many others. Keeping you in light and love, Deborah Martin Shorter.
Thank you.
Bless you!🙏🏻
Deborah Martin Shorter: Whew -- am I ever sorry for the diagnosis! I hope you have loved and dear ones close to you to show how much you are loved and how much you are treasured for your goodness and strength.
Thank you for sharing. I want loved ones to be at your side and listen to you and share with you.
You earn love and respect.
Your note moves me very deeply, and there are those of us out here that care!
Thank you so much for your kind words. I feel part of a community - including but certainly not limited to those of us here - and that has given more hope and resolve than anything else could. Hold the lantern high!
Deborah Martin Shorter: I hope loving people around you give you strength and peace!
No
I am sending incredible karma your way, Deb, and hope beyond hope that you beat this terrible disease. Thank you for your strength. I hope it causes you to beat the odds.
I feel utterly blessed to be able to do what I can to further this cause. I know you're talking about the cancer - it's a rare and aggressive type and it was very clear to me (I'm a hospice nurse) what the diagnosis meant - but it only furthers my determination to know that my time is short. And that's okay. And is probably the most strengthening thing of all!
What grace. The thought of you makes me smile, and even though you are at the end of your journey, you are still making your life count. As a nurse, too, I will take your lesson of strength with me in my journey for as long as it lasts.
Peace.
Deborah YOU are an inspiration! Thank YOU! Thank YOU! Thank YOU!
🙏🏼💙
Joyce: "Vote.org announced a nearly 700% increase in daily voter registrations in the 48 hours following President Biden’s announcement on Sunday that he would step down. That’s more than 38,500 newly registered voters, and younger voters, those between 18 and 34, make up 83% of them."
Yesterday, volunteers used up 200,000 FT 6 texts into Florida in about an hour. I sent 2800 myself.
https://www.fieldteam6.org/
https://www.fieldteam6.org/fund-the-mission
That's impressive, Fellow Warrior! Thank you!
I am increasingly hopeful that, with participation like this, we may have a Blue Tsunami come November. E pluribus unum!
Oh no, Deborah! I am so sorry to hear. Hope and peace to you.
In this together
Deborah, I LOVE your enthusiasm -- and I would not be at all surprised if you are with us for longer than your diagnosis would suggest! I myself, a two-time survivor of cancer, have stated that I don't want the last president of my life to be the one intent on killing the American dream. You go, Girl!
Lois, thanks so much for your encouraging words. With the response that we're seeing to Kamala's candidacy, I am increasingly hopeful that we may do a lot more than just "squeak by" - a blue tsunami? I was heartbroken for President Biden, even as that same heart swelled with pride that we elected that superb American to lead us through the darkness. I still ache for his sacrifice. And I'm resolved to make it meaningful in any way I can. As are we all.
Joe Biden--what an amazing man and amazing president. Thank you, Mr. Biden, for all you have done to make America better.
And he will continue doing that until January 20th, when Kamala Harris takes the reigns.
Nice royal pun there, Dianne ... 😎
Thanks, Derek! Actually, I was going to say "... when Biden passes the torch to Kamala Harris." But then, I thought it would sound too tacky, given that the Olympics start in a few days. While I doubt I'll be watching very much of the games, I do hope that the US wins everything in a huge landslide.
Here we go with another pun, Derek: " ...a huge landslide, just like the Democrats will be doing in November." Can't stop myself.
Speaking of the Olympics, why not write postcards to voters while watching the games. Go to ActivateAmerica.vote or PostcardsToVoters.org to sign up for postcards.
Ruth, that's an excellent idea! Even if I'm binge-watching "NCIS" episodes, I could do that, couldn't I?
Hopefully, others will do that, too. Thanks!
What a great idea!
I really do expect a blue wave!
Heh. I guess, but it still looks like a typo to me -- maybe because I associate "reign" with royals.
Susanna, it WAS a typo. I meant to change i, but forgot to. When I screw up, I manage to do it well! Sorry for the confusion,
Derek, 24 hours later, I found out what you meant! That made your comment even more enjoyable!
Dianne: please encourage support for www.TurnUP.US
We just donated again to Ira's project. www.turnup.us is a powerfully effective way for young people to get involved - get registered and get others to do so as well.
It uses an app that he developed (as a college kid!) - I keep it on my phone to show people how cool it is.
Thank you but give all the credit to Zev Shapiro and a brilliant group of Harvard students concentrating their registration and turnout efforts only in less than 25 “truly competitive” congressional districts and competitive Senate states! Very efficient and brilliant! All registration based on protecting abortion and IVF nationwide, plus controlling assault weapons and effectively fighting climate change just after the hottest day in HISTORY!
Done https://vmst.io/@drrjv/112845889685401768
And probably beyond, though perhaps without media attention. He will be an Elder Statesman, in every meaning of that phrase, and part of the Presidential Alumni Association with Bill, George W., and Barack. Good men, all.
And Jimmy!
Of course! He's perhaps the best man of all!
It broke my heart when Rosalyn passed away. They made such a beautiful couple, spreading kindness wherever they went. They were inseparable from the day they met years ago, then onto the start of his Presidential campaign, living at the White House but not in an ostentatious manner, Jimmy's calming manner, and most of all, their dedication to those less fortunate, by making Habitat for Humanity a reality that to this day still exists. It was not beneath this beautiful team to get out there with the volunteers, working as hard as they could. [Off topic, but can ANYONE on this Substack imagine Trump and Wife No. 4 putting on hardhats, having dirty hands, and getting out there doing things for others, without cameras around, and free of charge? I can't, either!]
Please excuse typos or grammatical errors. Been a weird day, but it's almost over. Thanks!
I agree. The Carters' marriage was -- and still is -- an inspiration to all of us. And their inclination to always put their convictions to use in practical action is as much an inspiration as their love for each other. Their love expanded to all, especially those in great need. I detected not typos nor grammatical errors. Well written, Dianne!
Definitely Jimmy Carter, too!
I cannot imagine ANY of these men going online, criticizing a sitting president, vice president, or any Democrat for that matter, or holding rallies for the purpose of bashing opponents, just to stir things up.
And don't get me started about 1/6, and all the hatred and violence that ensued.
Why are some, excuse me, a lot of Republicans like myself voting for Harris? It's because they know who Donald John Trump is. They know how he screwed contractors out of their rightful payments and Trump never gave it a second thought.
Trump signed contracts he never meant to honor, Trump never paid certain vendors he contracted with wiping family businesses off the map. Then he was convicted of fraud on top of that. Trump has NO honor, he speaks but you cannot know if it is the truth or not. He seems to lie all the time, he has no honor! People are enamored because they believe the statements he makes. I will make this statement,
if Donald John Trump is elected, America and its Constitution will never see 250 years; it will cease to exist! Remember, the Constitution is America!
It made me feel nauseated. Monarchy ought to scare you.
Should have said "reins." Sorry for the typo!
President Joseph R. Biden has never stopped giving. Tonight was his extraordinary gift to us
and to American Democracy. He was humbly from Scranton and deeply honored to serve as the president of this country that he loves. Joe Biden is a model for us. He spoke from his heart, from his experience and with determination, which he passed on to Kamala Harris and every single one of us.
Onward together!
This is exactly how I feel. Joe Biden gave this whole country a gift. I was all in on Biden, and was sad he dropped out, but when I woke up on Monday morning and read about the excitement, it made my old heart beat so fast and so proud! I am grateful, so grateful that we get to live in this time. 💗 There are so many Democrats that are heroes right now. I’m looking at you, Nancy P! Overcome with gratitude.
George Clooney and so many other rich friends matching 700% for the 5.00 local donations from the 7.95 an hour gang called the Republic makes for big MONEY donations alright. Voting for Biden. Shalom.
As we heard him say tonight, in America a person has opportunities to accomplish his/her desires. Well, that speech was his having to sacrifice his own desire. For him, what America stands wasn't afforded to him. It is too clear that the idea we all have opportunities only pertains if you aren't too old based on someone else's opinion. No one has that right to decide another's destiny. I am saddened for him. Ageism must cease and age must be afforded the same respect as other federally protected groups.
Thank you, Kay. As an older person (not quite as old as Joe Biden), I have been amazed at his stamina - something I no longer have. I still believe he has what it takes to do four more years, and am still upset that all this happened as the result of a poor "debate" performance. At the same time, I'm very happy to see the democratic party finally come together and move forward.
I am in the "older" range, too. I, also love President Biden and all he has done for this country. However, as I listen to the enthusiasm of my grandchildren and those where VP Harris speaks, I am energized! It is a time for passing the torch to a new generation, as he said. They need a "seat at the table" of power. They are the ones who will be living in the future and are the future. While I do think there is age bias, I also know that age does change a person. I'm actually thankful that now President Biden can concentrate on running our country rather than campaigning (which I think goes on way too long!) VP Harris has had some WONDERFUL lines, lately: "Republicans want to ban books. Democrats want to ban assault weapons." "We will not go back." "Bring it on!" - and many more. Buckle up, everyone! This is a whole new election cycle! Bless you, Joe Biden!
I agree with you, Ruth. It's difficult to not recognize the new energy, and deep down, no matter how much I like Biden, at this point it's difficult to not see how the original matchup did not invigorate people. I, too, bless Joe Biden.
I agree that we would be so fortunate to have him lead us for four more years! There is No question of his ability. However, because age has never been focused on regarding rights etc, ignorance and the discrimination that goes with it remains and seems to be rampant. After the debate, media grabbed it, and age became a detrimental quality from then on 24/7! Heard over and over, it becomes truth & impossible to overcome which led to an American being denied his dream!
You are right. I am glad that his pick for president should continue his dream, which is a good thing.
Now they want to strip off his president suit and give it to Kamala. Shalom.
I remember that when Hillary ran, my Middle School held a mock election. 90% of the students voted for her. Our students were ages 12-15. Middle School is a good place to start to cultivate "habitual voters".
I agree! I was in middle school when JFK was running. My mom was a Dem activist. I proudly wore a large button to school that said "If I were 21, I'd vote for JFK!" I still have her state Dem convention JFK rally hat. My parents took their 3 kids to the polls every election from the time we were very little. I still love casting my ballot. Democracy is at risk. I'd be pumped to find out, after Nov 5th, that we won because our younger generations came out and took a stand at the ballot box.
And in the three-room school where I spent graces 1-4, our teacher showed us the inside of the voting booth and explained how the curtain would close if we pulled the lever, and make it completely private so we could vote for whomever we pleased. That impressed me as a six-year-old. And then, when I questioned my mother why she would allow Daddy to tell her who to vote for, Mom's answer was "I go into the voting booth on my own, and he never knows who I have voted for." My first lesson in a wife's freedom to be her own person. Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Mrs. Gill.
OOPS! Hate these typos. Though there were many opportunities for grace at that little school, it was GRADES 1-4 that I spent there!
Didn't even notice the typo, just read what you meant.
Regrettably, I live in a "red" area. Trump won at our school's "mock" election. But, I agree, it is a great age to encourage lifelong voting.
I’m finally feeling better about the November election. Obama mobilized young people too and won. The Democratic Party is uniting and there are more of us than there are of them! Kamala is full steam ahead.
I don’t understand why Obama has not endorsed Harris. There can be no one else at this point.
He did not endorse President Biden until he was nominated at the Democratic Convention. He will most like do so with VP Harris.
Because he’s trying to make it not look like an anointment, which is exactly what Trump did at the RNC convention.
And now, the Republicans are again projecting, claiming Kamala Harris is being anointed!
Kamala Harris has not had an anointment, she’s had a massive outpouring of widespread support by people from all walks of life looking to save our Democracy.
And his advisor David Axelrod has had little to say that is good. I feel like Axelrod doesn't want anyone else to eclipse Obama.
Obama was The Ditherer in Chief. He could have been a better president. Thankfully he had the best VP in Joe Biden. That’s one of the reasons he won. Very disappointed with the Obamas.
IMO, Obama had a tough row to hoe. He had to deal with a lot of bigotry and be careful about what he did, if he wanted to get anything done. We've seen how the republicans have tried over and over to undo everything Obama did, especially the ACA. and trump was part of the backlash to having our first Black president. I am hoping that we are past that kind of reaction now, and that we can be comfortable with having a Black/Asian female president.
Boehner, and the GQP, blocked everything and Mitch worked to make President Obama a one term.
Without Speaker Pelosi, the ACA wouldn't have passed.
I'm grateful to Speaker Pelosi for that. I know the ACA has been good for a lot of people. And I love that all attempts to get rid of it have failed.
He was very critical of Biden staying in the race, but since Kamala is in, my take is that he is quite positive about her.
I am going out on a limb on this. Barak Obama is being smart here by staying out of the limelight right now. All the attention is where it should be...the future of democracy.....Kamala taking the torch from Joe.......
There was this poll calling for Michelle to run as she is very popular. That was not going to happen.
Someone posted that Barak will endorse at the convention....that would be good to have Michelle up there as well............Kamala Harris deserves to have 100% backing from the Democratic Party.
Am I right or wrong here?????
I'm out on that limb with you!
Obama and Pelosi have been orchestrating this from the beginning. Obama's fingers are in Clooney's OpEd pieces. And the drip-drip of leaks was classic Pelosi.
But you saw BLM are already complaining about Harris being handpicked by elites? And they are not the only ones. So there is a lot of logic to Obama holding off publicly in order to help create the message that it was us common folk who drove Joe out of office, not back-room stabbing.
And anyway, no rush. You gotta save something for the DNC.
p.s. Btw. Can you imagine how miserable we would be today if Obama and Pelosi had done nothing:: no hope. no coconuts..... I am so grateful to them..
He will.
Isn't Obama on a political panel which would dictae his delay in voicing an opinion or endorsement at this time?
I would love to see Michelle onstage at DNC, not just Obama!!
Having Michelle take the stage at the DNC would be so perfect and amazing.
Getting onboard for the final push.
Honestly, I know Kamala is the right move but I am still weeping over Joe. I can feel his sadness despite the move to pass the torch. Remember when elections weren't life and death but this one certainly is. :(
Well, perhaps memories are short but we watched the life drain out of Bobby Kennedy on TV, lying on the floor of a hotel kitchen.
I don’t want to see any more of the good guys dying along with my dreams. It is outrageous to read that Governor Whitmer experiences more threats every time Trump mentions her name. The man (Trump) is the most ghoulish and criminal mind to ever have been president not to mention once again a candidate.
As Joe stated, history is now in our hands. Let’s make it a good moment in history.
Bobby's death hit me hard. I met Bobby on the steps of the Capitol in '66. He stopped to say hello, tousled my hair, and with a smile, continued on his way. I walked on air for two years. Then Bobby was shot. I was crushed. 1968 was a tough year.
here's link to his speech the day MLK died, 4 Apr 68.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:1968-04-04_RFK_on_MLK.ogg
I still watch videos of Bobby Kennedys train ride back to Washington. The people who lined up along the tracks with flags and saluting. True patriots showing respect for a man that would have helped to prevent an Orange cancer of hatred from infecting and threatening the future of a nation.
I was timing labor pains while RFK lay dying on that kitchen floor. My son was born a few hours after Bobby died. It was such a bittersweet day. The date, June 6, is also the anniversary of D-Day. For me it was even more consequential.
I’ll miss Joe, he has led us through a once in a lifetime pandemic, one of the worst economic crises, and of course the fallout from the insurrection. His grace and dignity were on full display in his speech. We owe him a monumental debt of gratitude.
Joe is a decent honorable man. A man with integrity.
A man of Joe's character rarely rises to the presidency.
I agree!
Do not take your focus off of Bobby Kennedy's son either. We all know that he and tRump are scheming to unite against democracy and science. An even bigger blue wave needed to overcome their alliance. What will Stein and West do in their political quests? That piece still feels a bit 2016 to me, and certainly Stein knows the damage she can and did cause then.
Excellent point!
He’s a nut. Nothing like his father.
I agree, Katherine.
Katherine, I'm right there with you. Not only was I sad that Joe wouldn't be President again, but I was so angry that the Democratic leadership did this to him. I was terrified that people wouldn't accept Kamala. Boy, was I wrong. I think Joe is sad, but I get the feeling that he is also tired. I think Joe Biden was the greatest President in my lifetime... I'm hoping that Kamala will carry on his good work.
I would be very surprised if she didn't. I think she understands the importance of carrying on his legacy, and making it even greater.
We can honor him by getting behind her for the love of our country. After all, that is why he stepped aside. 🙏🏼😢⚖️🇺🇸☮️
Well. I'm sure the poll results helpfully provided by Pelosi and company helped him clarify his decision too.
If Joe had believed he had a chance of a path to winning then his love of country would have led him to the conclusion to fight on. It's a testament to his honor and dignity that instead he faced reality and stepped up and did the right thing. Not a lot of politicians would have done that.
Well said, ZsuzEB.
☮️
Absolutely, ZsusEB! If we have supported President Biden, then we need to honor his judgement and support Vice President Harris. I've already signed up with Activate America and Vote Forward. Let's not forget to support the down-ballot candidates, also. As someone earlier in the thread mentioned, Obama had trouble because Congress fought him whenever they could.
I’m all in. Way to go. A sweep awaits and a massive blue wave with super majorities so we can get things done including 4 added Supreme Court justices.
And impeach 2 of them, Thomas & Alito,
I donated and will donate again.
Trump's hateful comment about Biden's selfless speech crowning more than 50 years as a dedicated public servant fully reflects the extent of Trump's own malignant, irredeemable, vicious, soulless rotten core. Biden's humility and patriotism are qualities Trump (pathetic excuse for a human being that he is) completely lacks the capacity to understand or appreciate.
The Nation will be spending years getting over Trump.
Indeed. The forces that have elevated him are not going away.
Decades!
The gradual rightwing successes that resulted in Trump's personality cult and Project 2025 actually started in the early '70s. I heartily recommend Kurt Andersen's "Evil Geniuses; The Unmaking of America" for a well researched explanation of how they pulled it off.
Obviously, Joe Biden's speech registered with Trump. Hah!
Trump proved yet again that he is pure slime.
Trump is a fascist traitor
Truth Toilet Trump.....flips like a crackhouse mattress
He gives slime a good name.
The power is now in our hands. President Biden reminds us what integrity is, what America is, what it means to be able to trust a leader. We have an intelligent person to vote for, it will take time to see if she can match President Biden's heart. Now let's elect her and send the litter off to the trash where he and his supporters belong.
I don't know that anyone can match Biden's heart, but if anyone can come close, Kamala will. She knows what it's like to be the victim of bigotry, and I'm sure she doesn't want anything like that for anyone else.
If you have time, read her biography. You will get to know her "heart" better.
All the Kamala optimism is wonderfully contagious. 💙
I watched President Biden’s speech with a mixture of sadness and pride ,that he has been a part of our government for so long! His compassionate, steadying hand has steered us through so many uncertain times. I especially teared up learning that his family was near his side as he spoke. I will not start comparing others now. This was Joseph Biden’s night Thank you for your service, Sir!!
YOU are a great American, Joyce Vance.
Agree 100% !!! Steve
Trump will blame Vance when they lose.
Being an incorrigible dreamer, I still hope he will be sentenced to prison before the election. Go Judges!
Yes, Hope! That’s being an incorrigible dreamer. So, no doubt you are doubling down on GOTV.
I'll be a poll person!
I wouldn't be that surprised to see Vance "withdraw" from the ticket.
True, but the orange buffoon and the over-his-head baby are such a cute pair!
That carries a lot of weight with Trump. As long as he's #1. (Personally I think he's #2)
In the sense I think you mean that??…
Well, there is that
Never going to happen. He is just as depraved and power hungry.
I wasn't suggesting that Vance would do this for the good of the country/party/ticket, but rather that he would be ... persuaded.
Time to pair Vance with a cabbage?
As long as Vance is on his knees taking care of the "tiny muchroom sized...." and keeping his lips super glued to the Orange ass..........his going nowhere fast...
You mean, just before he unleashes the Kraken?
Or he’ll blame Pence . . . again.
And of course, that the election was rigged 🤯
Many people who read Joyce’s posts regularly are older, have cared about politics for most of their lives, and have long been concerned about what could happen in this election. Many more people do not have the time or interest to stay so involved. However, over that last eight years the less involved people have become even less involved. Their experience is that politics has become a mess, that Trump and the Republicans are running things into the ground and no one has enough power to stop them. The looks and sounds of Joe Biden made them feel as if getting involved was a waste of time.
During this long, drawn-out campaign Trump has looked and sounded even meaner and crazier than he ever has. He’s been convicted of crimes, and yet he rolls on.
Suddenly, the old and weak looking Biden is out, and just as suddenly he is replaced with a dynamic, upbeat, quick witted, charismatic woman to whom people never paid much attention.
In two days people went from apathy, to confusion and doubt, to WOW, we can do this! This woman is who we have been wanting for the last seven years!
People, especially young people, now feel that they can begin to take over shaping the world so it will make their lives better. The power that comes with getting involved can be one of the greatest feelings in the world. That’s what democracy is for. Let’s sweep away those old crumbling, negative men, and build a future.
If the trend continues; if people bring a friend who brings a friend, then the cavalry will have arrived on time. This time it is the fat, old, cranky, white men who will be on the losing end.
Yes. I spoke with a young woman a few weeks ago. She wasn’t going to vote. She said she didn’t like the choices:”a deranged criminal vs someone who lost their marbles.”
I encouraged her to sign up for an absentee ballot in the meantime. I reminded her our democracy and women’s reproductive rights are on the ballot.
After it was announced that Kamala Harris was running for President, I saw this young woman who cheerfully said she had signed the paperwork for an absentee ballot! She was VERY happy Kamala was running.
So talk about it. Encourage people to sign up for an absentee ballot. And make sure they vote ALL democratic. We need to win the House, the Senate as well as the presidency.
Agree 100%! Speaking as an old person.