I have already called the Boulder County Democrats to volunteer as a signature verificador or a poll watcher. I will also be on the phone to GOTV!! Postcards, too. Everything I can!!
Ann and Joyce too, just got my primary election judge assignment. - block from my home in very blue Maryland! While I am in a safe area, we should all step up to help our elections run fairly!
Kathi, I was a chief for many years in Montgomery County. Now my polling place is literally in my high rise apartment building in Virginia. My "commute" is via elevator.
Ditto! My vision and hearing are too far gone to be a poll worker directly. I did it twice in earlier years. But I know I can be a poll watcher. Did that in 2020. And I do postcards thru Activate America. Also will try to find other ways to communicate my VOTE BLUE. This can be dangerous where I live to put a bumper sticker on our car. But maybe a Vote Blue baseball cap.
I was an election judge in SW Wisc when I lived there, until last April. I've applied to be an election judge again now in NW Ill. Also I will write postcards as needed. I'm a new member of the League of Women Voters local chapter and have stood on a main street corner holding a sign encouraging people to VOTE. More to come!
I am volunteering with the League of Women Voters. I am registering new citizens, students (college and high school), and all ages at events around the city of Chicago!
Lisa, While I don’t disagree, I would note, in my view, the overall premise dominating virtually all of Joyce’s newsletters confirms, as long as the judiciary remains sufficiently rooted in its fidelity to the rule of law and the Constitution, our democratic republic is relatively safe. Hence, a reason to be immeasurably indebted to Joyce for helping us acquire the knowledge we need thoughtfully to follow current judicial proceedings.
Although I agree with what you said, in Trump we have a person who, I have zero doubt, will, if he gets elected again, IGNORE court rulings. THAT is the scary part.
JOEL, I agree. My point is that we can take heart in recognizing that the judiciary presently is holding, an indication, in my view, that Trump will be held sufficiently criminally accountable before the election. Of further note is that a highly respected Bloomberg Morning Consult poll reported that 23% of Republicans would not vote for Trump were he criminally convicted.
Thanks, Shirley! You're certainly appreciated there, I'm sure, even though this year you may have some challenges. Thank you for going above and beyond your (what we used to call) your "civic duty."
Thank you for the encouragement! I’m still a bit resistant to putting myself up for harassment but I also live in Travis County (Austin) which is the blue dot in the middle of a sea of red!
I feel your pain. I'm the blue dot in my red neighborhood, and a lot of the surrounding area. In fact, I'm already seeing people driving pickups with big American flags, yet they have bumper stickers on the back and sides that say "Biden sucks" on them. Some of them have gun racks in the back windows, which really does nothing to offer comfort.
Charlie, I'm starting to feel the same way. BT (Before Trump), I was not that way. I was more positive about things and didn't feel overwhelmed about our leadership. Now, I'm more cautious, cynical (almost to a fault), and really, really scared about the "health" of our country.
I have a beautiful wall clock --- used to be called a grandfather's clock but for some reason they changed it --- that I must wind up every seven days. Each time I get the key and winding thing out, and start cranking the weights towards the top, I keep telling myself that this brings us one week closer to elections, and one week closer to what could very well be the Death of Our Democracy.
Dianne, when you are feeling bad, take a deep breath and look at how beautiful your wall clock is, how wonderful the act of winding it up, the home where you stand, and banish the Trump (and others) squatter from your mind. He does not pay rent, so call the inner sheriff...! Just for a moment to distance the crap from your mind. Works for me.
I hear you Dianne. There is a blanket of dread and disbelief over everything these days. It is a fight to stay positive and that includes action. These forums are very helpful for that. Thank you Joyce.
Margie, glad I'm not alone with these serious concerns.
As for Joyce, having her explain all these things keeps me grounded so much. I always look forward to hearing things from a logical and intelligent standpoint, don't you?
It's an awful prospect. But if Democrats can have a majority in the House or the Senate, it could keep the Republicans from passing some laws that would help Trump with his sinister plans. Also, if Trump does try major measures to destroy democracy, citizens should fight back, the military (or the part of it that stays loyal to the Const.) should intervene, and Trump should be ousted by any means necessary. I know that last part paints a scary scenario in itself, but if democracy is lost, it could be lost for a long time, so it's better to have the fight ASAP than to let the possibility of resistance fizzle away because an increasing number of institutions are captured by the far right.
Though perhaps you didn't intend it, your wording gives the impression that you think Trump will win. I would suggest that our job right now is to do everything we can to support Biden and make it so Trump can't get close to the White House instead of planning ahead on how to head off what he might do as President. We need to put all that energy into electing people who will protect democracy. Anticipating the worst outcome drags people down. Trump is playing us, and talk like this lets him win. Speak out NOW in favor of Biden- don't let the right wing paint him as something he is not. Let them bury them selves while we get out the vote!
With respect, I would submit that most of the people in this discussion group are more informed than average, and far more determined than average to vote for or help Ds. So I don't really think the danger to which you allude is that significant. And my position is based on polling. A recent YouGov poll shows Trump 1% ahead of Biden in support, but Biden would most likely have to get 3% more of the vote than Trump to win because of the advantage small white Trumpy states get in the Electoral College. There's no changing that advantage. It's baked in, so no amount of strategizing or "hopefulness" will change that. And I mean, look what happened to Kinzinger and Cheney after they worked on the 1/6 commission. Also, another YouGov poll has Trump at a -4 in favorability, but Biden at a -8. Trump has been "playing" the electorate since 2015 when he came down that escalator, and the public has had AMPLE opportunity to realize the guy's a total sleazebag in EVERY respect, but it hasn't happened and in fact, many people LIKE his sleaziness and see it as an "F.U." to the people they hate. Furthermore, voters had PLENTY of opportunity to learn about the details of the criminal cases against Trump. Still, nothing has budged. So I'm going to have to stick to giving my frank and empirically supported opinion. And dealing with a president Trump takes preparation and planning too. It's best not to wait until it happens to put one's affairs in order.
I read these comments to inspire myself to make a positive impact on the elections, and to find something that I can do without subjecting myself to abuse. I live in Red Florida. Matt Gaetz is my Representative, Rick Scott my Senator, and tRump Mini me, Ron DeSantis is my Governor. Oh, and Tommy (Tupperware) Tuberville is my neighbor. I discovered that I'm already doing something. I was a lifelong republican, but as soon as Trump was elected, I became a Democrat. In mindset as well as party affiliation. I am contributing to my local Dem. candidates and to Joe Biden, a first for me. I have joined the local Democratic Women's Club, an affirming organization. I found that there are many women from my church there, a literal Godsend! I'm not alone. Through Joyce and Prof. Richardson, I have discovered the many ways that I was manipulated and outright deceived by the republican party. Never again...Thank you Joyce, for your time and efforts to keep us informed and motivated.
People do not know it but FL has so many issues. The only and BEST part is the weather, but as a resident, you have to put up with the negative, conservative, money-grubbing politicans!
If I moved, it would be to California. Friendlier politically, but not financially. Florida does have nice weather, for certain. No state income tax, low sales tax. Where I live has no air pollution or SoCal type traffic. I certainly wouldn't be able to afford a home 5 minutes from the most beautiful and uncrowded beaches in the country. Which, incidentally, thanks to Florida laws, is exempt from property tax because my husband was a first responder injured on the job. However, the Tubervilles and Huckabees of the world want to own those beaches and to keep the "riffraff" away. Gaetz is a worthless waste of human flesh. Scott wants to "sunset" social security and medicare. I'm a senior, and I rely on those things. We can't change the paradigm by running away from it. Change needs to come from within, but not don't want to stand in the line of fire to accomplish it.
Bonnie, many thanks for your message. I understand your reasoning and saw it when we lived on the West Coast of FL., 10 minutes south of Venice. Real Estate is ridiculous but selling to the desperate people dying for a second home or retirement place. They will pay any price for that seasonal weather. It makes it very difficult for people who live there all year. My comments are based on problems never seen by the semi-residents or the vacationers. You were a dear to state your honest evaluation of your life in FL.
I trust Joyce. It's some of the talking heads on TV and the entire mainstream media. The disgusting performance by the White House press corps on Thursday being a prime example.
100%, Charles! Disrespectful, unprofessional and outside the bounds of conduct I would expect from any correspondents much less the WH. I sent an email to the White House Correspondents Association advising them that press conference and the behavior of the correspondents was disgraceful. Here is the link if any of you wish to do the same. https://whca.press/contact/ There is a contact form as well as a phone number for the organization. If I were President Biden or Karine Jean-Pierre, I would give it several days before I would meet with them again and, before the next one, give a stern warning that they are in "The People's House" and will show respect and conduct themselves in a professional manner. If someone doesn't - remove him/her. Immediately. The time for embarrassing themselves, our President and the country are over!
Thank you for the info. I emailed and called in my disgust with the actions of the press during last week's news conference with Biden. What a bunch of harpies.
Joyce is the Cream of the Crop! I'd trust her with my life if I had to!!!
Even though I don't know anyone here personally and have never met them, I feel comfortable enough to speak my true feelings about "all things political," without fear of criticism or name-calling. Thanks to Trump and the MAGAs, it's hard NOT to think about the damage they're doing, just because they can. And that scares the you-know-what out of me.
What can one expect from a woman born and raised in the land of Pablo Escobar, Medellin, Colombia. I should know as that is my country but born in the capital city of Bogota. We know those people.
She is for me too, but mostly because her actions force me to spend time learning about aspects of the legal process I'd prefer to have faith or trust in. It seems to me there is a deliberate, concerted effort to erode or undermine trust in our system of government and our legal system. Because of that, I find I have to do more work to educate myself on these various issues and establish trust, something so many are not able or willing to do for many reasons. Same with all of us. You don't know me, so why trust what I say in these comment sections unless you do some fact checks on your own. A couple of examples from this case to make my point;
First, I read the Hur Report on Biden's Classified Material retention investigation. I personally had access to and worked with classified material in my job as a Marine, so I was able to consider the Report's findings from that perspective. (Still, you don't know me so why trust what I say). When he stated there was nothing to prosecute, he was correct, and should have left it there. But he didn't -he talked of poor old Biden's failing memory as a reason to drop any charges. I contend that was a deliberate effort to further erode our trust in the system, for two reasons; to reinforce the impression that Biden is mentally unfit to hold office for another four years, and to undermine the Smith investigation of Trump.
I would like to remind everyone that the Hur Report covers the actions of Biden back when he was a Senator and then Vice President - years ago. I don't remember anyone questioning his mental acuity back then. There was no reason to include mental acuity observations from today for something that happened 10-15 years ago. I put myself in the same virtual position and tried to remember details of projects I worked on 25 years ago. I can't remember squat about many of them, so much was going on. How many of you remember all the details of college classes you took? I'll wager not many.
Hur's Report also serves to undermine the Smith investigation because it deliberately creates more confusion and uncertainty with the public. Why was Biden let off and Trump is found guilty? (As he will be because the circumstances are so different) They both retained Classified material so obviously are equally guilty, or equally innocent, right? It's got to be political, no? The answer is no. The fundamental difference is Biden cooperated fully with the investigation, and Trump lied and obstructed the investigation (as he is still doing). Had he cooperated back in 2022 and returned the materials to NARA, there would no legal action against him today. But, when he is found guilty, most Americans will not know the details and will be subject to the inevitable cries of injustice and political interference. Smith's team will have to spend a lot more effort explaining the difference to a skeptical public based on the damage done in the Hur Report.
The point of all this is that we all now have to do more work on our own to establish who or what to trust. It's unfortunate, but necessary.
It is alarming how many signature gatherers are in Tucson, AZ right now getting petitions signed to get RFK jr on the ballot as an independent candidate. Each person is paid $5 per signature. AZ is a powerful state in this election. This is a cash heavy move to disrupt the election. Do not support Independents or third party candidates until we have a robust democracy again.
Christi said today on Meet the Press that he wasn’t sure who he would vote for but not 45. And he would probably not vote for Biden. He starts out as a changed man in his politics but he is still making odd choices. I don’t understand why people voting independent or not voting will be taking votes away from Biden. People have some fantasy that it won’t be Biden and 45 running against each other in November. It’s been clear to me all along. Choice is clear to me. Biden must 🏆
I saw that interview. Sounded to me that if either Trump or Biden are sidelined due to health or legal problems, Christie will jump back in as a third party candidate. I like how he attacks Trump, but failing to support Biden makes him a spoiler.
Christie has long carefully examined the field to see which side of it would be most advantageous to him. Sometimes it works, but he gets it wrong a lot of the time. He's at it again. The way I look at him is like the kid who stands at the side of the soccer field pretending to be a player, but can't even get on the bench.
On "x" formerly Twitter, RFK's cousin, Bobby Shriver wrote (and was supported by his brother, Mark Shriver):
Bobby Shriver
@bobbyshriver
My cousin’s Super Bowl ad used our uncle’s faces- and my Mother’s. She would be appalled by his deadly health care views. Respect for science, vaccines, & health care equity were in her DNA. She strongly supported my health care work at
@ONECampaign & @RED which he opposes.
Nearly every single member of the Kennedy family is opposed to him and has come out in support of President Biden. I understand that he did apologize (on X) to his cousins and said the ad was created by a PAC that legally he is unable to review prior to airing. It sounded disingenuous but then everything he says and does sounds that way.
Yes, I heard Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg's son, Jack, tell him to stop running. RFK Jr. has a lot of issues. Glad to see the Shriver kids standing up.
Indeed, all it takes is one or two swing states to potentially elect Trump by virtue of the Electoral College. That can happen if a third party candidate in such a state takes even just 1%-2% of the vote away from Biden.
Right! Do not support third party candidates. Here’s a reason not to do so that I learned by attending a Zoom call with Robert Hubbell and David Pepper. Voting for any third party candidate court throw the election in to the hands of the house IF no one candidate gets a majority. This is called a “contingent election,” putting the decision in the hands of the Republicans House, assuming they manage to hold their majority until December.
Don’t do it. As one of those speakers put it, running as a third party candidate in 2024 is selfish since no third party candidate would win. Protest if you want but don’t use your ballot as a protest that has the potential to return DJT to the White House.
I have written many, many postcards and letters, and done text banking over the last few years, and plan to crank out as many as I can this time around. It’s satisfying to know I can DO SOMETHING to encourage voters. For people reluctant to get involved but want to see change, this is a good way to participate, because it’s something you can commit a great or little amount of time to, as your life allows. And of course, VOTE!
Jessica Craven of ChopWoodCarryWater writes every week day with suggestions for readers to engage. She has lots of text banking initiatives you can participate in. Her website is free.
You're not kidding, Karen. Getting out there to effect change makes one feel positive and productive! It's uplifting! It turns the feeling of helplessness on it's head! And it spreads to others!
I started writing postcards in June 2023 and have sent nearly 600 so far— it is something that I can do, and it feels good to be doing SOMETHING !! I’m continuing the postcard effort until we route the MAGA menace from our democracy.
I've also written postcards and have done text banking not just in WI but in other state races where I believed in the candidate. In WI, you have to have a witness signature so I was "on call" during the 2020 election (and during the pandemic) to go to people's homes who may not have had a witness "in house" to sign their mailing envelope (where witness signature is). That was rewarding because I met the voter (face to face or mask to mask) outside their doors to just sign it after they signed it. They still had to mail it as that wasn't allowed. This year, I hope to be involved in registering voters.
Seniors Taking Action, Activate America, and Tomy the Democrat are sources that are working for me. I started with the Ohio abortion referendum and continue to plug on.
I will be a poll worker again, 3 times this year, since the Presidential primary is earlier than our state/ city one. There’s always been a shortage of poll workers in the 3 I’ve done so far. PowerThePolls.org got me started. 👍💙🗳️
I'm not a lawyer; my understanding is that a treason charge would be extremely difficult if not impossible to prove in court, much more difficult than the charges that Jack Smith brought. Specifically, what treason is _not_ is disloyalty to the United States or pursuit of policies that harm the United States.
Among other considerations is the notion of war. Article III, Section 3, Clause 1 says, "Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
So what is "war"? Courts have addressed this in the past, including Chief Justice John Marshall kicking off the party by narrowing the definition to "Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort." And the legal discussion goes on from there. It's not at all as straightforward as one might think.
Could Smith convince a jury that the insurrection that Inmate P01135809 fomented constituted "war"? Maybe. But maybe it would turn into an endless legal wrangle full of sophistry and semantics and justice would never be served. (As we can all see, even the most open-and-shut issues are turning into endless wrangles due to Inmate P01135809's gaming of the legal system and endlessly throwing meritless legal spaghetti at the wall in hopes that something, somewhere, somehow, will stick.) Maybe it would be a better use of resources and promote a higher chance of a legal resolution, e.g., serve justice, sooner rather than later to go with Smith's chosen course of action.
To use a basketball metaphor, the charges Smith brought, while not exactly slam dunks, are short-range, high-percentage shots. Charging and then having to prove treason would be a long-distance heave from well outside the three-point line.
I'm not arguing any point here, just trying to explain the question as I understand it. If I don't have it quite right, I'd love to be set straight by a legal pro.
There is no requirement for a guilty verdict on insurrection, not even an indictment. All the amendment needs for auto-application is an honest set of "eyes" looking at the real world in which an insurrection happened.
Please, one case! Any case! Can we please get started hauling Trump into court for an actually trial before a jury of his peers? Can we watch him squirm as prosecutors present their case? Again, any case for starters! Please!
Good Monday Mornin' Tutone: I use I use 'Just🏛Security to track "Legal Developments with pithy, fact filled data points & the wider, much wider scope the Platforms' data.
I have already received Just🏛Security's Monday morning "THE EARLY ADDITION;" with following sub-topics:
1. 'Legal Developments", see supra.
2, 'Military Conflict with the Houthis.
3. 'Israel Hams War'
4. 'Israel Hamas War International Response'
5. 'Israel Hamas War, Personal Response"
For Federal & state lawsuits, I go directly to the digital; docket of the Court(s) with jurisdiction which is why I find Professor Vance's work product so valuable as she not only flags important hearings but, post key parts of the motion and/or appellate papers.. : )
I get a great deal of my daily protein from Professors Richardson & Vance. Neal Katyal's "Courtside" is superb as well. Carry on.
In 2020 I signed up to be a poll worker. And now I’m the elected Judge of the Election at my polling place. Twice a year I train and ensure that my board follows the rules and runs a fair election in our precinct. It’s little enough that I can do for our democracy. And I wish everyone would sign up to work the polls at least for one cycle. It’s an eye opener, especially for anyone who worries about “election integrity.”
Indeed, working the polls is an eye opener! I've done several cycles going back to pen/ink signatures on the rolls and punch ballots through the technological transition to electronic. There are so many safe-guards built into the system.
Can I do this only in the state I vote in/am registered in? I live in France, but would come back to volunteer and would prefer to help in (more of) a swing state. I am registered in VA which is blue-ish but red-ish too... it is swingy buy maybe not pivotal this year (?)
1. Despite arthritic hands, I wrote 100 postcards to get out the vote for Suozzi. Despite my personal bias that election literature ends up unread in the shredder 99% of the time, I have been informed that there are data to show that when used in a targeted way, handwritten communications are effective at getting people to vote. It turned out to be very straightforward. Though I had to pace myself, I got all the cards our by the deadline. I am now on board to do more. Many, many, more. As many as it takes between now and November.
2. I am making donations to candidates in key races based on my research and the recommendations of people I trust. I have set a budget and thoughtfully contribute a certain amount a month. I am a senior citizen on the proverbial “fixed income”. I have a few “guilty pleasures” that I am now forgoing until November. The money I don’t spend goes to candidates.
3. It goes without saying, I vote. I am blessed to live in a blue city in a blue state. I take nothing for granted and will show up at the polls to exercise my right to vote. I hope and pray it will not be the last time we are all able to vote.
4. Although I am not willing to sign up to transport strangers to the polls, I have let it be known in my circle of friends and acquaintances that I am available to help with transportation once voting starts.
5. I periodically check in with my young relatives to encourage them to vote. They are understandably busy with their lives. I don’t push it to much. I do provide some context and some perspective. I also encourage them to talk to their friends.
And it adds up. Thanks for sharing your story. I had to pull back from being as active as I'd hoped, so I'm postcarding too, and talking to people as opportunity allows. I suspect the talking is going to be even more important this year because so many people are feeling discouraged. I stick to the positive because it works better than dissing the opposition. Often people thank me for helping them remember what's important. So even if it's just a few people, it makes a difference. I did run into a person who is deep in conspiracy/misinformation about Covid and how "they" are making too much of it, so I didn't bring up politics. She won't change; not worth wasting the energy. She is a good dog-person, so she made friends with my dog and went her way and I mine.
I was honestly caught off guard- I had not met anyone like that in my town, though I know they exist. I suspect that the right-wing conspiracy people are feeling they can speak up more because of Trump's recent bombast.
That applies to some of the press, too. But in both cases, wait a bit, and read and watch what comes out after the initial noise. It is backfiring on them. Editorials are disappointing and sometimes disgusting, mired in "both-side-ism". But then there are good analysis in the same papers, with some openly breaking with their own editorial boards. I write letters of disappointment to the latter, and thank yous to the writers speaking out.
Excellent! I hadn’t thought about writing letters to editor. I will start. And you are right. Battles must be picked. I have a family member that has gone off the deep end into various conspiracy fantasies. I don’t talk with him about anything but family matters.
I have been canvassing in two CA Central Valley districts, and calling voters in Wisconsin and on Native lands in Arizona. Many wonderful conversations with voters both at the doors and on the phones. Let’s DO this!
I've done my 2nd 50 postcards, I signed up to be a poll worker and get training this week. I contribute as I can, and I feel a paucity in my efforts. Your nightly letters are a tremendous comfort - I've suggested them to so many people. I'm old. I don't want to have to march in the street in anger after the election. I'm in an easy blue place and despair about the acquaintances I have who feel so differently. There is no excuse for such willful hateful ignorance. We all are in this together, but we need, I need, to do more. Thanks for doing what you do. It makes a difference.
Please Google and donate to “Movement Voter Project” - MVP. They are doing the MOST effective work, on the ground in the critical states, supporting non-profit local folks/young people to get out the vote! PLEASE spend 2 minutes and watch this -
I live in France and want to contribute to getting more people out to vote - so much so that I would fly back, rent a car, and drive people... maybe not best use of my time / money vs. just supporting monetarily. And I would prefer to do it in a key swing state. My 'vote' home is VA even though I don't have residence there now.
Andrea, I too am an expat from NY living in Argentina. I’ll be working with Democrats Abroad, an organization that helps fellow expats learn how to vote from out of the US. I’m sure there are many expats who are voting in swing states. Maybe you can get involved; it’s much cheaper than flying back to Virginia!
River Run, thanks for this. Did not have this on the list I keep to give to people who want to be involved in getting out the vote in key races. I am impressed with the approach and strategy- just what we need. So I signed up and will get the word out to others as well. It gives context to the other things we are doing.
MVP is run by Billy Wimsatt, a deeply thoughtful tactician and collaborator who builds partnerships with local non-profits and matches donations with locals who know their communities. Significant focus on college students, with trainings for leaders to GOTV - literally, your $ goes to provide gas money, sandwiches, marking pens and poster board to help the students organize effectively! A HUGE part of this effort is VOLUNTEER.
I have already called the Boulder County Democrats to volunteer as a signature verificador or a poll watcher. I will also be on the phone to GOTV!! Postcards, too. Everything I can!!
Ann and Joyce too, just got my primary election judge assignment. - block from my home in very blue Maryland! While I am in a safe area, we should all step up to help our elections run fairly!
Kathi, I was a chief for many years in Montgomery County. Now my polling place is literally in my high rise apartment building in Virginia. My "commute" is via elevator.
Carol, keep Virginia blue!
thank you!
Ditto! My vision and hearing are too far gone to be a poll worker directly. I did it twice in earlier years. But I know I can be a poll watcher. Did that in 2020. And I do postcards thru Activate America. Also will try to find other ways to communicate my VOTE BLUE. This can be dangerous where I live to put a bumper sticker on our car. But maybe a Vote Blue baseball cap.
Outfit your car with a couple of hidden micro video cameras
Joel , this is an interesting suggestion. How do you foresee the video cameras will help me specifically?
I was an election judge in SW Wisc when I lived there, until last April. I've applied to be an election judge again now in NW Ill. Also I will write postcards as needed. I'm a new member of the League of Women Voters local chapter and have stood on a main street corner holding a sign encouraging people to VOTE. More to come!
Thank you!
thank you!
I am volunteering with the League of Women Voters. I am registering new citizens, students (college and high school), and all ages at events around the city of Chicago!
that is so awesome.
Love the League of Women Voters!
thank you!
Thank You for your service Jeannee!
Cannon is a nightmare.
Lisa, While I don’t disagree, I would note, in my view, the overall premise dominating virtually all of Joyce’s newsletters confirms, as long as the judiciary remains sufficiently rooted in its fidelity to the rule of law and the Constitution, our democratic republic is relatively safe. Hence, a reason to be immeasurably indebted to Joyce for helping us acquire the knowledge we need thoughtfully to follow current judicial proceedings.
Although I agree with what you said, in Trump we have a person who, I have zero doubt, will, if he gets elected again, IGNORE court rulings. THAT is the scary part.
JOEL, I agree. My point is that we can take heart in recognizing that the judiciary presently is holding, an indication, in my view, that Trump will be held sufficiently criminally accountable before the election. Of further note is that a highly respected Bloomberg Morning Consult poll reported that 23% of Republicans would not vote for Trump were he criminally convicted.
I don't trust her.
I’ve been an election judge back for the Obama elections. I’ll volunteer again down here in Texas.
Thanks, Shirley! You're certainly appreciated there, I'm sure, even though this year you may have some challenges. Thank you for going above and beyond your (what we used to call) your "civic duty."
Thank you for the encouragement! I’m still a bit resistant to putting myself up for harassment but I also live in Travis County (Austin) which is the blue dot in the middle of a sea of red!
I feel your pain. I'm the blue dot in my red neighborhood, and a lot of the surrounding area. In fact, I'm already seeing people driving pickups with big American flags, yet they have bumper stickers on the back and sides that say "Biden sucks" on them. Some of them have gun racks in the back windows, which really does nothing to offer comfort.
thank you!
We need all the help we can get in Texas.
I'm beginning to not trust anybody.
Charlie, I'm starting to feel the same way. BT (Before Trump), I was not that way. I was more positive about things and didn't feel overwhelmed about our leadership. Now, I'm more cautious, cynical (almost to a fault), and really, really scared about the "health" of our country.
I have a beautiful wall clock --- used to be called a grandfather's clock but for some reason they changed it --- that I must wind up every seven days. Each time I get the key and winding thing out, and start cranking the weights towards the top, I keep telling myself that this brings us one week closer to elections, and one week closer to what could very well be the Death of Our Democracy.
Dianne, when you are feeling bad, take a deep breath and look at how beautiful your wall clock is, how wonderful the act of winding it up, the home where you stand, and banish the Trump (and others) squatter from your mind. He does not pay rent, so call the inner sheriff...! Just for a moment to distance the crap from your mind. Works for me.
Bruce, thank you for the kind words and your wisdom. I'm going to print this out and put it on my refrigerator door. I appreciate it!
I second Dianne. And I’m going to save your comments, too, for those times when I hear or read people express despair about MAGA extremism. Thank you.
I agree, and am scared too...big time...
I hear you Dianne. There is a blanket of dread and disbelief over everything these days. It is a fight to stay positive and that includes action. These forums are very helpful for that. Thank you Joyce.
Margie, glad I'm not alone with these serious concerns.
As for Joyce, having her explain all these things keeps me grounded so much. I always look forward to hearing things from a logical and intelligent standpoint, don't you?
It's an awful prospect. But if Democrats can have a majority in the House or the Senate, it could keep the Republicans from passing some laws that would help Trump with his sinister plans. Also, if Trump does try major measures to destroy democracy, citizens should fight back, the military (or the part of it that stays loyal to the Const.) should intervene, and Trump should be ousted by any means necessary. I know that last part paints a scary scenario in itself, but if democracy is lost, it could be lost for a long time, so it's better to have the fight ASAP than to let the possibility of resistance fizzle away because an increasing number of institutions are captured by the far right.
Though perhaps you didn't intend it, your wording gives the impression that you think Trump will win. I would suggest that our job right now is to do everything we can to support Biden and make it so Trump can't get close to the White House instead of planning ahead on how to head off what he might do as President. We need to put all that energy into electing people who will protect democracy. Anticipating the worst outcome drags people down. Trump is playing us, and talk like this lets him win. Speak out NOW in favor of Biden- don't let the right wing paint him as something he is not. Let them bury them selves while we get out the vote!
With respect, I would submit that most of the people in this discussion group are more informed than average, and far more determined than average to vote for or help Ds. So I don't really think the danger to which you allude is that significant. And my position is based on polling. A recent YouGov poll shows Trump 1% ahead of Biden in support, but Biden would most likely have to get 3% more of the vote than Trump to win because of the advantage small white Trumpy states get in the Electoral College. There's no changing that advantage. It's baked in, so no amount of strategizing or "hopefulness" will change that. And I mean, look what happened to Kinzinger and Cheney after they worked on the 1/6 commission. Also, another YouGov poll has Trump at a -4 in favorability, but Biden at a -8. Trump has been "playing" the electorate since 2015 when he came down that escalator, and the public has had AMPLE opportunity to realize the guy's a total sleazebag in EVERY respect, but it hasn't happened and in fact, many people LIKE his sleaziness and see it as an "F.U." to the people they hate. Furthermore, voters had PLENTY of opportunity to learn about the details of the criminal cases against Trump. Still, nothing has budged. So I'm going to have to stick to giving my frank and empirically supported opinion. And dealing with a president Trump takes preparation and planning too. It's best not to wait until it happens to put one's affairs in order.
Using Military force is very scary. I am a pacifist. However, I will do whatever I can to "fight back" short of extreme violence.
I read these comments to inspire myself to make a positive impact on the elections, and to find something that I can do without subjecting myself to abuse. I live in Red Florida. Matt Gaetz is my Representative, Rick Scott my Senator, and tRump Mini me, Ron DeSantis is my Governor. Oh, and Tommy (Tupperware) Tuberville is my neighbor. I discovered that I'm already doing something. I was a lifelong republican, but as soon as Trump was elected, I became a Democrat. In mindset as well as party affiliation. I am contributing to my local Dem. candidates and to Joe Biden, a first for me. I have joined the local Democratic Women's Club, an affirming organization. I found that there are many women from my church there, a literal Godsend! I'm not alone. Through Joyce and Prof. Richardson, I have discovered the many ways that I was manipulated and outright deceived by the republican party. Never again...Thank you Joyce, for your time and efforts to keep us informed and motivated.
Can you move? We did seven years ago back north!
People do not know it but FL has so many issues. The only and BEST part is the weather, but as a resident, you have to put up with the negative, conservative, money-grubbing politicans!
If I moved, it would be to California. Friendlier politically, but not financially. Florida does have nice weather, for certain. No state income tax, low sales tax. Where I live has no air pollution or SoCal type traffic. I certainly wouldn't be able to afford a home 5 minutes from the most beautiful and uncrowded beaches in the country. Which, incidentally, thanks to Florida laws, is exempt from property tax because my husband was a first responder injured on the job. However, the Tubervilles and Huckabees of the world want to own those beaches and to keep the "riffraff" away. Gaetz is a worthless waste of human flesh. Scott wants to "sunset" social security and medicare. I'm a senior, and I rely on those things. We can't change the paradigm by running away from it. Change needs to come from within, but not don't want to stand in the line of fire to accomplish it.
Bonnie, many thanks for your message. I understand your reasoning and saw it when we lived on the West Coast of FL., 10 minutes south of Venice. Real Estate is ridiculous but selling to the desperate people dying for a second home or retirement place. They will pay any price for that seasonal weather. It makes it very difficult for people who live there all year. My comments are based on problems never seen by the semi-residents or the vacationers. You were a dear to state your honest evaluation of your life in FL.
Bonnie, I find your words inspiring! Thank you.
You Go Girl!!!
Has anyone wondered what would happen to Substack if tRump were to be elected?
I think Trump would shut down sites like this and possibly arrest participants.
I'm pretty sure that they ---- and millions of others --- will be very sad.
Except Joyce !?! 🎺🎷🎼🥂🍾
I trust Joyce. It's some of the talking heads on TV and the entire mainstream media. The disgusting performance by the White House press corps on Thursday being a prime example.
100%, Charles! Disrespectful, unprofessional and outside the bounds of conduct I would expect from any correspondents much less the WH. I sent an email to the White House Correspondents Association advising them that press conference and the behavior of the correspondents was disgraceful. Here is the link if any of you wish to do the same. https://whca.press/contact/ There is a contact form as well as a phone number for the organization. If I were President Biden or Karine Jean-Pierre, I would give it several days before I would meet with them again and, before the next one, give a stern warning that they are in "The People's House" and will show respect and conduct themselves in a professional manner. If someone doesn't - remove him/her. Immediately. The time for embarrassing themselves, our President and the country are over!
Thank you, Ema! I just expressed to the WHCA my disgust about the correspondents’ shameful behavior. We deserve better.
Ema,
Thank you for the info. I emailed and called in my disgust with the actions of the press during last week's news conference with Biden. What a bunch of harpies.
Joyce is the Cream of the Crop! I'd trust her with my life if I had to!!!
Even though I don't know anyone here personally and have never met them, I feel comfortable enough to speak my true feelings about "all things political," without fear of criticism or name-calling. Thanks to Trump and the MAGAs, it's hard NOT to think about the damage they're doing, just because they can. And that scares the you-know-what out of me.
What can one expect from a woman born and raised in the land of Pablo Escobar, Medellin, Colombia. I should know as that is my country but born in the capital city of Bogota. We know those people.
She is for me too, but mostly because her actions force me to spend time learning about aspects of the legal process I'd prefer to have faith or trust in. It seems to me there is a deliberate, concerted effort to erode or undermine trust in our system of government and our legal system. Because of that, I find I have to do more work to educate myself on these various issues and establish trust, something so many are not able or willing to do for many reasons. Same with all of us. You don't know me, so why trust what I say in these comment sections unless you do some fact checks on your own. A couple of examples from this case to make my point;
First, I read the Hur Report on Biden's Classified Material retention investigation. I personally had access to and worked with classified material in my job as a Marine, so I was able to consider the Report's findings from that perspective. (Still, you don't know me so why trust what I say). When he stated there was nothing to prosecute, he was correct, and should have left it there. But he didn't -he talked of poor old Biden's failing memory as a reason to drop any charges. I contend that was a deliberate effort to further erode our trust in the system, for two reasons; to reinforce the impression that Biden is mentally unfit to hold office for another four years, and to undermine the Smith investigation of Trump.
I would like to remind everyone that the Hur Report covers the actions of Biden back when he was a Senator and then Vice President - years ago. I don't remember anyone questioning his mental acuity back then. There was no reason to include mental acuity observations from today for something that happened 10-15 years ago. I put myself in the same virtual position and tried to remember details of projects I worked on 25 years ago. I can't remember squat about many of them, so much was going on. How many of you remember all the details of college classes you took? I'll wager not many.
Hur's Report also serves to undermine the Smith investigation because it deliberately creates more confusion and uncertainty with the public. Why was Biden let off and Trump is found guilty? (As he will be because the circumstances are so different) They both retained Classified material so obviously are equally guilty, or equally innocent, right? It's got to be political, no? The answer is no. The fundamental difference is Biden cooperated fully with the investigation, and Trump lied and obstructed the investigation (as he is still doing). Had he cooperated back in 2022 and returned the materials to NARA, there would no legal action against him today. But, when he is found guilty, most Americans will not know the details and will be subject to the inevitable cries of injustice and political interference. Smith's team will have to spend a lot more effort explaining the difference to a skeptical public based on the damage done in the Hur Report.
The point of all this is that we all now have to do more work on our own to establish who or what to trust. It's unfortunate, but necessary.
Do not forget that Judge Cannon will play a major part in selecting the jury if and when this case comes to trial! Danger within?
✅️
Her behavior is so egregious and blatantly partial, I think she should be disbarred.
It is alarming how many signature gatherers are in Tucson, AZ right now getting petitions signed to get RFK jr on the ballot as an independent candidate. Each person is paid $5 per signature. AZ is a powerful state in this election. This is a cash heavy move to disrupt the election. Do not support Independents or third party candidates until we have a robust democracy again.
Christi said today on Meet the Press that he wasn’t sure who he would vote for but not 45. And he would probably not vote for Biden. He starts out as a changed man in his politics but he is still making odd choices. I don’t understand why people voting independent or not voting will be taking votes away from Biden. People have some fantasy that it won’t be Biden and 45 running against each other in November. It’s been clear to me all along. Choice is clear to me. Biden must 🏆
I saw that interview. Sounded to me that if either Trump or Biden are sidelined due to health or legal problems, Christie will jump back in as a third party candidate. I like how he attacks Trump, but failing to support Biden makes him a spoiler.
Christie has long carefully examined the field to see which side of it would be most advantageous to him. Sometimes it works, but he gets it wrong a lot of the time. He's at it again. The way I look at him is like the kid who stands at the side of the soccer field pretending to be a player, but can't even get on the bench.
Certainly does.
RFK Jr. paid for a Super Bowl ad. He used audio from a JFK ad from 1960. How can he afford that? Maybe he paid in Rubles.
On "x" formerly Twitter, RFK's cousin, Bobby Shriver wrote (and was supported by his brother, Mark Shriver):
Bobby Shriver
@bobbyshriver
My cousin’s Super Bowl ad used our uncle’s faces- and my Mother’s. She would be appalled by his deadly health care views. Respect for science, vaccines, & health care equity were in her DNA. She strongly supported my health care work at
@ONECampaign & @RED which he opposes.
Nearly every single member of the Kennedy family is opposed to him and has come out in support of President Biden. I understand that he did apologize (on X) to his cousins and said the ad was created by a PAC that legally he is unable to review prior to airing. It sounded disingenuous but then everything he says and does sounds that way.
Yes, I heard Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg's son, Jack, tell him to stop running. RFK Jr. has a lot of issues. Glad to see the Shriver kids standing up.
I saw his ad; it made me feel queasy…
He’s such a discredit to his family!
My first reaction was "But aren't you dead?"
At all events, Jr does not compare well with his forebears. Which isn't to say he can't do a great deal of harm.
Indeed, all it takes is one or two swing states to potentially elect Trump by virtue of the Electoral College. That can happen if a third party candidate in such a state takes even just 1%-2% of the vote away from Biden.
He could have some help from the Koch brothers who are doing anything they can to get Nikki Hayley elected if Trump ends not running.
I smell Putin.
He is everywhere the Republicans are. Except for a few lonely resisters...
Worst ad ever!
It was a PAC that paid for that ad, which was disgusting piggybacking off his family’s history.
Putinpac?
It seems since that was the DNC’s ad for JFK, they should sue him for using it without permission.
RFK,Jr is no Jack Kennedy . . . He isn’t even remotely like his father. I bet the ad clip came from family archives.
You can see my post here on flippable seats. I use ActBlue. The Az part is:
US HOUSE
Kirsten Engel AZ-06
AZ SENATE
Judy Schwiebert Az LD02 Senate
Christine Marsh AZ LD04 Senate
AZ HOUSE
Stephanie Simacek AZ LD02 House
Laura Terech AZ LD04 House
Seth Blattman of LD09 House
Keith Seaman of AZ LD16 House
Your statement “Do Not Support>>>” Excellent. Thanks Bonnie. 🇺🇸
Right! Do not support third party candidates. Here’s a reason not to do so that I learned by attending a Zoom call with Robert Hubbell and David Pepper. Voting for any third party candidate court throw the election in to the hands of the house IF no one candidate gets a majority. This is called a “contingent election,” putting the decision in the hands of the Republicans House, assuming they manage to hold their majority until December.
Don’t do it. As one of those speakers put it, running as a third party candidate in 2024 is selfish since no third party candidate would win. Protest if you want but don’t use your ballot as a protest that has the potential to return DJT to the White House.
Thank you.
Well gearing that makes me wanna vomit.
Is that legal?
A CRUCIAL bit of advice right there.
I have written many, many postcards and letters, and done text banking over the last few years, and plan to crank out as many as I can this time around. It’s satisfying to know I can DO SOMETHING to encourage voters. For people reluctant to get involved but want to see change, this is a good way to participate, because it’s something you can commit a great or little amount of time to, as your life allows. And of course, VOTE!
Texting, yay! So much better. No one answers their phone any longer.
Awesome! How can we volunteer for text banking?
Jessica Craven of ChopWoodCarryWater writes every week day with suggestions for readers to engage. She has lots of text banking initiatives you can participate in. Her website is free.
https://chopwoodcarrywaterdailyactions.substack.com/
If you look up Mobilize.us on the web, you can find your state and local committees and activities that they need help with.
I did it through a local Congressional campaign. I would contact the office of the candidate you want to work for and see if they need volunteers.
The Democratic Party official website has numerous ways to volunteer listed plus lots of other info.
You're not kidding, Karen. Getting out there to effect change makes one feel positive and productive! It's uplifting! It turns the feeling of helplessness on it's head! And it spreads to others!
Thanks, Karen!
I wrote postcards for Suozzi! I hope it helps a little bit.
Marjorie
Me, too! ❤️
Me too!
I started writing postcards in June 2023 and have sent nearly 600 so far— it is something that I can do, and it feels good to be doing SOMETHING !! I’m continuing the postcard effort until we route the MAGA menace from our democracy.
I've also written postcards and have done text banking not just in WI but in other state races where I believed in the candidate. In WI, you have to have a witness signature so I was "on call" during the 2020 election (and during the pandemic) to go to people's homes who may not have had a witness "in house" to sign their mailing envelope (where witness signature is). That was rewarding because I met the voter (face to face or mask to mask) outside their doors to just sign it after they signed it. They still had to mail it as that wasn't allowed. This year, I hope to be involved in registering voters.
600? Wow! Thank you!
Seniors Taking Action, Activate America, and Tomy the Democrat are sources that are working for me. I started with the Ohio abortion referendum and continue to plug on.
Elections are won in the margins. Every new registration, every vote, matters. Commit to one. All the better if you get more.
I will be a poll worker again, 3 times this year, since the Presidential primary is earlier than our state/ city one. There’s always been a shortage of poll workers in the 3 I’ve done so far. PowerThePolls.org got me started. 👍💙🗳️
I was a blue poll watcher in 2020 and really enjoyed being involved. It was so well organized, I hope to do it again in Nov.
I don’t know why he cannot be charged with treason for aiding, abetting and providing comfort to an enemy.
I'm not a lawyer; my understanding is that a treason charge would be extremely difficult if not impossible to prove in court, much more difficult than the charges that Jack Smith brought. Specifically, what treason is _not_ is disloyalty to the United States or pursuit of policies that harm the United States.
Among other considerations is the notion of war. Article III, Section 3, Clause 1 says, "Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
So what is "war"? Courts have addressed this in the past, including Chief Justice John Marshall kicking off the party by narrowing the definition to "Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort." And the legal discussion goes on from there. It's not at all as straightforward as one might think.
Could Smith convince a jury that the insurrection that Inmate P01135809 fomented constituted "war"? Maybe. But maybe it would turn into an endless legal wrangle full of sophistry and semantics and justice would never be served. (As we can all see, even the most open-and-shut issues are turning into endless wrangles due to Inmate P01135809's gaming of the legal system and endlessly throwing meritless legal spaghetti at the wall in hopes that something, somewhere, somehow, will stick.) Maybe it would be a better use of resources and promote a higher chance of a legal resolution, e.g., serve justice, sooner rather than later to go with Smith's chosen course of action.
To use a basketball metaphor, the charges Smith brought, while not exactly slam dunks, are short-range, high-percentage shots. Charging and then having to prove treason would be a long-distance heave from well outside the three-point line.
I'm not arguing any point here, just trying to explain the question as I understand it. If I don't have it quite right, I'd love to be set straight by a legal pro.
https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution-conan/article-3/section-3/clause-1/treason-clause-doctrine-and-practice
https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/articles/article-iii/clauses/39
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/five-myths-about-treason/2017/02/17/8b9eb3a8-f460-11e6-a9b0-ecee7ce475fc_story.html
How about the “aid and comfort” clause? Hope Smith can prove that secret docs were given to both the Saudis and to Netanyahu.
There is no requirement for a guilty verdict on insurrection, not even an indictment. All the amendment needs for auto-application is an honest set of "eyes" looking at the real world in which an insurrection happened.
So trumputin will be All Caponed.
Please, one case! Any case! Can we please get started hauling Trump into court for an actually trial before a jury of his peers? Can we watch him squirm as prosecutors present their case? Again, any case for starters! Please!
YES, several Platforms are tracking Trump civil & criminal Trials 24/7.
Yes please 🙏
Good Monday Mornin' Tutone: I use I use 'Just🏛Security to track "Legal Developments with pithy, fact filled data points & the wider, much wider scope the Platforms' data.
I have already received Just🏛Security's Monday morning "THE EARLY ADDITION;" with following sub-topics:
1. 'Legal Developments", see supra.
2, 'Military Conflict with the Houthis.
3. 'Israel Hams War'
4. 'Israel Hamas War International Response'
5. 'Israel Hamas War, Personal Response"
For Federal & state lawsuits, I go directly to the digital; docket of the Court(s) with jurisdiction which is why I find Professor Vance's work product so valuable as she not only flags important hearings but, post key parts of the motion and/or appellate papers.. : )
I get a great deal of my daily protein from Professors Richardson & Vance. Neal Katyal's "Courtside" is superb as well. Carry on.
Thom Hartmann has excellent well researched newsletters as does Robert Reich.
In 2020 I signed up to be a poll worker. And now I’m the elected Judge of the Election at my polling place. Twice a year I train and ensure that my board follows the rules and runs a fair election in our precinct. It’s little enough that I can do for our democracy. And I wish everyone would sign up to work the polls at least for one cycle. It’s an eye opener, especially for anyone who worries about “election integrity.”
Indeed, working the polls is an eye opener! I've done several cycles going back to pen/ink signatures on the rolls and punch ballots through the technological transition to electronic. There are so many safe-guards built into the system.
Can I do this only in the state I vote in/am registered in? I live in France, but would come back to volunteer and would prefer to help in (more of) a swing state. I am registered in VA which is blue-ish but red-ish too... it is swingy buy maybe not pivotal this year (?)
Check with your local registrar and ask what the rules are. They vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
What I am doing:
1. Despite arthritic hands, I wrote 100 postcards to get out the vote for Suozzi. Despite my personal bias that election literature ends up unread in the shredder 99% of the time, I have been informed that there are data to show that when used in a targeted way, handwritten communications are effective at getting people to vote. It turned out to be very straightforward. Though I had to pace myself, I got all the cards our by the deadline. I am now on board to do more. Many, many, more. As many as it takes between now and November.
2. I am making donations to candidates in key races based on my research and the recommendations of people I trust. I have set a budget and thoughtfully contribute a certain amount a month. I am a senior citizen on the proverbial “fixed income”. I have a few “guilty pleasures” that I am now forgoing until November. The money I don’t spend goes to candidates.
3. It goes without saying, I vote. I am blessed to live in a blue city in a blue state. I take nothing for granted and will show up at the polls to exercise my right to vote. I hope and pray it will not be the last time we are all able to vote.
4. Although I am not willing to sign up to transport strangers to the polls, I have let it be known in my circle of friends and acquaintances that I am available to help with transportation once voting starts.
5. I periodically check in with my young relatives to encourage them to vote. They are understandably busy with their lives. I don’t push it to much. I do provide some context and some perspective. I also encourage them to talk to their friends.
You are doing so much. Thank you on behalf of America🇺🇸🙏💙🗳️
Thank you. Joyce asked us to comment on what we are doing. My point is that we all do what we can.
And it adds up. Thanks for sharing your story. I had to pull back from being as active as I'd hoped, so I'm postcarding too, and talking to people as opportunity allows. I suspect the talking is going to be even more important this year because so many people are feeling discouraged. I stick to the positive because it works better than dissing the opposition. Often people thank me for helping them remember what's important. So even if it's just a few people, it makes a difference. I did run into a person who is deep in conspiracy/misinformation about Covid and how "they" are making too much of it, so I didn't bring up politics. She won't change; not worth wasting the energy. She is a good dog-person, so she made friends with my dog and went her way and I mine.
I was honestly caught off guard- I had not met anyone like that in my town, though I know they exist. I suspect that the right-wing conspiracy people are feeling they can speak up more because of Trump's recent bombast.
That applies to some of the press, too. But in both cases, wait a bit, and read and watch what comes out after the initial noise. It is backfiring on them. Editorials are disappointing and sometimes disgusting, mired in "both-side-ism". But then there are good analysis in the same papers, with some openly breaking with their own editorial boards. I write letters of disappointment to the latter, and thank yous to the writers speaking out.
Excellent! I hadn’t thought about writing letters to editor. I will start. And you are right. Battles must be picked. I have a family member that has gone off the deep end into various conspiracy fantasies. I don’t talk with him about anything but family matters.
Thank you!!
Thank you! I have also written letters and postcards. It was much easier than I had imagined.
I had the same response to the experience. Easy peasy!
I had the same response to the experience. Easy peasy!
I have been canvassing in two CA Central Valley districts, and calling voters in Wisconsin and on Native lands in Arizona. Many wonderful conversations with voters both at the doors and on the phones. Let’s DO this!
Thank you for the WI assistance!
I've done my 2nd 50 postcards, I signed up to be a poll worker and get training this week. I contribute as I can, and I feel a paucity in my efforts. Your nightly letters are a tremendous comfort - I've suggested them to so many people. I'm old. I don't want to have to march in the street in anger after the election. I'm in an easy blue place and despair about the acquaintances I have who feel so differently. There is no excuse for such willful hateful ignorance. We all are in this together, but we need, I need, to do more. Thanks for doing what you do. It makes a difference.
Please Google and donate to “Movement Voter Project” - MVP. They are doing the MOST effective work, on the ground in the critical states, supporting non-profit local folks/young people to get out the vote! PLEASE spend 2 minutes and watch this -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5AAgL2MlHA
I live in France and want to contribute to getting more people out to vote - so much so that I would fly back, rent a car, and drive people... maybe not best use of my time / money vs. just supporting monetarily. And I would prefer to do it in a key swing state. My 'vote' home is VA even though I don't have residence there now.
Andrea, I too am an expat from NY living in Argentina. I’ll be working with Democrats Abroad, an organization that helps fellow expats learn how to vote from out of the US. I’m sure there are many expats who are voting in swing states. Maybe you can get involved; it’s much cheaper than flying back to Virginia!
Thanks for this. I was not aware of them.
Best dollar for dollar investment you can make to beat the MAGA madness. GREAT people! https://movement.vote/
River Run, thanks for this. Did not have this on the list I keep to give to people who want to be involved in getting out the vote in key races. I am impressed with the approach and strategy- just what we need. So I signed up and will get the word out to others as well. It gives context to the other things we are doing.
MVP is run by Billy Wimsatt, a deeply thoughtful tactician and collaborator who builds partnerships with local non-profits and matches donations with locals who know their communities. Significant focus on college students, with trainings for leaders to GOTV - literally, your $ goes to provide gas money, sandwiches, marking pens and poster board to help the students organize effectively! A HUGE part of this effort is VOLUNTEER.