Democratic Norms

Obama Condemns Trump’s Presidency: Double Standard Revealed

In a recent address at Hamilton College, former President Obama sharply criticized President Trump’s actions. He highlighted Trump’s attempts to dismantle the federal government, suppress dissent, and restrict the free press, arguing such behavior would have been met with far greater outrage had it been committed by previous administrations. Obama specifically cited Trump’s targeting of lawyers, universities, and news organizations as examples of an alarming disregard for fundamental American rights. He emphasized his concern not just for economic repercussions of Trump’s policies, but primarily for the erosion of democratic norms and the violation of civil liberties.

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Harris and Obama Warned Us About Trump: Were They Right?

Kamala Harris and Michelle Obama accurately predicted numerous aspects of a second Trump presidency. Their warnings, delivered repeatedly and with specific examples, included forecasts of escalating attacks on political opponents, economic instability through tariffs and potential cuts to social programs, and a disregard for democratic norms and the rule of law. These predictions are now demonstrably true, as evidenced by Trump’s actions and policies since returning to the political stage. The consequences of these actions, including rising prices and political polarization, directly contradict the promises made during his campaigns.

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Al Green’s Call for Righteous Incivility: Is Civil Disobedience Necessary to Save Democracy?

Following his protest during President Trump’s address, Congressman Al Green faces calls from House Republicans to lose his committee assignments. Green defends his actions, emphasizing his commitment to fighting for the needs of everyday Americans against what he sees as unjust treatment by billionaires. He argues that fairness requires not only just policies, but also policies that appear just. His protest highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of political action against perceived injustices.

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Trump’s Economic Incompetence: Proof, Again

President Trump’s second inauguration marks a significant shift, with a compliant establishment supporting his agenda and key figures like Stephen Miller and Russell Vought poised to implement policy changes. The presence of Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos at the inauguration highlights the influence of powerful media figures aligned with Trump. The Washington Post’s recent changes, including a new tagline and internal turmoil, raise concerns about its commitment to journalistic integrity. This confluence of factors suggests a potential erosion of democratic norms and increased media control favoring the President.

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Former Presidents’ Silence on Trump: Betrayal or Pragmatism?

The relative silence of former presidents on the current political climate is causing significant dismay among some Democrats. Many feel a strong condemnation from these figures would be a powerful counterweight to the prevailing political narrative.

This perceived lack of vocal opposition is especially frustrating given the warnings issued by these same former presidents before the election. Many believe that their previous pronouncements, highlighting the potential dangers of a specific political trajectory, were largely ignored by the electorate.

The argument that these ex-presidents have already done their part – issuing warnings that ultimately went unheeded – is frequently raised. The suggestion is that their continued pronouncements would be unproductive, amounting to little more than a repetitive “I told you so.”… Continue reading

Trump Demands Republicans Break with Senate Tradition, Pushing for Recess Appointments

President-elect Trump has demanded that the next Senate Republican leader agree to recess appointments, a tactic that allows the president to bypass the traditional Senate confirmation process. Trump argues that recess appointments are necessary to fill crucial positions within his administration quickly, citing delays experienced during his previous term. He has also urged Republicans to block Democrats from confirming judges during this period of transition. These demands mark a significant departure from the usual norms of Senate confirmation and may create tension between the president-elect and the incoming Senate majority leader.

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Top Texas Republicans fume over House Speaker win, claim election was stolen

I have been closely following the recent events surrounding the Texas Republicans’ reactions to the House Speaker win and the claims of a stolen election. What strikes me the most is the constant victim mentality and refusal to accept defeat gracefully within the party. The allegations of election theft and cries of foul play are becoming all too common amongst the GOP, especially in cases where their preferred candidate does not emerge victorious.

The idea that Dade Phelan, a fellow Republican, relied on Democrats’ votes to secure his win in the Republican runoff is being painted as a scandal, with claims that the election was stolen.… Continue reading