SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 6 March 2022

Take some time and have a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the political news stories of interest all laced with my commentary. Why? What the heck else are you going to do on a Sunday Morning? Ahead of the snark: We had some vicious storms roll through Central Iowa last night resulting in the deaths of several. Gov. Reynolds did offer an emergency proclamation. 

Ukraine

The fighting continues but the aid is not enough nor, does it seem, the sanctions against the dictator Putin have not yet taken him down. Today there are reports that the Russian people are quickly turning to China for credit cards. Meanwhile the Russians continue to be bogged down in many areas so Putin has ordered the obliteration of cities and towns. Think Aleppo during the push to retain Assad yet another brutal dictator. This is what it has come to.  Meanwhile Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) this past week said somebody in Russia should "take him out", speaking of Putin. The saber rattling is getting real.  There is now also a request from Ukraine to "lend it" some fighter jets and France is considering the plan.

The human toll there is awful and are we doing enough? (Image: BBC News)

State of the Union

Yes, I watched the entire event including the ramblings of the Republican response squeaked by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. President Biden did, in my view, a masterful job in not only speaking about Russia but also laying out his domestic plans step, by, step. Then, following his address Reynolds, who clearly did not listen to the speech or know what was in it, used typical GOP talking points and simply lied. Of course she is auditioning to become the VP choice for a second run at the presidency by her idol "45" so it all fits.  Lie enough and people will believe you.  Awful to be an Iowan these days.  I'm not sure who came up with this photo but it is clearly spot on. If you want to read what it says, just click the image. Well done!

Gas Rationing

Recently I've seen, on Facebook, the whining of people about the price of gas. One, who once did the weather on a local TV station bemoaned, "Like 81 million people voted for this..." With an image of gas being sold for close to $5 a gallon. Like his guy would have done better?  Well, he would have lied about everything and some people can be duped.

This got me to thinking about the war and whining about gas. During WWII there was gas rationing which, if implemented today would drive down the use of gas and allow us to export oil and gas to Europe. Then you too would have some "skin in the game".  So, how did it work?  Check this from Hemmings Motor News:

"Americans needed fuel for their cars in order to get to work, so a system was developed and implemented to regulate the purchase of gasoline. Car owners were issued a Gasoline Ration Card—like the one shown here—that had One Unit tabs on the bottom that were punched when used. Along with the card, a windshield sticker with a specific letter was issued. The most popular was an “A” card/sticker that allowed the car owner to purchase about 4 gallons of gas each week. If you were employed in a factory that supported the war effort, you were issued a “B” card, while doctors, nurses, farm and construction workers, and mail employees were issued a “C” card, each of which allowed them to buy up to 8 gallons of gas per week. There were other specific cards, too, such as an “X” card for members of Congress, “E” for emergency vehicles, “R” for non-highway farm vehicles, and “T” for truckers."

And, today with all the technology we have might it work?  Sure...  But I know we ain't going there it would be too much of a disruption and we have more important things to do like drive around aimlessly. (Image Hemmings Motor News)

Good News for Deidre DeJear

The Des Moines Register this morning released the latest Iowa Poll regarding the race for governor. It surprised me. According to the numbers the liar who resides at Terrace Hill leads Diedre by only eight points.  That, my friends is astounding given the low visibility and name recognition of DeJear. 

Digging deeper into the numbers the GOP and Democratic voters are pretty even in their support for their parties candidate. It is the unreliable "Independents" who sway with the wind. Frankly, I've never understood how somebody would register as an "Independent". What? Can't make up your mind?  Anyway, this is where it gets tough for Deidre as 49% support Reynolds while 41% support DeJear. But still...that's not too bad at this point given, again, the high visibility of Reynolds who is...everywhere.

Meanwhile DeJear continues to press the "kitchen table issues" Iowans want from a leader. Her passion, wit and love of this state is solid and, when she finds a place to talk about it, she shines.  This ain't over by a long shot. Join me, today in supporting her by donating to her campaign. Chip in a couple of bucks and take a stand.  You can do this. 

Admiral Mike Franken

Well now things have gotten shaken up a bit over at the Franken for U.S. Senate race. Last week the campaign changed up leadership and hired veteran campaign operative Julie Stauch. For those of you who may not know her Julie was the political director for now Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg when he was running for president in 2019.  And...as you know, Pete won the Iowa Caucus ahead of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

I can't spill the beans but I do know the campaign will take on new energy and will push out in many directions to bring this home in June Watch my friends.

Partly Personal

I was almost in "Facebook Jail" this past week. Anger about what was going on in Ukraine prompted me to say something quite bad about the Russians. I should have directed my insult to Putin. I took responsibility and said "I'm sorry..." But the lesson was great. So there old dogs can learn...

Busy week ahead with a city council meeting on Monday. I'm really liking our new mayor, Mike Jones. There is a movement being discussed about local ID cards. There are some folks living among us that do not, for some reason, have a government issued identification card. So, it's hard to get a bunch of things from a checking account to a library card (depending on the city). So, the idea is that various communities can issue ID cards. The details are yet to get worked out but this is the kind of progressive thinking our Mayor does.  Bravo!

Finally, I've been asked to moderate a candidate forum in Clive on Tuesday evening. The event will take place at 515 Brewery and will feature the candidates running to fill a city council seat that had been appointed but the people of Clive rose up and demanded a special election. Good for them.  Beer and politics Tuesday evening...nothing better.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

Sunday Morning Coffee 19 April 2020

Grab a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee a mix of politics and, sometimes, a dash of religion. What could go wrong...right? Here are the news stories you have seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. Why? I dunno it's just what I've been doing early each Sunday Morning for...years.  Let's Go!

Liberate America

I'm in. We should, at all costs, liberate America from the wackjobs. I knew this was coming weeks ago as some of my friends on the far right started in about how their "freedoms are being trampled by the police state". Oh yeah...it's real and totally predictable. Here is the next shoe to drop. It's not going to take long for several "good ol' boy" bars to start opening and that will create a powder keg of trouble. If you're not tuned into what these people talk about...it's scary. Right now, today there are Tweets being put out that call for armed resistance. For example take a gander at this screen shot. 

The author, Matt Couch, says in his profile: "Christian, Father of 2, Investigator, FounderThe DC Patriot & America First Media"  And, there are many, many more just like him.

Christian

Which brings up this: Over the years I've noticed that the vast majority of individuals who self identify in their social media profiles as "Christian" seem to be anything but. Maybe I'm missing something in the doctrine but being mean, spiteful and bigoted are not words that one might equate to "Christian".  But, what do I know....

Best Caption

Meanwhile the best caption I saw for this image was, "A group of men protest being told what to do with their bodies".

Fits...right?

The Photo

You may have seen this photo being shared on social media. The photo is real but the caption is misleading. Many have reported this image to be from the GOP endorsed demonstration in Michigan last week. It's not. The image is actually from Bosie, Idaho and was taken as supporters of the president staged a counter demonstration against Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) who was there for a rally. Just trying to stay real. If you want to read the story here is a link to Snopes.

But, it would seem birds of a feather...yes? 

USS Theodore Roosevelt 

We've all heard about how the captain was dismissed and the dust-up that followed but something that you may have missed. While there are well over 600 crew members who have tested positive for COVID-19 the majority of them are asymptomatic. Underscoring the issue that people with the virus, who feel just fine, can spread it. Which is why, my "Liberate" friends, we are being told to hunker down.

Meanwhile there are reports that Capt. Brett Crozier may be returning to duty aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. That according to the New York Times.

Drawing Lines

There are difficulties in "drawing lines in the sand". The main problem is that sand can be rather "fluid". Ya draw a line in the sand and the wind blows or the water reaches it and "poof" it's gone.

Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is learning this lesson one line at a time.  Each time she draws a line in the sand when it comes to the COVID-19 outbreak in Iowa the line gets moved or erased. That's not leadership...it's just drawing lines. OK, I know, many of you think she is doing a wonderful job at her line drawing but, rather than misleading the public maybe she should just tell the truth. Flirting with re-opening our society and failing to call for more stringent regulations is pure politics. Maybe she's angling for a White House run?  After all the GOP did give us Sarah Palin.

Partly Personal

Sorry, but you're only getting half-a-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee this week. I've got a list as long as my bride's arm of stuff to do today. While she may still be sleeping I'm making lists.  But first a couple of observations.

Recently I went out to a couple of grocery stores. I was struck by how different Aldi is treating customers how HyVee is treating the pandemic. At Aldi they have two people, outside, cleaning grocery carts and then counting the people going into the store. Once inside there is a person greeting shoppers and reminding them to stay travel in only one direction, stay at least eight feet away from the other shoppers and if you miss a product you wanted to purchase don't "backtrack" but ask an employee to go and get the item you want.

Meanwhile HyVee is also cleaning carts but and directing traffic but its much more haphazard. People are not really paying attention to the "One Way" signs on the floor...or so it seemed.  I get it that the typical HyVee store is so much larger than Aldi and this isn't a dig...just an observation.

It's coming up on "Yard Sign" time. Getting some Libbie for Iowa signs out and thank you to the folks who have volunteered their space. I really appreciate it.  And, if you want more about the campaign for the Iowa State Senate head over to my website LibbieForIowa.com and have a look. And, if you can...I would welcome any donation to the cause.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 22 March 2020

Shaved, showered and in the office before 6:00AM. Yikes!  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the political (and sometimes religious) news you may have seen or missed all laced with my commentary. Why? Because it's what I get to do and have been for well over a decade. BTW: Thanks to all of you who have been faithful readers forever. OK, let's go!

No Words

It escapes me how rudderless our nation is. Every day the president gets up to present an "update" on Covid-19 and every day his staff or the real leaders in the room have to walk-back or "clarify" what he just said. Last week was a real trip when NBC White House correspondent, Peter Alexander asked the president what he would say to Americans who are "scared". What happened next was astonishing as "45" lit into Alexander. Instead of answering, the president responded by rejecting the question ("nasty"), attacking Alexander ("terrible"), and assailing NBC News' parent company Comcast ("Con-Cast").

Trouble was the question was what we call a "softball". Alexander was lobbing a question that would have allowed the president to be, well, presidential. But, as usual..."45" failed.  When the very same question was put to Vice President Pence, the very same question, Pence answered it with calming tones. (Image - NBC News)

Fox News About Face

I have friends who accuse me of never paying attention to their favorite network. "I bet you've never even seen Fox News!" and "Me? I play Fox News 24/7 it's the only news I trust. I wish you would too, you might learn something." Little do they know that I do pay attention...big secret kids...I'm in the news reporting business so, yes, I do pay attention. 

Two stunning developments over the past three weeks: 1) The talking heads on Fox have gone from denying the seriousness of Covid-19 to declaring it real and a danger. You, no doubt, have seen the tape. 

No wonder my Fox loving friends have, for weeks, disputed the danger. 

Fox News Part Two

And, this one is also pretty good. This morning Fox News had this breathless headline, "Cuomo's Coronavirus TV Briefings May Have Biden, Sanders Worried" with this lead: "Have Democrats found an alternative to Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders for the party's 2020 presidential nomination?" 

Uhm, the answer is..."No" but it does sow some hope in the minds of those who are scared to death that their great leader will go down in November to (gasp) a Democrat.

Two Weeks Behind

Meanwhile why is Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) always two weeks behind in her handling of the Iowa outbreak? At first I figured she was taking her ques from Fox News but lately it's becoming clear that she may be hoping this will all go away. Here is what she should be doing: 1) Call on the National Guard to implement more bed capacity it's what they do, 2) Take a lesson from Washington State and start, now, taking over additional bed space in hotels, casinos, etc. 3) Put the state on a lock-down as has been done in other states.

I get it she does not want to panic the public but...guess what...they already are.

Meanwhile this pandemic is accelerating a divide in our state and nation. Those that can "work from home" are doing so but there are thousands of individuals who can not. In addition we have a vast homeless population where "staying isolated" is not an option. Homeless shelters and workers there are in grave danger. Maybe I missed it...but what's the plan there?

Hand Sanitizer

I've gotta ask: So if a number of Iowa distilleries can produce gallons of the stuff and hand it out for free where is the commercial grade stuff? I get it that panicked citizens have hoarded it in their garage (along with boxes of toilet paper) but...seriously? Folks that usually make booze seem to be able to get this done and long lines of people show up to get a bottle in places like West Des Moines and Cedar Rapids. Good PR for them but still...

BTW just what the hell are you folks going to do with all that toilet paper? Really. The other day I watched two women fighting over the last package of 24 rolls...

Guns & Ammo

Folks are also hoarding ammunition. Last week we had a story about how retail centers are running out of ammo as worried citizens rush out to buy what they can. Because I'm sort of curious about that I called a couple of folks I know who might have been among those stocking up. When I asked "Why?" this was my answer: "I've got to be prepared. You know once they shut down the grocery stores I've gotta protect my stuff from looters."  Nah, governor...nobody out here is panicked at all.

The Republican Primary

Usually my friends in the GOP march lock-step together however I recently learned that in Iowa State Senate District 22 there will be a primary. District 22 is made up of Clive, Waukee, West Des Moines and Windsor Heights...and yep, I'm a Democrat running there. Anyway, on the final day candidates could announce a woman by the name of Porsha Hart filed. Porsha lives in Waukee and is challenging the current mayor of Clive.

Iowa Restaurants

Yesterday I interviewed Jessica Dunker the President/CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association about that industry and the hit it is taking because of Covid-19. I'll air that segment tomorrow but here are some stunning take-a-ways: 

• There are 155,000 restaurant workers in Iowa;
• Second largest employment group in the state (Healthcare #1);
• Roughly 80,000 of those people are now unemployed.

And that is in the first week. She told me that if you are unemployed due to closures that the Iowa has waived penalties and you should, immediately, file for unemployment. In addition she is working on finding a way for restaurant owners who have business disruption insurance being able to make a claim. It seems that pandemics are not covered. What this will take would be a waiver and then the federal government to step in and assist. Stay tuned.

Partly Personal

I am on the phone a ton. I make at least fifty to sixty calls each day, sometimes more. I've noticed something interesting. Phone calls that might have taken three or four minutes to complete are now stretching seven to ten minutes in length. This isn't scientific but it is, I think, a reaction to people wishing to stay connected.

I've taken part in a number of Zoom conferences last week. One was with leadership from the Iowa Democratic Party on strategic ways in which to engage voters ahead of the primary election in June and the general election in November. Lots of ideas and there needs to be as we are restricted in voter contact including speaking opportunities and door-to-door canvassing. It's a whole new world. But, we must continue to work, daily, on voter interaction. I know I've ramped up not only calls but also other ways to introduce myself to voters and share the message that we must...must find ways to work for working families in Iowa. If you are interested here is my website.

Finally, on Friday night my friend Max Wellman held a "virtual jazz session" from Noce a great club in Des Moines. He and bassist Steve Charlston and singer Tina Haase Findlay performed for three hours on a live stream from the club. And, yes, people watched. During the event there were over 300 people tuned in to watch and listen. That, by the way, is more people than what the club holds. It was very cool. There are a number of these virtual sessions going on and it was great that some "locals" could also join in. Thank you.

Thanks for reading and stay well.

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 8 March 2020

Welcome to Daylight Savings Time or "What the hell happened? All of my watches are wrong!" It's Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the political stories you may have seen (or missed) and my running commentary. It's what I do rather than sleeping in. Let's go

Coronavirus

Two words, it's everywhere. And you know it must be a natural disaster of some type when the president shows up in the same outfit he was wearing when he visited Puerto Rico and passed out paper towels. I have it on high authority that the White House calls this clothing choice, "Casual Presidential Lying Gear".  When people die this guy shows up with paper towels or, like last week, shares with the world that he has a special "knack" for coronavirus.

As they said last night on Saturday Night Live, "We're all gonna die."

Coronavirus 2.0

Last week I gave you a long explanation about the economy and the impact this virus is having and will have on our economy. I'll not do that again this week however, when close to 70% of our economic growth is created by consumers and not major corporations and if all you're doing is raiding Costco for hand sanitizer and disinfectant but not going to events, traveling for business, eating out. Yeah, you get it. When they cancel SXSW and hold NCAA games without spectators.  You get the picture.

But, the president has it all under control. Comforting...huh?

Joni Ernst

This morning I read the Iowa Poll that indicates Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) is underwater when it comes to her approval rating which in this poll stands at 41%. Also that nobody seems to know the people who are lined up to run against her. (Does the word weary come to mind?) Image: Iowa Starting Line

But, that's not the most shocking thing the Des Moines Register has in the story. The quotes they picked up were, well... I'll let you decide:

Take, for example, Kerri Christian who is a registered Democrat lives in Cedar Point, is 62 and is open to voting for Ernst. From the article:

"She is looking for someone to show they can stand up to Trump, whom she believes will be re-elected in the fall." 'You have to get people in there who are willing to take him on,' she said. If that’s Joni, then that’s Joni.”

Go ahead, read that again...and pass a joint.

But, wait...there's more:

Blake McSarling, a 34-year-old Ottumwa resident, said he’s seen little about the Senate race so far but hopes Democrats nominate U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) for president. McSarling, a registered Democrat, voted for Trump in 2016 but now wonders if that was the right call.

“I’m looking for somebody down to earth,” he said of the Senate race. “Somebody who’s not been in politics forever — somebody who’s kind of outside of it, who has goals for regular people, not just for industry.”

Dear Mr. McSarling: None of the Democratic candidates have ever held a local or district or state-wide position. Hell, none of them have ever, to my knowledge, sat on a city council.

I've said this on more than one occasion. If I ever get in trouble with the law and I'm innocent I want a bench trial. If I'm guilty I'll take a jury... Yikes!

It would seem that the GOP cuts in education are working.

In case you were wondering, Iowa ranks 27th in the nation on per pupil school spending. Nice to be so...mediocre. Here are the stats. 

Elizabeth Warren

She made an appearance on Saturday Night Live. Great clip to view click here. I, like many others, was surprised at her poor showing on Super Tuesday. I have friends who worked hard on her campaign and, judging from the social media posts, many sat down and cried. At the same time I see disparaging remarks about Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and former Vice President Joe Biden with commentators and talking heads bemoaning the fact that there are "...just two old white guys still standing". 

It's called...voting. And when you look at the exit polling from Super Tuesday (Here are the results from FiveThirtyEight) you'll notice that women failed to vote for Sen. Warren. From the article:

"37 percent of white women were late deciders, more than any other group broken down by race and gender. As a whole, they made up 43 percent of late deciders, and 50 percent of them backed Biden. Though this was in line with the overall support for Biden among late deciders, the sheer number of white women (the single largest voting bloc on Super Tuesday) made it a key late-deciding group for Biden."

Thoughts?

Meanwhile Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) has announced that she will endorse Biden.

Jews and Iowa

My devout Christian friends were all over HF2504 which singled out anti-semitic talk as hate speech and in committee time after time indicated that "Jews were the chosen people..."  Oh please!  What a flawed piece of legislation. To my knowledge there was not one Jew called to discuss this in committee and if they had been I am sure they would have pointed out the discrimination and hate speech that goes on each day directed to Muslims. Let alone the vitriol that is spewed against other groups. But hey if the Family Leader, ALEC and the Ames Chamber are all for it.  BTW it did pass the house on a 51-45 vote.

Weary...  

Partly Personal

What time is it anyway?

I've got a puppy in my lap as I type...so there.

OK, gotta get this out. Much to get done today including attending the opening of an office for Congresswoman Cindy Axne (D-IA) in West Des Moines this evening at 5PM.

Another day of campaigning. In case you had not heard here is that website and should you be moved to help out and chip in here is that link.  Sure you can send a check.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 23 February 2020

The headlines late last night declared Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) crushed the Democratic Field in Nevada. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee. Some politics with a dash of religion and now coming at you for over 12 years. You may agree or disagree with my opinions. That's OK they are simply my opinions. As always I'd love to hear your thoughts. So, enough already...let's get started!

Nevada

Let me play this one out for you. Sen. Sanders wins with 47% of the vote. Joe Biden is second with 18% and the rest of the pack lag a bit. Then Mayor Pete uses his post Nevada Caucus address to skewer Sanders. Ladies and Gentlemen if you would please gather around because it is now time to form the Circular Firing Squad.

It's what we do.

I was having this conversation just yesterday with a lobbyist. Here is what was said, "You know, the Democrats really do have some great ideas for moving Iowa forward but it seems that, too often, egos or turf gets in the way and people that should be on the same page start throwing grenades at each other. You don't see that among the Republicans. For example, if the Farm Bureau says XYZ is good for agriculture or the economy the GOP falls into line." It's not the same with us. We like to say we have a "Big Tent" but if that tent does not survive the storm...

I know democrats who, right now no matter how bad "45" has been for this nation, say they will not vote for the eventual nominee because it is not THEIR nominee. Be very careful at what you wish for.

Russia

Well now it looks like the Russians really, really want "45" to win a second term and, according to U.S. intelligence, the effort is on. The question is "Why?" and the answer is that, other than Putin being the man love of this president, Russia wins when we are fighting each other. The news is also out that Russia really likes Sanders. Why? Because of the same reason discontent among the electorate. So if a foreign government wants Candidate X or Candidate Y to win...interesting eh?

Socialism

One final thought. Americans elected a socialist president to four terms in office. We were in the midst of the Great Depression and voters turned to Franklin D. Roosevelt a wealthy guy from New York who led this country out of economic chaos and out of a world war. In doing so President Roosevelt passed sweeping socialist changes to the fabric of this nation. In the end those rights and privileges that went to the working families created the most admired country on the planet. So successful that when WWII ended rather than punish our enemies we actually went to work with the Marshall Plan to build back their economies. 

Well before Iowa the knives were out equating socialism with communism. It's what a dumbed-down electorate does. They are not the same thing and never have been. Yet watch, you will hear more about how evil socialism is...mostly because we have a very short memory of what good it did for so many.

Joe Biden

With all of that said one might think that I've switched horses and climbed on the Bernie Bandwagon. I have not. I still like Joe for many, many reasons most of them have to do with leadership, compassion and a record of actually doing what many are suggesting. When I made this decision I did so with the input of several people I admire. Being a candidate you don't want everybody else angry with your decision and I could have stayed out. However the best advice I received was from a former governor of Iowa who said, "Michael, Iowans are good people and they would rather have a senator who tells them the truth rather than tell them what they want to hear." I'll go with it.

Funnel Week in Iowa

It's always a flurry of activity. Years ago I took vacation time to head to the Iowa State Senate to hang out with my mentor Sen. Joe Coleman (D-Claire). That was in the day when members of both parties ate together, played cards together and...yes...had a few drinks together. Security was not like today and because I was attached to the "Dean of the Senate" I pretty much had the freedom to go wherever. Great times with some really interesting folks.

Funnel Week today, with both houses controlled by the GOP, becomes a playground against working families and for corporations and those with a narrow view of what is right and fair.  

True the "Religious Freedom" bill didn't advance but it doesn't mean it is dead. The Republican Party has an issue with folks from the LGBTQ Community and they will bring it back. .

Something that did survive also touched on that icky thing about sex. The Sexual Abuse Statue of Limitations (SSB 3032) survived. Surprising in the fact that it is the GOP who have been busy spending your tax money paying impressive legal fees and penalties for abuse under the Golden Dome. You might have thought they wished to bury that one.

Of course the GOP continues their assault on the rights of women. From abortion facilities licensing to an amendment to the Constitution that reverses a 2018 Iowa Supreme Court ruling that found women have a constitutional right to an abortion to "Fetal Death Certificates" to warnings about medical abortion (suggesting it can be reversed when there is no medical evidence that is possible). 

And of course guns. SF 2224 says people with nonprofessional permits to carry can bring concealed pistols or revolvers into a school district driveway or parking lot.  Remember you can also carry into the Statehouse. But...if you have a pocket knife it will be taken away. Oy....

There are lots and lots of things here and one of the more egregious is the failure of the Iowa State Legislature to help protect residents who live in mobile home parks. Iowa has been awash with reports of out-of-state owners hiking rental rates and kicking people out of their homes. Yet, in true GOP style, the legislature wishes to shield corporations from "over-reaching legislation" rather than protecting Iowans who may not be among the rich and powerful.

And, never mind what they have in store for public education. November 2020 can not come soon enough.

Partly Personal

Sorry for the long rant. Lots of stuff going on.  

If one reads or sees the news one would believe that the only things that comes out of the African American Community are drug deals, homicides, welfare issues and abject poverty. The positive stories rarely make the news and that's too bad. Last night there was a celebration of positive news and education as the Zeta Kappa Lambda Educational Foundation presented scholarships to several amazing young people who are determined do good. 

Scholarships were given to students from Ankeny Centennial High School, Hoover High School, Lincoln High School, Roosevelt High School and Valley High School. And the speeches by the students were amazing. Active in their school, community and organizations that lift up the good
in all people is truly something to celebrate. My thanks to my friend Sam Reed who is on the Black & Gold committee and to the people of the Foundation that make dreams come true.  The image is just some of the winners of valuable scholarships last night.

OK...oh one last thing. Georgie worked the Bike World Warehouse Sale yesterday (and today) so she was not going to be able to attend the Black & Gold Ball with me. So I had to find another date.

I think it worked out all right. As I was saying to friends last night, "But remember she is only eleven and in sixth grade." Yikes!

Finally, if you have a mind to help. Here is my campaign website. Support and donations are always very, very welcome!

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 22 December 2019

Gather around my friends for a fresh cup of Sunday Morning Coffee. The political news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary.  It's what I get to do while others are sleeping.  Let's go.

The Reelection 

The polls out over the past two days indicate that "45" may be reelected in November of 2020. A CNN Poll and a Five-Thirty Eight poll both indicate that the approval rating of the president is on the increase. While the indication is that former Vice President Biden still leads in a head-to-head poll it's troubling that in some key battleground states that went heavy for "45" in 2016 are shaping up to once again bring us an election where the presidency is decided by the Electoral College rather than by the popular vote.

Meanwhile the Democrats

The same polls indicate voters are uneasy with the Democrats running. The polls could be the result of inter-party scuffling as candidate ramp up the attacks on each other.  Respondents to the polls say they are being positively impacted by the economy and they fear the Democrats will ruin the ride.

Two comforting thoughts just ahead of Christmas.

The Economy is Wonderful!

That's what I get to report on each day. If you watch and report on the business news you can get caught up in the idea that everybody is doing great. We've never had so much money. Disposable income is at an all time high and just yesterday on Super Saturday the projected sales numbers topped those of Black Friday not in millions but in billions. 

Something just doesn't seem right and if you look deeper you'll see that American Shoppers are loading up their purchases on ever expanding credit. Sort of like we did eleven years ago before the Great Recession. In fact the 128 U.S. households now have credit card debt that exceeds $1 trillion. A Federal Reserve Report indicates that credit card debt is rising. In October alone credit card debt was up 8.8% over what was owed in September and that number is expected to grow during the holiday shopping season.

It is to this back-drop that the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II will bring The Poor People's Campaign to Des Moines Iowa on Wednesday, January 15 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the First Christian Church located in the Drake University Neighborhood. It is also the actual birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

See you there.

And There Is This

Just in time for the holidays: US Steel has announced 1,545 layoffs at two plants in Michigan. Last year, 5 executives at US Steel received on average a compensation package of $4.8M, a 53 percent increase from 2017.

See a pattern here?

Impeachment

Yes...next? One thing looks certain. This will drag into next year while so many Americans are gearing up for the Iowa Caucus and the Democratic Primaries. Hang on.

We Love to Hate

Or so it would seem. Just this past week a woman in the Des Moines, Iowa suburb of Clive intentionally left the roadway with her vehicle and hit a young girl walking on the sidewalk. The reason? The police there say 42 year old Nicole Poole Franklin said she targeted the girl because the girl "is Mexican".

The Des Moines Register reported that my friend Joe Henry, president of the League of United Latin American Citizens Council No. 307 said racist attacks have been on the rise since "45" was elected. FBI says hate crimes against Latinos have risen by 13% over one year and if you look back at the past five years hate crimes against Latinos have soared upward by 48%.

Meanwhile, just this weekend, two young men stabbed to death outside of a bar in Nashville, TN (one the brother of former University of Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard) and 12 people shot at a house party in Chicago. And, that is just a tiny sample of the violence that happens every day here. 

Michael Franken

When former Navy Admiral Michael Franken announced he was running for the United States Senate and attempt to beat Sen.Joni Ernst (R-IA) in November of 2020 I had one of those, "Who is he?" moments. 

Last week I had the chance to sit down with Mike Franken for an extended interview which will air today in the 11AM hour on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. (I'll also post it on Insight on Business the News Hour later this week.) I was greatly impressed. Franken faces an uphill battle for traction considering that the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee endorsed my friend Theresa Greenfield way back in June.

But...and you knew that was coming...a growing group of voters have taken issue with that early endorsement saying it smacks of the same issue voters had in 2016 when the Democratic National Committee fully and early on endorsed Sec. Hillary Clinton over Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

Having said that you really should take some time to hear him out on the issues. And, if you want, that can start this morning. You can live-stream the interview by heading to the KXEL website link...above.

Partly Personal

Family was in town this past weekend and it was wonderful. All six grand-children the parents and my brother. It was a heartwarming. It was also a bit different. During the flurry of opening gifts nobody was taking a photo. Back in the day that was what we did. Now that the kids are getting older maybe it's not so...cute?  I dunno but it was, I thought, remarkable.

But we did get photos!  My good friend Lauren Campbell of Lauren Campbell Photography came over and took a bunch of shots. I keep telling her that she is my local "Pete Souza".  Thank you so much Lauren! Lauren has been a wonderful friend and advisor.  Thanks again! 

Tonight we'll light the first of the eight Chanukah Candles. If you want a bit of insight on that holiday here is the blog from my congregation Adas Israel based in Mason City, Iowa. Enjoy and Happy Chanukah!

Thank you to those of you who came to chat a bit about guns and gun violence during he event yesterday in West Des Moines. I know it's a busy time of the year and grateful that you took some time out of your busy schedule. Be looking for my next event later in January as I continue these "Listening Posts" right up until the November Election. For more about that campaign here is my website, Libbie for Iowa.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday and, once again... Happy Chanukah! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 22 September 2019

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly piece on some of the political stories you may have seen, or missed, and laced with my commentary. Heads up, this is going to be a shorter cup...I have two events to cover today. One is the youth forum at a local high school with several presidential candidates and the other is a health care conversation with Bernie Sanders. Hey, always working and learning it would seem.

The President of the United States

We all know "45" is dirty and I'm not going to spend a bunch of time on him. It's enough to say this is the most corrupt person, next to Andrew Johnson, to ever become president. It is a shame and disgrace that this person is the leader of our great nation. We've never seen anything like it and, hopefully, never will again. In an interview, just yesterday, I was asked what I thought were the two most pressing issues that we need to address. I said that health care and repairing our standing on the world stage are critical for moving forward. One addresses the root cause for financial ruin and the other addresses how this president has trashed our reputation world-wide.

Bill de Blasio

I may have been the only person on the planet to have been dismayed that Mayor de Blasio pulled out of the 2020 race. I met him twice over the past several months and enjoyed the conversation and the interviews. I also know how much the NYC media hate him. Saw it first hand when they lied about an event he was at in Des Moines and listened to them "bad-mouth" the mayor when the microphones were off. I remember I asked the reporter about it and she said, "It's what we do in New York."  Anyway, the Polk County Steak Fry had one less candidate speaking yesterday.

The Polk County Steak Fry

It was a big deal. A really big deal that took organizers months of work to pull off. That a county party could put together an event with 16 presidential candidates and feed nearly 12,000 people was extraordinary. An army of Democrats volunteered to do everything from parking cars to serving the food, to cleaning up the tables, to transporting people around Water Works Park. It was a tremendous success. The folks in this photo Judy Downs, Sean Bagniewski, Peter Crane and Lindsay Paulson were the leadership team for the event and they were joined by hundreds more. It was a true team effort. This was the third year since the Polk County Democrats resurrected the Tom Harkin Steak Fry and it was truly the best yet. Thank you to everyone who worked their ass off to make this happen. People will talk about it for...at least a year...right?

Mental Health in Iowa

Is on life support. Today, in an exclusive interview with Peggy Huppert of NAMI-Iowa you'll learn how under funded and convoluted our mental health care system really is. While we blame everything from mass shootings to domestic abuse on mental health wouldn't you think we might seriously start to properly fund and pay for mental health care?  One would think. The 24 minutes conversation will air in on News/Talk 1540 KXEL this afternoon at about 2:35PM Central. You can hear it by going to www.KXEL.com or, if you have a smart speaker, "Hey, Google/Alexa, play KXEL Radio!".  If you miss it you'll be able to catch it this week on my newscast, "Insight on Business the News Hour".  This really is an important issue and serves as the basis for my policy on mental health in Iowa.

Jack Hatch

After several weeks of push polling former gubernatorial candidate and former state senator Jack Hatch has entered the race for Mayor of Des Moines. Clearly well funded, Jack has the backing of some very influential brothers, Mitch Henry and Joe Henry. I saw Mitch working the Jack Hatch Booth at the Polk County Steak Fry yesterday...in full campaign mode. I'm not sure Mayor Frank Cownie has faced this serious a challenge in the past. I know and like both of these guys and I think...based on the funding alone...Hatch might just pull this off. His campaign video was well done, his social media is excellent and he is a known person. Stay tuned. 

Partly Personal

Told you this would be short today...I was pleased to have the opportunity to volunteer for the Polk County Steak Fry yesterday. In past years I was there to cover the event. This time it was all about taking a cue from my fellow Polk County Democrats and getting involved by helping out. Did two hours in the massive food tent cleaning up plates and tables, taking trash away and re-setting chairs for the next wave of guests. It was done under the watchful eye of Suzette "Don't Throw The Steak Knives Away" Jensen. Thank you for everything! Then a bit of talking to voters and mentors. Had a great conversation with my friend former Governor and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack...who told me his bride Christie also enjoyed "call time". I know...we're odd.  Thanks for the tips.

Then it was to the stage to participate with other Polk County Democratic Candidates seeking to flip a ton of seats. An interview with Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks about Iowa and my senate race, a brief conversation with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE). Then my friend, and I believe I can call him that, John Bessler and I had a great conversation about friends, family and (of course) his wife Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). Iowa Democratic Chair Troy Price gave me a few minutes to explain the approval of the DNC to the supplemental caucus location plan for 2020. That also will be heard, first, today on News/Talk 1540 KXEL in the 2pm hour. I also learned that my friend Cal Woods is the latest entry into the 2020 race for U.S. Senate...that makes five folks...and he'll also be on with me in the near future.  

Then, as I was about to leave, Scott Thompson said he was short drivers for the golf carts that shuttled folks from the event to their cars or waiting busses. I asked for a key and he flung one at me. So, in the closing hours of the event I was able to meet a ton of people who appreciated the 2.3 mile ride to their vehicles or the front gate so they could call a Lyft. 

I'd do it all again. What a wonderful time...it will be long remembered for the hundreds of volunteers who made it so. Thank you all!

Gotta GO!  Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

  

Sunday Morning Coffee - 9 June 2019

Damn you Saturday Night Live...way too late going to bed! Time for Sunday Morning Coffee my look at some of the stories you've seen or missed all laced with my commentary. Why? Good question! I should be sleeping. Gotta get more COFFEE!  Let's go...

Mexico

No trade war with Mexico...for now. While "45" and his cadre crowed this weekend about a "deal" with Mexico that "deal" must be re-examined in 90 days to "judge the success of Mexico" in it's work to crack down on immigrants seeking asylum in the United States. Any bets?

Also, because "45" can not tell the truth, he tweeted this weekend that Mexico had also committed to buying agriculture products from the United States. The tweet, no doubt, is an attempt to give his farmer base something to feel good about. Except it's not true. Nowhere in the agreement that was just reached is there any mention of Mexico buying additional agricultural products from the U.S. 

According to stats Mexico, last year, purchased $20 billion in corn, dairy, soybeans, pork and pork products. 

Weary....

Wait A Minute...

They New York Times is reporting that the critical part of the "deal" with Mexico where the Mexican government would deploy its national guard to help stem the tide of immigrants coming to the U.S. had already been promised by Mexico way back in March. Long before "45" started his threat of tariffs. So, either "45" didn't know or this whole tariff tirade was simply smoke and mirrors and he had to find a way to back down because of threats from his own party. 

The Iowa Poll

The headline is "Biden Slumps, Buttigieg Soars" regarding the recent Iowa Poll. In December, 82 percent of Iowa Democratic voters said they saw former Vice President Joe Biden favorably; this month, that number is down to 72 percent of Democratic voters, a 10-point drop. His unfavorable ratings are up nine points. Reason? A couple...the Hyde Amendment talk and it's the danger of being a "front-runner".

Meanwhile, back in March, Mayor Pete Buttigieg polled at just 1% in the Iowa Poll. Today that number bumped to 14%. Coming in at 16% is Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) at 15%.  Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) is the only other candidate who registers significant support. She clocked in at 7 percent of the vote.

Six percent of voters said they were not sure who they would choose on caucus night. THAT is a stunning number...only 6%. I'm not sure I've ever seen a poll, this early, where so few people said the were "not sure". That spells trouble for many of the candidates that are polling low and the only way they will climb into the race is to peel support from others. Stunning...

Impeachment? - Hell Yes!

I think it's interesting that 17 members of the Congressional Black Caucus continue to support impeachment. While the caucus has 55 members in all the number supporting impeachment continues to grow especially as many are being asked by their voters, "Why the hell is he still president?"  Good question...

And now there are a total of 60 members of the House who are supporting impeachment proceedings as a way to figure out just how crooked "45" really is. Let's go...

Mississippi

Well now...isn't this interesting. To be elected governor in Mississippi the successful candidate MUST, according to the Mississippi Constitution, receive a majority of the popular vote AND receive a majority of the vote in more than half of the state's 120 legislative districts. No state, other than Mississippi, has a requirement that candidates win a majority of the state legislative districts in order to win the governorship.

Hello Jim Crow!

Democrats say the district lines are meant to dilute African American’s power to elect candidates of their choice. And the National Redistricting Foundation, a group headed by former Attorney General Eric Holder under President Obama, is leading a federal lawsuit to overturn those constitutional provisions.

Polk County Iowa Steak Fry

This will be the third year for what is going to be a massive event. On Saturday the 21st of September the Polk County Democrats will hold the Annual Steak Fry at Water Works Park in Des Moines. Who is coming? Every announced Democratic presidential candidate has been invited and many, at least 19, have said they will be there. Tickets are available now...right here.

For those of you who remember going to the Harkin Steak Fry, started by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) this is much the same. Sen. Harkin even gave his blessing to the event after his retirement from congress.

It's a big deal and you can claim your tickets here.

U.S. Senate Race - Iowa

To date there are three people announced for the 2020 U.S. Senate race against incumbent, and regular supporter of "45", Joni Ernst (R-IA). Kimberly Graham hinted over a year ago that she would consider running and now it's official. Eddie Mauro had been attending events wearing his name badge from his 2018 primary for Iowa's Third District Congressional seat and he is also now official. And, then on Monday of last week, Theresa Greenfield, who made an attempt for the Third District in 2018 but had to bow out, became the third announced candidate. And, yes, there is a fourth and also a female being talked about.

It's going to get crowded and interesting. Of the three Theresa Greenfield seems to have an edge and announced with a snappy video made just a few weeks before the announcement. 

Nice...

Partly Personal

Today would have been my Mother's z"l 99th birthday. She died five years ago...but is with me every day. Funny how that happens. I remember her telling me about her parents and how she remembered them so long after they had died. Not morbid but with great clarity. It's like that today....The photo is from her birthday party several years ago with family and close, dear friends. 

Yesterday I traveled to Mason City, Iowa to deliver some words at a memorial service. For years, now over 30, I've served the Jewish Congregation of Adas Israel there. Each month I make that trip north for services on a Friday and a Torah Study on Shabbat (Saturday). I stay at a Quality Inn near the synagogue. The front desk person is named Lois Shepard and, over the years, I've become very fond of her and many of the staff who work at the motel. When her friend and partner Laurie died I was struck by how and what love means to so many people. Two weeks ago Lois asked me to come and say a few words at the memorial event. Lois isn't Jewish and neither was Laurie but it was an honor to have been asked.  So, I talked about love and why we need to focus on that rather than the ugly hate we see every day. Thank you for asking me to be there.

And, thank you for reading. Have a great Sunday! 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 2 June 2019

Back from our time away in Florida where they drive like maniacs. No really! It seems turn signals have not yet hit the peninsula and the "speed limit" is simply a "suggestion". Yikes!  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly take on some of the news you've seen or, perhaps, missed. Let's get started.

Tariffs

Isn't it fun? And, man, are we ever winning! To this point many Americans have just yawned when they heard about the trade war. Pretty soon you're about to wake up to a bad dream. Target, Walmart and Costco have all signaled higher prices and that was BEFORE the threat of tariffs on Mexican items.  If and when that happens look for inflationary prices hitting your grocery store. Even some in the GOP are now struggling to support "45" and his tariff tirade. Last week Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) finally grew some and said it was bad policy.

And, somebody please explain the economic reality to those who voted for "45". China is NOT paying those tariffs we, the consumers are. That's how it works.  But hey...we're "winning"!

Impeachment

This morning a new CNN poll came out and now 41% of Americans favor impeachment. That's up from 37% last month. It's going to take some time for citizens to come to the reality that "45" obstructed justice and must go. Me? I'm all in for impeachment proceedings. If congress fails to start the process then, I believe, our system of laws is over and we go down the road toward an imperialistic, authoritarian state. But, that is what "45" loves. Democracy be damned and let's have a military parade with goosestepping warriors. 

Meanwhile Democratic members of congress who are meeting with constituents are getting the message. There is growing discontent with the inaction of congress and voters are demanding action. It is a sudden shift on the part of the electorate and it has been building since Robert Mueller spoke last week and, basically, said the ball is in the court of congress. 

Medicare for All

I wasn't at the meeting...I was dodging traffic in Florida... but I understand that the Medicare for All Task Force created by the Polk County Iowa Democrats is kaput. What's interesting about this decision by the body is that this group has been meeting and reporting to the elected delegates for two years without a hint of rejection. Now it's gone. What might have changed? My guess is...Joe Biden. Suddenly there was a call to dissolve the task force because, "it's a policy of a particular candidate and the body can not endorse one candidate's policy over others". Never mind that it is a good policy. Never mind that many in the field of candidates support Medicare for All. No, we can not hold the policy of a particular candidate aloft. That candidate? Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT). The "establishment" has spoken once again. Isn't winning fun?

To be clear, I was not at the meeting. I'm getting this from my brother who was recently selected to chair the Medicare for All Task Force which had been moving at a glacier pace but suddenly had caught fire. Just my conjecture.

The Name Game

My real business is advertising/marketing. We create the message that creates a desire on the part of consumers for our clients products or service. Been doing this for a very, very long time. That preface is due because I've never been a fan of calling universal health care for America by the moniker of "Medicare for All". It rings flat for those under the age of 60. "Who the hell cares about Medicare? I'm 35 and in great health..." Until you are not. Medicare for All was cooked up because folks thought it easy to explain. I'd rather have us call it what it really is "Universal Health Care". Again, just my opinion...based on what I do for a living. Let's move on.

Virginia Beach

Our society is quite sick and we are not safe from each other. It would seem that mutual respect, a willingness to have conversation over confrontation is gone. Evil is with us and it seems to be everywhere. There are no words.

The Business of Guns

Long before the most recent mass murder I sat down with Tom Hudson from Crossroads Shooting Sports for an interview about the business of guns. As many of you know I produce and host a daily newscast about business; something I've done for nearly seven years. So, I was interested in this topic. You might also have an interest. To listen, click this link. I'll tell you, in advance, that some of the statistics mentioned later in the interview seem a bit sketchy based on common knowledge. Anyway, I found the conversation to be enlightening especially the reasons given for the slow down of firearm purchases. Here, again, is that link.

CBD and Iowa

Last week Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) vetoed legislation that would have expanded the amount of THC (the effective compound in CBD-based treatments) from three grams to up to 25 grams in a 90-day period. In her statement Reynolds said, "it would drastically expand Iowa’s medical CBD program far beyond its original scope of CBD-based treatments and that could open the door to significant unintended consequences to the health and safety of Iowans."

Look, I don't know but it would seem to me that Iowa should be doing all we can to assist those folks who have chronic pain issues. Some members of the Iowa Legislature are itching to go back to work and override the veto. We'll see. But, in a state where you can roll up to nearly any convenience store along the interstate and buy liquor this seems to be an issue that is more misunderstood than anything. Thoughts?

Partly Personal

Getting back in the swing of things following nearly ten days out is a challenge. There is so much to be done before a vacation and much more to be done when getting back. The weird thing is that I was still responsible for producing Insight on Business the News Hour when I was gone. On vacation but still up before dawn to write and produce. But, I learned a valuable lesson. For years I would stop my "real job" to write the news and then create the newscast and get it out by 5pm Central. But, when gone this time I switched things up and put the  podcast out before noon each day. The result was a surge in listeners. And, when you think about it, that makes sense. More time to digest the business news before the business day ends. And, for the timely stuff like the markets...that went out via social media twice each hour in real time. Interesting how habits can keep one from innovation.

Thanks for reading and sorry about the commercial.  Have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Sunday Morning Coffee - 12 May 2019 Happy Mother's Day

It is the day set aside to honor mothers and if you don't your butt is in huge trouble. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee where the political, cultural and religious news stories get my, often, caustic reply. Why? Because it's raining now, it's early and this is what I get to do. Grab a cup and let's go!

Tax Returns

We know in our hearts that the mob boss who lives at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is dirty. Every day it's like a bad re-run of the Sopranos. There are a couple of reasons he is fighting like hell to keep his tax returns from being seen by anybody: 1) He ain't as rich as he says he is; 2) Money laundering; 3) Never paid a dime in taxes or 4) Even as he boasts about giving money to charity he has not. He has played the game for a very long time and to take something as mundane as this to the Supreme Court when Congress has made a rightful and legal request to produce stinks and shows his true colors.  But, we really didn't need this to prove that he is dirty. Did we?

Pay Up!

The trade war with China continues unabated. Just about the time we thought it might be over we're all in for really ramping it up. Last week "45" told us that China was paying the tariffs...no, he really did say that. ""China has been paying tariffs to the USA" he tweeted last Sunday. And, of course that is bunk...just another lie. Who is really paying and will be paying are you who buy the stuff. And, what is worse...or better depending on your view...people in counties that overwhelmingly voted for "45" are getting hammered the hardest. Why? Because they tend to be poorer counties and rural counties and we all know how hard the ag community is getting skinned. 

Now that the tariffs have just been increased and more on the way get ready to cough up mo-money. To this point retailers have either loaded up on products at the lower tariff rate or split the cost with wholesalers so as not to hit the price tag on stuff you buy. That is...over. Watch and see how this plays out. Happy Mother's Day.

Is There Anything...

Any normal president would have approval numbers that would be in single digits as a result of the inability to govern let alone the crassness of this guy. But his base loves him and, in fact, we've seen his approval numbers climb. It's simply another oddity that cannot be explained. "His people" simply love the guy as evidenced by this clip from Saturday Night Live and nope, there is nothing he would do that would cause the GOP to distance themselves. Sad, but so true.

 

Told ya and what a great bit of work by Kyle Mooney (Chuck Todd), Beck Bennett (Mitch McConnell), Cecily Strong (Susan Collins) and Kate McKinnon (Lindsey Graham). Strong nailed Collins and her wacky style. Good stuff..go on, watch again.

Sucking The Air Out

Since announcing his candidacy former Vice President Joe Biden has sailed to the top of the polls and now enjoys a 31 point lead in the latest South Carolina Post Courier-Change Research Poll. Thirty-one points. The poll, which was released this morning, indicates Biden has a wider approval rating in South Carolina than in other parts of the nation. In second place is Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) at 15% followed by Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA). According to the article the only Biden weak spot is among younger voters ages 18-34. They prefer Sanders, whose progressive stances on health care and economic reform appeal to millennials.

Told you this would happen...Happy Mother's Day.

Two Interviews

Last week I had the opportunity to visit with former HUD Secretary and former Mayor of San Antonio Julian Castro. If you want to listen to that exchange here is a link. Also last week the Iowa Asian/Latino Coalition hosted former Texas Congressman Beto O'Rourke. If you wish to listen to that piece here is a link.

What If They Had...

Back in the day, before Terry Branstad took a slow boat to China, he offered up a gift to Iowans and by a stroke of the pen moved the Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of Iowans to private, for-profit companies. The result has been tragic and the current governor, fashioned in the image of Ambassador Branstad, is loath to fix the mess her boss left behind.

Now, because yet another private for-profit insurance company is bailing on the money losing venture, there is a "road show" going on where supporters of this adventure from hell are telling Iowans that everything is going to be hunky-dory as another company, hoping to score major dollars, is swooping in.   (Photo: Des Moines Register)

So, what if....what IF we could turn the clock back and give Iowans the opportunity to have weighed in on the change before Branstad made the switch.

Think it would have happened?  I don't and that is exactly why there was zero input on this decision. Yes, voting does matter...and so too does having strong candidates. But, I'll leave that alone...

Partly Personal

I know, there is so much going on and you're only getting half a cup but...it is Mother's Day and I gotta go.  

Which brings me to this: The Urbandale Public Library is closed today for Mother's Day. I think that's great. But, here is the question: Will the Urbandale Library be closed on June 16th? Any bets?

Two weeks ago, after Joe Biden entered the race, I posted on my personal Facebook Page that I was so done with Democrats talking about "another old white man" entering the race. The ageism and racism in those comments pissed me off. We should be focusing on policy and electability. Turns out even the Bible has some instruction on this issue.

I'm in my 31st year of leading Congregation Adas Israel of Mason City, Iowa. (I know...right?) Weddings, funerals and monthly I travel there for services on Friday night and then lead a Torah class on Shabbat (Saturday) where people from all faiths gather to learn more about what the Torah has to say about life today. 

This past week the Torah Portion was Kedoshim (Holy). You can find it in Leviticus 19-21. It starts out with G-d telling Moses to tell "the entire assembly of the Children of Israel" to be holy, "for I am Hashem, your G-d, and I am holy."

Still with me?

Then the portion goes into lots of ways Jews must behave to become "holy".  It really is a fascinating read. 

Then comes this in Lev. 19:32, "In the presence of an old person shall you rise and you shall honor the presence of a sage..." The rabbis say this is really two commandments. The first is to show respect to anyone over the age of 70 and the second is to show honor to wise scholars. Why? Because they have experience and wisdom. 

I'm not saying I'm in Camp Biden but I am saying that we might want to hold our tongue...especially among my Jewish friends who took my comments to task. The Torah says...different. If you want to attack policy...it's fair game.

Happy Mother's Day...and thanks for reading!