SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 3 December 2017

I've been sitting at my computer for nearly an hour and it's not yet 7:00AM. Been reading the news and then some comments made by "real Americans"...it's enough to make you want to...move. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at some stories you've heard, or missed, all laced with my editorial. Why? I dunno but it gives me joy that you read it.  Thank you and let's go!

The Insanity of Republican Math

Last week we were all witness to how Republicans think and act. I know, some of you have friends who are Republicans. You might even have one or two in your family. If so, take a moment during this "most wonderful time of the year" to ask them about math. Here is the question: "If a dozen eggs cost $1.20 but you only have $1.00 how many eggs can you afford to buy?" Let them think about that for a bit...it's fun to see them squirm. If you are a good Republican your response would be, "A dozen eggs!"How can that be? Simple, you just chalk it up to deficit spending and leave with a dozen eggs. Then walk out of the store and rob the person ringing to Salvation Army bell for the additional twenty-cents.

That is what we saw last week with the insane "Trump Tax Cut" bill that won approval. A measure that will mean nothing to working families and everything to the donor class. You know, the people who really run this country.  Ahh...but there is more. "The cat is out of the box." (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

So, What's Next?

If you were planning on retiring in the next ten years...forget about it. The GOP will have you working until you drop so that you can pay for their tax cut. And, while on the subject, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) was spot on last week as he called out Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) about his plan to cut Medicare and Social Security once the tax cut bill passes. And all of this happened on the Senate floor. Oh, you didn't hear? This is what Rubio said to a group of Wall Street lobbyists two days before the senate vote: (You can CLICK on the image to enlarge.)

he response from Bernie? "When my Republican friends talk about saving social security and Medicare they are talking about cutting it!" When, on the Senate floor, Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) sprang to the defense of Rubio and said that was not true Sanders then asked Toomey for a commitment that he would not cut Medicare and Social Security. Toomey could not do that.

The cat is...out of the box.

Because He Lied!

There is so much going on with the Liar and Chief it's sometimes hard to keep up. Now, after Michael Flynn has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI (the least of the offences) it is common knowledge he is cooperating with the Mueller probe. "45" has now switched his story saying he fired Flynn because he lied about Russia. Bullshit. You must remember that, unlike "45", we can read and remember all the wonderful things he said about Flynn up to and after Flynn resigned.

The Mueller probe is getting closer and closer to the White House which may be the real reason the House and Senate had to move so quickly on the tax shaft passage (yes, shaft). They know that "45" will sign anything they take to him and they also realize they had best get this done sooner than later.

What We Really Should Fear

Last week former Secretary of State John Kerry came to Des Moines for a fund raiser for Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA). Among the comments made was the concern Kerry had that Tweets by "45" which included fake Muslim videos from right wing Britain First could incite violence. Of course he is correct. If you check the story in the Des Moines Register and then read the comments you would see this:

I suspect both of the commentators consider themselves Christians. And, if you check history it would seem we have far more to fear from Christians than from Islam. Anybody wanna debate that? Weary.... And, Merry Christmas. 

Death and Taxes

The story is the Iowa Legislature will bring up both when they come back to Des Moines in January. On the agenda is going to be a return to institute the death penalty in Iowa. Watch for it. It's not enough that we incarcerate minorities at such a level or that we deny mental health care to just about everybody. Now we'll just kill people. That measure will be placed on the docket so that you and your family will ignore the really important plan which is to cut corporate taxes. You will get all ginned up about the death penalty while the GOP cuts taxes on businesses and then sticks you with the bill. Watch and learn my friends.

Who Is Pulling the Strings?

I wrote about this months ago but it is worth another go. Some of you may know about the  American Legislative Exchange Council or ALEC. Much has been written about the group who is funded by large corporations and conservative individuals. While ALEC claims to be funded by legislators only 12% of their funding comes from legislative members. It is ALEC that fostered "model bills" like gutting bargaining for unions, cutting school funding, voter suppression laws, school voucher programs. The list gets long. Champion among the legislators who fail to represent people over policy is Sen. Charles Schneider (R-West Des Moines) who is one of the state chairs for ALEC. You need to know that every time Chuck opens his mouth is is the shill for corporate, ultra-right policies that do serious damage to you and your family.

That crap needs to end. The next time you cozy up to your local legislator ask them the question: "Do you support the people of Iowa or the donor class that writes your insane bills?" Go ahead...ask away and then vote them out.  You can make that happen...if you just do it.

Partly Personal

Yesterday I celebrated a bit with Rob Barron. Rob served for years on the staff of Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) before becoming the first Latino school board member for the Des Moines Public Schools. Last week he was a guest on the Business News Hour. Why? The Latino Political Network he co-founded received the Grinnell College Wall Service Award of $30,000. So, why does this matter? Get this: In Iowa there are 7,500 elected officials and only 12 of them are Latino. No joke. In places like Storm Lake, Denison and Marshaltown where there are significant Latino populations there are no elected officials who represent that community. Stunning...no? If you have a few moments take a listen to that conversation with this link to the Business News Hour.

Hey, thanks for reading! Have a great Sunday and an even better week. Resist and shed light...daily.

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 15 July 2017

Hello and welcome, again, to Sunday Morning Coffee a look at some of the political (and maybe religious) stories you've seen or perhaps missed...all with my commentary. Sometimes fun, often caustic but never dull. Grab a cup and let's slog through the news of the week but careful it can be habit forming!

The 36 Percenters

President Donald Trump has been in office six months and during that time he has done something no other president has accomplished. His approval rating, among Americans, is the lowest of any president at this point in his presidency in seventy years. For those of you who voted for him let me help you with the hard math. Today only 36
percent of Americans approve of what "45" is doing to our nation and our standing in the world. The only other president that comes close to having such a low approval rating was Gerald Ford at 39% back in July of 1975. Meanwhile at this point in their presidencies President Obama and President George W. Bush we sitting at a 59% approval rating. Wanna see the numbers? Here you go...but promise to come back!  Nice going America...   So, why would this be? Read on dear citizens.

The Trump Tax Plan by The Numbers

The numbers regarding the tax reform effort laid out by "45" are in. Guess what, suckers, he is out to screw you...big time. Stay with me on this. The Tax Policy Center has looked at the numbers and their analysis tells us federal revenues would be cut by $7.8 trillion over the next ten years. But don't worry. The benefits of those tax cuts would flow to the top 5% of earners. But…hey there is more from the Tax Policy Center: The package, the report says, would overwhelmingly help the wealthy. The overall plan would give the average family earning under $25,000 per year a $40 tax cut, or a 0.3 percent boost in after-tax income. The top 0.1 percent, earning above $3.4 million a year, would get an average tax cut of $937,700, or a 13.3 percent boost in after-tax income. What was that word? Oh, yeah...suckers.

Or Maybe It's Health Care?

Maybe the approval rating for "45" is also the reaction of Americans coming to the reality that this guy would rather strip you of your health care, creating those very cool Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) "Death Panels" while he and his buddies are trying to figure out what to do with you. Meanwhile Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said yesterday that the vote to repeal your health care under the Affordable Care Act has got to wait just a bit longer. I mean who in the hell knew this health care stuff was so difficult. Weary...

"You're in such good shape...beautiful."

"45" could not help himself. He jets over to France to meet with President Macron and without missing a beat, at his first meeting with the wife of the French President, Brigitte Macron, says, "You're in such good shape. She's in such good physical shape. Beautiful," but he was standing next to first lady Melania Trump. There is no word on if "45" reached a little lower for a...grab.

The "Trumpvangelicals" Were in Town

I was in Mason City for the Sabbath so I missed out on the snake swinging in Des Moines yesterday complete with Kellyanne Conway and Bob Vander Plaats in a cozy sit down conversation full of lies and distortions. It's so amazing to me that these holy rollers can simply make crap up and the Trumpvangelicals eat it. Ms. Conway told the gathering that, "People are not telling the news, they're giving you the noise." Yet another attack on the media and its efforts to lay bare the facts about...well, hell...everything "45" touches. Or grabs. Speaking to about 900 of the faithful Conway cast the president, herself and their supporters as victims of political critics while they dismiss the administrations public policy efforts. “I understand that we’re nation of charged opinions and partisan rancor but I do find most of the vitriol comes from people who don’t know and who are very brave on social media — which means they’re not brave at all,” she said. Know what Ms. Conway, my name is Michael P. Libbie and I ain't hiding behind social media and you are welcome to engage anytime. Have I indicated "Weary" yet? But wait! What about those emails??? (Cartoon and "Trumpvangelicals" word by Tim Lloyd)

Meanwhile On the Same Block of Soil

Progressives got a full dose of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) during the Citizens for Community Improvement annual convention. About 1,100 folks herd Sen. Sanders, speak a few hours later and less than 1,000 feet away from where Kellyanne was busy making stuff up and complaining. It was classic Bernie as he railed against "45" and the claim that the president actually cares one shred about the working people of America. "President Trump, don’t tell the people of this country that you support the working class when you are defending legislation which will throw 22 million Americans off of the health care they currently have," the former Democratic presidential candidate said. "That is not defending the working class. That is a major attack on middle class and working-class families all across this country." Bernie did not give any hint on if he will run again in 2020 but last week he did say in an interview that he was not ruling anything out.

Partly Personal

It was hot last Sunday as Democratic hopeful John Norris took the stage at his "down home" rally held at Living History Farms. John even got in a Johnny Cash tune with the band. No, really and he did pretty well. One of the things we know about Mr. Norris is that, like his former boss, governor and former agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack, he is a "policy wonk". He loves the details of policy and he loves to share them. However, somebody on his "kitchen cabinet" needs to share with John that on really HOT Iowa days it's OK to cut his speech from 40 minutes to 20. Honest. Good news was the "pulled chicken" I took in the crock-pot was a hit. Not a shred of it left to take home. Oh, and the pie...was delish!

I'm "thinking" about a run for political office. No, really. There is a bunch of stuff up in the air right now but if that clears out I may just do it. Here's the deal: I am so weary of people in my community (and outside) of Windsor Heights focusing on problems and not looking at opportunities. Sure we are not without challenges however, working for something is much more invigorating than always working against. Last week I attended a community meeting that focused on the potential for bringing real economic development to my town of 4,900 people and the "boo-birds" were out in force. The comments and questions focused on negatives rather than the vision which would build a retail and service base that would bring in much needed revenue while saving property taxes for residents. And the funny thing was this meeting was simply a "kick off" event. There are more meetings with stakeholders to come. The Windsor Heights Chamber of Commerce came out with a statement following the meeting. If you would like to read...have at it. 

OK...sorry this is late. It was a busy day yesterday and the drive home (without air BTW) was exhausting. But...that was yesterday! Have a great Sunday and THANKS for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

Politics The Holiday Edition - Sunday Morning Coffee 2 July 2017

We have a child in the Oval Office who thinks more of television than public policy and you wonder why I write Sunday Morning Coffee? Welcome to the Holiday Edition where I'll share some stories you've seen and some you may have missed all laced with my personal, and often snarky, commentary. Hey, it's Sunday Morning Coffee...grab a cup and read on.

It's All About The Base

While the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives attempt to figure out how to screw the working class and cut a sweet deal with the wealthy the President of the United States is captivated with women and blood. Yesterday "45" once again came out ripping away at MSNBC "Morning Joe" hosts even in the face of bipartisan criticism of his initial attack earlier in the week. On Saturday the president tweeted:

That was, of course, following his return to talking about women and blood...which also was fabricated:

Yep, this is the guy who is leading the "free world". What a disaster and congratulations voters.

Independence Day

That is what we once called the 4th of July...Independence Day. Today we just give it a number and a reason to sell mattresses and cars at "deep discounts". We called it Independence Day because it reminded us of the struggle to rid ourselves of a tyrant who had nothing in common with the people whom he ruled over. Seems like what we have going today. There is no one on the planet that is more patriotic than my wife. Yesterday she asked, with a straight face, "So how hard is it to get a Canadian Citizenship?" It's come to this. We can only hope that this Independence Day we can forge our independence from what has become the laughing stock of the planet. This revolution starts with remembering what the House and Senate and local GOP leaders have done to our nation and begin the process of removing them with the vote.

It's Been Awhile Since We Visited

You remember my friend Tim Lloyd and his creation I.M. Stupid? Seems like a great time to hear from him again:

Tim Lloyd IM Stupid July 2017

Told you.

Death Panels

Remember when Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) warned Americans of the "Death Panels" that really never existed? Soon, if the Senate gets its way with America those "death panels" will be back. Not so much as Chuck pulling the plug on grandma but by gutting Medicaid and scaling back Medicare the result will be the same. What is worse is that "99 County Chuck" is too timid to simply oppose the legislation telling us that he is still studying the bill. These people can't wait to screw with the the promises of true leaders.

Dumb Panels

Your government is spending thousand chasing after a ghost. Remember when "45" lamented that he had not won the popular vote because, "...millions of people voted illegaliy"? That lie fostered an election security panel where the Secretary of State for Kansas (of all goddamn places KANSAS!) was put in charge of "securing the vote" when every voice on the matter said that lie was a lie. However this panel has requested from each state their voter rolls and over half of the states said.."Nope, ain't gonna do it." Why? Because, frankly, we do not trust you. Here is the story from The Hill.

Medicare For All

One thing this health care debate has fostered is a renewed interest in scraping our current rip-off system of health insurance and replacing it with a system of Medicare for All. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) has promised that he will roll out legislation that would do just that...and it may have legs. Think of it this way: Medicare is expanded to provide care for each person in the United States. It is paid for by a series of taxes, doing away with the social security "cap" and more. This does not do away with health care insurance but it does make that cartel smaller. Health insurance companies can then sell "Medicare Supplemental Policies" to expand coverage on the basics. Wellness is created, doctor visits are covered and the nation can join the other industrialized countries already providing health care to its citizens. Maybe then I can talk my wife into staying here.

Low Unemployment - Low Wages - Big Corporate Gifts

Today my friend Donnelle Eller from the Des Moines Register has a great article (without a conclusion) about how low unemployment in Iowa is hurting the economy. If you want to read it...here you go. The issue, she reports, is that the unemployment rate here is 3.1 percent which means it's nearly impossible to find qualified workers because nearly everybody who can work...is doing so. Yet tax receipts are down. Consumer are not spending at the rate we did pre-recession. Sure, farm income is down because of low commodity prices but that's not why folks in Fort Dodge are not spending their cash. Here is what really is going on.  Iowa prides itself on being a "low wage state" and our legislature has done everything in it's power to make sure we stay this way by rolling back the minimum wage increase passed by local governments. It is a race to the bottom. Meanwhile corporations who are raking in millions of dollars in gifts from the Iowa Economic Development Authority to create (or retain) a scant number of jobs pocket the cash and invest their winnings elsewhere rather than boost the wage rate of their workers. Last year weekly wages, adjusted for inflation, rose a meager 0.8 percent. From the story: "Last year, Iowa's real weekly wages climbed less than $10 to $864. Nationally, wages were mostly flat at $1,031 in 2016." In other words for all the hand-wringing going on among employers and the legislature they are just fine at keeping wages low in Iowa. Until that changes expect more cuts in things like education, health care and food assistance. Sorry suckers...you voted for less and now you've got it.

The Crowded Field

Last week I got the opportunity to listen to Paul Knupp who is actively campaigning for a spot to oust Rep. David Young (R-IA) in the Third Congressional District. His theme is Rebuild America and his focus is on infrastructure to broadband to health care. He joins a crowded field of announced candidates including Heather Ryan and Cindy Anxe. Theresa Greenfield will announce on Wednesday. I also heard from Democrat John Norris who will have an official launch of his gubernatorial campaign next Sunday. John has an impressive background in policy and government. He also has something a bit unique in that crowded field...Norris is lifting up his rural roots and going right after the value systems of Rural Iowans. Yesterday Davenport City Council Alderman Mike Matson ended his campaign saying that raising millions of dollars was too large a mountain to climb. Mike is a great person and I'll miss him on the campaign. This will be an interesting season.

Partly Personal

This Independence Day I get to walk with not only the Urbandale Democrats but also the Windsor Heights Democrats in back-to-back parades. Should be a great opportunity to show some unity and strength.

Meanwhile the Iowa Democratic Party lost it's chair. Derek Eaton the newly elected party chair announced this week he is stepping down for health reasons. His position will be filled, for the next several weeks by vice-chair Andrea Phillips. A special election will be held on 22 July. Loads of names being mentioned including Matt Paul, Bill Brauch, Chris Hall and Laura Hubka. Whatever is decided we need to remember to march lock-step and renounce what is ruining our great state.

Today I get to write a letter to the Windsor Heights City Council and the Des Moines Register in support of sidewalks. I honestly can't believe that something like this needs to be done...really I can't. I understand change is difficult for some...ask Galileo.

Thanks for reading...have a great holiday.

 

 

 

Pants On Fire Edition - Sunday Morning Coffee 11 June 2017

It's been quite a week. Many of us popped popcorn grabbed some sodas and took in the big TV show of the week, "James Comey Takes On Liar Trump". It was a sight to behold...oh wait...did you know that James Comey is six-foot-eight? See what you learn here... Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my look at some of the news stories you have seen or might have missed all with my personal commentary. Why? Because it's fun...grab a cup and let's go!

Who Do You Trust?

Four simple words. Do you trust a person who has lied and gotten his own way through bullying and intimidation all of his life or do you trust a person who has been a straight shooter? That's the choice you have. In the latest Huffington Post/YouGov Poll taken just days following the Comey testimony 26% of the respondents said President Trump was more trustworthy than James Comey. Meanwhile 46% found Comey more honest and trustworthy. I'm with the majority on this...but it shouldn't surprise you. Besides, if you look at the record...the history of these two Donald Trump comes off as a carnival barker. Such a weasel.... "Lordy, I hope there are tapes." that's about all you need to know.(Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Sunday Twitter Storm

Just in case you were wondering. This morning this is what Mr. Trump was Tweeting about: defends his record as president, criticizes press, Comey, and leaks --criticizes Dems --jobs, taxes, economy. And it's all before 8am. Isn't it interesting that the president has decided to conduct the business of the United States through Twitter? It's like he is on campaign mode all of the time. Just can not divorce himself from the reality TV guy he truly is.

What About Us?

Here is the worst part of this entire episode of our real life drama each of us lives thorough on a daily basis. President Donald Trump continues to harm the United States and its standing on the world stage. Sure he gets along swimmingly with the folks who hate us...but our "allies"? Not only that but he is making a mockery out of the Office of the President. It is embarrassing. And when the one of the first thoughts in the morning is, "I wonder what crazy shit the president did overnight." Well, you get it...sad truly sad. But, we must resist and lift up what we can that is positive.

The Des Moines Register

Question: Did Karl Moyer buy the Des Moines Register? Or, does it just seem like it? Anybody know?

"Hey, Osama, go back to your own country!"

Those are the words that motivated J.J. Kapur, an incoming West Des Moines Valley High School student to action. J.J. is a Sikh and he is out to share his faith with anybody who will listen. We aired this interview on The Business News Hour last week and the number of downloads has been amazing. People, it would seem, are willing to learn. So, how did the turban become a symbol of terrorism rather than of peace? Good question. One of the first answers might be a lack of education. Again, if you would like to listen to J.J. (who by the way has won national speech contests at Emory University and Harvard) click through the link.

So Much To Do!

Yesterday I spend several hours at the Iowa Working Families Summit which was held in Ames. The number of people, surprisingly, was down. I write "surprisingly" without the knowledge that there were no fewer than two additional progressive events happening in the Metro. We can't go to everything. What is interesting is the number of progressive events that are happening and how that is energizing so many people. "Ya can't swing a dead cat and not connect with a progressive gathering in Iowa", was one of the comments I heard yesterday. If I were a Republican strategist I'd be just a tad nervous these days.

Working Families Summit 

Here are some take-away thoughts from the Iowa Working Families Summit:

• Sponsors Were Pleased - While the number of people who attended may have been down the people who sponsored the event from the Iowa Federation of Labor to the many vendors who were there seemed pleased with the energy;
• People Are Hurting - While our local economic development folks may crow about how wonderful things are (it is there job to do that) a great many people in Iowa are hurting. They are worried, frustrated and angry at a system that seems to shell out dollars and praise to a few but tend to leave crumbs for them;
• Union Workers are Proud - In my lifetime I have been in one union. I signed my Brotherhood of Maintenance and Way card in 1973. It was a short experience. I was between broadcasting jobs and needed work...it wasn't pretty laying railroad track in the summer when one was used to sitting in AC. However, that experience and the stories I heard about my Grandfather who was a Congress of Industrial Organizations organizer have always compelled me to look at unions as an honorable way to lift the economics of us all. The union members at this event feel frustrated that so many do not share that outlook;
• Our Revolution is Hot - One of the many groups who have emerged since the 2016 election is Our Revolution. Heading that organization is Larry Cohen who offered up a fiery speech at the end of the day. We'll have a conversation with Larry on the Business News Hour this week.

Bottom line...you should have been there.

Who Was in Ames?

I wish I could report to you that I saw a number of Republican candidates at the Iowa Working Families Summit but...alas...no. It's too bad, they might have learned something...and we did have air conditioning and a good meal. Some of the folks that made the trip included Theresa Greenfield a yet to announce candidate in Iowa's Third Congressional District. Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls included Jonathan Neiderbach, John Norris, Nate Boulton others may have been there but I missed them. I did see State Senator Rob Hogg (D-Cedar Rapids) there. Rob is the Minority Leader in the Iowa Senate and is working overtime in an effort to reclaim the senate and sanity in Des Moines.

Then there was Larry Cohen

If you didn't stick around for the speech by my friend Larry Cohen who heads the organization Our Revolution you missed a great speech...he was not shy. "American's want health care not health insurance. It's a rip-off that we pay 20% of our medical dollars to companies who work to find ways NOT to deliver health care to Americans!" or this "This is about unity. It is not about dividing us but uniting us to move forward..."

Larry Cohen 10 June 2017

If you click above you'll hear his entire speech...enjoy. You could do worse than listen...perhaps it may motivate you to get involved.

Partly Personal

On Friday my Mother z'l would have been 97 years old. I think of her daily and remember the good times. Here's an image from a birthday party with close friends and family.

One other bit of personal news, I heard yesterday from Desmund Adams about his son Khalil. The report was than the open heart surgery this past week was a success and it looks better than prior. "We are all grateful for the support and prayers of so many. Thank you all."

Let's hope things go well...

Thanks for reading/listening and have a great week! 

 

Uhm...What The Hell Was That? - Sunday Morning Coffee 26 March 2017

Every so often something amazing happens. For seven years and with 60 votes in the U.S. House of Representatives the Republicans have
attempted to dismantle the Affordable Care Act. Let that sink in for a moment. And then with control of both houses of Congress and the White House they learn that they can't get their act together. Yes, "Health care is complicated." Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my personal reflection on some of the news stories you have seen and others you might have missed. It's been quite a week...grab a cup!

Oh The Audacity

Remember when the GOP was crying about how the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare was rammed down their throats in a "hurry up" effort by the Democrats? Remember that? The reality is that the ACA had months of open meetings and open hearings and bringing people to the table. It was thought out, and while it needs some fixes, it passed. Consider what the Republicans did with about 19 days of prep time and the failed legislation they called the American Health Care Act. It was bunk and when people learned of the massive gift to the insurance companies, big pharma and the wealthy they were pissed off.  But for some in the GOP the AHCA didn't go far enough. It was not mean enough. So they added language in the final day to make the AHCA even more draconian. That is what the leadership of the Republican Party is all about and they showed their hand over the past month and it makes me proud that you...resisted. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Unified and Just

The fact that hundreds of thousands of you stood up and called congress and let them know you were watching added to the defeat last week Make no mistake about it Donald J. Trump has unified this nation in a way I've not seen for 40 years. All across the country people are engaging their elected officials be it in Chamber Legislative Coffees where in the past the same twenty-five people showed up to be fed pablum now those numbers have swelled into the hundreds. Lawmakers are calling off town hall meetings because of the enormous crowds who have not come to fawn...but to protest and resist. Here in Iowa Walt Rogers (R-Cedar Falls) said he will no longer attend meetings hosted by the League of Women Voters of Black Hawk and Bremer Counties. Why? Because you are pissed off and you are not going to take this crap any more and you are showing up and demanding answers to questions they do not want to hear. What the hell do these legislators expect? Iowans are at the breaking point. Americans are at the breaking point and resistance is real. Keep it up!

Single Payer Healthcare

Yesterday at a town hall meeting in Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT) said he will introduce a bill to create a single payer health care system in the United States. He said the "Medicare for all bill will come within a couple of weeks". And added, "It is a common sense proposal, and I think once the American people understand it, we can go forward with it."  During the same meeting Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT) said he will introduce the same bill in the House.

Your Internet Privacy Just Got Sold

On Thursday, the Senate voted 50 to 48 along party lines to scrap FCC internet privacy regulations. The House could do the same as early as next week, sending the resolution to President Trump, who is expected to sign it.

Republicans and industry critics of the rules argue that the FCC should not be regulating privacy in the first place. They say that's the responsibility of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which has long had its own privacy framework.

The FTC polices how internet companies such as Google and Facebook handle customer data. Those companies are are able to use that data and sell it to companies seeking to advertise to...you. Republicans at the FCC and in Congress have already signaled they hope to roll back the broader net neutrality rules. With the FCC privacy rules facing elimination, consumer watchdogs say broadband companies are poised for a windfall by capturing your web browsing history and selling that information to insurance companies and other advertisers. Once the FCC rules are out of the way some think the FTC could step in however, because broadband is treated like a utility the FTC does not have jurisdiction over internet providers.

Did Russia Commit an Act of War?

Democrats are moving on when it comes to calling out Russia for their meddling in the U.S. Election process. Moving on to call Russia out and accuse the nation of an "act of war". Feeling emboldened since FBI Director Comey's disclosure that his agency is investigating (since July) if there was coordination between the Trump campaign and Russia some Democrats are seizing on the issue to show they are more in line with protecting the United States than are the Republicans who have formed a defensive line behind President Trump. All of this played out, in public, during the House Intelligence Committee hearing this past week. Don't you just love these tidbits?

Playing Politics with Your Water

Last week on my business news broadcast I invited the CEO of the Des Moines Water Works to join me for a discussion about the business of providing safe drinking water to the 500,000+ people Bill Stowe works for. While I don't do politics on that broadcast this is one of those government over-reaches that goes too far. What happened to the GOP Mantra that says local is best? Now some in the Iowa Legislature wish to hand over control of the Des Moines Water Works to politicians. Ask the people of Flint, Michigan how that worked out.

IOB 22 March 2017 Bill Stowe

Anyway...if you would like to listen to that conversation just click the link above. It runs about 17 minutes but I think you will be amazed at how calm Mr. Stowe is in the face of the personal attacks that are fostered on him. Enjoy.

Dear Iowa: You Are Broke

Speaking of "moving on" it looks like Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) will be leaving a hot mess in the hands of Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) when he jets off to China. The main issue is the fact the state is broke and it's a combination of factors: Big tax credits and gifts to already successful corporations and not enough revenue coming into the state...think about the massive tax cut fostered by Branstad back in 2013. Oh, one other thing... Remember that sweetheart deal Branstad cooked up with private for-profit companies to run the $4 billion Medicaid program? Mr. Branstad's child has come calling again for more money to keep them afloat. In this scathing article from Iowa Starting Line we learn that,  "The Des Moines Register reported late Friday the disheartening news that Iowa would once again be shelling out hundreds of millions of dollars for the Branstad/Reynolds failed Medicaid privatization scheme. The three private insurers have lobbied the Governor’s office for yet another payout to cover their “catastrophic” losses under the new setup, and it’s clear now that Branstad and Reynolds have given in." How much? We don't yet know but we do know, according to the providers, that they have lost $450 million...so far.

Iowa is digging a hole when we've come up with yet another $131 million of reduced income while handing out more cash. Meanwhile the GOP controlled Iowa Legislature is eager to back-fill that with cuts to education, mental health care and other services that impact our most vulnerable citizens. Maybe Reynolds can use some of that campaign cash to help bail out her state. Once again, if you like Kansas you're going to love Iowa.

Partly Personal

Last week, on the First Day of Spring, I marked the third anniversary (yahrzeit) of the death of my mother June Libbie z"l. For three-and-a-half years I was her primary care-giver. Even did a blog Mom & Me to savor those memories.

From taking her shopping (always a three hour event) to stopping in to her apartment four or five times a week to then twice a day to finally sleeping on her couch at night because I did not want her to be alone and, perhaps fall. That month on the couch prompted some to tell me it was time to admit her to a nursing home. That was not going to happen. I had worked in that industry for ten years and while there are wonderful people attending to the most vulnerable of our citizens I couldn't do it. So, for the final months of her journey she came to live with us in our home.

She died there on a beautiful spring morning the same as we celebrated this past Monday. The night before when I said good night to her she opened her eyes looked at me and gave me the warmest smile I'd seen for months. It is that which I remember daily. There truly are blessings in life...if you look for them.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

Politics, Religion, Guns & Gossip - SMC 31 July 2016

I've been writing Sunday Morning Coffee for years. Perhaps it's just my way of trying to better understand the stuff I see around me...around us. My admission is that I am, if you need a label, a progressive...OK a liberal. So, perhaps my thinking is, in the minds of some, tainted. But, seriously people our world is crazy and getting more so.  Let's dive into some of the news stories you may have seen or, perhaps missed.

Policing is Dangerous

On Friday there was a report released by the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund that tells us what we know. Being a police officer is dangerous. However, what we might not know is that the majority of police deaths between 2010 and 2014 can be attributed to traffic related accidents.  There were 684 police officer deaths during that five year period with 272 officers dying from being in an automobile accident or being struck by a vehicle.  

The report urged law enforcement agencies to encourage their officers to "slow down when responding to calls (specifically, Officer Needs Assistance calls which led to 53% of officer traffic-related deaths), wear seat belts, and wear issued body armor" to reduce fatalities.

 

Overall, law enforcement deaths in 2015 increased by 1% over 2014 and a 9% increase over 2013, according to the report. Out of the 123 officer deaths last year, 48 were caused by traffic-related incidents and 41 were the result of shootings.

 

Be careful out there.

 

Guns

 

While you slept a woman in Austin, Texas was killed and four were injured in, what appears to be, separate shootings. America has a sickness and a passion for violent death and it seems to be getting worse. On any given day in the United States 27 people are shot dead...every day. In that one fact America stands as one of the most violent places on the planet.  To be killed by a gun in Germany is as uncommon as being killed by a falling object in the United States. In Japan, where it is even more rare to be killed in a shooting, it's like being killed by a lightning strike in the US.

 

So, what is the difference? It is us. It is our passion for guns for violence and our passion for anger. There is a sickness in this nation that, if indeed it were a disease, there would be charity 5K runs to raise money to cure it.

 

It is time for a serious look at the attitude of Americans and what fuels our passion for violence, murder and...firearms.  You people are nuts.  And don't give me that Second Amendment crap. You want a gun so badly...go get a muzzle loader.  Weary...

 

Rev. William Barber II

 

What we might want to start with, as we attempt to heal, is this speech from Rev. William Barber of North Carolina. It, perhaps, was the most powerful speech I have heard. Take the time and listen.

 

  

 

See, I told you!

 

Speaking of North Carolina

 

The Republicans won an election and then they went on the attack and attempted to strip the voting rights from African-Americans in that state. But, on Friday a federal appeals court struck down a law enacted in North Carolina shortly after the United States Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act. White Republicans in North Carolina went to work and crafted a law which created new ID requirements, eliminated same-day voter registration, reduced early voting by a week, blocked a law that allowed 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote, and prevented ballots cast in the wrong precincts from being counted. (Image: President Johnson and Martin Luther King Jr. at the 1965 signing of the Voting Rights Act.)

 

In the opinion of the unanimous three judge panel, "Winning an election does not empower anyone in any party to engage in purposeful racial discrimination."

 

Also this past month we witnessed two other states lose judicial contests as they attempted to restrict voting.  On July 19, a federal court weakened Wisconsin's strict voter ID law; the next day, a panel of federal judges ruled that Texas' strict voter ID law violated federal law.

 

Why this matters is coming up...but first:

 

The DNC

 

It was a big story last week. Somebody was pulling strings in support of one candidate over the other. It was such a big story that it is highly likely that Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz may lose her primary battle against Tim Canova.  How is that likely?  The story is many from the Bernie Sanders camp are working to settle the story and go to work for Canova. In fact this weekend it was announced that because of the meddling of Wasserman Shultz professor Canova hauled in another $2 million in campaign cash.

 

It is anything but a graceful ending for Debbie.  Sort of reminds you of...Fredo...no?

 

(Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

 

 

 

 

Twitter Profile

 

This came about in my Twitter Feed @MichaelLibbie (in case you want to follow) and thought it was so good that I should share with you.

 

Pretty much sums it up...  Go ahead and click on the image to enlarge it.  

 

Gotta love Twitter...so do you use it?

 

Hillary Clinton

 

Last week history was made as a major party nominated the first woman for President of the United States. It has been a long, long road. The fact that Sec. Clinton is not well liked by so many is pretty easy to understand. She has been attacked and vilified by the Right for decades.

 

Here is why electing Mrs. Clinton should be the work of all progressives in this nation.  There is no doubt that issues will continue to be sent to the Supreme Court. The Voting Rights Act may get another look should North Carolina decide to appeal. The Citizens United case is likely to get another review and, of course, there is the abortion issue that seems to crop up in GOP strongholds every year so expect more decisions against places like Texas to be on the docket. 

 

Hillary Clinton, as president, will send progressive judges to the Supreme Court.  If, for no other reason, you must work to elect her this November.

 

But Another Reason

 

This November we have the opportunity to take back the United States Senate. Here in Iowa the once "safe seat" held by Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) is suddenly in play. The reason? His failure to hold hearings to fill a Supreme Court vacancy. Refusal to do his job. So, we will work hard for Patty Judge.  And you, no matter where you live, must work to turn the Senate blue again. It is critical...

 

You in Iowa have the opportunity to gain back three congressional seats by working hard for Democrats Monica Vernon, Jim Mowrer and Kim Weaver.  You all know I worked my ass off for Desmund Adams in the primary and we came up short. That does not keep me from voting for Mowrer this November. There is more at stake than...pride.

 

Bernie Sanders

 

So, while I'm there let's' have this discussion about hard-core Bernie Sanders supporters. Quit whining. We lost but we also won. The platform for the Democratic Party is the most progressive we have ever seen. It is critical that you patch up your sorry ass and join us in electing the Democratic Ticket up and down the ballot.  Don't be the people who allow a crazed despot the chance to be president. I've got to call you out on this.  If I can vote for Jim Mowrer for Congress (and I will) you...who didn't put in the time and effort in support of Bernie Sanders other than go to a rally or two...can vote for the entire ticket including Hillary. You gotta make this happen and I trust you will.

 

Partly Personal

 

My Bride got back from #RAGBRAI yesterday and so did my son Aaron Libbie. It's so good to have them both back...safe.

 

Last week, as RAGBRAI 2016 started a man was struck from behind and killed as he was riding his bicycle. Later that week another man was struck and drug by a truck as he lay sleeping in his tent in an approved campground. The guy driving the first truck will, more than likely, not be charged. The guy who ran over the sleeping cyclist was drunk and arrested. 

 

One broke the law and will face charges. The other "didn't see" the cyclist and nothing will happen. However if the Iowa Legislature were to enact some protection for cyclists, who have every right to be on Iowa roads, then there might be a different outcome.  This week Gov. Branstad indicated he is ready to push the legislature on some sort of protection for cyclists and it is well past that time.

 

A second note. I attended a funeral for a man this past week. If, when we meet, I seem a bit more directed and purposeful it was because of some lessons I learned there.

 

Have a great week and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

Politics, Religion and Race - SMC 24 July 2016

There are now three things we must never discuss: Politics, Religion and Race however those are the three things we must discuss with
not only an open mind but also with empathy. So let's go with it...grab a few moments and chug down a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee.

The Police State

Last week during an NPR interview conducted by Terry Gross I heard former New York City Police Officer Eric Adams say these words, "Police have two rights that even the president does not have; the right to take liberty and the right to take life." Let that sink in for just a moment. This is why, my friends, that we must hold police officers to a higher standard. Why we must insure they are there to not only protect but to serve. Far too often they are failing and the result has been tragic. If you would like to hear that interview here you go:

Last week officers from North Miami Beach were called because someone reported a man was walking around with a gun. When police arrived they saw a black man and a white man in the street. The black man was Charles Kinsey the white man was a person playing with a toy truck who suffers from autism and who had wandered away from the group home where Mr. Kinsey works. During the confrontation Mr. Kinsey did all that the officers told him to do yet he was shot and wounded by Officer Jonathan Aledda. When the union officials from the police department faced the media they said something startling: "It appeared to the officers that the white male was trying to do harm to Mr. Kinsey," Rivera said, citing the man's motions toward Kinsey just before the officer opened fire. In other words the officer was trying to shoot the person with autism but missed and hit Mr. Kinsey. But, if that is so...why then did the officers, with guns drawn, handcuff Mr Kinsey and leave him there for ten to fifteen minutes bleeding in the street?

It is fortunate that Officer Aledda is a bad shot or...was he?

Trust

When trust is abandoned so too is respect. As a white man my interaction with law enforcement has always been positive. But, for a moment consider the threat a police officer has on a person of color. If you fail to understand that then you are turning a blind eye toward the startling reality that, in many respects, we have replaced the Jim Crow South with something called law enforcement where black men and women are seen as "less than". 

There is a reason we know the names of Tamir Rice, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, Jordan Davis, Natasha McKenna, LaQuan McDonald, Freddie Gray and Jamar Clark. Think of these words spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. decades ago: "Armies of officials are clothed in uniform, invested with authority, armed with the instruments of violence and death and conditioned to believe they can intimidate, maim or kill Negros with the same recklessness that once motivated the slave owner. If one doubts this conclusion, let him search the records and find how rarely in any southern state a police officer has been punished for abusing a Negro."

Let that sink in for a moment... It is all about....trust.

Now You've Done It

Last week the unthinkable happened as the Republican Party nominated a huckster and a person who has never served anyone but himself as their candidate for President of the United States. You have lost your minds. Those of you who support this man do so because he, unlike you, says the things you can not say in public but you can behind closed doors. You are fearful, resentful, self-absorbed and disrespectful but you are able to cloak that in an air of respectability.  Your candidate has exposed you for what you are and, frankly I'm grateful. The jig...is up and now you get to live with it. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Republicans and the LGBT Community

Those of you who adhere to the Grand Old Party have hoisted up the flag of hate. You must be proud. While you wrap yourself in Jesus the hate that spews from your platform regarding your fellow humans is a horror. You have doubled down on your fear and made the decision to marginalize thousands of Americans. The official platform finalized this week, defines marriage as between a man and a woman, rejects what it calls the Obama administration’s redefinition of sex discrimination laws to include transgender individuals, and says parents of LGBT children should be allowed to force their children into conversion therapy. Committee members even rejected an attempt to include language condemning foreign terrorist attacks against the LGBT community.

Conversion therapy...really?  Jesus will make you straight! If not you will simply burn in hell. And, heck, if you can't legally kill LGBT folks you will gladly hand over your gun and bible to a terrorist. Lincoln is spinning in his grave.

Damn...I'm at 800 words and just getting started!

Let's move on to more...happy thoughts shall we?

Bad For Business!

For years we have heard from the Iowa GOP leaders that Iowa is bad for business. Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA) goes wherever he can and proclaims we have a "bad business climate" we are "too taxed" and that "businesses need more tax breaks". Wait a minute. What if all of those cries of desperation were simply not...true?  What? You mean politicians might lie to us?  So, indulge me for a bit and read this piece about California. As we all know, California is the home of left-wing lunatics where taxes are way too high and businesses are being throttled...and it's hell out there. Maybe not so much... 

The Swimsuit Edition

You have all heard of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition...right? Well, here in Central Iowa we have a rebuttal to that fancy rag in the Cityview Swimsuit Edition. That's right you red-blooded American men...we have swimsuit models right here in River City.  Three of them. Three. This week the Swimsuit Edition underwhelmed but I would like to thank Grace, Payton and Ashlee for sharing.

It was very nice and it got me to notice my air conditioner.

Then There Was This...

However, after a blistering article about the financial troubles of Marty Tirrell and his wives and his jobs and his... My friend Michael Gartner did offer this bit of news regarding Gov. Branstad (R-IA) and his jobs promise. When he took office...(some, what fifty years ago?) he promised he would create 200,000 new jobs for Iowans in five years.  Well, when he took office the non-farm employment in Iowa was 1,488,100 in May of this year it was 1,597,000. (Stay with me because I failed to go to a private, for-profit Charter School so math is a little tough.) After five-and-a-half years that is an increase of 108,900 new jobs! And, as Michael wrote, "Who's counting? Not the Governor."

Brad Marshall is a Putz

Forgive me but if you don't know what a putz is...perhaps you know what a schmuck is? No? It is a penis. Brad Marshall of the Democratic National Committee is one, or doesn't have one..well, I don't want to check. Just before the Democratic National Committee "Hillary LoveFest" Wikeleaks released over 19,000 emails and internal documents. One of which calls out Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) for being Jewish: “It might may no difference, but for KY and WVA can we get someone to ask his belief. Does he believe in a God. He had skated on saying he has a Jewish heritage. I think I read he is an atheist. This could make several points difference with my peeps. My Southern Baptist peeps would draw a big difference between a Jew and an atheist.” Here is the story.

You PUTZ...you. For all the hate/pain that you people (Christians) have cause my people you have to bend over for this? Screw you! BTW Debbie Wasserman Schultz you should be ashamed. But you won't be because it's your job to protect a putz. 

Partly Personal

It is RAGBRAI Week where thousands of cyclists trek across Iowa on public roads. Of course this practice should be banned because as of this writing eight cyclists have died in bike/car accidents in Iowa and everybody knows that bikes do not belong on roads. They, after all, were built for slow moving farm machinery. 

UPDATE: This morning a cyclist who was on RAGBRAI was killed when he was struck from behind by a pickup truck. 

Now there are Nine...  

Rides of Silence are not what needs to happen we need to shout that we will not tolerate any more. The feckless Iowa Legislature has failed to add some small amount of protection for riders. It is a shame and they should be held accountable.  

This is a photo of Georgie with her "RAGBRAI Husband" John Melville who hails from Maryland. I know, it's a long journey for a bike ride.

Here is wishing you, our son Aaron and everybody a safe journey.

Here? Well, today begins the annual celebration of Roomaday! That is where, free from the fetters of other chores I get to clean, top to bottom, a room a day.  I have promised NOT to post any before/after photos...out of respect.

Thanks for reading and have a great week!

 

 

Wait! What? - Sunday Morning Coffee 26 June 2016

Sunday Morning Coffee...my weekly politics, religion and gossip blog is being served for Sunday Morning Brunch today.  Why? Well, do not mix failing to eat with going out with your 35 year-old daughter to the clubs.  Yikes! She drove! OK...let's get into it shall we. Lots to cover:

We Did What?

Last week a slim majority of voters in the United Kingdom decided they had enough of being part of the European Union so they voted to Brexit. Then, after the markets collapsed, the pound-sterling fell to a 40 year low and other European countries made plans to pull out of Great Britain citizens there went to Google to find out what the hell the European Union...was. "We got ourselves out of the bloody EU which is what by the way?" The Washington Post had a great piece on the metrics following the vote. What was really fun was that the way the Exit Crowd lied to the people telling them about the threat of Muslim armies on the door step of England. It seemed so Donald Trump. Weary...

Then the Brits decided to start an online petition to take back their vote. As of this writing over 3 million of them have signed on for a "do over". Parliament must hear any petition that has over 100,000 signatures.  "I say, old chap, what was it we voted on?" Here is the piece from NBC News. 

Scotland

So, get this: The Donald jets to Scotland the day after the vote to open up a high end golf resort and says, upon landing, how much he admires Scotland for voting to regain their independence and vote out of the EU. Trouble is...Scotland voted to stay in the European Union. This clown can't even get that right? Meanwhile the irony: He is hailing the vote while the markets strip $400 billion out of 401k accounts that belong to common people and courting the super wealthy at his resort. Tell me again why you, Gov. Branstad (R-IA) and Supervisor Robert Brownell (R-Polk County) support this guy? Really...sometime we need to sit down over a very strong adult beverage and have you come clean.

Mental Health

Just when you thought everything was going just ducky (one of them words used in Great Britain) we get a report that Iowa comes in at the end of the line when it comes to mental health care. But, the fact of the matter is, we don't actually NEED any mental health care in Iowa we just ship folks off to jails and prisons. A Des Moines Register (I know...Commie Bastards!) had this startling piece in a recent editorial: "A 2015 report estimates there are 120,000 people in Iowa with a serious mental illness, but only about 300 psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants who can prescribe medication. Iowa now ranks last among the states in terms of the available state psychiatric beds."

You see, Gov. Branstad has seen the light and unilaterally closed facilities because we just don't need them...right? You people actually voted for this guy....remember?  And, what is sad, you are about to vote for another Republican should Gov. Branstad ever decide to retire. Weary 2.0 but then again we, no doubt, need for-profit prisons. See where we are headed here?

The Sit In

Meanwhile in Congress Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) last week held an old-fashioned sit in but this time dozens of lawmakers sat in the Well of the House Chamber protesting that the GOP controlled body would not take a vote on tougher gun measures. Of course Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) called it a "publicity stunt" while he posed for photos in a homeless shelter kitchen. Two items: The Democrats should have stayed. No really! They should have made the decision to stay and really make a point. Friends could have sent in food and pillows and blankets. It would have been a great way to celebrate the 4th of July. It was a publicity stunt...because they caved too quickly. Weary 3.0. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

The Spoiler?

Folks are getting all excited over the prospect that Libertarian Party candidate Gary Johnson is going to play the spoiler and court Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) voters which will peel off supporters from the left and allow Mr. Trump to become president. While Mr. Johnson seems like a nice guy he stands for stuff that Bernie would never cave to. But, then again...on the surface it may be appealing. This could turn into a real hot mess...

Governor O'Malley

Was back in Iowa last week. Wonder what position he is looking at under a President Hillary Clinton White House? 

Partly Personal

Really proud of our son Aaron. Not only a great father and husband he also gives back a bit. Last week he rode his bike over 150 miles in a fund raising program to stop human trafficking. Well done and gosh he's a great kid.

Meanwhile this weekend our daughter, Holly gets closer to 40. She doesn't read Sunday Morning Coffee..so I can say that.  Congratulations and you are beautiful!

Gotta go before this goes into Sunday Afternoon Coffee....stay cool out there and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee - 19 June 2016

"Never discuss politics and religion...and don't gossip!" What fun is that? Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee where we do just that. Some of the stories you've, maybe, heard others might be new. Let's dig in and enjoy a cup...or two on this Father's Day 2016:

The List is Getting Longer

Last week the Washington Post made it to the list of banned media sites meaning they no longer get credentials for any Donald Trump event. They join others like the Huffington Post, BuzzFeed, The Daily Beast, Politico and The Des Moines Register.  Yep...we even made the list. Makes me feel all warm inside.

Apple Bans Trump

Yesterday Apple became another on the list of companies who have declined the opportunity to support the Republican National Convention because....of Donald Trump. It's not a bunch of money. Back in 2008 Apple donated equipment to the GOP Convention and reports had it valued at $140,000. What is interesting is the growing list of companies saying no to the Republicans: HP, Microsoft, JP Morgan Chase and Ford have all scaled back our cut out the group now headed by Donald Trump. You might say that Trump is "bad for business".

In a relate story Mr. Trump this weekend said that if the GOP doesn't get on board with his campaign he will self fund the effort.  Some Republicans are sitting this one out or not offering much support. They have, as my friend Tim Lloyd notes in his cartoon this week "Painted Themselves in a Corner". It was, after all, this same bunch that was obstructing nearly everything for the past eight years and turned a deaf ear to the rabble that wants to turn America back to 1953. Now what are you gonna do? (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

The Iowa Democrats - Hall of Fame Dinner

I attended the Iowa Democratic Party Hall of Fame Dinner last week with my friend and former Third District congressional candidate Desmund Adams. It was, pretty much a "love fest" between rivals that just went through a tough primary process. US Senate Candidate Patty Judge had the most interesting pre-party event with a room full of well-wishers who pledged to work hard for her in her contest against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) who, because of his failure to lead, has become a target for defeat in November. It's an uphill climb but if the Democrats can mobilize, and it is a presidential year, there is that possibility.

Congressman Dave Lobesack (D-IA) offered up a masterful speech. Really, I have seen him before but on this night he was on top of his game. He spoke of party unity (the theme) and how Democrats must get out and work hard. His personal story made the speech. 

State Representative Ako Abdul-Samad (D-Des Moines) offered up the opening prayer and, for a bit, it seemed more like a revival than a political function. His call for peace, freedom and acceptance took in all the right stuff to kick off the evening. 

Congratulations go out to these Democrats who where honored:

• Outstanding Elected Official Award: Senator Mike Gronstal

• Outstanding Supporter Award: Ken Sagar, Iowa Federation of Labor President

• Minette Doderer Award for Outstanding Leadership: Rep. Sharon Steckman (D-Mason City)

• Jim Lodwick Award for Outstanding State Central Committee Member: Jean Pardee, longest serving SCC member

• Bob Creech Award for Outstanding Democratic Party Chair: Laura Hubka, Howard County Chair

• Dixon Terry Award for Outstanding Democratic Party Activist: Randy Black, Chair of the Iowa Democratic Wing Ding Committee

• Edward Campbell Rising Star Award: Blake Hanson

Only two of the honorees were allowed to speak. Mike Gronstal gave one of the best speeches I've heard from him and Ken Sagar continued his efforts and the Fight for Fifteen not only in Polk County but across the state. I would hope, in future years, we might allow the others honored to offer some brief remarks. It might add 15 minutes to the event but...we ain't going anywhere.

Biggest THUD of the Night

At the close of the Iowa Hall of Fame event came the biggest THUD of the evening. Iowa Democratic Party Chair announced the new name for the fall event formerly known as the Jefferson/Jackson Day Dinner...or the JJ. A hush descended on the hundreds in attendance as Dr. Andy McGuire revealed the new name.  Ready? "I am pleased to announce that the State Central Committee has re-named the JJ Dinner the (wait for it...) Fall Gala.." The "hush" was met by groans.  Really Andy?  Is that the best we could do?  The "Fall Gala"??  This is what took weeks and weeks to decide?  Several words come to mind... "Lazy", "Fearful", "Silly". Sounds more like a sorority cotillion than a political rally designed to retain the White House and the Iowa Senate. If that is the best we could do...we are doomed. I, personally liked the Hughs/Harkin Dinner or HH.  But..."The Fall Gala"?  Yikes.... 

The Ghost of Bernie Sanders

Groans turned into some arm twisting the following morning as the Iowa Democratic Party State Convention got underway. The result was predictable as Sec. Hillary Clinton won the majority of delegates to the National Convention. The Bernie Sanders wing...the more liberal it would seem...just didn't match the experience of the other side. Several I spoke with were dejected and, frankly, wondered who they might work for and support over the next few months. This is not to say that the vast majority of Democrats will not get behind Hillary...I think they will... However, down ticket, it's difficult to see these energetic, youthful and liberal voters getting jazzed up for what is being offered.  Looks mighty "establishment" centered and that is exactly what they are not looking for.  If Iowa Democrats are as feckless about reaching out to them as they were in naming the Fall Gala... Look, you guys better get your act together because the GOP is smelling success.

Senator David Johnson

Last week State Senator David Johnson (I-Ocheyedan) made the gutsy move to abandon the Republican Party because of, not only Donald Trump, but a host of other issues. Sen. Johnson doesn't like where his party is headed on education, energy, the environment and economic development. He says he is still a conservative on many social issues and ruled out caucusing with the Democrats but...it will be interesting to see where and what he does next year. I truly hope his stays with it. We could use some help turning this ship back to a progressive line on education, energy and the environment and stop handing out cash to already successful businesses.

Partly Personal

Yesterday was also the celebration of Juneteenth in Des Moines. I failed to attend. It was "family day" and we did 20 miles with our kids on the bikes. Twenty miles for an 8 year-old is pretty darn good.  

Today is Father's Day....enjoy the day, your family and friends. It's good to be a Dad...and it's better to be a Father.  Thank you kids!  I was telling a friend of mine last week that clearly our son Aaron has become a better father than I was and I am so very proud of him.

Have a wonderful Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

Politics - Don't Ya Love It? - SMC 5 June 2016

Wake from thy slumber my friends it's time for Sunday Morning Coffee a jolt of politics mixed with religion and some gossip for flavor. Why? Because at 5AM on a Sunday Morning I ain't got anything better to do. Coffee is...served.

California

It wasn't supposed to be this way. A year ago Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) didn't much register in the polls. Two months earlier Sec. Hillary Clinton had announced, on YouTube, that she was running for president. The race was hers if she could swat aside Gov. Martin O'Malley. That was a year ago. On Tuesday some of the final primaries in what has been a very long campaign happen. Along with California voters in New Jersey, New Mexico and North & South Dakota go to the polls. But the biggest prize is California with 546 delegates. If Bernie wins does the convention go contested? Hillary wins will the Bernie Bots support her? Win or lose Sen. Sanders has messed with the power brokers in the Democratic Party and they do not like that. 

Democratic Party

Once upon a time Democrats engaged the working class. The leadership was made up of hardworking regular folks who understood that when the Middle Class excels the nation excels. But then the "One-Percenters" (OK, they are Democrats...so maybe it's the "Three-Percenters") began to take charge. Today it is more likely the leading Democratic figures, be it nationally or here in Iowa, hang out at private country clubs and not union halls. Many forgetting what made the party...the party. This is how you explain the rise of Bernie Sanders. Way too many people are frustrated and left out...it's all about money. Donald Trump will not win the White House but this should be a giant wake-up call to the Democratic Party. Your people are hurting out here. But, behind the gated communities in the din of clinking martini glasses you can't hear them.

Muhammad Ali

I was 14 when Cassius Clay beat Sonny Liston to win the world heavyweight championship. He was loud and brash and talented. Shortly after he converted to something called Islam. Our family didn't know many folks like that and I remember my father shaking his head. He didn't like it, "It's not right" he would say. But when a Jewish broadcaster by the name of Howard Cosell bragged up Mohammad Ali our family took notice. "Maybe this kid isn't so bad after all..." Last week when Ali died in Scottsdale, AZ the nation celebrated his life and the gifts he gave to so many. My friend John Hedgecoth wrote on his Facebook Page, "Good to see America celebrate a draft-dodging Muslim this morning. Baby steps, people." It was both funny and powerful. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

You Can't Make This Up

Last week Donald Trump..the Republican that so many of you admire because, "He tells it like it is!" (or was in 1938) Said the judge who will hear his fraud case involving Trump University would be biased because he is a Latino. After all, mused his campaign, it's going to taint his judgement because of The Wall and Mass Deportations. No Mr. Trump your judgement is tainted and you bilked hundreds of people out of cash. But you do carry the standard of the Republican Party...  Now, aren't you people proud. Weary....

Birds of a Feather

Of course we have a new photo. Our "Birds of a Feather" image for this week would be our own beloved senior senator Charles Grassley and Donald Trump. Obstruction and wacky seem to go together right? One would think.  We, my friends, have simply lost our minds.

 

The Des Moines Register

Last week the Des Moines Register endorsed Jim Mowrer the slick, big-spending, former Blue-Dog Democrat who decided he needs a job, after (it would seem) paying himself and his wife thousands when he ran in Iowa's 4th Congressional District against Rep. Steve King (R-IA). I get it. The Des Moines Register also endorsed Mitt Romney and Rep. David Young (R-IA). Mitt lost and David won...mostly because Staci Appel, a great person but a lousy candidate, never really connected with voters. Wanna know why? Because folks in Washington pulled all the strings...that's what happens at this level. They (remember the Three-Percenters?) know better than us stupid Iowans.  If Jim wins on Tuesday...David Young will win another term. Why?  He actually is more likable.

Patty Judge

Then there is this bit of news: It would seem, according to The Iowa Poll, 42% of Iowan's favor former Lt. Governor Patty Judge as the Democratic Candidate who has the best chance of taking on Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) as the Senator seeks a fifth term. The poll has her 17 points ahead of State Senator Robb Hogg (D-Cedar Rapids). Once again, my friends, proof that if I am ever in serious trouble with the law I will opt for a bench trial rather than a "jury of my peers". Unless that judge happens to be a Muslim. (easy kids...see above)

Speaking of Polls

The real name of that poll is The Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll. I found that sort of funny in the fact that there was a recent poll done about cable providers in the United States that says Mediacom is the least liked provider in the nation.  You wanna see? Here you go the piece from The American Customer Satisfaction Index.  See what you learn here? You are welcome!  

Meanwhile

I saw the headline..."Branstad Calls Tuition Rates Too High". He is calling on the Board of Regents to reduce the planned tuition increase of $300 for the 2016-2017 school year. The regents had already bumped tuition back in December by $200. Come on people...what's another $500 bucks?  Chump change when it comes to the benefit of living in one of the worst states in the nation regarding student debt. And, with 11% of student debt in delinquency or default it's important for parents and kids to choose wisely where they send their kid to school. Here is that set of stats.

Partly Personal

This week would have been my Mother's z"tl 96th birthday. She died on the First Day of Spring in 2014. On my personal FB page in the "Memories" up popped this photo I took of her on one of her many trips to the doctor. She always got dressed up when she went to she one of her physicians. Heck, we would all dress up when we went to the airport...even the train station to pick up family members. Not sure when it became "fashionable" to dress as if we were all refugees or on permanent vacation. But, it was fun...and touching to remember. Happy Birthday Mom...no doubt you and Dad are dancing up a storm.

Thanks for reading...have a great Sunday.