SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee - Congratulations!

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my regular look at some political issues and what to make of the successes of President Joe Biden.

Dumbing Down of Iowans

The Iowa GOP mission to make Iowa dumber is a resounding success. If you want proof look at the most recent Iowa Poll by the Des Moines Register and Seltzer and Company. The polling of 650 likely Iowa voters turned up some fascinating results and tells us the 45^th president is the best choice for a majority of Iowans.  The first concern is the age of President Biden so let’s dig into that for just a moment.

The President is 81 years old which, according to these Iowans, is way too old to serve. However, these same Iowans made it a point to return Sen. Charles Grassley who is ten years older than Biden to the U.S. Senate.  Guess that’s not a problem.  Warren Buffett, who is 93, clearly is too adle-brained to run Berkshire Hathaway.  Well, not really after all he is the “Oracle of Omaha” who is worth $134 billion. This is purely ageism and of right-wing talk shows that dominate the Iowa landscape Plus the dumbing down of our once proud educational system.

In the Iowa Poll a Gregory Wrobleski, who is 44 and lives in Dubuque likes it that “45” is, “ a businessman” (although a failed businessman) who said the economy was booming during those years and there, “no wars across the world.”  Gregory must have forgotten about Afghanistan and the multiple wars in Africa. That is what a lack of education can do to a person. Oh…and the economy?  See below Gregory.

The poll tells us that 79% of Iowans say “things have gotten off on the wrong track”. What track are they talking about? If it is the economy they are simply misinformed (again a lack of education). The economy in the U.S. is booming, job creation is the highest its been in decades, inflation is coming down at 3.1%, wages last year jumped upward by 4.1%, the unemployment level is the lowest it’s been since the 1960’s. So, my dear voters…what track are you talking about?  I’d like to know.

And then there is Andrew Gull a 27 year-old independent voter who not only mentions the presidents age but also said that the President Biden has failed to deliver on key campaign promises such as student loan forgiveness. Andrew, let me help you with that…stay with me here. President Biden did propose sweeping changes to forgive student loans which the Trump Supreme Court said it was unlawful. And when faced with an extremist U.S. House of Representatives…good luck in getting that passed.

I realize it is difficult to truly understand the big picture when you are being spoon-fed nonsense by every right-wing talking head on the radio and television. However, being misinformed isn’t your fault. You have simply succumbed to the successful war on education perpetrated by the Iowa GOP.

Success of President Joe Biden

If you’ve gotten this far you might be interested in what President Biden has actually done for the United States.  Again, stay with me here. But first, that was one great speech the President gave on Thursday night. He was on fire and put his record up against his "successor" which I'll take any day of the week.  But let's move on...

President Joe Biden ended the longest war in U.S. history by pulling troops out of Afghanistan. 

Provided $10,000 to $20,000 in college debt relief to Americans with loans who make under $125,000 a year. This was struck down but the Supreme Court, however, the administration has announced a new plan to forgive billions in loans that were qualified under special programs but not done due to DOE mismanagement in previous years.

And, one more...just to keep you in the loop. He cut child poverty in half through the American Rescue Plan. 

Join me next Sunday Morning for more...isn't this delightful?

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 20 March 2022

I know you've got stuff to do and appreciate that you take a few minutes to check out Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly commentary on politics, business and the occasional bit about religion...just to spice things up.  The past week has been a whirlwind of activity with continued geo-political stress taking center stage.  Let's go:

Ukraine 

I really thought that after the 2020 election I wouldn't be reaching for my phone every morning before getting out of bed. For the four years the mad-man was in office it was like a never ending bad dream. Each morning I'd have to check what the lies the guy was spewing or tweeting. But then COVID-19 and now Ukraine. Not a break. 

Things in Ukraine, as of this morning, are dire as the city of Mariupol is not only surrounded but there is fighting going on in the streets. The invading army of Russia continues to target civilians while denying their murders. Are we doing enough? I don't know but the world seems to have come to its senses regarding our dealings with the killer, Putin.  Let us never forget.

Still In Russia

There are a number of businesses still doing business in Russia. While many have left and closed their facilities, further isolating the Russian economy these companies remain using the excuse that closing down would hurt innocent Russians. What...BS. Look what the Russian military is doing to the innocent Ukrainians.

The LA Times is reporting that among the consumer companies identified as staying in Russia are the fast-food chain Subway; Reebok; Bacardi (maker of rum, Dewar's Scotch and Grey Goose vodka, among other brands); the electronics companies LG and Asus; and Natura, owner of Avon cosmetics.  McDonald’s is still there so too is Burger King.

Koch Industries, which is known for its support of far-right politicians in the U.S. says it’s subsidiary, Guardian Industries that employees 600 workers at two glass factories in Russia…is staying put.

Just so you know.

St. Patrick's Day and Purim

I'd never been to a Des Moines St. Patrick's Day Parade and really had not planned on attending this past Thursday. It was, after all, Purim. But got a message that the Polk County Democrats needed a truck to haul the trailer with Daisy on top. So at 11PM on Wednesday night I got the approval of my bride to take her truck and what a day.

And, because it was Purim I sort of felt like it worked out...and was able to wear my green kippah. The neat thing about the parade was that so many in the crowd were cheering us on.  Not one heckler did I hear.  Anyway...it was great to "represent" and thanks for the opportunity.

The Race for Governor

Early this morning I was scrolling through my Facebook Feed and noticed several posts bemoaning the fact that one or two (un-named) Democrats had turned down the opportunity to run. One person wrote, "What are we going to do? Somebody needs to run!"

Uh...we DO have a candidate in this race and she is running a fantastic campaign. Diedre DeJear is...everywhere and she is speaking truth to power and she is articulating a solid message that resonates with working families, rural folks, urban people and even business. Yesterday I heard Sen. Claire Celsi (D-WDM) speak on her behalf. It was a passionate call to get out and support our candidate. I would ask you to do the same. Join me in chipping in what you can to Diedre.  You can do that here.

Meanwhile Momentum is Moving

If you asked me two months ago who would be the Democrat to take on Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) in November I would have suggested it would be a tossup. However I can sense victory is in the air for Admiral Mike Franken. He too is everywhere. His campaign staff has re-organized and there is measurable excitement among supporters, staff and even those who are, for the first time, meeting him.

Look, in these troubled geo-political times we need experienced leadership that has been on the front lines of critical decisions. Mike is not a career politician but a tested and wise leader. If you've not yet chipped in to his campaign you can do that here. 

Admiral Franken is the real deal,. He resonates with folks all across the state. Taking out Chuck Grassley is job one...and with your help it's game on!  The photo is from my friend Julie Gammack who was with Admiral Franken in Pocahontas at the Aspen Leaf Café.

Supervisor Matt McCoy

Last week I sat down for over an hour to visit with Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy.  It was enlightening. Much has been written about the toxic environment swirling around Polk County Leadership and I asked the tough questions. Not the hearsay stuff folks like to talk about the the facts to a case that may someday go to trial. I came away from that meeting believing that "change" is not something many county supervisors want to talk about.  Because of that Matt has been...sidelined. 

He recently picked up Windsor Heights in his district and he will be speaking to the Windsor Heights Democrats yet this month. I'm looking forward to having so many more people hear the story. 

Did You Know?

OK, I'm about to share something with you I found appalling. Until yesterday I had no idea that folks who are sent to jail in Polk County pay for their time behind bars. Now while that may sound like just the "law and order" system we need let's take a deeper dive. Let's say you are picked up for some infraction. Maybe it's pot possession or perhaps a drunk and disorderly charge and the decision is to hold you in jail and because you work paycheck to paycheck you can't make bail or perhaps they just don't want to issue bail.

The first day you are in jail it costs you $75. Each day after that it's $60. So, if you're in the pokey for a week pre-trial you owe $435. But, now you've lost your job because your employer fired you for not showing up.  Worse than that you are now "in the system" a system that sends more and more poor people to jail or to prison. 

I think we need to really look at what we're doing and how it impacts so many people. There has got to be a better way.  And, that is why I'm supporting Kimberly Graham for Polk County Attorney. With over 20 years as a defense attorney she has seen the criminal justice system from both sides. Imagine what that might do to help fix what seems to be a broken system. Want more? Head to her website and learn.  With echoes of what is going on with a defense attorney headed to the Supreme Court this makes sense. Thanks...in advance.

Partly Personal

In reality this has been mostly personal. However today, the first day of Spring marks the anniversary of the death of my Mother z"l. Six years ago today she died in our home at 93 and seven months.  As her primary care-giver during the final eight months of her life I've often thought back to those days and wondered how I did it. Juggling work/life and care is something not foreign to many of you who are experiencing the same things.  Please know there are people out here that understand what you are doing and why.  

I remember that after the funeral I spent nearly two weeks in my office unable to do much of anything. It wasn't sadness but more like emptiness. For so very long I had "job one" and now that was gone.  It was tough to get back.  Not telling you this for any other reason than I know many of you are going through the same things.  Have...faith and may you find the strength to carry on.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 30 January 2022

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee politics, opinion and a slice of religion just to keep it interesting. Here is something to chew on. "The U.S. spent $5.8 trillion on a 20 year war in Afghanistan. In the end the same Taliban that we ousted in 2001 now control that nation. Meanwhile America has spent $0 on reparations to the descendants of the enslaved Africans held in bondage for 246 years and who built this nation." - Bishop Talbert Swan.  Let's go!

The Threat

While you were doing something else the former president known as "45" was in Texas at a rally where he said that there should be violent protests if he is found guilty of wrongdoing and that, if reelected, he would pardon the protesters and all of those responsible for the 1/6 insurrection. He must be feeling the heat and well he should. What a stain this man is on our nation.

Meanwhile in Honduras

Vice President Harris got back to Central America for the inauguration of Xiomara Castro who was sworn in as Honduras' first woman president in front of a cheering crowd who also cheered the Vice President as she entered the stadium. Harris pledged U.S. government support to stem migration and fight corruption.

Castro, flanked by her husband, former President Manuel Zelaya, was sworn in at a packed soccer stadium where supporters applauded her vows to fix the country's massive debt burden.

Castro, who describes herself as a democratic socialist, has vowed to tackle corruption, poverty and violence, chronic problems that have fueled U.S.-bound migrants. (Photo: New York Times)

Let's Talk Economics

Don't leave just because I wrote the word..."economics" because there is something really odd going on in the U.S. right now.  The U.S. economy is growing, the GDP is hitting highs we’ve not seen in decades, unemployment claims have started to tumble, homeowners are seeing the values of their homes skyrocket, workers have the upper hand when it comes to jobs and pay…yet U.S. consumers are NOT happy.

What’s going on?

CNN is reporting that even with all the good news about the economy consumers are worn out, tired and grumpy as we enter year three of COVID-19.

We’re still managing the risks of going out to eat, attending your house of worship…sending kids to school…it is a drain on the emotions.

Couple that with higher prices…a supply chain problem and you start to get a picture of why people are…not happy.

Consider this…

Every positive headline has a downside to match.

-- Yes, the economy is the strongest in 40 years, but so is inflation.

-- In the red-hot housing market, rents rose more than 10% last year, five times faster than the year before.

-- Wages are up, but so are bills. Moody's Analytics estimates the typical family is paying $200 more a month to buy the same goods they did two years ago.

Curiously, Americans complain about inflation, but the higher prices have not hurt their spending just yet. Many CEOs on earnings calls report strong customer demand, even after price hikes.  And…that GDP number of 6.9% growth in the 4^th quarter of last year??  Two thirds of the GDP is from…consumer spending.  Read that last sentence again...  Odd…friends…odd.

Confusion

There is some confusion in the U.S. Senate Race here in Iowa. Last week I received an email from a friend who spent time in the Iowa State Senate. (I share that because my friend remains very connected to the political world.) In that note to me he said, "I thought the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) was staying out of the Iowa race prior to the primary. What's going on?" He sent along what looked to be a funding request sent by the DSCC but if you dig a bit deeper you see that it came not from the DSCC but from Finkenauer campaign. THAT then caused some to speculate that the folks in Cedar Rapids were playing loose with their emails and the Franken campaign got on the phone to ask....what the heck? 

Another friend made the comment that one might think there was only one candidate running against Grassley if you watched any MSNBC because it seems they are fixated on Finkenauer while ignoring the other candidates Dr. Glen Hurst and Admiral Mike Franken. Hmmmm.

What a Scoop!!!

On Friday veteran Des Moines Register Reporter, Donnelle Eller had a story about water trails and funding. In the first paragraph she writes, "A central Iowa water trails group's efforts to build a $125 million recreational mecca for kayaking, fishing and surfing got a big boost Friday as Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the state would provide up to $15 million for the project."

Isn't that nice?  The Governor is into water stuff! One would think she swooped in and personally took a chunk of cash out of the budget to send off for water recreation. But then we get to the last paragraph and in particular the last sentence: "Reynolds made the water quality and infrastructure announcements in Sioux Center. The money comes from Iowa's share of the federal American Rescue Plan."

Wait! What? The American Rescue Plan? The Joe Biden American Rescue Plan? The Democratic American Rescue Plan? Yeah...that. Weary.

Where is J.D.?

Last week my friend J.D. Scholten quit his job with Vote Rural a political action committee that pushed a Democratic message to rural voters. In a cryptic sign-off J.D. wrote something about not being able to work for a PAC as he began another adventure. THAT got heads spinning and there was conjecture that J.D. might swoop in and save the top of the Iowa ticket and run for Governor. I dunno...just reporting. Meanwhile a group called The American Economics Liberties Project lists J.D. as a "Senior Advisor". Don't you love Iowa Politics?  Anybody???

The Iowa Caucus

It is my understanding that today the Iowa Democratic State Central Committee is meeting to chat about the upcoming caucus scheduled for February 7. If you've paid attention to the national news the Democratic Central Committee (DCC) is all about ending the caucus system and more than one news outlet returns to the tired story about the Iowa Caucus in 2020 not being able to report correct numbers. Forgetting the fact that Iowa was told by the DCC to use a system that...didn't work.

Anyway, it's said that the meeting today will be about allowing a virtual caucus. Several counties have looked at the science and said they will buck the state party and hold their caucuses in a virtual format. With the COVID-19 positivity rate hitting 34% in Polk County I'm all in on a virtual event. We shall see if the party that believes in science will now trust it.  Stay tuned.

Partly Personal

Last week I was in Kansas City on an assignment and I'm still not unpacked. When you take a truck load of audio gear out of town...it takes awhile to get back to "normal".

Meanwhile, yesterday I spent a couple of hours at a Windsor Heights coffee shop, Grounds for Celebration for something we've dubbed "Coffee with Council". It's where my fellow city councilors rotate into the coffee shop between 9AM and 11AM to chat with residents and business people about Windsor Heights. I can report back to you that 1) The coffee was wonderful; 2) The breakfast veggie sandwich was delicious and 3) I didn't have any takers.  My bride, who made this great looking sign for me, suggested that I dress down a bit. No slacks and sweater but go more casual so folks feel comfortable to approach me. Great...my new "brand" jeans and flannel...the Paul Bunyan Look. 

That's a wrap...thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 October 2021

Hello...and yes, a bit late today. So much going on these days. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee on a rainy October day. Glad you're here for a bit of news and opinion all wrapped up in this weekly visit.  As always, should you have comments let them fly. Let's go!

Portugal 

While COVID19 infections continue to ravage parts of the U.S. and the U.K. the county of Portugal is giving us a glimpse of what the future might look like if only...we had the guts and willingness to do so.  According to a Wall Street Journal article out today Portugal is giving us some lessons. There close to 100% of the people over the age of 50 have received at least one vaccine dose. For those between the ages of 25 and 49 it is 95% and from age 12 to 17 the vaccination rate is 88%.  There are 10 million people in Portugal and 98% have had at least one dose.  If you want to read that article I've linked it on my Twitter account or you can click here. (Image: Yahoo News)

Meanwhile here in the U.S. only 65% have had one dose and in the U.K 73%. 

On October 1 Portugal ditched most of it's Covid containment rules...but masks are still required on public transportation, folks must show proof of vaccination at large events in this soccer crazed nation, handpumps for disinfectant gel are everywhere. Meanwhile the U.K. has abandoned COVID19 rules and cases and deaths continue to mount. Here in the U.S. doctors are saying that 100% of those who present at emergency rooms are not vaccinated and they are taking up beds that could be used for other serious illnesses and/or accidents.

How absurd and how selfish are we?  Please for others, for the economy for the health of our nation...get your vaccine.

Fiddling

In some ways our economy in the U.S. is starting to get back to pre-pandemic times. Yet some states lag. Meanwhile the most important piece of legislation that would have a positive impact on the lives of Americans languishes in the U.S. Senate because the of the awful idea of the filibuster where a minority can rule the majority. And, when it comes to voting...forget about it. It's clear the GOP does not trust you to vote and will do everything in it's power to make it more difficult or impossible...at least for "some people". That the two senators from Iowa disregard the economic future of this state and stand in the way of allowing people full access to the right of voting is unconscionable but...predictable.  Chuck and Joni...fiddle while our state and nation cry out.

But, But...

While the Iowa Legislature and the Iowa Governor have done their best to restrict voting many of us are fighting back but there are many hurdles.

Here is one: I was knocking doors and came across two women who vote regularly but had not gotten a absentee ballot request (ABR). I had some with me and it was just two days before the October 18 deadline to request a ballot. (a GOP suppression move.) One of the women had her state issued ID card. She is 88 and long ago gave up driving. We were able to fill out her ABR but the other woman, who is 94, did not have ID nor could we find her Voter ID card with her number.  I was able to take the complete VBR to the County Auditor and she did get an absentee ballot but my other friend...nope. So, yes, we will make it so she can get out and go vote and I will stand with her and testify that she is who she is... But really people at 94 you have to go through this crap just to...vote?  Shameful.

And you KNOW this story is being repeated over and over again all across this state and others that are in GOP control.

Partly Personal

So much to do today so cutting this a bit short.  As you may know the UAW is on strike against John Deere. Workers rejected a contract
that was not in their best interests. For example workers would not see a raise after five years on the job. Really? Meanwhile John Deere is
posting record profits.  Going out on strike isn't easy. Working families don't get a paycheck but life goes on.  That's why many of us have made donations to the cause. The Polk County Democrats have sent over $1,000 in non-perishable food, diapers and other items to the UAW Local 450 Union Hall in Des Moines. They asked for others to chip in and so I delivered about $200 worth of items to the hall and visited with the striking family members.  You can help as well. If it's not food and supplies how about a cash donation...folks still have to pay for heat and lights and rent. If you can...please do.  Here is a LINK for an ACT BLUE account where you can make that donation.  

One thing is for sure. The striking workers are doing this for you as well. The reduction in union workers has impacted the middle class in significant ways such as no real increase in wages since the 1970's when adjusted for inflation. That is a direct result of "Right to Work" laws...  But, people are starting to realize that record profits do not translate into higher wages and union participation is seeing a resurgence. Once again, if you can help...please do.  Any help is a BIG HELP.  

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 10 October 2021

Now THAT was some football game! The Iowa Hawkeyes over Penn State by a score of 23 - 20. Two things: The Iowa defense was amazing, again, and their QB getting knocked out of the game with an injury...well.  The Hawks now go to 6 - 0 and the folks that know something about this stuff say they should go on to finish undefeated. But, one game at a time...right?  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee (sorry got sidetracked) politics commentary.  Let's go!

The Big Lie - Back in Town

They were there fawning for "The King" as one person called the 45th president. Some guy from Ankeny said, "He loves America and he loves Jesus..." Really?  Married three times, multiple affairs, lawsuits for rape...  Then there is Dan Gable the former Iowa wrestling coach. Don't get me started. Meanwhile Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) was on hand to chum it up with her buddy. And then Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) was all in.  Here's the deal:

The elected have seen the poll numbers and they realize that 97% of the GOP love this guy and 53% of Iowans have a favorable opinion of the man who incited a riot at the Capital, soiled our international reputation, scoffed at a pandemic that has killed over 600,000 Americans, gave a massive tax cut to the wealthy and turned his back on working class families. Really?  Politics is amazing...

Big Lie Number Two

I was involved in a large virtual gathering last week. It was not political. Prior to starting I was listening to some cross-talk as somebody had their mic open and I think was speaking to somebody on the phone.  Here is what she said, "They don't want to work anymore. There are places who are hiring but those people are getting fat and lazy through all the money the government is throwing at them. It is awful, just awful..." She too has bought into the Second Big Lie. Here is the reality:

• Moved On - People who were employed at low wage jobs have decided they no longer can live that way and they have moved on to other fields;
• They're Out - Women have not returned to the workforce because...states like Iowa have made it impossible for their kids to go back to school...safely. When local or state government passes laws that keep schools unsafe Mom is not sending their kiddo back;
• Free Money - The expanded unemployment benefits have gone away. Remember how that was going to "drive people back to work"? Nope. People are tired of poor pay, lousy benefits, impossible schedules, angry guests...  See reason number one.

But, when all you do is listen to insurrectionist media...you get both Big Lies. However, if you are interested in the economics of what is really going on...here is ISU economist Dave Swenson with his take.

Partly Personal

I'm sorry...these are going to be really short for the next several Sunday's.  I'm running a write-in campaign for the Windsor Heights City Council and there is so much to do.  If you don't know the story here is that video:

If you know some folks in Windsor Heights, Iowa...remind them and perhaps a good word?

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 3 October 2021

Good Morning and welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee. Here are some of the political news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do early each Sunday.  Warning...just a half a cup today. Softball and my granddaughter starting at 8AM. Yikes!  And the rest of the day is a workday. 

Biden Poll Numbers

It's the big beltway news story. "President Biden's Poll Numbers Drop"  For months the obstructionist Republicans have been on every insurrectionist media outlet crowing about how bad things are. These are the same people who kept silent when "45" was destroying everything from our standing in the world to the COVID-19 pandemic. No, what is happening is people are worried. We didn't see the ending of the pandemic in June...like everybody thought. Why? Because there are some who have been told not to trust the vaccine, not to wear masks, not to keep a safe distance. Meanwhile the shortage of workers has crippled the supply chain and prices are rising.  I get it but none of that is the president. In fact...

Build Back Better

In fact the president is trying to help the American people through the massive infrastructure bill that is going nowhere because of the GOP, who loves tax cuts for the wealthy but stand in the way of tax increases for them, dawdles. And then there is Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and that goofy senator from Arizona Kyrsten Sinema a Democrat that had to fly home on Friday to get money from wealthy donors rather than talk about what she doesn't like in the bills the House has passed. Who the hell is going to primary that woman?  Weary...

The New Book

It's out on Tuesday and the reporting has been hot. Stephanie Grisham, onetime press secretary for President Donald Trump and chief of staff for the first lady telling of her time in the White House. Excerpts are predictably juicy, but one unifying theme seems to be the administration’s brazen embrace of dishonesty.  NBC News writes: "Grisham reports, for example, that at the 2019 G-20 Summit in Japan, right before the video cameras started rolling, she saw Trump lean toward Russian President Vladimir Putin and overheard him say: “I’m going to act a little tougher with you for a few minutes. But it’s for the cameras, and after they leave, we’ll talk.”

"Grisham is famously known as the press secretary who never held a press conference. Hence the tongue-in-cheek title of her book: “Now I Will Take Your Questions.” The salacious nature of her work of alleged nonfiction should in no way rehabilitate her professional legacy.   But boy — she does have the goods."

Of course the former president and first lady have both issued statements that none of what is in the book is true. Right....

We've Got So Much Money...

What happens when you make the decision to not spend money on things like education, health care, child care, rental assistance? You might want to ask Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) who, along with her minions in the Iowa House and Senate are taking great pride in the fact the state has in excess of a billion dollars in it's "rainy day fund".  It's raining cats and dogs and the safety net for thousands of Iowan's is out of reach. They have been running out to the media on a daily basis proud of the fact they have choked off kids, teachers, families from help just to amass a chest of gold. Meanwhile Iowan's are hoping for crumbs from the table of their master...it's sick.

Iowa U.S. Senate Race

I have it on a good authority that things in Iowa are about to heat up...big time. Sworn to not chat about it but...whoa!  Stay tuned. But it is interesting that in one poll Iowan's say Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) should stand aside while another poll indicates people will continue to vote for him. We are a very confused state.

Early Voting in Iowa

The GOP effort to strangle to vote in Iowa will be in full view shortly. Right now you can request a ballot. Right now. I understand they will be mailed out on the 13th of October and then you've got just days to send it back in. It's all part of voter suppression. Meanwhile, Postmaster Louis DeJoy has announced first class mail will now be delivered much like it was in 1970 taking five days rather than three. Isn't that nice?  The only question is, "How in the hell is Louis DeJoy STILL the postmaster general?"  If you happen to live in POLK County and would like to help us track ballots get your early voting ballot from the Polk County Democrats here. 

Partly Personal

Told you this was just half a cup. I'm off to a softball game and then off for an interview with my friend Julie Gammick who led an amazing Iowa Writers Retreat a couple of weeks ago in Okoboji. She is going to share some reflections on her effort and announce the 2022 event. Be watching for it on Insight on Business the News Hour this week.

As you may know I'm running a write in campaign for the Windsor Heights City Council. My thanks to several of you for the help. My friend Dave Miglin is creating the website and we've had lots of folks ask for signs and postcards are coming out soon as well. If you live in, or know somebody in Windsor Heights all they have to do is write Michael Libbie or Mike Libbie on the ballot and boom.  We're golden. Thanks in advance and thanks for reading!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 26 September 2021

It's the final Sunday of September...yikes, where did that month go? Welcome to politics and opinion or u Sunday Morning Coffee. Some of the stories you might have seen or, perhaps, missed but all laced with my commentary.  Why not...what else is there to do before the sun comes up.

Full Grassley

The expected news came in my Twitter Feed at 4AM last week that Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) was running for a sixth term in the U.S. Senate saying that there is so much more to do for Iowa. Well, Senator, you might also work on stuff like voting rights or how about condemning the attempted coup on January 6th or how about calling out the "Big Lie" that fuels you and your GOP base. How about supporting the House Bill that would allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices? Then you can get busy and support the infrastructure bill. That is if you are really serious about doing more for Iowa. The jobs that would create the help that would give to thousands and thousands of Iowans would be...helpful. But, I'm not holding my breath Senator because you and the people you support aren't really inclined to do much of anything for Iowa unless they are the "fat cats" that you once railed against. My memory is long and you are not up to the job. (Photo - Des Moines Register)

President Biden

I see that the pundits are all over the falling approval ratings of President Biden. That's what happens when you actually do something rather than sitting on your hands. The one poll question that caused me to, really, laugh out loud was the one that took the president on because he doesn't "show empathy". That is just too kooky to even comment on. Please.  If anything the president has tried and tried to get Republicans to join him in some noble efforts and that has failed. It's what happens when you believe in the fairytale that anybody in the GOP gives a damn about the vast majority of people in this nation. Better, sir, to go it alone.  You're going to have to...anyway.

Arizona

We waited for what...over six months for the results of the sham Cyber Ninja election audit? In the end it showed that President Biden won even more votes than previous counts. But we knew that would be the result. However, even in light of that, states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan are thinking about doing their own "independent audit" of the 2020 election results. No, the goal here has been met. That goal is to sow seeds of distrust in the election process and pass laws that discriminate against voting.  Which, again, reminds me...Senator Grassley if you really want to do something about this mess. Pass the voting rights bill in the Senate. I know...you're not really interested in that. Shame...

Meanwhile in Iowa

Get ready for a major face palm. Not only does Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) have an approval rating of over 50% she is joined by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) who also has an approval rating north of 50%. What is it with you people? Is it because they look good in jeans? I don't get it. Both of these women have failed to support voters in Iowa. Both of these women have bought into the "Big Lie". Both of these women are unfit for office...it's that simple.  Maybe it's because they were living at the Iowa State Fair for days? I dunno...you?

Meanwhile in Iowa Part Two

Is that all there is? The two major Democratic Candidates for governor have been busy crisscrossing the state drumming up support. Rep. Ras Smith (D-Waterloo) and Deidre DeJear are both running a great PR campaign. They are everywhere. But, the other shoe has not yet fallen.  State Auditor Rob Sand (D-IA) has been, for months, running his own campaign but is it for re-election or for governor? Last week I was with some folks who seem to think Rob is going to take a pass and attempt to keep his current job. That he'll wait until Governor Reynolds becomes a U.S. Senator (I kid you not) and then he'll run for the, sort of, open seat.  Then there is the other "camp" who believes that Sand will run but he is wisely waiting and will swoop in to save the Democrats of a spectacular defeat in 2022. I don't know but I do know the GOP fears Rob Sand.  Ask them.

Meanwhile in Polk County

This is getting hyper-local huh? I understand there are now, roughly, 52 candidates for city council or school board who are active Democrats in this county. Fifty-two! That is an amazing job of recruiting on behalf of the party. None of this happens by accident. The Democrats have finally figured out what the GOP has known for decades. You run party faithful in non-partisan races to build your bench going forward. Want to know why the 4th Congressional District is so ruby red? They have been playing that game for years. Here in Polk County the party is actively working on behalf of each candidate. It's good to see and it's good for Iowa in the long run.

Partly Personal

Sort of a half-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today. Still much to do and I've got to get at it.  My Bride and granddaughter are in Lanesboro, MN for "Tour de Fall" an annual bike and camping trip sponsored by Bike World of Iowa. She tells me it's pretty chilly there so not a bunch of riding but lots and lots of...shopping. Safe travels home.

The Okoboji Writers Retreat was...spectacular. Julie Gammack and her husband Richard pulled off a major event with writers and would be writers coming together to hone their craft. And it wasn't just Iowans who made up the 150+ people who attended. Folks came from all over the country and those that couldn't make the trip "Zoomed" in for their part. For nearly three days it was my pleasure to be part of this group. I learned much. Des Moines Register columnist Rekha Basu wrote a really great piece about the event and if you can get through the pay-wall here it is.  From the welcome party to the sessions on writing to the time with literary agents to the screening of "Storm Lake" to the Q&A with the Cullen Brothers from the Storm Lake Times (with Kyle Munson) to the boat ride and final dinner it was masterful. Best news is that the Okoboji Writers Retreat 2.0 is already planned for 2022.

Finally...I believe in the democratic process of voting. It's important that the people elect their representatives rather than somebody or some folks appointing a person. It matters. I live in Windsor Heights, Iowa where there are three open seats on the City Council but only two people running and I support them both. Joseph Jones and Lauren Campbell are both friends and capable, concerned folks. But nobody filed for the third open seat. So, with a great deal of thought and conversation, first with my Bride, I've decided to mount a write-in campaign for that third seat. It's a very long-shot but I think it's important for the citizens of this community to have the opportunity to vote and fill the City Council. I've got a couple of weeks to pull this off and would love it if you could support this effort.  Thank you in advance.

Off to register voters at the Latino Festival...have a great Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 25 July 2021

On a hot and humid morning like this maybe your Sunday Morning Coffee should be...iced?  Hey, thanks for coming back to this weekly bit of news and opinion post. Always grateful that you take a few minutes to indulge in this effort. Grab a cup and let's go...

Disturbing

I caught a Tweet early this morning regarding the many, many incidents where former president "45" has been accused of sexual impropriety with women and even young girls. I'll admit I've not paid much attention to all of this because once the Access Hollywood tape came out and there was zero impact on his candidacy I figured nobody cared. And, that's true. But now the links between he and Epstein and others is back in...well...the "internet news". It's disturbing that all of this buzz is happening. I think it points out how the rich and famous just seem to be able to slip past law enforcement. The "long arm of the law" gets pretty short...it would seem. (Photo - The Guardian) 

Freedumb

There are demonstrations going on in Australia, France, Germany and of course here in the United States where people are demanding freedom from mask wearing, from lockdowns and from getting the COVID19 vaccine. Meanwhile there are daily reports about physicians in various parts of the world who report they are heartbroken when, just ahead of intubating a sick patient, the patient begs for the vaccine but the doctor says, "It's too late..."

I've often thought that if COVID19 had first been infecting children rather than older folks that our national response might have been vastly different. But, then again, one can not reason with some people. That and our overwhelming desire to have everything "right now" doesn't mix with the an issue that requires a "long term" fix.  Frustrating...and scary.

Bipartisanship - Dead

I'm sure that President Biden longs for the "good old days" when Democrats and Republicans could actually sit down and hammer out solutions to problems plaguing our nation. Somebody needs to take a simple message to Joe, "Mr. President, bipartisanship is dead and no matter what you try their is no hope for resuscitation." The GOP does not want certain folks to vote. The GOP cares not one bit about good paying jobs, health care, child care, education or the fiscal welfare of our nation. Last week Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said so when he started saying that if the Democrats want to raise the "debt ceiling" they are going to have to stop trying to pass legislation to help America prosper.  Voting for the GOP is a fast track to destruction.

Meanwhile - Charles Booker

As long as we're visiting about Kentucky you should know about Charles Booker who has just launched his U.S. Senate campaign to kick Sen. Ron Paul (R-KY) to the curb. Booker, a former state legislator, lost a primary to an "establishment Democrat" who then was trounced by McConnell. That has been the reality of Kentucky politics for decades. Democrats, wishing to play it safe, get swept aside because they play "Republican Light". Booker is different. He is coming out of the chute with a full on progressive agenda embracing a social and economic justice message, saying: “We can make freedom mean that every community across Kentucky is thriving with good-paying union jobs. That we’re not just working to struggle less, but that we’re owning, we’re creating, we’re building pathways to wealth all over Kentucky.” I like it! (Photo: WDRB)

Meanwhile - Abby Finkenauer

Also launching a serious campaign, this one against Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA), (Maybe...he has not indicated he is running again.) is former Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer the one-term Democrat that lost to Ashley Hinson as Republicans swept Iowa. Former president "45" won the state by 8%, and Republicans secured three of four House seats. Hinson has since hitched her wagon to "The Big Lie" among other crazy stuff.  But, remember Iowa is now a "deep red" state.  So, how is Abby going to run?  Will she take a page out of the progressive wing of the party or stick to "GOP Light"?  Finkenauer is the second Democrat to enter the race. Former Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer announced in May. On the other side, Iowa Sen. Jim Carlin, (R-Sioux City), announced in February that he would seek the GOP nomination for the seat...that ain't going to be successful but he says he's in. (Photo - Video Announcement Still from Bleeding Heartland)

Partly Personal

Last week I got to travel to Mason City for my work with Congregation Adas Israel. What was remarkable about this trip was that new people have found us...and they are...hold on...Jewish!  One of the interesting things about Adas Israel is the number of "seekers" who come to services and our Midrash (Study Session). Folks who just want to know more about being Jewish or, perhaps, have some story in their life that might indicate a long dead relative was Jewish or people who have a desire to simply learn. That new people have found us is really a big deal. Now the work to keep them active and engaged continues.  I'm just thrilled and it shows that a bit of social media work...works.  Here is a link to the Adas Israel Blog.

As I was writing this I learned of the death of Carla Offenberger the wife of my dear friend Chuck Offenberger. While it was expected, Carla has been battling cancer for several years, it is still painful. For those who were fortunate enough to know her and for those of who were touched by her writing...she will be missed.  May her memory be a blessing. 

Thanks for reading....

Michael

Sunday Morning Coffee 18 July 2021

And, a good Sunday Morning to you! Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee a brief look at some of the political news stories you may have seen, or missed, all laced with my commentary. Why?  Why not...right? Let's go!

Really People?

A new Monmouth Poll showed that 64% of people who falsely think that Biden won because of voter fraud also have not received a vaccine dose. Think of that for a moment. How is this possible? Look to the media types that, without proof, are fanning the flames and not only killing people with their "news" but also continuing to divide this nation.  To break it down, according to this poll the folks that believe Biden stole the presidency AND have not gotten a vaccine amount to 32% of the country.  That...is staggering...and dangerous.

Smallpox

I suspect you don't worry much about getting smallpox. Back in the day, 3 out of every 10 people who got it died. People who survived usually had scars, which were sometimes severe. So what happened to smallpox?  Due to a major vaccination program taken up by the United States the last natural outbreak of smallpox in the United States occurred in 1949. And, in 1980, the World Health Assembly declared smallpox eradicated (eliminated), and no cases of naturally occurring smallpox have happened since.

That is science and think of this: If the misinformation of today had invaded the U.S. in the 1940's smallpox would still be with us and still killing millions. The same story is true with polio. Science helped this nation recover from that terrible disease that ran rampant in the 1050's.  Today, if would seem, we are way too dumb to realize what is at stake.  Weary...

Voting Rights

Let's face it, Republicans simply fear your vote. Well, they fear the votes that are cast by people of color so they work night and day to pass voting restrictions. In states like Iowa and sixteen others they cloak their anti-democracy work by lying and saying it's about "voter integrity". That is pure BS. They know it and so do you.  The next time you come face to face with a politician aligned with the GOP just ask them why they fear democracy. I promise you the answer is complete nonsense. Right Chuck and Joni?  We need the U.S. Senate to step up and protect our nation and protect the vote. The voting rights bill must be passed or, I fear we are doomed.

Speaking of Doomed

Red meat. Back in the day, before Iowa was such an awful place, we would hear, from time to time, partisan talk from our governor. But usually it was just lies to get the Democrats to buy into their legislation. Take, for example, the lies told by former Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) about the commercial property tax bill of 2012. He and his party conned the Democrats into voting for it by lying and saying, "If you pass this bill landlords will reduce the rent they charge so the working class folks you represent will get a break." Of course that didn't happen but the Democrats fell for it. Silly people...

That was usually how the GOP dealt with the Democrats...just lie to them but play nice about it. The outcome was that the governor could pretend that he was a governor for all the people and go on to get elected time after time by huge majorities. Well, welcome to 2021. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has abandoned that strategy and now baits her base with talk about communism and socialism and the danger of the Democratic Party. All lies but it does froth up the GOP. Given the fact that, in Iowa, there are now 49,557 more active Republicans than Democrats she feels pretty safe.

But, that's not all. The real reason Reynolds feels safe about baiting Iowans with red meat is because Democrats don't vote in numbers as strong as Republicans. Pretty simple. And, because the GOP have become such experts at lying...about everything...they swing many independent voters to their side.  Hey...I'm just hear to point out reality.

Your Job

So, what do we Democrats do? How about stop being weak. How about we stop playing nice. How about we call them for what they are? How about pointing to our lagging economic numbers? How about telling the truth that Iowa is not a good place for business because when business seeks to employ smart, educated workers one look at the goofy laws in this state tells them to go elsewhere.

Your job now becomes the back-stop to the continual dismantling of our great state. Remember when we had world-class public education? Remember when voting was a prized right for us all? Remember when Iowa showed the world how to treat immigrants with love and compassion? Remember when we had a good health-care system that actually treated Iowans and paid health care providers?  Yeah...that Iowa.

We've got several folks who are openly or hinting at running for governor. But, if we go at this by playing "nice" and we don't recruit folks to run for city elections, school boards, the legislature that will take the battle, with force, to the public. We are...doomed. Let that sink in.

Partly Personal

Only half-a-cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today. I've got to get on the road. I've been in Kansas City on an assignment for the past several days and need to get my butt back so I can see my Bride and the critters.  Especially little Yofi who sits by the backdoor waiting me me to get home. Georgie posted this last week after I left. Yikes!

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Sunday...now...get to work!