SundayMorningCoffee

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 19 September 2021

Politics, Opinion and a little Religion to spice things up.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee a regular feature done each Sunday for years. Advance Warning: This is going to be rather short today. Packing up to head to the Okoboji Writers Retreat later today. Lots of gear to pack up and then there is that drive. Yikes!  Let's go!

Money, Money, Money

This past week I was with my congregation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, and there is, in the liturgy, a host of readings from the Torah about turning to "false gods".  In 2021 we're not talking about idols carved out of wood or stone but those "false gods" that we bow down to...and there are many.  However, the most powerful god is...money. It trumps...everything.  Want proof?

Money, in this case, is much more important than say...democracy. This week in Russia there are federal elections. The leading opposition party to Valdimir Putin, which is all but banned and has had their leader Alexei Navalny imprisoned, joined with others and encouraged Russians to band together to vote Putin out of office.  They had a website (which was promptly shut down) and an app on Google and Apple where they could share information and encourage others to vote.

Well our buddy Tim Cook (Apple) and his counterpart over at Google Sundar Pichai looked this over and decided that money was worth much more than the right to vote in a "democratic" election. So they shut down the apps. It seems that taking care of your shareholders and a little pressure from Valdimir won the day.  How typical...

Nothing, Just Nothing

So, those of you who are Republicans I have a question: What policies are important to you? I can help you answer that. Obstruction is the official policy of the GOP and it has been since 2008. Now, you might think the party really does have some policy goals but when Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) just comes out and says, "Hey, we're not going to support anything..." that pretty much sums it up.  So, the "Do Nothing Party" is once again lining up to deny Americans the right to vote (see Russia), a living wage, education, health care... Yeah...you get...nothing.  Nothing, just nothing.

But, It Works

Here in the (once) great state of Iowa pandering to the idea that nothing is a winning formula is working. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is, according to a recent poll, enjoying a 53% approval rating. So, the majority of Iowans really believe that doing nothing about COVID-19 is a solid win. The majority of Iowans believe that doing nothing to stop voter suppression is a positive. The majority of Iowans believe that doing nothing about the health care of thousands of people on Medicaid works. I could go on but you get the picture. Meanwhile Iowa Democrats are out there attempting to push legislation that will make a positive difference in the lives of working families but, of course, when you are in the minority...nothing...wins. (Image - Des Moines Register)

Great At Lies

There is one thing Iowa Republicans excel at...lying. The recent special election vote in Ankeny (House District 37) proved that once again. The "Reynolds Lap Dog" Mike Bousselot beat Andrea Phillips by 377 votes. Of course he lied his way to the victory claiming shady deals by Phillips and that she wanted to "defund" the police, threw in the word "China" and that she was tied to a "socialist agenda". All bullshit. The China charge is the most awesome of all lies because it was Bousselot who was Chief of Staff for former Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) who became the Ambassador to China.  And, of course we all know what a stellar job he did while cozying up to his best friend Xi.  Please....

Polk County

The first draft of the District Maps are out and I suspect they won't fly. Depending on who you talk to it's a boost for Democrats and Republicans. No, really. I've heard from both.  We'll see how that flies.

Meanwhile the great Polk County Steak Fry happened yesterday. It was a bit surreal as a small group of Democrats came together to eat steak, chicken and/or a veggie burger. My choice. Two years ago in the midst of the presidential primary fight thousands of people came out along with their preferred candidates and it was huge. Last year we stayed in our cars and watched a big screen. This year we sat in lawn chairs in the sun (and yes it was damn hot) to listen to one candidate or office holder after another decry the state of Iowa and the politics of the nation. Two of us, me and Nancy Bobo were sporting Mike Franken shirts.  Hey...there were TWO of us.

We had to show proof of vaccination and wear a mask when not eating. We were doing the "social distance" thingy and there were not a ton of hugs. Have to be careful you know. It was great to see so many friends again and to chat it up a bit about politics. The people cheered when we were reminded that Federal Judge Robert Pratt ordered the state of Iowa to immediately halt enforcement of a law that prevents school boards from ordering masks to be worn to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. But, perhaps not realizing that Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller (D-IA), who announced to the crowd that he was seeking another term as AG would defend Iowa and the Governor in court.  Ironic...no?

I couldn't stay for the entire event. Had a girls softball game to attend.  My granddaughter was playing.  Somethings are really important. But it was worth every effort...now the work begins...again. Daily but it is an uphill slog. 

Partly Personal

Are the unvaccinated guilty of...murder?  Stay with me on this. It's something that I brought up to my Mason City congregation on Yom
Kippur.  Let's say a person decides not to get the COVID-19 vaccine and they are asymptomatic. But they give the virus to another person be it a parent, child, friend, co-worker. And, let's say that that person gets very sick so sick they must be cared for in the Intensive Care Unit. Because there are so many COVID patients in the ICU that when a person has a heart attack, stroke or serious injury and there is no room to care for him or her...they die. They die because the unvaccinated person made a decision to not get the vaccine and that decision resulted in the death of another. Murder?

That's not too far from the issue of AIDS. If a person who has aids knowingly passes it on to another they are held criminality responsible. Sure the person who has COVID but is not showing signs may not know he/she has the virus. But...let us take this one step further. Let's say the unvaccinated person does become very sick and needs an ICU bed that same bed that could have been used by another person who has a medical emergency but...there is no room. Murder?

Chew on that....

I'm outta here. Headed to Arnold's Park on Lake Okoboji for the Okoboji Writers Retreat that was put together by Julie Gammack. I get to present and learn and it's "sort of" a vacation. I'll still be working but also taking in the wisdom of some wonderful writers. 

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 22 August 2021

Good Morning, or Good Day, depending on when you open this.  Back with just half a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee it's been a busy morning as I have full charge of "Critter Duty" oh, and that water in the office.  Getting dried out.  Take a sip and here we go!

Afghanistan 

We've all heard the term "Monday Morning Quarterback" and I've seen hundreds of you post all kinds of stuff. The bottom line is that President Biden took what he was given and not being willing to sacrifice even more American lives ended this decades long war. Polls indicate that the American people are with him on this. Sure, it is messy and it is similar to every "war" we have fought since WWII where we simply can't "win" and have no real good way of getting out. If you wish to "blame" somebody check the presidents and generals that lied to us...all the time.  

One other thing: 1040-WHO the 50,000 watt blowtorch based in Iowa put out a post last week saying, "Should President Biden be removed from office over Afghanistan?"  Let me offer another question: "Should the FCC pull the license of 1040-WHO for enabling people who spread conspiracy theories and misinformation?"  Lies are...people...lies.

The Insurrection

Want to know the real reason the GOP and their enablers are foaming at the mouth about Afghanistan? No, it's not that they care one bit about the women and children of that nation. It is because they will try anything to get YOUR mind off the failed coup that took place on January 6. They want so badly to get that behind them they are willing to shill lies and deception from here to there.  They realize that your attention span is short so the hope is that these traitors will have you forgetting all about the insurrection. It's really pretty simple.   

Oh Really?

Last week the former aide to Vice President Pence, Olivia Troye, made a startling claim about immigrant visas for our Afghani allies. It seems that the former president and the self-loathing Steven Miller were the people that put the screws on visas.  Now, unlike the folks in right-wing media news NBC went out and verified her claim citing a letter written two years ago by former Secretary of Defense Gen. Jim Mattis to the White House imploring them to not withhold visas. Then yet another former White House staffer can forward to defend the claim. The bottom line is that the former administration kicked the legs out of the visa program.  After all "those people" were/are...Muslims.  

Evil Black People

Speaking of being removed from office...the Lt. Governor of Texas, Dan Patrick (R-TX) is yet another example of a white GOP bigot. Last week this person had the gall to get on national news and say the spike in COVID19 cases in Texas is the fault of unvaccinated black folks who tend to be Democrats so it is not the GOP but the Democrats who are responsible for this surge. There are no words. That an elected official can get on the air and make this kind of statement.  But, he is not alone. The governor of Iowa, Kim Reynolds (R-IA) just weeks ago blamed the surge of COVID19 in that state on "illegal immigrants" who are not vaccinated.

News Flash:  The largest number/percentage of unvaccinated people in Texas are...yes...white. Oh...Iowa too. (Image: KHOU)

Voting Rights

Let me be very clear about something. Our democracy is on the line this November and November of 2022. If the GOP are able to win in city and school board elections and then take control of the U.S. House in 2022 we are doomed. This crowd wants nothing other than to destroy our democracy and they are doing it right now in plain sight.

This is why we, as Democrats & Independents need to stand up and vote. Because if we fail...we all will fall. It is that serious. They will lie and do anything to overturn the right to vote and when that is gone...  Get your butt to the polls and turn the GOP away.  By the way...starting on Tuesday you may request a ballot.  These signs will be popping up all over Polk County, Iowa.

The State Fair Queen

While she is a lousy governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) rocks the Iowa State Fair. Got the jeans, belt buckle and the "aw shucks" down to a science. No, wait...can't be.  She doesn't believe in science. But she does know where her base likes to spend time so she's been very visible. Even wearing her "official" State Fair shirt...with other members of the Iowa GOP.  Oy...

We decided not to attend this year. Not that we don't love the fair it's just that I have trust issues. (Image: Iowa Capital Dispatch) 

Partly Personal

See, told you it was going to be just half-a-cup. My Bride is on a camping trip with Jovie at Wildcat Den State Park in Eastern Iowa. So far...no reports of any wildcats. But they are clearly enjoying the trip.  Camping...yikes.

Thanks for reading now, go out and have a great week!

Sunday Morning Coffee 15 August 2021

About a week ago a steaming, hot cup of Sunday Morning Coffee needed some ice as morning temps were in the high 70's. This morning we're looking at 58. Welcome to Iowa...right? Stuff is happening and let's do some politics and opinion to help you warm up a bit.

Afghanistan

Before the U.S. blundered into our longest war it was the Soviet Union that got their butts beat. We followed into a war that, I believe, we don't much understand. It's sort of like the Vietnam of this generation. With all our technology, with all our advanced ability it's tough to defeat an enemy that has more time than money. While I think pulling out is the right thing the fact that we left so many allies behind and didn't do a proper job in getting them out shows how very little we knew and know about Afghanistan and the Taliban victors.  We knew we were going to get out...we should have, when we had a bigger military presence, gotten those folks out. Welcome to Saigon 2.0. 

The Biggest Traitor

It was a scathing article in The New Republic authored by Mary Trump, niece of "45" who described Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) as, "the most dangerous Republican enabler" of her uncle.

She added even more spice when she wrote that McConnell is "...the greatest traitor to this country since Confederate Army General Robert E. Lee."  The only difference between McConnell and Lee is that the Kentucky Senator is that, "...he has been trying to take our country down from within". 

And he is doing it all with...cover: "And yet - whether it was denying Merrick Garland a hearing, pushing through Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation, or ending the filibuster as it applied to Supreme Court nominees but employing it to block legislation that would expand voting rights - his anti-democratic maneuvers have been  performed within the bounds of the system".

Yep..

The U.S. Census

Last week many white folks learned that their biggest fear is becoming reality. It is the same fear "45" so well played and continues to play. What might that be? According to the new Census numbers white people are swiftly becoming the minority population as our nation becomes more diverse and it scares the hell out of some. Here you go:

People of color now represent 43% of the population; up from 34% just ten years ago. The non-Hispanic White share of the US population fell to 57% in 2020, shrinking by six percentage points since 2010, the largest decrease of any race or ethnicity. The share of those who identified as Hispanic or Latino or as multiracial grew the most.

And, as we look to the future: Non-White US residents younger than 18 now make up 53% of the population among minors, up from 47% in 2010.

Now you know why Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) and his puppet Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) are screaming, "Everything that is bad is happening because those brown people are in our country!"  And, white people are afraid and they are fighting back...want proof?

Hiding in Plain Sight

Just hours ago officers of the Los Angeles Police Department stood by as members of the white nationalist Proud Boys beat up on journalists and bystanders at an anti-vax/mask event outside of the LA City Hall. What might have been their response had it been a group of black or brown folks swinging at journalists or bystanders? The dogs and clubs would roll like thunder and there wouldn't have been enough handcuffs to go around.

We already know of several police officers from around the country that took part in the violent insurrection on January 6. Many of those have been fired. However, what a perfect place for white nationalists to hang out...in plain sight.  Some clearly think that "Protect & Serve" is something that ain't equal. (Photo: LA Times)

See You At The Fair!

Ugh...another year of missing the Great Iowa State Fair. Nope...ain't going. It's not that I'm not vaccinated against COVID it's just that I don't trust you are. And, while my risk is low I'm too damn busy to be sidelined by even a mild case of Delta...if I were so lucky. So, nope. Enjoy your funnel cakes and corndogs. I'll miss hanging around with friends at Stockman's chasing down a burger with a beer or six. Meanwhile my friend Brian Duffy distributed this cartoon in advance of "fair-time". It fits...and hey, take your chances.

The 51st State

I am constantly amazed at the work my friend Tamyra Harrison does when it comes to Iowan's For D.C. Statehood. While RAGBRAI 2021 is a memory the memory of what she was able to accomplish in just one day is pretty amazing. Tamyra set up a booth along the route and garnered signups from 28 different states, the District of Columbia and even from folks in Europe. What?  She tells me that the excitement of seeing, in the middle of the nation, a group of people supporting statehood for D.C. was, for many overwhelming. Gaining signatures and handing out "51 State Cookies" is a labor of love for Tamyra and I love her for doing this work!  Well done my friend and YOU can help out by heading to that website and signing up. Come on...let's do this!

Ankeny For The Win

Also in the "Let's Do This" department: Andrea Phillips is running for the Iowa House out of Ankeny. Look, this will be a pick-up for the Democrats and a start a rolling back the draconian policies of Reynolds and her lemmings. Not only is Andrea an outstanding candidate she is also living in a community that is trending blue. To get this done we need you to step up. So, as long as you're getting involved with Iowan's for DC Statehood...click here for AndreaForIowa and let's do this as well!  Do it now...the election is September 14. 

Partly Personal

I gotta go. Promised I'd head to the softball field early today. Then get back to cut some video of a class I'm teaching at NIACC this next month on the Jewish Faith. I'll share that video with you as well. Who knows...it will be virtual and if you want to come along for the class love to have you.

Have a Great Sunday and thanks for reading! 

Sunday Morning Coffee 1 August 2021

Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee and to a brand new month. If it doesn't "feel" like a new month it's no doubt because we're fighting the same stuff we did two months ago, six months ago...last year. But read on there is plenty of politics and opinion just ahead.

Deja Vu...Yet Again

So, let's see...let's talk pandemic. The number of COVID cases are up from last July. On July 30, 2020 the U.S. reported 69,604 cases. On July 30, 2021 the number of cases reported totaled 101,098. Yeah, so Deja Vu.

Meanwhile we're still fighting about voting. It was last summer the former president said that if he loses the voting system is "rigged" and "dishonest" setting the stage for what was to follow. Fast forward to this past week and he's still saying that and the My Pillow Guy is planning to "prove it" in a syndicated TV event starting on August 12th. And he is predicting that, "because of this revelation President Biden and Vice President Harris will resign on August 13th." Ok.... Meanwhile Mike Lindell pulled all of his My Pillow ads off Fox News. Why? Hell, even they wouldn't run ads promoting the event.  (Photo: CNBC)

Remember when every week last year was "Infrastructure Week". We're there again. Oh, and   let me echo Dr. Dr. William Barber II who said last week voting rights should take precedence over infrastructure. "If we can not allow people their constitutional right to vote than all the infrastructure in the nation will not matter because millions are shut out of the process." 

Yep...sorta feels like "Groundhog Day" eh Bill?

Taxes? My Taxes?

Last week we learned that the Justice Department told the Treasury Department that it "must" turn over former president #45's tax returns to the House Ways and Means Committee, which first requested them more than two years ago. Why and what's the big deal? Let us turn to the U.S. House Panel that made the request and said the tax returns could, "...reveal hidden business entanglements raising tax law and other issues, including conflicts of interest, affecting proper execution of the former President's responsibilities." So, there is that. By the way didn't we just learn that a close associate to the former president was actually a paid foreign agent for another country?  Nah...nothing to see here, move along now.

$200,000? Or $300,000?

There seems to be some question as to exactly how much it cost you Iowa taxpayers to have sent Iowa State Troopers to Texas last month. Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Baynes estimated expenditure to cost about $300,000. Of that, he said $100,000 was
regular salary cost, another $150,000 was for overtime costs, and the remainder covered other expenses. The move was all about optics as Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) continues to take moves out of the play books of Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX). Think not? Last week she also parroted the Abbot line that COVID19 cases in are going up because of infected aliens coming into the state. Look for her to start fortifying the border with National Guard troops especially if people are coming here from Missouri. More on that later.

When first reported the figure was said to be $200,000 so it looks like the governor shaved a hefty 100 grand from the number.  How? Well, she reasoned included in that $300,000 figure was regular pay of $100,000 so "really" it's only $200,000 more. Yesh!  But, then again if those 29 troopers were in Iowa rather than on a goose chase and photo op in Texas....might Iowans have been more safe? Hell, we might have raised more than $100,000 in traffic fines....right?  Anyway check this graphic from the Iowa Starting Line and learn what $200,000 might have meant for...Iowans.  Thank you Ty Rushing for the image!

Meanwhile - The Iowa State Fair

It's August and I know you have your little heart set on funnel cakes and corn dogs. Right? Just think of it...you and a million other folks
crowding around the Big Boar just to check out the size of his testicles. I get it. I love the fair and Stockman's and the Cattle Barn. No really. Some of my best memories come from there.  I was asked last week if I was going and said, "Nope. There is no way I'm going to go and put myself in front all those folks."  While Fair CEO Gary Slater says it is a "Celebration of Iowa" I am reminded that Gary is from Missouri and the nation has a pretty good idea of what folks there think about COVID and vaccines. (Hint: "The virus is fake and I don't know what's in that vaccine so it ain't goin' in my body!)

And another thing: There are reports that the Iowa State Fair will have metal detectors at the entrances. I suspect it's because they want to confiscate pocket knives? (If so they'll have quite a haul.) No, the reason is...guns. Which does not make a lick of sense because in Iowa you can carry now without a license. And, aren't those gun shows held at the fairgrounds anyway? Finally I ain't going because I was really looking forward to taking my bazooka. Have fun.

Partly Personal

My bride is off camping...again. I'm really glad she loves to do this stuff as it allows me to do my part to save the electrical grid. You see when she is home you can hang meat in our house. Before she left I was wearing two jackets and sweat pants. It sort of feels like the beer cooler at HyVee. (Not that I would know anything about....that!)

Then one of my granddaughters was off on RAGBRAI last week with about 28,000 of her closest friends. Now I get to wait another two weeks until I see her in person. I know you folks think it's nuts to be this concerned about the pandemic...but I also actually pay attention to the news...both sides.  And, yes, I've gone back to mask wearing in public. I sorta like it...that way I don't have to smile at other folk.

Gotta go...I figure I've got about six hours to get some other stuff done before the camper returns.  

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

 

   

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 11 July 2021

Damn you Netflix and Prime Video! Back in the day I would get up at 5AM, write Sunday Morning Coffee and have it out by 9AM. Now that I've discovered what is being offered by streaming I'm up until after 11PM so this is...late. I know "A little self control, Michael..."  Grumble. Welcome to the late edition of Sunday Morning Coffee...let's go!

A Failure

The Beltway Media is already calling President Biden a failure. "Mounting Issues Plague Biden" is the latest headline. Meanwhile my friends on "the far left" are ready to abandon ship and form some new party rather than work with the Democrats. Gosh we are a fickle bunch. Yes, there are problems. Ready?

• Getting a vaccination is more about politics than the nations health;
• Gun violence is out of control but weak politicians do nothing;
• Getting voting rights for Americans stalls;
• Climate Change is baking the globe;
• Russia is a hideout for crooks;
• There are more jobs than people.

Each of those issues are real but none are a reason to ditch working with the president. Every one of those issues demand that Democrats stick together and do the hard work. Of course if I were president I would have had a serious meeting with the likes of Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) and let them know about the reduction in federal dollars to their states until they got in line. Weary... 

Meanwhile The Middle Class

It may have gone undetected but last week President Biden, by executive order, touched the lives of every middle class American in a very positive manner. President Biden signed an executive order on Friday aimed at promoting competition across the U.S. economy — including measures that target big tech companies, aim to lower prices for consumers and call for greater scrutiny of mergers across industries.  

The order contains 72 initiatives by more than a dozen federal agencies and establishes a White House Competition Council to monitor the agencies' progress.  Like what things?

• Non-Compete Agreements - He wants those gone because it hampers people from better jobs and higher pay;
• Big Tech Companies - Rein them in because they are doing serious damage to small businesses;
• Reducing Drug Prices - Ordering the government to work with states and tribes to import drugs from Canada;
• Rural Hospitals - Review merger agreements that have resulted low quality of care in Rural America;
• Help for Farmers - Orders the USDA to assist farmers who are being crushed by "Big Ag";
• Right to Repair - Giving farm equipment owners the ability to repair their own equipment;
• Hearing Aids - Reducing the cost from thousands to hundreds of dollars giving more people access.

And those are just several of the high points.  But, maybe you were not paying attention?  Of course the U.S. Chamber of Commerce came out and condemned the order. You know they would they care not for you, your family or Main Street. Awful people...awful.

Speaking of Awful

Ever hear of J.D. Vance? He's kind of a big deal, wrote the book "Hillbilly Elegy" and was the featured speaker at the Greater Des Moines Partnership Annual Dinner in 2019 where he was lauded as being fiercely independent. Well, that only goes so far. He is now running for the GOP Senate seat currently occupied by Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) and in order to do that he has gone full MAGA.  But I digress... The reason he was lauded as being "fiercely independent" was because he became a very vocal critic of "45" during the 2016 cycle and after. He was not shy about calling "45" a disgrace and railing against him on everything from banning Muslims to standing in the way of immigration to questioning his moral compass. But...all of that is now gone because he is now fawning over the GOP base. Yet another simply awful human.  And is there really any reason to think that "45" is not in total control of the Republican Party? (Photo - Time Magazine)

Speaking of Republicans 

Ever hear of a guy by the name of Eddie Andrews? If you're not from Central Iowa that name might have escaped you. Eddie is now Rep. Eddie Andrews (R-Johnston/Grimes) after beating Rep. Karen Derry, a Democrat, by 415 votes in November 2020. Eddie is, perhaps, the best politician I've known. While he was running for office he didn't identify as a Republican while he was out knocking doors. He was simply a "nice guy" who wanted to do the right thing for Iowa. While the Iowa Democratic Party forbid door knocking during the pandemic the GOP, because COVID19 is a hoax, encouraged door to door campaigning. Hell, Eddie even knocked on the doors of Democrats and many, because they don't pay attention, allowed him to place yard signs right next to Biden signs.  Once elected Eddie fell right into line with the party leadership and helped pass voting restrictions, more guns on the streets, lower taxes for the wealthy, give tax dollars to charter schools...you know the drill.  Well, Eddie is up for re-election in 2022 and this time he has a record and you can believe the Democrats in Johnston and Grimes will be reminding voter who Eddie Andrews really is... (Photo - Bleeding Heartland)

Speaking of Republicans Part Two

Ever hear of a guy by the name of Russ Trimble? If you don't live in West Des Moines that name might not be familiar. However if you are a member of the Iowa Republican Legislature you are very aware of Russ. But...I digress. Russ is a City Councilman in West Des Moines and is on his way to becoming the next mayor of that fair city. It seems, even though Democrats outnumber GOP voters in West Des Moines the Dems are having a hard time coming up with a candidate. They should. You see, Russ is yet another "nice guy" who is keenly aware of the draconian laws passed by the Republican controlled Iowa State Senate. How? Well, Russ just happens to be a Legislative Analyst for the Iowa Senate Republican Caucus. Yep...but keep that on the down-low because he's running for Mayor and you wouldn't want to taint the water. Come on West Des Moines Democrats why are you giving up?

Partly Personal

OK, that's it. Sorry to ramble on but so much to visit with you about. I've got to get back to work.  As you know I get to take Saturday off...for the most part...it's that Jewish thing. But today is another work day and my Bride is off exploring a campground in Northwest Iowa so I get to tweak some recording equipment in the studio, do some writing and more.

Oh...one more thingy...writing about writing. Have you heard about the Okoboji Writers Retreat happening in September? No? You should...in fact you should really go.  No matter if you write for business or pleasure this is something that you should not miss. My friend Julie Gammack has put together an amazing event with world-class journalists, fiction and non-fiction writers and even literary agents. Here, once again, is the LINK to that website. Hope you will join us!

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 April 2020

The sun has returned to Iowa! Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the news stories you have seen or, perhaps, missed and all with my usual bit of editorial. Hey, it's what I get to do.  Today, for my Christian friends it is Palm Sunday.  Peace.  Let's get started.

Your Fired!

The Commander in Chief seems to think that he and his cronies are on some ill fated reality show.  Well, in a way they are. Each day The Virus Show comes to us with little drama but lots of lies.  But, I digress. Captain Brett Crozer wrote a letter saying that his ship the USS Theodore Roosevelt was in trouble as a number of sailors had contracted COVID-19. The letter that he wrote was for his superiors but it was leaked to the media and the captain was...fired. He was standing up for the men and women under his command. 

This morning Defence Secretary Mike Esper (a former defense lobbyist) said that he believes the action was correct and that, “I think it's just another example of how we hold leaders accountable for their actions."  Ironic...no?

The Saddest Week in America

This morning Surgeon General Jerome Adams warned that the week ahead would be the “hardest and the saddest” of “most Americans’ lives.” What he should have said was that "The time the President of the United States scoffed at COVID-19 were the saddest six weeks of our lives which allowed this plague to run out of control." But, he didn't.

Relax, Jared Is On It!

I was really starting to worry about the future of millions of Americas but then we learned that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the president, has taken a lead role in advising what to do in the face of the pandemic. You might remember Jared he was the point person who was able to finally bring peace to the Middle East. Oh, wait...

Meanwhile in Iowa

We're in good shape here. Nothing to worry about. Dr. Kim Reynolds (who also happens to be the governor) says she knows best with regard to handling the COVID-19 outbreak in the state that now has close to 1,000 cases and 14 deaths. While that pales in comparison to Washington State or New York it's not clear, really, how many are infected. We simply don't have the data....because we don't have the tests...because nobody knows. But Dr. Reynolds pronounced last week that she and her crack team know better than some, oh...doctors...about the reality of what is going on and what we should do. So, there is that. And would somebody please get her a lab coat....

And Now A Word From Our Sponsor

Well, not really but have you heard of the video conferencing program called Lifesize?  I used it last week to conduct an interview with a business in Germany.  Pretty cool.  Now, back to our show. (Oh, and I'm not being paid to promote...just thought you should have an option.)

Iowa State Senate District Meeting

It caused quite a stir yesterday...or so I am told. A Republican who is running against another Republican for the open seat in District 22 (Clive, West Des Moines, Waukee and Windsor Heights) posted, on her facebook page that she was gathering with other "GOP Women" at their annual meeting.  It was complete with a photo of a bunch of smiling ladies that looks like it was taken at the Machine Shed Restaurant on Hickman in Urbandale (Owner Mike Whalen is a big time donor to the GOP.) It didn't take long for folks that follow that sort of thing to call her out for the posting. She later clarified that it was a "virtual meeting".  So who posts dumb stuff like that?  Oh, never mind...bet she got the "all clear" from Dr. Reynolds.

Partly Personal

Sorry, just a half a cup of Sunday Morning Coffee today.  So much to get done.  But there are a couple of personal thoughts. So you know my friends at the Windsor Heights HyVee have stocked up on Passover Food.  Gotta make a quick run later today.  Passover begins on the evening of Wednesday the 8th of April. It's a big deal. Sadly our congregation, Adas Israel, in Mason City had to cancel our annual Community Seder and this year our own Seder will lack the number of friends and family that usually attend. Perhaps it will give us time to reflect on this, the latest plague, and our response. The photo...SLICES.  Those of you who know...know. 

This morning I learned of the death of Reb Aaron Rubashkin OBM the founder of Agriprocessors which revolutionized kosher meat production and was based in Postville, Iowa.  Aaron died in New York from COVID-19 at the age of 92. To be sure, I had never met Aaron Rubashkin but I know, and like, his son Shalom Rubashkin.  Before he was convicted and sent to prison on a host of immigration violations we met many times and he was, when in Des Moines, a regular at the Orthodox Shul, Beth El Jacob. He served some time and in 2017 had his sentence commuted by the president.  I've always thought it odd that of the many meat processors that dot Iowa and those who have been raided and found to be in violation of immigration laws...to my knowledge...only one person had been convicted and sent to prison.  Aaron Rubashkin, from what I am told, was a humble and generous person. May his memory be a blessing. (Image- USA Today)

I also learned of the death of a gentle soul and friend Ron Scott. Ron had been battling cancer for several years. I understand that he died, at home, peacefully this weekend. Ron was one of the many who worked for NASA during the wonder days of that organization. We had many talks about how these men and women in different parts of the country worked together to do amazing things in the space program. Ron went on to become a member of the clergy and retired to a real estate firm in Florida. His devoted bride, Nancy, is...crushed and so too are those of us who came into contact with this wonderful man.  May his memory be a blessing.

Finally an issue that I have been passionate about for decades is, now, showing itself to be a crisis. The State of Iowa has known about this for years and years and...we have failed. You may not be aware but if somebody were to ask how many direct caregivers we have in the state nobody could tell you. There is no complete data base of people who work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health care agencies, rehab facilities... But, it's not only a lack of information about who these folks are and how we might be able to mobilize them...the disregard for the valuable work they do, everyday, and at low pay they receive is disgraceful. You may not have thought about this...before. But, bet you do now.  Once we get beyond this plague I promise you that I will work on behalf of direct caregivers and do everything I can to elevate their role in our healthcare system and support them in their quest for better pay and more respect. It's the right thing to do.

To that end...if you would like to help me take that support to the Iowa Legislature here is a link to my Iowa State Senate Campaign website. I could use your assistance and...thank you, in advance.

They call this "Holy Week" for many reasons.  May you find peace.

Thanks for reading!

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 20 October 2019

I sat at my keyboard this morning long before daylight and tried to put sense into some of the things we've seen transpire over the past seven days. It's difficult and disturbing and I am simply amazed at how some, like lemmings, choose to follow "45" into the chaos. I truly don't get it and, perhaps, never will. On that happy note let's get started, Sunday Morning Coffee is served...

"Let's Have A Party!"

Inside the mind of "45":

"Hey, Mick! I've got this great idea! Actually, I had it when I was over in some county this year where lots of other very rich people had a meeting. You all know that it's not been an easy road for me. I've lost millions, haven't paid taxes for decades, made up stories about how wealthy I am so I could get more loans...it's what I do. Anyway, things down in Florida haven't gone so well. No, not Mar a Lago, that other shithole joint The Doral. Been losing tons of cash. So, why not throw that G-String, you get what I'm sayin' Mick, party down at my place near Miami?  Hell, I won't have to spend a dime! We'll let those suckers from those other shithole countries pony up their cash. Can you see it Mick? We'll have all kinds of publicity. There will be babes, plenty of babes. I'm tellin' ya Mick it's a winner. It's beautiful. Now, get yourself out there and let the world know we're on top of things. Love ya Mick!"

Something tells me that can't be far from the truth...

Rick Perry Runs Out of Energy

No, really. Energy Secretary Rick Perry isn't tired he literally ran out of his office trying to escape his involvement in that whole messy Ukraine deal. Of course Mr. Perry said all of this has nothing at all to do with the "Three Amigo" dealings and the congressional subpoena he ignored. Seems that Rick couldn't overcome the fact that his boss threw him under the bus two weeks ago when "45" blamed the Ukraine phone call on him.

The Texas former governor is also the latest in a series of cabinet officials who’ve exited under a cloud of scandal. The list includes controversial figures such as former Labor Secretary Alex Acosta, former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, former HHS Secretary Tom Price, former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, and former VA Secretary David Shulkin.

This "Draining the Swamp" takes time my friends...

Elijah Cummings

This was a tough week for many of us who looked on the life of Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-MD) as heroic. His voice, his faith his spirit are now a memory. Born in poverty he ascended to the halls of power never forgetting his commitment to those who have little. Little power, little money, little justice...little.

He took the wrath of "45" all summer long as the president described the African-American Cummings as “racist” and “a brutal bully,” charging that he “has done a very poor job” representing his constituents and “has failed badly!”

"45" also characterized Cummings’ predominantly black, Baltimore-based congressional district as “a disgusting, rat and rodent infested mess” where “no human being” would want to live.

Some Americans reviere class and dignity. Others...not so much. 

Meanwhile In Iowa

It was a trifecta of love. Last week, according to the Des Moines Register, about 100 people gathered to hear Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA), Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) and Iowa GOP Chair Jeff Kaufmann heap praise on "45". The governor said, "He really pays attention to Iowa and listens." Then the two women recalled their personal trauma. One dealing with an abusive relationship and the other about the abuse of alcohol. It would seem that two, out of the three story lines, might actually be true. Jeff was there for support.

Speaking of Sen. Ernst...the reports are in and Democratic Candidate Teresa Greenfield out raised Joni in the money department.

It's History Damn It!

Last week Democratic Candidate for the U.S. Senate Eddie Mauro wrote a letter to Gary Slater who is the manager of the Iowa State Fair, and from Missouri, asking if it was appropriate that the Fair Board rents out the grounds for a gun show where folks can buy armor piercing bullets, ammonium nitrate (bomb making stuff) Nazi flags and other fun SS gear. 

Mr. Slater basically responded, "It our damn land we'll do what the hell we want to do with who we want to do business with!" Or, something like that. 

Many of my white Christian friends looked at the story and passed it all off as "Hey, it's history! Don't you libs get it? We're just remembering history!" 

Yeah, with bomb making stuff, illegal bullets and a nod to that wonderful time period when other white Christians murdered millions of Jews because they were...inferior.

I totally get it. 

By the way...if you can see through your hood...I'd recommend this book. It's how "history" treated some families and how, at age four, Michael Bornstein survived. "Survivors Club - The True Story of a Very Young Prisoner of Auschwitz". And you can listen to part of his story here.

RAGBRAI

It's starting to smell. Last week we experienced the non-political reality of how divided our world is as the entire RAGBRAI crew of 16 people quit and formed a new bicycle ride across Iowa.  The new ride just so happens to take place during the same week at RAGBRAI 2020.

It was all wrapped in how the long-time RAGBRAI director T.J. Juskiewicz didn't like to be "throttled" with regard to the saga of Carson King. He said that the "RAGBRAI Nation" wanted to know if the ride supported the outing of King who made some racist comments  when King was 16 years old and that Gannet, the parent company of the Des Moines Register, kept him from speaking his mind.

So, Juskiewicz quit and on the same day announced the new ride complete with a website, registration information and more.

Now the bicycle community is "divided" on which ride to...ride.

Clearly there is more to this story than a guy being told, by his employer, to stick to the script. And, it's easy to hate the Register and even easier to hate Gannett and the bean-counters who have ruined journalism. So, why not start a new  paper? If you want a more POINTED read about this mess check out Mike Draper's Blog from Raygun titled, "How To Destroy a Community in Three Easy Steps". I like...Mike.

Partly Personal

I may actually get this out BEFORE 9AM!  Well, maybe. (Nope...missed it!)

We're winding down the festival of Sukkot which ends tonight at sundown. They, we Jews, launch into the holiday of Shemini Atzeret or an "extra day" and then Simchat Torah...the rejoicing of the Torah...as we start reading the five books again from the beginning. It's what we do...

Yesterday I was out knocking on doors for both my campaign as well as helping out my friend Ryan Crane who is running for the West Des Moines City Council for an at-large position. Ryan will make an excellent City Councilman...no, really. He is passionate about his community and dedicated to progressive values and economic development for everybody. 

What is astounding are the number of people whom I spoke with who have NO idea there is an election on November 5th much less who the candidates are. Over the next several days I'm joining others in The Great Ballot Chase as we call voters across Polk County encouraging them to vote early and/or get them to request an absentee ballot. If we all work at it we can make a huge difference.

HERE is a LINK to the Polk County Democrats to help you...VOTE!

And, I made new friends. Knocking doors is an amazing experience. 99.9% of the  people I engaged yesterday were delightful. Thanks for opening up your doors and having a conversation about...values. It all matters.

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is in town this week. Here is a link for tickets!

BTW the Great Pet Expo is today...just in case you were wondering.

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic Sunday! 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 8 September 2019

Sunday Morning Coffee is about the political (and sometimes religious) news stories you may have seen...or missed...all laced with my commentary. Why? I've got nothing better to do at 6am on a Sunday?  This should be pretty short because, after all, there isn't all that much going on....  Right.

The United Kingdom

Ain't so united. Proving, once again, that major decisions, like leaving the European Union, shouldn't be made by the electorate especially if they get wrong and/or misleading information. That's what happened as voters there decided, by a slim margin, to leave the EU. Trouble is, nobody knows how to make that work. Then an unelected wild card (sound familiar?) assumes power and attempts to bully his way to a Brexit Crash. So glad that only they have such political upheaval and not us...

Well, Not So Fast...

Last week "45" announced that soon we would be leaving Afghanistan and bring some 14,000 troops home from our longest war ever. The buzz was that the United States and our crack diplomatic corps had secured an agreement with the Taliban and all that was left was to put ink to paper and....we're out!  Then another terror attack by the Taliban killed eleven citizens and an American soldier. The president, yesterday, said he cancelled a "secret meeting" with Taliban leaders that were supposed to gather today at Camp David.

Who knew that this governing and winning could be so...complicated. Weary.

Meanwhile In Other Third-World News

One of the hallmarks of third-world nations is that they routinely cancel elections. I mean, who in the hell would want people making decisions regarding leadership...so the folks in power just decide to scrap the vote. That's what they do in places that the president says are "sh*thole countries".

Fast forward to the thriving beacon of liberty...South Carolina where yesterday the Republican Party cancelled any plans to hold a primary in that state. They are a bit concerned that former Governor and Congressman Mark "I Was Just Out Hiking" Sanford (R-SC) might challenge "45" there. Meanwhile the same story in the pro-democracy state of Kansas. "No need to hold a primary, our dear leader is firmly in control."  Two other states are also considering the same move.

Free and fair elections? Not on the GOP watch....

Rearranging the Deck Chairs

This week, in Iowa, we learned that Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has decided that it is better to rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic of Managed Health Care rather than stick a fork in it.  You all know the story: Just before former Gov. Terry Branstad (R-IA) took a slow boat to China he, on his own, moved the Iowa Medicaid program from state control into the hands of several for-profit health care management companies. The results have been a disaster for not only the companies but also the patients and the providers. However Iowa has done everything it can to assuage at least the corporate concerns by giving them an 8.6% raise this year...on top of another hefty raise last year. 

But, I digress...

This week the governor appointed Kelly Kennedy Garcia to head the Iowa Department of Human Services. Kelly hits Iowa following a rocky road in Texas when it comes to their for-profit managed care program that has, according to published reports, also denied health care to patients.

Perhaps little known by Iowans, who gaze at the newest import, is the fact that Kelly Kennedy Garcia worked for the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, which studies whether state agencies should be abolished. Wanna read that again?

Bottom line is that these folks all hate government so the theory is to starve government offices and then transfer those duties to private-for profit groups. We see it all the time. The result...be it health care or prisons...that the bottom line is all that matters and damn the workers and the people who they are to serve.  Grover and the bunch at ALEC are proud of the work you are doing on behalf of the corporations that are here to care for us... Weary.

Worst Job in America?

Last week I aired a story that might scare the hell out of you. There are, in the United States, roughly 2.5 million home health care aides. That is a 150% increase over the past ten years. It's no wonder as America ages and our health care gets worse somebody has to be there to care for folks. Trouble is the average rate of pay for these folks is $11.52 an hour. Not only is the job one of the lowest paid jobs in the nation the physical and emotional toll of being a part-time social worker, cook, cleaner and diaper changer catches up with them.

Why is this such a low-pay job? Experts say that it's because most of these workers are immigrants and women of color.  Who in the hell cares about them...right?

Partly Personal

My goal is to always get this out by 9am on Sunday. I've failed in that task over the past couple of weeks. Holidays and "stuff going on". So, I'm going to put a fork in this edition in just a couple of minutes. But first...

I was in Jefferson, Iowa yesterday covering a story that could very well be part of an answer to the recovery of Rural America as civic leaders, educators and corporations gathered for the grand opening of The Forge. I'll have the story out on Monday or Tuesday on Insight on Business the News Hour but it's about how technology can open up the future for people in so many parts of the country. It's a great story and it's happening in Iowa. 

After announcing for my Iowa State Senate run in 2020 we've been a bit busy...now I'm hoping that somebody in Senate District 10 will jump in. Currently that seat is held by Jake "Never Saw a Gun I Didn't Like" Chapman (R-Adel). I know there is somebody out there that must be willing to take this guy on. His voting record, like that of Sen. Chuck "I Hate Puppies" Schneider (R-WDM) stinks. Knock, knock...anybody?

Finally I'll be speaking Tuesday to the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce over lunch. I know, out of my district but I'm here for Iowans no matter where they are. Then on Tuesday evening at a business gathering in Urbandale (NOT my district either) but it is home to Mayor Bob Andewig who yesterday, according to a Twitter post by Polk County Democratic Chair Sean Bagniewski, joined the Democratic Party and became the campaign chair for Rep. John Forbes (D-Urbandale). I've known Mayor Bob for a very long time and he has always been a stand-up guy.  Welcome!  Later on Tuesday I get to speak to the Clive Democrats at their regular monthly meeting.

There is a movement happening my friends...you're invited to come along.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!