SundayMorningCoffee

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 12 September 2021

I was able to, last night, catch up with some of the moving tributes to the 9/11 victims. Presidents Bush, Clinton, Obama and Biden and their remarks. So many emotions. And, remember their families live with this reality every day.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee politics, opinion with a dash of religion.  Why not....

The Debt Ceiling

Well, here we go. In days gone by raising the debt ceiling was (mostly) a bipartisan given. Sure the GOP would grumble but in the end. This time it may be different. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is saying that his caucus will not vote to raise the debt. So what happens if we default because of politics?  If the debt ceiling is not lifted, then the federal government will technically default on some of its obligations. It would be forced to prioritize payments, deciding who will get paid and who won't.

Ultimately, someone will lose out, whether it's federal employees, veterans, Social Security recipients or defense contractors. Bless his heart.

New Poll

There is a new poll out that indicates Republicans want "45" to run for president in 2024.  The Hill is reporting that Fifty-six percent of registered Republican voters said they'd consider casting their ballots for the former (and failed) president in the next GOP primary.

Twenty-eight percent said they would consider former Vice President Mike Pence, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Ted Cruz tied for third place. Weary...what a cast of clowns.

The Religious Exemption

Last week President Biden took off the gloves in an effort to save more American lives. New orders are that people must be vaccinated or face some tough choices. The same with employers. Good.  For those of you who decide to not become vaccinated you are doing a number of things: 1) Putting others in danger; 2) If you get sick you rob a hospital bed for others who have had a stroke, a heart attack or serious injury; 3) The death of another person in on you...yes...you.  

Meanwhile, and this is interesting, Keiser Health News is reporting that this idea of a "religious exemption" to the vaccine is pure...bunk. "No major denomination opposes vaccination. Even the Christian Science Church, whose adherents rely largely on prayer rather than medicine, does not impose an official policy. It counsels “respect for public health authorities and conscientious obedience to the laws of the land, including those requiring vaccination.”

In other words...crackpots and charlatans, once again, using "religion" as an excuse. Shameful...

Dave Muhlbauer 

I have learned, from a good source, that Dave Muhlbauer has suspended his campaign for the U.S. Senate due to a recent death in the family. It seems that taking care of the farm is going to take more time than campaigning. This doesn't mean that he is out but, as they say, watch this space.

This, if it is accurate, may open the door for former Admiral Mike Franken who came in second during the 2020 Democratic Primary losing to Theresa Greenfield. The Polk County (Iowa) Steak Fry is just a week away. If Franken is going to announce it will, or should, happen before that major event.  Stay tuned.

BTW, if you have not yet gotten your 2021 Steak Fry Tickets here is that link.

49+ Candidates

Speaking of Polk County it looks like there are 49 or, perhaps, 50 Democrats running for city council or school board seats. Following years of letting Republicans have free rein across the county when it comes to city council, boards and commissions the Democrats are fighting back in a big way. For those of you who complain and whine that "these are non-partisan races" that is complete nonsense. 

Among the GOP candidates there are  plenty of anti-maskers, conspiracy theorists and anti-vaxers seeking your vote and that...is just scary.

Andrea Phillips

Here's the deal: We have a major shot at gaining a seat in the Iowa House. Andrea Phillips of Ankeny has been working like crazy as has her entire team. The special election is 14 September...like TUESDAY.  Please if you can knock doors, call, text...let's do this.  You can reach Mary McAdams and the campaign right here.  Go...now...do.  It is all about getting out the vote. We have this...go!

Partly Personal

It is the Sunday before Yom Kippur which begins on Wednesday evening at sundown. I'll be out and with my congregation in Mason City. Here is wishing you a positive and meaningful holiday. 

I'll be out of pocket today as well. Headed to Indianola to "call" a game for my granddaughter's team. Not sure how long this will go but will be back to work for Andrea later. I know...right? There is an app called "Game Changer" and last year I was tapped to do the play-by-play. It was fun...even though I've never called sports.  Anyway our daughter, Hunter, created this stats book with all the players information and a host of "color" commentary.  It's really cool.  So, yeah...see you soon Indianola.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 8 August 2021

I think today is the final day for the 2020 Olympics. "I think" because I've not seen a minute of the games this year. Not to say I don't enjoy sport and I do get the news highlights.  Looks like I'm not alone. Last Sunday’s NBC audience of 13 million was down 51% from the 26.7 million who watched the corresponding night in Rio.  It's been that way from the start. Let's move on....

Infrastructure Week

Looks like this is it. 18 members of the GOP Senate voted with Democrats to end debate and more on to a vote. Trouble is there are still some outliers. Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) he is against speeding up the vote because of the dollars this adds to the deficit. He was the U.S. Ambassador to Japan when the 2017 Tax and Jobs Act was passed that cut taxes and added trillions to the deficit. Didn't make a peep.  Can't trust them...not one bit.

Should this roll through, and I think it will, we've got a real chance at building back our country from rural to urban. This will mean great jobs for so many people and just what we need. It's a big deal folks.  Next up: Much needed help for working families. (Image: Engineering News Report)

Black Unemployment

The U.S. added nearly one million jobs back in July said the Labor Department on Friday. Champaign corks were popping all over. But, there is a but.  Black unemployment numbers are still terrible. Stay with me on this because it matters.

Nearly 250,000 African Americans left the workforce and the total number employed fell by 12,000 - a measure that rose solidly for whites, Hispanics and Asians.

The numbers indicate the drop in the Black unemployment rate was driven not by more people finding jobs, but by a rise in the number of people setting their job searches aside. The share of Black people either working or looking for work, known as the labor force participation rate, also fell 0.8 point last month to 60.8%. 

Equal opportunity remains...unequal. (Image: Brookings Institute) 

No Shot, No Service

We’ve all seen the signs…No Shoes, No Shirt…No Service.  Well, you can now add something else to that well known sign:  No Shot…No Service.

It’s becoming more popular all across the United States but the question is…how do you “prove” you are vaccinated?

You can carry around one of those flimsy CDC pieces of paper but, what if you lose it or leave it at home?  Here is a quick tip. Take a photo of it with your smart phone and then keep it in your favorite file. That was, if you lose it, you can go back to the clinic or department and request a new one. And, in these early days of providing proof many businesses are accepting the image. But...some may not. There are apps out there one is VaxYes.com and here is the link. Please know that I get nothing for that suggestion...just passing it along. (Image - Atlanta Journal-Constitution) 

Richard Trumka

Last week we lost a giant in the battle for working families and a fair shake at work. Richard Trumka the AFL/CIO President died suddenly of a heart attack while camping with his family. He was 72. Trumka rose through the ranks of the labor movement the "old school" way. He worked and worked to defend organized labor no matter what group. I remember watching him beam in to several Iowa AFL/CIO meetings where he could not attend in person. What happens next? Stay tuned.

Schools in Iowa

School starts soon. Good luck with that as Iowa continues to see higher infection rates of the Delta variant. But, don't expect Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to adjust her wishes that despite science we should allow school districts to use their best judgement. It ain't gonna happen unless Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) tells her to do it. Who, by the way, has a mess on his hands regarding immigration. But it does make one wonder what really goes on at those governor conferences....

The Great Iowa State Fair

On the show Friday we were talking about the Iowa State Fair, something that I truly love, and I was asked if I was going this year. The answer is a clear...nope. Not gonna do it. As much as I would love to hang around the cattle barn and have a beer or three at Stockman's just can't bring myself to mix and mingle that much. Besides the fair is installing metal detectors at the entrances. What about my pocket knife and.... Have a great time sorry to miss out again this year. 

Flipping Ankeny!

We've got a real shot come September 14. Recently John Landon (R-Ankeny) died in office from what I'm told has been a long battle with cancer. The governor has set September 14 as a special election day for the Ankeny, Iowa seat. And, we've got a great candidate ready to roll. Andrea Phillips who raised all kinds of cash in her 2020 bid is back and she needs all of our help. Doesn't matter where you live you can make calls, knock doors, chip in. We can flip this seat and Andrea is the person to do that. Don't put this off, we've only got a month.  Go now to AndreaForIowa.com and sign up. It's critical my friends. 

Partly Personal

I have a hand-held Sony voice recorder that has been with me for years. I had a bit of time last week and plugged it in to my computer and up popped dozens of interviews I'd done going as far back as 2014. Among them was then Vice President Joe Biden as he rode into Des Moines with the Nuns on the Bus. Remember?  What a hoot as he explained why he said yes for making the trip. The clip below is just three minutes long. Enjoy.

Joe Biden September 2014 DSM Nuns on the Bus

Gotta go. I hear my Bride has a long list of projects.

Have a great Sunday and remember...Andrea for Iowa!

 

 

 

 

 

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 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!

 

 

  

 

 

 

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 27 June 2021

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee a thoughts and opinion piece I've written for years.  The stories you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do. 

Dominion Voting Machines

The circus continues as the "My Pillow Guy", Mike Lindell and conspiracy theory lawyer Sidney Powell had their day in court last week. It's part of the one-billion dollar defamation suit brought against them and former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani  by Dominion Voting Systems. The three are accused of spreading tales that the machines were a design created by former Venezuelan  dictator Hugo Chavez and flipped votes from "45" to President Biden. That is was all a huge conspiracy. Rudy didn't go (He, no doubt, was licking his wounds for having his New York attorney license revoked.) but Lindell and Powell argued that what they said is true and the case should be tossed out.  

In November we'll celebrate the one year anniversary of the election of Joe Biden and we're still talking about this silliness?  Weary. (Photo: Chicago Tribune)

Oh, but wait!  I hear the Dickenson County GOP has as their headliner for a fund-raiser the one and only Sidney Powell.  Isn't that special?

"We have a deal!"

President Biden exited the White House with lawmakers last week to announce a deal had been struck for the trillion dollar infrastructure bill to pass the U.S. Senate. What happened on Wall Street?  The markets celebrated. Wait! I thought the rich folks would balk at the deal because it means higher taxes? Oh but there is, tucked into the language of the deal, an opportunity for private businesses to get a piece of the action and not buy building roads and bridges but by owning a bit of the action.  Folks on the left are worried this will mean if you want to cross the river you'll have to pay a toll to some venture capitalist group and not the state.  Stay tuned.

Mafia in Ohio

The former president, who speaks more like a mob boss, was in Ohio last night repeating his lies and taking swipes at everybody under the sun...but praising himself. It was the same old crap we have heard so many times in the past. We even got to hear chants of "Lock her up!" referring to Hillary Clinton. Really, is that all you've got? It was quite a show as "45" was in town to back a GOP congressional candidate in a Republican primary. The sitting congressman voted to impeach "45" so the mob boss comes out swinging. What a total disgrace to the presidency.  But, the good news? He may be returning to the campaign. Wouldn't it be great to beat his ass again?

Remember When?

It wasn't that long ago that the governor of Iowa, Kim Reynolds (R-IA) said the kids at the U.S. Mexico border were not something she was interested in. "It's not our problem.", said the governor and tool of the former president. But all of that changed last week as she seeks to score political points with the base she shares with "45".  She, "...at the request of Texas and Arizona" has sent state troopers to the border to "help with the situation there". What a joke but, hey we've got all kinds of cash in the bank because we're not spending any on education, health care, child care....you know the story.  My gosh people...this woman has got to go. (Photo: The Nation) 

Iowa, The Red State

Ruby red to be exact...if we are to believe the Iowa Poll that has been dribbling out results all week. It seems the majority of you love Sen. Jodi Ernst (R-IA). Well, if you are a man or somebody that lives in a rural part of the state. Why?  Not sure but guessing you guys think she is cute and the rest of you don't understand a thing about policy...or lack of it. Same can be said for the current governor. She gets high marks for making Iowa more like Alabama every day.  Isn't that...special?

Critical Race Theory

Gotta love white people...or maybe not so much. So many are getting their panties in a knot because black folks, and their allies, want to talk about the truth behind the Original Sin of America. So, they are running for school boards and packing school board meetings and passing laws (thank you Iowa!) to "defund education" in case somebody spills the beans. No matter the fact that no public school teaches CRT.  Meanwhile I had to explain to my granddaughter why there is a whole month devoted to Black American education and experience. I think she is starting to catch on. (Photo: New York Times)

Lack of Empathy

Last week my brother wrote me about this issue and I thought it was so profound.  The issue came up when we were discussion the theory that once somebody "get theirs" they then fail to care about others. The "I've Got Mine Syndrome". Check this...

When Noah came out of the ark, he opened his eyes and saw the whole world completely destroyed. Noah began crying for the world and said, “Master of the World! If you destroyed Your world because of human sins or human fools, then why did you create them? One or the other You should do: either do not create the human being, or do not destroy the world!…” 

The Blessed Holy One answered Noah, “Foolish shepherd! I lingered with you before the Flood and spoke to you at length so that you would ask mercy for the world! But as soon as you heard that you would be safe in the ark, the evil of the world did not touch your heart. You built the ark and saved yourself. Now that the world has been destroyed you open your mouth to utter questions and pleas.” Zohar (M’oray Ha’aish Parshat Noach)

 

Partly Personal

 

It was pretty amazing. I was last in front of my Mason City congregation in March of 2020. This past Sabbath I went back and it was rather emotional to be back in the synagogue. Services were special, new people came and our Midrash (Study Session) on Shabbat (Saturday) went much longer than usual. It was great to be back...

 

The that did take me out of circulation and I was not able to be home to great the newest member of the family..."Camper"!  Yes, a new puppy is here. She is a beauty and my Bride has plans to train her so she can take her...you guessed it...camping. Of course Yofi isn't too sure this is a good idea...but we think she will come around. We're becoming quite the multi-cultural family as this little Aussie will no doubt add to the experience.

 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!