SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee - Memorial Edition 28 May 2017

Back from vacation and back to brewing up Sunday Morning Coffee! If you've come by before you know this is a post about some news stories you may have seen and some you might have missed. Some of the stuff that has gone on over the past week is funny some of it is sad and disturbing but it's all worth a quick review.  Grab a cup and welcome back!

Montana Doesn't Care Either

Back in the "old days" if you grabbed a woman by the pussy, incited violence in public or assaulted another person while running for public office the political party would throw you under the bus. That is no longer the case. The majority of voters in Montana proved that "nothing really matters" this past week. 377,465 people voted and Republican Greg Gianforte (R-MT), who body-slammed a reporter the day before the election is being sent to congress winning 50.2% of the vote. It should be noted that before he takes his seat in the United States House of Representatives he has a court date in Bozeman. It was also the most expensive political race in Montana. And the wealthy businessman Gianforte had plenty of help:   In the final days of the campaign, outside spending rose to $7.2 million, with more than $1 million coming right at the end. Outside Republican groups spent significantly more than their Democratic counterparts -- $5.6 million to about $1 million. Oh, and Greg said he was sorry.

The Art of the Saudi Deal

Last week President Trump made good on his promise to put America first by agreeing to supply the progressive nation of Saudi Arabia $110 billion of U.S. arms with options running as high as $350 billion over ten years. Of course the arms dealers and manufacturers are cheering...hell it will save hundreds of jobs so who cares if one of the most regressive nations on the planet and the mother country of the majority of terrorists from 9/11 is the buyer.  Cash is king. But, there could be an issue in congress as Republican Rand Paul (R-KY) and Democrats Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Al Franken (D-MN) introduced a resolution of disapproval in the Senate to force a vote on whether to block part of the sale.

Back In the US(SR)

You don't know how lucky you are...boy. President Trump invaded Europe and lectured there on behalf of the 36% of you that think he is doing a great job as the leader of the free world. Here is an overview: Germany - Bad, France - Weak, Great Britain - Courageous and Montenegro - Don't Give a Damn, Get Out of the Way!

Oh, and climate change...it's a hoax.

Meanwhile back in Trumpland there are even more troubling issues between the Jews (Kushner & Ivanka) and Russia. The Washington Post has reported that Mr. Kushner had attempted to open up some back-office communication with Vlad and the gang at the Kremlin. For this Jew it's odd how some forget the history. Mother Russia has not always been kind to our people but maybe by sucking up we hope it gets better?

And then there is the Trump Budget which kicks thousands out of jobs, reduces health benefits for millions and offers the wealthy more money. So, how is that working out for you? (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

We're screwed...

Mr. Branstad Goes to China

Speaking of getting screwed our "Great Leader" has left the corn and cows for rice and tea...and just in time. Stuff is sort of closing in on Mr. Branstad and it's a great idea to take that slow boat to China and leave the cleanup for our first female "Great Leader" Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA)!  At her first press event she called out for lots of things like, "  "I won't stop working until every Iowan ... has the same opportunity to succeed, have a satisfying career, raise a family and have a great quality of life." OK, we're in.  So, how are we going to do that? Here is a list:

• Reduce funding for public education;
• Funnel public money to private religious and charter schools;
• Reduce access to mental health care;
• Stop paying medicaid health-care providers;
• Send millions of dollars to already wildly successful corporations;
• Cut taxes for corporations and shift that burden to Iowa families;
• Make sure every woman carries every fetus to birth no matter what;
• Reduce efforts to curb water pollution and expand contamination levels of our rivers and lakes;
• Build one, maybe two, private for profit prisons...heck Iowans have to live SOMEWHERE...

Welcome to Terrace Hill.

He'll Be Back...

No doubt Ambassador Branstad will return...soon...to Iowa so he can take part in the Trump Rally in Cedar Rapids. It was to have been held later this week but there's stuff going on on in D.C....some tiny little things...that will keep the president busy for a bit. So, they have "rescheduled" the "love fest" for later in June. That's nice...

Joy Corning

Iowa's second female Lt. Governor died last week and many in the Democratic Party mourned her passing. True, Joy Corning was a Republican but, and you know it is true, she would never make it on a slate of GOP candidates under this group of "socially responsible holy rollers". She was a champion of choice and women's health care so she supported and was on the Board of Planned Parenthood. She worked in the immigrant community for social justice and she truly cared about the LGBT Community and worked for inclusion in all manner of public and private life. I saw her not long ago and she was in a unique "sisterhood" with former Lt. Governor Jo Ann Zimmerman and  Lt. Governor Sally Pederson. Sad...truly but...there is more.

Don Avenson

He was called "Big Don" and he truly was an impressive figure in Iowa politics. Rep. Avenson (D-Oelwein) was the Speaker of the House from 1982 to 1990. I first met him in Oelwein shortly after I moved to Iowa. A co-worker had moved there to join a radio station and when I followed in 1979 Don was in the Iowa Legislature. His booming voice and ready smile was captivating. In later years he moved into public policy and remained a close friend of another giant of the time Jerry Fitzgerald of Fort Dodge whom he was with on the night he died of a heart attack in Nebraska. It was during those years I became involved in Iowa politics and it was truly...fun on both sides of the aisle and things got done.  But...we're not done.

The Vilsack Family

The pain of losing a child and grand-child is so great that even trying to understand and comfort those left behind is difficult if not impossible. We all love our children and our children's children and to have them snatched from our life is cruel and mystifying. There are no words other than...strength.

Partly Personal

I don't want to leave the impression that I am/was super tight with all of the family members above. However, in Iowa and if you are even just a little involved, you spend time and conversation with folks like them. When tragedy strikes those good times and conversation come rushing back...even if we've not thought of them in years.

This is Memorial Day Weekend and if we go about our business without remembering why we get a three-day holiday it does a disservice to those who served and serve today. This was always a "big day" for our family. My Father z"l  and Mother z"l made it a point to be at the VFW a couple of times during the weekend. Dad and I would be out washing and waxing the car while listening to the Indy 500. In the warm weather of Michigan he would be shirtless but never talked about the scars on his body that came from blistering shell casings that hit his chest in those Navy gun turrets. Every once in a while I'd reach for the scrapbook of black and white photos from his three years of service in the South Pacific and wonder what it was like just 15 years prior when the entire world was aflame. Fifteen years...it was...fresh but we never spoke of it. Ever. I sort of wish we had but it seems to me now that there was honor in remaining silent and going about building a successful life for your family. Thank you...

And, thank you for coming by...have a memorable Memorial Day.

 

 

Why? He Holds 36% - Sunday Morning Coffee 14 May 2017

It's the Mother's Day Edition of Sunday Morning Coffee with some of the political news you may have seen and other stuff I dug up just to see if we're paying attention. Each short story is littered with some input...just to make it more fun. And, Happy Mother's Day!  Not to worry, I'll write that again later.  Grab a cup and let's go!

Thirty-Six Percent

President Trump doesn't give a rat's ass what you think he has his base and it's solid. The Quinnipiac Poll, released on Wednesday, shows the president has a 58% disapproval rating but 36% of you approve, lovingly, of the job he is doing. True, the poll was done before the firing of James Comey but I bet that if taken today that base would remain solid. They don't care what this man does...they elected him because he was not Hillary Clinton. They elected him because he was not a politician. They elected him because politicians have left their integrity in the toilet. And, they elected him because they saw strength...not weakness. They also elected him because he knows a woman's place is behind roses and a plate of chow from the Mother's Day Brunch. That's what you've got and as long as he's got 36% he does not care.

Who Do You Worship?

We all know president Trump is a devout Christian. He proved it yesterday at the commencement speech at the nation's largest Christian university, where he said, “America has always been the land of dreams because America is a nation of true believers,” Trump told those gathered at Liberty University. (The 36% love that line by the way...)

“When the pilgrims landed at Plymouth, they prayed. When the founders wrote the Declaration of Independence, they invoked our creator four times. Because in America, we don’t worship government, we worship God.” (See, it is government that is the problem...another great line for those of you who voted for him.)

"It is why our currency proudly declares, 'In God We Trust,'" Trump continued. "And it is why we proudly proclaim that we are one nation, under God, every time we say the Pledge of Allegiance." (Actually that was a later addition when we were in fear of a "Godless Communist Russia" during the 1950's...but now Russia is our friend...or...his friend.)

Jim

It was kind of like The Godfather. After President Trump was sworn in as #45 he met Jim Comey. They shook hands and Mr. Trump gave the FBI chief a hug. Little did we know that that may have spelled the doom for Jim. Sure, there are now stories that Mr. Trump wanted a pledge of loyalty from the FBI. There are now stories that conversations in the Oval Office are recorded which, by the way, nobody is denying. Then there was that little deal about Russia when the president referenced that nation in the lead up to his decision to fire Comey. You can bet this will continue to haunt the administration but...remember...he does not care.  In fact, I was with 200+ Iowans in Washington D.C. last week and not one peep about an independent prosecutor or the Trump/Comey disaster. Those who voted for this man simply do not care. After all, it wasn't Hillary.

Well, Maybe...Just Maybe

On Friday Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nev) said that the appointment of an independent prosecutor to look into alleged links between Trump associates and Russia “should be on the table,” if congressional probes into the matter encounter obstacles. Now, why in the hell would he say something like that? Oh...Heller is up for re-election next year, and his seat is widely seen as the top Democratic target. Now you know.

失陪了

Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA) sailed through his confirmation hearings meaning that he's soon off to China to repair the world, take on North Korea and leave behind a job well done! During his most recent watch he has: 1) Cured all Iowans of mental health issues, 2) Added over 200,000 jobs, 3) Saved millions of tax dollars by hiring, on his own, three private for-profit health management companies to oversee billions in Medicaid, 4) Fixed the scourge of voting by making sure a smaller percentage of Iowans vote, 5) Got a job for his son in the Trump Administration, 6) Elected the first, and soon to be, longest serving female governor of Iowa, 7) Fixed, once and for all, the out of control workers compensation law that is bad for business, 8) Stripped workers of their anti-business, anti-democratic ability to hold to Commie Rules of collective bargaining (you do know that farms in the Soviet Union were called COLLECTIVES right?) 9) Gave you the right to blow off your fingers any damn time you want to and 10) Upheld the right for kids to handle guns any damn time you think they should while roaming through the Capital. Well done sir! And, in record time! Oh, the header? It's Chinese for...."Buh Bye".

Iowa's Third Congressional District

As you know Congressman David Young (R-IA) at first said he would not vote to strip medicaid benefits with the new American Health Care Act but then when on, to approve Trumpcare. I saw Mr. Young last week and true to form he stuck to the talking points about allowing states to secure care for their residents and this would offer more choice to American's. (Those who can afford it.) Anyway the perspective candidate list is getting larger. Last week I teased that another name had surfaced and this week it became more public following Theresa Greenfield's time at the Polk County Spring Event on Sunday. Theresa, a real estate executive, is holding "listening posts" in the district. Why run for Congress? "I sat there, after the November election, and said to myself; 'I need to do more than vote I need stand for doing good things for the people of Iowa and this nation.'" If she decides to carry on expect an announcement in early July.

Partly Personal

Last week I spent time in D.C. with 200+ business, non-profit and local government leaders during the 38th Greater Des Moines Partnership Washington D.C. Fly-In. It was quite an adventure. If you would like to hear some of what went on, from a totally business perspective, head to our radio broadcast page for Insight on Business the News Hour. Scroll through where you'll find several interviews with those who attended. But, beyond that it was a well oiled machine that oversaw 72 hours in our nation's capital. The staff from the Partnership made the event outstanding. Everything (other than a rained out Washington Nationals game) was well done...down to this. It's an image of a paid parking pass for those who parked at the DSM International Airport. Totally unexpected but it's details like this that create a positive brand message.

This week it's off on a Vacation with my Bride. Not to worry...the radio gig goes on, the clients will be taken care of and Sunday Morning Coffee will come to you from Anna Maria Island....perhaps the most relaxing place in the nation.

One more time!  Happy Mother's Day...for some of us it's a day to remember for others who have your Mom still with you...enjoy every darn moment. It matters.

Have a great Sunday and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We Just Don't Know - SMC 7 May 2017

There is something just mean spirited in Republicans and I'm trying to figure out what it is that drives them to be so hateful. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee a little project that keeps me wondering about things like that and more. Here are some of the stories you may have seen...others you might have missed. All, however, are laced a little "snark". Why? What the hell...why not. Grab a cup but careful, it might be hot!

Enraged Elephants 

They say elephants, when provoked, can be very dangerous. Ladies and gentlemen meet the Republican Party. I'm not sure why they are so angry and delight in bullying but there seems to be a clear pattern from suppressing the vote to taking away health care to demanding a woman jump through hoops in health care to slashing education (a fetus is important but once it slips out of the vagina not so much...). Where does this anger come from? What is it that turns, often, rational humans into bullies?  If you've got an answer to that clue me in?

We Just Don't Know

Last week, in yet another show of "bully power" there was a party in the Rose Garden. Republican House Members were invited to whoop it up following their "repeal and replace" vote. While it's a little early to have a party the GOP and President Trump were more interested in waving a victory flag to their base. After all working men and women and older voters broke for Trump in November and they were desperate for a victory lap. But, be careful what you wish for. The AHCA (American Health Care Act) is rife with issues that simply are not clear. Some lawmakers say people with preexisting conditions are, or will be, covered. Other GOP members say it does not. Still others, when asked about the bill, say, "We just don't know.."  THAT is how hungry the Republicans were to have a victory party. Hell, just vote for it so we can stand around and say we did something that we promised for...years. So, after holding over 50 votes in the U.S. House of Representatives over the past eight years to "repeal and replace" they finally on a 217 (one vote margin) got it done. Champagne for all...and to the people affected: "Let them eat cake."

But Can They Hide?

Last week I met with a woman who says she is done being quiet. "I decided, after the November election, that it was not enough just to go out and vote it takes more than that. It takes standing up, taking a side and challenging people like Rep. David Young (R-IA) because they are bad for Iowa and bad for this nation." Well now...it looks like we'll have a fresh face to contend with in Iowa's Third Congressional District and I can't wait. I promised not to reveal until she is ready...this will be good for the nation and the 16 counties that have to put up with...David Young. One word: Toast!

Russia Again?

Yesterday the world was ablaze with the news that the French Election (scheduled for today) may be impacted by a data-dump and hack. Fingers are pointing to Russia. So, are they that brazen? The answer is "yes" after all it seemed to work in the U.S. The 20 point favorite is a political newcomer Emmanuel Macron who is pro-business, and pro the European Union. The opponent is Marine Le Pen who is isolationist and anti immigration. President Obama last week endorsed Macron. That, no doubt, was enough to send Russia to its keyboard. Whatever happens both candidates come from parties outside of the mainstream. Seems to be a pattern.

Speaking of Victory Laps

The Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate is making the media tour touting the fact that we now have voter suppression in Iowa that is more outrageous than in many other states. It is a solution in search of a problem and it will cost Iowans dearly. Here is how they did it: Fear. Fear is a great motivator and when you tell citizens that there is "voter fraud" even though there is not...folks get worried. They are unsure and so they cower. Here is a statement from ACLU - Iowa and its director Mark Stringer: "With Gov. Branstad signing this outrageous voter suppression bill into law, tens of thousands of Iowa eligible voters will be harmed.

This voter suppression law includes the introduction of a strict, unnecessary and expensive voter ID requirement, with voter ID cards going out to only pre-registered voters and not all eligible voters. It also includes unreliable and burdensome signature verification, cuts to early voting, and other provisions.

Politicians should not be making it harder for eligible Iowans to vote. Iowa is widely recognized as having one of the best systems in the country for elections. There has not been even one documented incident of the type of impersonation fraud--the type of voter fraud that voter ID laws are intended prevent. The only thing gained by this law is that a group of politicians have made voting harder for Iowa voters, especially low-income people, people of color, transgender Iowans, senior citizens, and those Iowans with disabilities."

Mean...just mean and at the top of the list is Sen. Charles Schneider (R-West Des Moines/Clive/Windsor Heights) and Rep. Chris Hagenow (R-Windsor Heights). Bet they have wet dreams over stuff like this.

Partly Personal

This evening, in Des Moines, is the first "Spring Event" hosted by the Polk County Democrats. The central committee made the decision to hold a spring fund raising event because...well, because they are broke and they trail the Polk County Republicans in collected donations. It's a smart move directed by a new crop of leaders and an invigorated base. The headliner this evening is Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) who comes from the Minnesota-Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, is the senior senator there and the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Minnesota. Should be good...

This week I'm headed to DC on a trip organized by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. It should be interesting, informative and a great opportunity to mingle with decision makers from the Metro. I had to promise them I would not Tweet at 3am but we do have a meeting at the Canadian Embassy and I understand once there it's easier to ask for asylum. We're also doing our daily business news broadcast from there...THAT should be interesting because...we don't do politics there.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday and a better week! 

 

Lead Or Get Out of the Way - SMC 23 April 2017

Time for Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly take on some news stories you might have seen or...missed. They are all laced with my opinion based on years of percolating. Serious, fun, reflective but always dangerous to Republicans who, for the life of them, just can't seem to figure out they are supposed to work for us.

Looking For a Leader

If the Democrats are looking for a national leader who can make sense, talk above the shrill of the shout and has street credibility they might want to take a serious look at Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) who is going about the business of cementing her progressive brand on the national stage. While her office says she is focused on her re-election to Congress she has been making appearances across the country. For example today she will speak to the NAACP in Detroit, she has been on a book tour with the release of "This Fight is Our Fight" which she says is a handbook to champion the middle class. Oh, and she has raised $5.2 million in the first quarter...more than any other U.S. Senator. In addition, and this can only help, President Donald Trump hates her and has often repeated nasty things about Sen. Warren. That, in itself, will work well among Democrats. Watch...and see.

Why?

Last week Bill O'Reilly collected $200 million as he got the boot from Fox News. I, frankly, don't care much about that the only question is why did it take so long for Fox to kick his nasty ass off the air? I don't get it. Conservatives call up Jesus 24/7, praise family values and go about the business of whoring when they think nobody is watching. Or, worse, when caught they elect the dude as president and put up with crap from the likes of O'Reilly. 

For those of you who still love "Good ol' Bill" he's got a podcast coming out on Monday called "No Spin News" at least that's what his revamped website tells us. Great, more dreck from a conservative for conservatives. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Loved By the Base?

President Trump has an approval rating that is in the basement. He has not drained the swamp but infested it with disgusting creatures. Yet the folks who voted for him say it was the right thing to do. In an ABC/Washington Post poll 96% of those who voted for him say it was the right decision only 2% say it was a mistake. The same poll tells us that a majority of Americans say Trump does not have the temperament nor judgement to be Commander in Chief and 60% have serious questions about his truthfulness and honesty. What the hell is the matter with you people? You elect a buffoon to the White House who can not tell the truth does not exude confidence in the American people...and you STILL think it was the right decision?  Weary of zombie people...

Meanwhile the word is out that this Carter Page dude...you know the Trump guy that really worked for the Russians? It's brewing into a big mess for lots of people including those in the White House today. Some saying they never even saw the guy yet he had Trump's ear along with Vlads?

Let's Dial It Back to Iowa

It's finally safe to come out of hiding. The Iowa Legislature, you know those gutless wonders who championed business over people, fog over transparency, guns over safety...yeah those folks...they are finally gone. But not forgotten. In their wake they have left Iowa in worse shape than it has been in decades. Under GOP leadership our state is bleeding red ink, working families are left out of health care, unions are being dismantled, teachers are ridiculed, education is silly but Jesus rules and they found enough money to support voter suppression as they fixed a problem that does not exist. And, know what, they are just getting started. For those of you who think it might be over hold on. Read the GOP Platform...they are doing exactly what they promised and more and there is more to come. Right now...as the stench starts to seep out from under the golden dome...they are meeting with their masters to inflict more damage on Iowa families, government workers, teachers, the elderly, folks dealing with mental health issues. Make no mistake they will be back and there is more to come....their masters demand it.

Our Next Governor...

I was in a discussion last week about who might become the next governor of Iowa. It will be a crowded field with a host of Democrats coming out to challenge each other...in other words a lively primary is brewing. So too on the GOP side. Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds is so closely tied to Gov. Branstad that she may have problems with more moderate Republicans. So does that mean Ron Corbett is going to get serious about challenging Reynolds? I think yes and if that happens expect former Des Moines City Councilperson Christine Hensley to play a part. Watch my friends....

Well THAT Might Be a Problem

A week ago the media broke a story regarding Kim Weaver who is slated to take on Rep. Steve King (R-IA) in the 4th Congressional District. It seems Kim had a "side job" as a psychic about ten years ago. That has folks all bothered and it is newsworthy. Yet, in a statement from Weaver's political director Todd Prieb we get the side of the story Democrats are focused on:  "Frankly, the idea that people would care about something Kim did 10 years ago on an entertainment website more than Steve King’s horrendous voting record is insulting to the voters of this district.”  We shall see. Kim has raised a bunch of cash. It will be interesting to see if this has any impact.

Storm Lake and The Pulitzer Prize 

It's pretty neat that a little newspaper deep in the 4th District that has been a secure home for Rep. Steve King (R-IA) would win a Pulitzer Prize. Art Cullen is the editor of the twice-a-week Storm Lake Times and has been a loud critic of King while championing the large immigrant population in his community. It's a cool story and one worth reading. Here is a link to the article from Poynter that puts the issue on people rather than big business. It will make your heart...lighter.

Partly Personal

Yesterday I attended the Iowa Broadcast News Association annual convention held, this year, here in the Des Moines Metro. Journalists from radio and television gathered for a day of learning and teaching. There were plenty of young, fresh faces of students from several universities and colleges there as well. Gary Dolphin spoke at the luncheon about the link between winning football teams and education. He called on the students there to work hard and be true to their calling. It was really quite good. Last night the legend of talk radio Jim Bohannon was the keynote at the Annual Awards Dinner. Oh...the stories and the ability to tell a great story. Trent Rice the News Director of KASI, Ames won the Jack Shelley Award for excellence in broadcasting. For those of you who don't know...Jack Shelly was the long-time news director at WHO Radio and Professor Emeritus of Journalism at Iowa State University, who died on September 15, 2010 at age 98. Introducing Trent was former Shelly Award Winner Sue Danielson who is the afternoon anchor and Assistant News Director at WHO Radio. I'll have Jim, Trent and Sue on the Business News Hour next week talking...radio and broadcasting. Hope you can join us.

And, thank you. Insight on Business the News Hour was awarded three distinctions last night for excellence in broadcasting large - market radio. The awards mean a ton to a group of folks who put together the only hour-long business news broadcast in the Midwest. Thanks...again.

Have a great Sunday and thank you for reading!

 

 

 

Blowing Up Everything - SMC 9 April 2017

This past week we blew up lots of stuff. We blew up an airfield in Syria, we blew up the United States Senate with the "nuclear option" and we've blown through millions of dollars here in Iowa. All this stuff blew up under Republican control. Nice job gang! Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee where I get to share some thoughts on stories you've seen and some you may have missed. For me it's therapy. For you? Hey, if it gives you food for thought or a chuckle...it's working. Grab a cup and let's go!

While President Xi Shook Hands

It was to have been the most important economic meeting in the early days of President Trump reign as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (We call him "President" because it sounds better than 'Commie".) visited Mar a Lago. But right in the middle of the conversation we sent $90 million in missiles to an airfield in Syria. Nice start. Anyway there was no "showdown" in Trumptown between the two leaders and the damage inflicted in Syria wasn't enough to keep the air force of Bashar al-Assad on the ground. The next day jets took back to the air to continue the war there. But, it was a nice distraction.

Blowing Up the Senate

Congratulations we now have a new Supreme Court Justice. It's pretty exciting to see how well the U.S. Senate works when they want to. Sen. McConnell (R-KY) halted any vote on one candidate and then pulled the nuclear option to get Gorsuch confirmed. How cool is that? Elections do have consequences. Now we move on to some other stuff like what Democrats want out of the massive $1 trillion dollar infrastructure bill. Mr. Trump is desperate to get a congressional win following the blow up of the health care package. We shall see if the Democrats will go along with the budget buster. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Blowing Up The Budget

Republicans have been in control of the Iowa House for seven years. Republicans have been in control of the Governor's Office for six years and the Republicans have been in control of the Iowa Senate since winning the majority of seats there in 2016. During this time period Iowa has burned through a surplus of $900 million. Today Iowa has a $136 million deficit. Wait!! Can't be! Republicans are budget hawks! Republicans are conservatives! How can it be that guys like Sen. Charles Schneider (R-West Des Moines) Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, can drain our state coffers with such impunity? When you had out $500 million in corporate tax cuts and another $300 million in corporate property tax cuts it doesn't take long to "drain the swamp". Nice going guys.  Of course the GOP answer to all of this is to cut everything other than corporate gifts. This is so fun...

Smartest People In The Room

I had the opportunity to hear an answer to a question posed to Rep. Bruce Hunter (D-Des Moines) the other day. A person asked him where all of these draconian bills passed by the GOP are coming from. He said, "Among the Republicans there really isn't anybody bright enough to write this stuff so I'd say that 80% of what we've seen come out of their caucus was written by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)."  How nice. We all know where Sen. Charles Schneider (R-West Des Moines) gets his marching orders as he is not only the Appropriations Committee Chair he is also, along with Rep. Rob Taylor (R-Waukee), the State Chair of ALEC. NOW we know who the smartest people in the room...really are.

Abby for Congress?

This past Friday Rep. Abby Finkenauer (D-Dubuque) filed paperwork to become a candidate in Iowa's 1st District. If she does run, and it is expected she will, Abby will face two term Republician Rep. Rod Blum in the 2018 election. Finkenauer, by the way is 28 years old in in her second term as a state legislator. You want young, fresh faces in the Iowa Democratic Party?  Bam! (Photo - Iowa Starting Line)

Nate Boulton for Governor?

This week the talk around the table was if Sen. Nate Boulton (D-Des Moines) would run for governor in 2018. The person said, "I think he's too young. After all, he was just elected to the State Senate in November." Another person in the room said, "Wait, I thought you were all about attracting young dynamic leadership into the Iowa Democrats?" Bam! While it's true that Nate is young (36) and fresh to the Iowa Senate...have you seen him in action? Articulate, commands a room and has a long history of working for Iowans. We could do much worse.

Ankeny Democrats

There is a rising power in this northern suburb of Des Moines. The Ankeny Area Democrats reported at a Polk County Democratic Leadership Meeting they have over $6,000 in the bank and have set a goal to raise $20,000 over the next year. Why? Gary Schmidt the groups chair said, "We want to bring voice to the people and elect a series of Democrats to office in our community." In a community that once was known as a GOP stronghold this group of dedicated Dems is fun to watch. Meanwhile the Polk County Democratic Party is running on fumes and needs to focus like a laser on fundraising. That was exactly the point of conversation we had with new Polk County Chair Sean Bagniewski who, at the same meeting, announced plans for a Spring Democratic Event coming in May. Stay tuned.

Iowans for Public Education

Here is something that you might be interested in. My friend Claire Celsi is following up on her recent campaign for the Iowa House with a new mission. Proof that even in a loss you can build a coalition and make a difference. Iowans For Public Education launched early this year and has been picking up steam and support from all across the state. Now that the Iowa State Education Association is headed to court over the new collective bargaining law word is getting out. One of the stunning things Clare told me last week is that her group has found that about 80% of the male spouses of teachers voted GOP last election. Some folks need to take care of their house...first.

Partly Personal

There is a flurry of activity at our home this weekend with Passover starting tomorrow evening lots to be done. If you are celebrating enjoy the Festival of Freedom. Here's a quick video from my friends at Aish:

Courtesy of Aish.com

Happy Passover, thanks for reading and have a great week!

 

 

Shhhhh Your Microwave is Listening - SMC 2 April 2017

I've been on this planet for quite awhile and there are three political things that stick with me. I was in school when the principal went to each teacher and told them that President Kennedy had been killed. We all went home for, I think, three days. I was an adult when President Nixon resigned and a nice guy from Michigan became president...that stuck with me. And now this Trump lunacy that creeps into the daily news cycle...and he's been president for less than 75 days...is like a pall that has settled over our nation. Oy...what have you done? Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly rant about some of the news stories you've seen and/or some you may have missed. Let's have some fun but careful the coffee can be hot!

Fear- The Motivating Factor

There are, in my mind, three reasons why Donald J. Trump is president: 1) Many people just hate Hillary Clinton, 2) Many people are conditioned to hate the government and 3) Fear. This administration is very, very good at sowing fear in the minds of Americans. Just last month we were told by Kellyanne that your microwave may be spying on you. Every day brings a new round of fear so we go along with closing borders, suppressing the vote and thinking twice about what we wear in front of our microwave. Weary... 

Speaking of Hillary

She's back...  In March she made three public speeches; slowly wading back into the political pool. On St. Patrick's Day in Pennsylvania she told the Society of Irish Women that she's "ready to come out of the woods." Earlier last week she debuted a new slogan, "resist, insist, persist and enlist". And then on Friday at Georgetown University, she blasted Trump's proposed cuts to the State Department and international aid as "a grave mistake for our country." Is she making a move to be the leader of the Democratic Party? Could be as it seems nobody else has stepped up. Watch and wait... 

Speaking of Kellyanne

Yesterday Trump senior adviser Kellyanne Conway claimed that the media is responsible for "information overload" saying that all the positive things accomplished by the president are being overlooked. Like? She said the president has been responsible for creating jobs, trade deals, a new commission on drugs and a new measure aimed at government innovation. She said that all this talk about Russia is an obsession and the mainstream media has it all wrong.  Have I suggested "weary" recently?

Treason and I.M. Stupid

Seems that our friend is on to something in Washington. Click the link to learn more

Tim Lloyd IM Stupid Plug Leaks

(Cartoon and script from our contributor Tim Lloyd)

Jobs

I have a couple and they keep me pretty busy. The advertising agency, the business news broadcast, public speaking and tending bar on Saturday nights. That last gig is pure escape. My point is I know "busy" or I did until I heard about the jobs that Super Son-in-Law Jared Kushner has. The guy that has zero political experience, zero diplomatic experience and clearly no qualifications beyond his marriage is now in charge of everything from Mideast Peace to figuring out how government can look more like business. But, he is only 36 so he's got the energy. See what I told you about lunacy.

Number 45

Last week I spoke to a women associated with a national non-profit based in Washington, D.C. During the conversation she mentioned "45" several times. After the third mention of "45" I caught the drift that she was talking about President Trump. I asked her why she said "45" when she was meant "Trump". She said, "When I say '45' I don't feel quite a dirty as what I would if I actually said the mans name." Did I mention that "45" has a public approval rating of less than 40 percent.

Turning It All Off

Last week my son said he quit listening to the news. Last week a good friend who works in government told me she has stopped watching the news or reading about it. When I asked them why they told me they are just so weary of all the crap and crazy. And, it seems to be everywhere. But, maybe that's the plan. Keep coming with wacky stuff and the masses will turn it all off? Hey, crazier things have happened. There was that election thingy in November.

Some Keep Listening

Last week I was talking to a big fan of Gov. Terry Branstad. He seems to have many. This guy was telling me about how great Branstad will be when he gets to China, "Ya know he is friends with their president. Branstad took good care of their president when he was in Iowa. Did you know that?" Yes. "I'll bet Vilsack is really sad." (No really, this is exactly how the conversation went...and I thought I had ADD!) Why? "Well, because if he had been tapped for Vice President by Hillary he might have been Vice President." Huh? "Yeah, that guy, that Kane guy was a real dope. What a loser. Bet Hillary wishes she had that pick to do again and bet Vilsack is sorry she didn't pick him." I told my enlightened friend that my bet, had Clinton won, that Tom Vilsack would have liked to have stayed in the Department of Agriculture because he really liked that job. "Well, maybe but Vilsack was a lousy governor and that Kane guy was a real loser and the Des Moines Register is a leftist newspaper. Hardly any mention of Branstad becoming ambassador." (Honest, I was trying to keep up.) So, where do you get all of your political information? You seem very well versed on politics. "I listen to WHO radio they are the best and Rush has all the facts!"  And, there you have it. See, I DO talk to Republicans!

Iowa Legislature 

Shame on you. You have over-reached and the penalty for voter suppression, the war on women, cutting education, gutting workers rights shall be a boot in the ass come election time. You can feel it in the air.

Partly Personal

Today is our Wedding Anniversary. It truly amazes me that my Bride has stuck around this long. I can be a rather angry political person...but only on Sunday. It's off to brunch and whatever an old guy like me does for his anniversary. I'd have champagne but it tends to go to my head.

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful week! 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

Oh The Audacity

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

Unified and Just

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

Single Payer Healthcare

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

Your Internet Privacy Just Got Sold

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

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

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

Did Russia Commit an Act of War?

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

Playing Politics with Your Water

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

IOB 22 March 2017 Bill Stowe

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

Dear Iowa: You Are Broke

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

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

Partly Personal

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

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

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

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

The Canadian National Anthem is Nice - SMC 12 March 2017

Sunday Morning Coffee is about politics with a dash of religion. Mostly because those are the two things your Mother told you never to discuss. Reason? Because most people don't know squat about either and they make up their minds based on emotion rather than (wait for it) thinking. Below are some stories you might have seen or missed but all laced with my commentary. Why? Because this is therapy...I think.

Canadian National Anthem

Not only are the music and words soothing but my friends in Canada have stuff like health care, cheaper drugs, the two-dollar coin, a lack of guns, the Canadian Mounted Police (great uniforms), TWO official languages, HOCKEY, and a political leader who connects with the people in a very positive way. In case things get really, really crazy...Canada is an option.  And now for your listening pleasure...

You are welcome!

Trumpcare A Hot Mess

It's been quite a challenge this repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act. The Republicans had to start by finding a way to call less coverage more coverage. They had to find a way to funnel millions of dollars into the hands of insurance companies through tax breaks. They had to find a way to find a way to increase costs to the poor while decreasing health care costs for the wealthy. It's quite a task but Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) is up to the task. After all, he has made it his career to not listen the the people but to serve his masters in high places.  Thanks Paul...we knew you would come through.  Oh, meanwhile Vice President Pence was in Kentucky this weekend lying his ass off about the GOP Plan. In fact he had to pull out the "fear card" to get applause. "I'm here to tell our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard we will rebuild our national defense so that you can better do your job at keeping America safe!" Light on Trumpcare...heavy on fear it's how they roll.

Hawaii

This week it was Hawaii that took President Trump's "We Hate Muslims So Keep The Hell Out" executive order to court. Let's ponder that for a moment: Hawaii is one of those states folks go to for relaxation hell, their culture even has "Shaka" or "hang loose" as a common hand gesture and saying. So much different than the single finger salute Mr. Trump gives to the followers of Islam. Anyway...Hawaii is the first in court to challenge the most recent silliness of the president. Hang loose my friends....

SXSW Gets Political

Our friends in Austin, Texas (which by the way contains no Texans) at SXSW have gotten onto the Anti-Trump-Train. SXSW is this major technology and innovation conference that draws thousands of smart people from across the world...see told you there were now Texans in Austin...to this multi day event. This year it's getting very political. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) blasted Trump during his Friday speech: “I’ve never seen in my lifetime an atmosphere of fear as I’ve seen now. I feel a sense of pain about my country right now. [Trump] isn’t backing away from his rhetoric. But if we don’t engage, we are the source of the problem, not the elected person we don’t like.”

Resist...daily.

Expect More of the Same

Last week Lt. Governor (soon to be Governor) Kim Reynolds (R-IA) spoke to the Urbandale Conservative Breakfast Club and bemoaned the fact that Iowa was in a bit of a mess with our finances. But she quickly tacked on the fact that business taxes in Iowa were way too high and that when corporations see the tax rate here they beat feet to those Meccas (sorry to use that Islam word!) of business opportunity like North Dakota or Alabama. Of course the Urbandale Conservatives ate that up along with their hash-browns and bacon. Trouble is she is lying. While the corporate tax rate in Iowa is among the highest in the nation the corporations here don't pay that rate. They simply don't and corporations know that and that has not kept them from moving or staying here. Ask Facebook, Microsoft, Pella Industries, Sukup and the usual bunch from the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. Who, by the way, never saw a tax shift they didn't like.

The real issue with our financial woes isn't health care (we don't do that very well) isn't education spending (we cut that at every turn) isn't roads and bridges (we use those funds to buy land to build Hwy. 20)....but corporate gifts in the millions of dollars to already successful companies.  Just ask Facebook, Microsoft, and the folks from the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. Keep that "free ride" money flowing, raise taxes on working people and everything will be just fine. Want heartburn with your hash-browns and bacon?

Resist the Urge Sen. Schneider 

Last week I had the opportunity to visit, briefly, with my state senator Charles Schneider (R-WDM/Clive/Windsor Heights). (Seen here with his friend and Das Voter Suppressor in Charge Paul Pate, SOS) I've always liked Charles. He comes across as a nice guy. Interested in stuff he doesn't like...you know...education, health care, wages, the environment (bottle bill), clean water. But it's all stuff his masters tell him to vote against or just be silent. This polite conversation was about voting rights. You see the Iowa House just passed the Voter Suppression Bill which now will be taken up by the Senate and passed so that Gov. Branstad can sign it into law so fewer people are afforded the privilege of voting. It's a bill and law that the masters of Sen. Schneider really, really want. Never mind that there is ZERO evidence of voter fraud in Iowa. Our former Secretary of State spent thousands trying to prove that lie...but failed. So the GOP and Sen.Schneider's masters waited and when they took both houses they struck.  Sen. Schneider and I did part on friendly terms. He said we might work together to see if there was a way for fewer bicyclists in Iowa to get run down by motorists. That would be nice...

Partly Personal

Last Sunday afternoon I received a call from Alan Steckman the president of Adas Israel the Jewish Congregation of Mason City. A synagogue that I have served for 28+ years. He said there was a message on his answering machine of a man saying, "We're coming to spray pigs blood on your shitty building. Get the fuck out!" No doubt the caller has heard of the Alt Right? The question was: Do we make this public knowledge or do we keep quiet? I urged Alan to make it public because people need to know that these incidents are increasing in Iowa. (This followed two other anti-Jewish events in the Metro...one in Urbandale and the other at Drake University...over the past two weeks)  These people are feeling, I believe, emboldened because much of this is being fed by the highest levels of our federal government.

The result was a major outpouring of support from a vast cross-section of the Mason City community. On Friday evening over 75 people from the Muslim community, Catholic community, atheist community, Protestant community and concerned neighbors and friends filled the little synagogue. It was a blessing. And, that all of this happened on the Sabbath before Purim well, that made it even more meaningful.

OK...so maybe...just maybe I won't have to learn French...too.

Finally, I was unable to make the party on Saturday to say goodbye to a friend and activist in Fort Dodge. Jane Burleson is moving to Arizona to be with family after some medical concerns made the move necessary. Kim Motl and friends held a going-away party for her this past Saturday. Time kept me away...but, Kim...a card is coming to you for deliver to Mother Jane. It all makes me sad...

Thank you for reading and have a great Purim and superior Sunday!  

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome to Amerika - Sunday Morning Coffee 5 March 2017

"The United States no longer quite the United States." So said French Holocaust historian Henry Rousso following a ten hour detention at
Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee featuring some of the news you may have heard or
maybe not. It's just politics with a dash of religion just to keep it fun. Grab a cup but, careful, it's hot.

Holocaust Historian Detained

Yep, that's reality. Professor Rousso was to have taken part in a discussion, "Writing In Dark Times" when he was stopped by an immigration official and told that his visa would not allow him to give a lecture and receive an honorarium. If you would like to read the entire article from CNN here you go. The stunning thing is this is happening all over the country. Forgive me for sounding a bit paranoid but our country is starting to resemble something from Schindler's List. But, wait...there is more:

I Think You Are Guilty of Being a Threat = Deportation

The recent crack down on undocumented people took a chilling twist last week when the White House determined immigration officers could determine, on their own, if a person posed a threat to the national security. For example if a person is arrested for speeding or for domestic violence or for drunk driving the officer, who may be deputized by the federal government, can decide to lock the person up and start the deportation process. Trial? Nope... The effect this has had on the immigrant community is they don't want to seek medical treatment, call the police about a safety issue or any interaction with anybody in authority. It drives the community deeper underground. Even in the minds of those of us not under suspicion the whole thing is frightening and reminds us we have become a police state. The kind of Soviet Bloc system we, at one time, loathed.

Pipelines and Steel and Lies

During and after the campaign Donald Trump called on business to buy and build with American products. Things have changed. At issue is the Keystone Pipeline. The very pipeline that Trump said should be built with "American steel". In fact Trump signed an executive order and said that at the time and even mentioned it during a speech to Congress last week. But it was a lie. On Friday the White House said,  "Since [Keystone] is already currently under construction ... it was hard to go back. Everything moving forward would be all under that executive order." If Donald Trump's mouth is moving he is lying. Here is the article from CNN Money. Random related thought: Last week Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) said it was an "outrage" that the FBI was investigating protesters who were decrying the Dakota Access Pipeline but not looking into the serious nature of the administrations ties to Russia. I know...it's a head shaker but remember...in a police state the authority is never questioned. If you would like to check out the story from Ring of Fire here you go. But, come back...there's more!

Trump Tweets Because...

I think you'll find this interesting. George Lakoff is a Professor Emeritus at University of California Berkeley and he created this visual which explains the thought process behind the constant Tweets of President Trump. It's perhaps the best explanation I've seen for what, to many, seems like the work of a frantic lunatic with a cell phone. Wait, maybe that still works. Anyway...here you go. Method to the Madness?  

Voting Rights

Yesterday I had the opportunity to listen to Gov. Martin O'Malley offer his thoughts on voting rights. The event was held at Drake University where Nathan Blake introduced the former presidential candidate who was making a requested swing through the Hawkeye State on behalf of several Democratic candidates. (I'm thinking his second in the past several weeks?) When you spend time listening to the madness that emanates from Donald Trump and his gang you tend to forget how sane, reasonable and principled some politicians are. Meet Martin O'Malley whom I have seen at least a dozen times over the past two...maybe three years. His issue, today, is taking on voter suppression in all its forms and calling for states to introduce constitutional amendments for voting rights.  "Passing a constitutional amendment that enshrines this fundamental right will give U.S. courts the clarity and authority they need to strike down Republican efforts to suppress the vote. The proposed amendment would set a high legal bar to defend against attempts to disenfranchise eligible voters, and empower Congress to enact strong electoral standards nationwide." The visit was timely. On Monday the Iowa Legislature will hold hearings on a voter suppression bill that demands voters show identification at the polls.

Sidebar: I'll have Gov. O'Malley on the Business News Hour this Monday afternoon for a discussion about Democrats, Business and Economics.

Nathan Blake

He was named the "best candidate" to replace State Senator Jack Hatch (D-Des Moines) by the Des Moines Register but came up short in a three-way primary which, in 2014, propelled Tony Bisignano into that "safe seat" in the Iowa Senate. Now Nathan has his sights set on the Secretary of State. He has not yet announced but that is expected and traveling with and introducing Gov. O'Malley ain't a bad way to get out there. Expect Nathan to join me on the Business News Hour at some point before he announces. I'd like to learn more about how he thinks...you too?

Dumb Must Be Better

When you consider all of the bills being thrown around in the Iowa Legislature ya gotta wonder where in the heck are these hair-brained ideas coming from. Let us introduce you to the American Legislative Exchange Council where the Iowa GOP legislators are bought and paid for. So, cutting public education, gutting collective bargaining, pitting one firefighters against the police, shutting down mental health facilities, insane gun legislation...all that stuff has to come from somewhere...right.  Millions of dollars have been flushed into the pockets of our state legislature in an attempt to carry out the same policies that have sunk Kansas. If you would like to learn a bit more here is a great piece by Rick Smith for the Iowa Starting Line along with our cartoon of the week from our contributor Tim Lloyd.

Dumb it down for us...right? 

Unintended Consequences

When President Trump said he wanted to "unify" the nation he was kidding. However, in a sense, he has done just that. He and Gov. Terry Branstad (and his son Eric), the Iowa Republican House/Senate Caucus and their minions have sent hundreds of Democrats and Independents into action all across Iowa. It is a ground swell that I have not seen in decades. While we may not all agree on every issue there seems to be a common sense of purpose in fighting for the progressive values to more our cities, counties, states and nation forward in service to all our people.

Tomorrow in Polk County, Iowa hundreds will turn out for the Off-Year Caucus. Here Polk County Chair Tom Henderson and Executive Director Tamyra Harrison talk about the event and why it's important:

 

Join us tomorrow evening. Here is a link to the locations across Polk County...I'll see many of you in Windsor Heights at Saison Kitchen and Pub.

Partly Personal

Next week I get to travel back to Mason City, Iowa to conduct services and do a two hour Torah Study for Adas Israel the Jewish Congregation of Mason City. Last week a teacher from that community reached out on Facebook and asked how she, a Christian, might be able to show support for the Jews in light of the recent spate of destruction of burial head-stones, graffiti on synagogues and hate speech on the Internet. I suggested that she write a letter to the editor of the Globe Gazette and include all people of various minorities. I hope she does...and maybe we'll have the opportunity to visit, in person, next week.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!   

  

 

Millions to Lose Health Care Coverage - So? SMC 26 February 2017

Happy Sunday to you and pass the opioids it's time for Sunday Morning Coffee! Some of the news stories you may have seen others...maybe not. Each is laced with my personal thoughts. Sometimes serious sometimes fun. You decide. But, let us not waste time; drink up! Sunday Morning Coffee is served:

Health Care - Who Cares?

Memo to Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA): The death panel met on Saturday in Washington and things are moving forward very nicely. Oh sure they called it a governors conference but it turned out to be a sobering meeting regarding just how many American's will lose health care coverage once the Paul Ryan (R-WI) "new and improved" repeal of the Affordable Care Act takes place. Conservative (never thought you would see me actually write that word huh?) estimates by consulting firms Avalere Health and McKinsey & Co. suggest that health care coverage would be slashed by 51% in states that chose not to expand Medicaid and by 30% in those states that did expand Medicaid. Here is the full story from Bloomberg Politics. Bottom line is we win! Fewer sick people will go see doctors, hospitals will close and more folks will get to meet Jesus sooner. What could be wrong with that?

States Rights

One of the more interesting and insidious details of the Paul Ryan (R-WI) health care idea is that states, and not the federal government, will decide on what constitutes covered medical services. Currently the ACA sets out guidelines. But now with the new and improved GOP plan each state will decide what gets covered and what gets kicked to the curb. Here is Iowa, where there are zero mental health problems, we could once and for all declare the state free from the scourge of taking care of kooks and nut-jobs and proceed with for-profit prisons. That will be so much fun to market to business seeking a new home: I can see it now...our new business recruiting campaign: "Come to Iowa, We Ain't Crazy".  We'll get right on that. I'm sure "Yet To Become" Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) will climb on board.

The Democratic National Committee

And the hits just keep coming. It was a spirited contest that led to the crowning of the new "Fund-Raiser in Chief" for the DNC. The faithful went to Florida and former Labor Secretary Tom Perez was chosen to clean up the hot mess left by Debbie and Donna. My choice would have been Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) mostly because he doesn't have much to do in Washington these days and could have spent lots of time fixing stuff. But, in the end the DNC wished to give the Clinton Wing a victory...small as it is. I did really like the photo of Keith and Tom and Team Tom and wish him the very best. Maybe, just maybe he (unlike Debbie) will actually sit down for a focused interview when he comes to the Iowa State Fair this year. Iowa...it's that mental health free zone. Come see us!

He Ain't Goin'!

President Trump informed us this weekend he isn't going to attend the White House Corespondents Association Dinner. It's a good thing. Nobody would have any fun and with all the fake news being shared by these filthy media types you couldn't believe a word anyway.
Truth be told the president will be attending the other event that night where he will get a much warmer reception. The Alt-Right, Neo Nazi Banquet with MC Steve Bannon will be a big hit. If you are going stay for the ball. I understand the "Goose Step Polka" is hot this year.

The president did make an appearance at the Conservative Political Action Committee love fest this weekend. It was quite a sight with so many people waving those cute little Trump Flags. Our friend I.M. Stupid has some thoughts on that and Black History Month. Listen in to what our contributor Tim Lloyd has for us this week. (Cartoon - Tim Lloyd)

Click the mp3 below to listen: 

I M Stupid 26 Feb 2017 Russia

Am I Too White?

Tuesday is the final day of Black History Month. Uhm...maybe it's because I've been way too busy or because I'm way too white but I don't recall much going on. Sure, I was at the 19th Annual I'll Make Me a World in Iowa celebration but, other than that, I just don't remember seeing much. OK...guilty I am a white guy but I should have been if there had been places and things to do. Or maybe...just maybe...with so much crap going on in the Iowa Legislature folks were overwhelmed.

Iowa To Fund Radical Islamic Madrassas

This just in and it is HOT! In an astounding move by Iowa Republicans we've learned they are planning to use your tax dollars to fund and promote Sharia Law which will be taught in Radical Islamic Schools (Midrasas). I know...right? I never would have seen this coming however I've been told that when the new school voucher bill hits the Iowa House they are "all in" for equality and religious teaching. For years I have thought the Iowa GOP to be a narrow minded bunch but this move by Rep. Chris Haganow (R-Windsor Heights) and Sen. Brad Zaun (R-Urbandale) and friends proves how truly inclusive they are. Stay tuned!

Voter Passion

Over the past several weeks we've seen attendance at your local chamber "Eggs and Issues" forums explode. For decades these little gatherings where legislators came to crow about the wonderful things they are doing for business and the people of Iowa were, mostly, attended by the same "suit and tie" folk. I know...I've been there as the lone Democrat in a sea of Republicans. Now, for some reason, the "unwashed" are being let into these public forums and it's hard to find anybody in a suit and tie (other than the GOP politicians). And these "common folk" are asking questions...pointed questions about stuff like health care and pensions and collective bargaining and wages and profits and taxes and education...oh my! Join me in helping restore boredom to the board room. If these "public forums" were meant to just be a "bitch session" with commoners we would have marketed them as such. Stay away! This ain't meant for you!

Partly Personal

Because I've run out of stuff to do I thought I'd try my hand as a bartender. No, really. It started on Valentine's Day Night when I learned my friends at Prime Land & Sea didn't have somebody behind the bar. I guess he/she was sick that night. I swung by and offered to volunteer to help out. Two days later I heard from Chef David Baruthio and Chef Nico they might like me to come back. So..what the heck...I get to do that on Saturday nights.  Great food and excellent conversation in, what I think, is the sexiest restaurant in the Metro. Prime Land and Sea is open for dinner Tuesday - Saturday and it is...sexy.

Thanks for reading! Have a great Sunday and a fantastic week!