SundayMorningCoffee

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 April 2020

Early each Sunday Morning I get to review some of the political and religious news stories and then share those with you...and add my own, sometimes caustic, commentary.  I get to do that because...well, what the heck else are you gonna do early on a Sunday Morning? BTW if you are celebrating...Happy Passover and Happy Easter. Let's go:

The GOP Playbook for November

Actually this is old news because it first happened in Wisconsin where the Republicans cared more about strangling the vote then they did about listening to the strangling last breaths of patients brought down by COVID19. It was brazen but it is also a warning of what is to come. You see, Republicans hate it when you vote.  Their policy is to, wherever possible and however possible, suppress the vote. They know their policies don't ring true with voters so the fewer of you who cast a ballot the better.

And now "45" is in full support of the same and just last week provided more lies to his base saying that, "Mail ballots - they cheat. OK" People cheat! There's a lot of dishonesty going along with mail-in voting."

Except that is not true. (Of course we're used to the president lying...all the time.) In fact there is NO evidence of widespread voter fraud in the U.S. And that is according to numerous investigations and studies. In fact the president's own voter fraud investigation committee disbanded without producing any evidence to the issue.

"Happy Good Friday!"

As everyone knows the president is a devout...uhm...well, he's devout.  Just ask him. It was really special to have him wish, in his own devout way, a Happy Crucifiction Day to my Christian friends. OK, so I'm Jewish and perhaps a little more in tune to the issue than is "45" but tweeting out "Happy Good Friday!" is, once again, tone deaf. Good Friday is not a day of celebration it is a day of introspection and a mixed bit of sadness along with some hope. But, "happy" it's not.  Looking forward to the Tweet: "To my Jewish friends Happy Yom Hashoah!"  Weary...

Let's Roll the Dice

Anybody out there up for a riveting game of Russian Roulette? The president seems to think that we might be. He is desperate to re-open the nation so that the economy can come roaring back and so that people can get back to work so that we can start to dig more mass graves. He, of course, is listening to the business executives who are clamoring to have their workers get back to work so their executive stock options don't continue to dwindle. However the medical experts (I know...that science thingy.) say it is not wise and that by doing so we risk having even more cases spread and more death.

And, in case you missed it the Great State of Texas and the Great State of Florida, a couple of strong GOP holdouts to social distancing, are slated to become the next "hot spots" with rising COVID19 cases and deaths. But...they have really nice beaches.

Let Us Pray

Well, some of us anyway. It didn't take long for Dr. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to become The Reverend Doctor Kim Reynolds as first she issued a statement saying that on this past Thursday we should make it a "Day of Prayer" noting that it was Maundy Thursday and Passover. A couple of tiny things about that edict: 1) The governor may not realize this, which would be odd, but Maundy Thursday is not a universal day of anything for many Christians. True it's a day marked by the symbolic "washing of the feet" and in the Catholic faith a special mass and the Holy Communion may be held in other Christian denominations. But don't look for that happening in many Baptist or evangelical churches. But...details...right?  2) The governor may not realize this but in the Jewish tradition the entire eight days of Passover are days of prayer and reflection that are realized by not only entire family gatherings but also by what we eat and do not eat.

But, that wasn't good enough. The Reverend Doctor Kim Reynolds and His Holiness Adam Greg went out of their way on Good Friday holding up the tenets of the Christian Faith, delivering sermons to the Christians during the Prayer Breakfast and even issuing a proclamation. The story is rich and it is best shared by sharing this link to Bleeding Heartland.  Go on, enjoy but come back!

I look for future proclamations coming up soon for Ramadan which begins on the evening of 23 April.  Bets anybody?

Thank You

While some can "work from home" many can not. Yes, there are doctors and nurses and respiratory therapists. And there are also the"unseen" who we see every day but often don't give them the consideration and thanks they deserve. Sure they are doing their jobs
but in the world today they, and not the investment bankers, insurance executives or corporate leaders, are really do matter. The 1.9 million truck drivers who, if they stopped working your grocery store would be out of food in two days. The workers at the grocery stores stocking shelves, checking folks out and keeping the place clean.  The utility workers who keep the lights and gas and water flowing. The police and firefighters and EMT's who work, often, against the odds. The nursing assistants who toil away in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, rehab centers, and home health caring for those whom we say we can not care for. And, there are many more

Workers and working families who do the vital task of keeping this planet alive who we see every day but today they are elevated.

Thank you...

Partly Personal

Made another tour around the sun. Thank you all for your warm Happy Birthday wishes.  It was very touching and appreciated. My Bride created a really nice gift. For several weeks Georgie has been working in her craft room, which we call the G-Spot (no, really) with a sign on the door: "Top Secret Stuff Going On - Do Not Enter!"

Turns out she came across some, very old, memorabilia that I had collected from my early broadcasting years. Things I had not seen in years all put into a really nice binder with notes and cutouts and...well...the talented stuff she can do that amazes me.  Saturday night was spent in memories that span some 40 years (or more). It was really nice.... 

Had to take some time off to go outside during the thunderstorm this morning to clean gutters. It makes the work so much more exciting.

For those of you celebrating Easter today I hope you have a meaningful holiday. I know it is difficult to be away from your home church, your friends and family. In a way perhaps...perhaps...without the bunnies and egg hunts and the secular trappings the holiday will mean more and revive he spirit?  It's not a knock on secular customs...but what really matters.

Finally, thank you, again, for those of you who have been supporting this campaign. While I can't knock doors I am doing daily calling to voters. Soon you will be receiving your ballot request for the election. I would ask you to consider voting for me so that i can take a strong voice for working families to the statehouse and work on behalf of not just the folks living in Clive, Waukee, West Des Moines or Windsor Heights....but every Iowan.  It's going to be a battle but we much regain this state and correct the course.  For more, here is a LINK to my Website.  Thanks again! 

Thanks for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 1 March 2020

Some of you know that I do a daily (Monday - Friday and Sunday) newscast called Insight on Business the News Hour, now in it's eleventh year. For weeks, on that program, I have said investors on Wall Street are living in La-La Land as they ignored the warning signs of the coronavirus outbreak. That same "Land of La-La" is where the president lives.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly political blog with a splash of religion, just to keep things stirred up.  Ready?  Let's go!

Coronavirus

Stay with me on this...because it's important. The inability of some of the "smartest people on the planet" (Wall Street investors according to the president) and the president himself to fully understand the economic impact of what is sure to become a pandemic is...staggering. Denial, it would seem, is very powerful. Last week, on Tuesday, the president blamed the media as the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by more than 1,000 points from its Friday session. He said it was "media hysteria". 

Then on Tuesday the Dow dropped by over 800 points wiping out the gains of the entire year. On Wednesday the president blamed the Democrats. Here is what he said, “I think the financial markets are very upset when they look at the Democrat candidates standing on that stage, making fools out of themselves, and they say, ‘If we ever have a president like this,’” “When they look at the statements made by the people standing behind those podiums, I think that has a huge effect.”

But there’s a problem: The Democratic debate in question took place on Tuesday night, after American markets closed for the day. By then, the Dow had already endured two days of significant losses — 1,032 points on Monday and another 879 points on Tuesday.

In total, last week, Wall Street had its worst week since the start of the financial crisis in 2008 and by Saturday the United States reported the first death...but they even got that wrong. The president announced at a news conference on Saturday that a "50 year old woman had died in Washington State". Except it was a guy. Then they went on and under-reported the number of cases identified in the U.S.

But, he did put Vice President Mike Pence in charge of the response. The same guy, as governor of Indiana, failed to respond to the HIV crisis in his state. Why?  Well, it's sort of a religious thing with Mike.

While "45" can get away with "pussy grabbing" and inviting our enemies to meddle in elections and lie, daily, to the American people...this may just do him in. Why? 

"It's the economy, stupid."

For years "45" has said the economy is the best it has ever been. And, while 55% of Americans own stock (including 401k stock) the economy sucks for nearly everybody but the wealthy. Now, as retirees see their portfolio shrink it won't take long for them to look toward the White House, that has truly failed in this crisis, and post the blame there.

Even as the president now blames Fed Chair Jerome Powell for not reducing interest rates and telling America in the press conference yesterday that the run on Wall Street is now...the fault of the Fed.

Accountability? None. Incompetence? Plenty. Lies? Many.  He even tried to walk back his comment that the coronavirus is a hoax perpetuated by the Democrats...which is what he said on Friday during his South Carolina rally.

You done...yet?

Buying The Presidency 

Even before the South Carolina votes were counted last evening billionaire Tom Steyer called it quits. Before you get your underwear in a knot let me say this about Tom: I liked him. He has done some great things in his life and he has rallied many new voters with his NextGen America program. Except he learned that money may not be enough. Now billionaire Mike Bloomberg is on that same mission of buying the presidency. He has flooded Super Tuesday states with millions in television ads that, are at best, misleading if not outright lies.

Will voters fall for it and rally behind him? Oh, let us hope not.

The Biden Win

That Joe Biden crushed the field on Saturday is telling because it is about coalition building. The Vice President is, and always has been, solid with African-American voters. The same can not be said of many of the other candidates in the race. Super Tuesday is in front of us and we'll see how that shakes out and if Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) will lock in all of California as some suspect. However, and this is big, what is the Biden campaign talking about today moving forward? I suspect there have been phone calls made and I would hope one of those calls went out to Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) which could, if she endorses Biden have a major impact there. We'll see.

Hunters

OK, I'm hooked. There is a new series that has kept me up late into the night. Prime released the first season of the quirky but also frightening show featuring Al Pacino as Nazi hunter Meyer Offerman. Besides the brutality of the Nazi flashbacks and how the Hunters dispatch Nazis living in the United States the really interesting thing about the series is its deep dive in the the Jewish faith. The Yiddish words, the Hebrew words and the practices are all put out there for many to scratch their heads over. It's really remarkable but, if you are not familiar, you may need to be looking up some words in your Hebrew/Yiddish/English dictionary.  Just sayin'. Learn more from IMDb about Hunters here. 

One other word of caution...time flies...and if it's 2:00AM and you're still in front of the TV...stop already.

Seems We Knew All Along

Last week word came out that the highest levels of Iowa state government knew about the "testing" of patients at Glendale...but it has a "sexy" backstory so clearly Gov. Kim Reynolds and her clan wanted no part of it. Now, all of a sudden, it's a story and the governor is out on a listening post tour to lift up her latest effort to cut taxes by increasing the sales tax. Oh, sure there is money in this proposal to fund mental health, the outdoors...and tax cuts. It's smoke and mirrors my friends. If Iowa was really, really interested in funding mental health care, education, child care and the environment we would do so without laying on the "tax cut" language. But, it is a way for legislators to take cover by saying, "Sure I supported the sales tax but I'm also reducing your taxes." Image: "Birds of a Feather".

What is needed is Iowa Legislators to do their job and stop playing around. Tell the truth and fund the things the vast majority of Iowans want to see improved: Our educational system, our land, our water, mental health care, health care.  Tell the damn truth...for once.

Partly Personal

I'm having trouble realizing that I'm actually getting this out in the 9:00AM hour.  That's always the goal however, sometimes, I fail and it becomes Sunday Morning Coffee for brunch.

I want to, just for a moment, thank those of you who have responded to my Iowa State Senate Campaign, Libbie for Iowa. Sunday Morning Coffee has come to you for over twelve years. You know me and you know that I didn't become an active Democrat last week, last month or last year. You know me and you know how passionate I am when it comes to creating a Democrat majority in the House and Senate. Look, while so many of you are focused on the White House make no mistake that what can truly have an impact on your life and the life of your family is not who sits in the Oval Office but who is making the laws that impact Iowa.

For years the Iowa GOP has committed atrocities when it comes to a host of issues that impact the working families of our state. Iowa values have been tossed into the dust by a Republican cabal that hides in plain sight  This can not continue and, now, some of you are starting to focus and realize that taking back the Iowa House and Senate is within our grasp. If you are moved to donate, here is that link.

Meanwhile another new Democrat Community Group has emerged. The Democrats of Waukee held their first meeting this past week under the leadership of Corey Suesakul who has become a community organizer. It was a good showing for a first time effort and there were plenty of speakers and friends there for the launch. Thanks Corey for the opportunity to come and talk about why this is so important if we are to flip the Iowa Legislature.

If you live in Waukee, Iowa and want to hang out with a really great group of friends all working for the same goal.  Connect with Corey and others on Facebook here. 

OK, supposed to be a WONDERFUL day...get out there and enjoy. Thanks for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 16 February 2020

Welcome back to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly blog on politics, religion and other stuff that make folks nervous. The news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary.  It's been a hell of a week.  Let's GO!

The King

Just about the time when you think "45" couldn't get more out of control comes his Tweet...just before jetting off for a weekend of golf. The president was bemoaning his impeachment and wrote: "When you strike at the king you must kill him." The quote is from writer Ralph Waldo Emerson except the president changed it a bit.  You see Emerson wrote: "When you strike at a king you must kill him." Is "45" saying he is "the king"? Seems that way. The point is that the president was gloating that the House did not strike a fatal blow to his presidency because the spineless GOP Senate kicked the can. Of course the Twitter reaction was swift. But no matter we now know who thinks he is the king. Was there ever any doubt?

Farting

It would have been commonplace for a junior high-school student to re-tweet fart sounds but the President of the United States? Last week "45" could not contain himself and re-tweeted the audio of a city council person, who had forgotten to take off his microphone and  went to the restroom. Yes, there was farting...and yes the president was just entertaining his base. Weary...

Bill "The Fixer" Barr

There are no words. Take a cup of Attorney General Bill Barr and a dash of Rudy Giuliani, a pinch of Roger Stone and a heaping helping of Michael Flynn and you've got one giant crap cupcake. (Speaking of farting sounds...) The more these "swamp creatures" do the more at risk our nation is into falling off the cliff and descending into anarchy. And, it seems this is just fine with about 39% of the American public. 

Iowa and Religious Freedom

I get a kick out of these clowns who make up the Iowa GOP and work so very hard at shredding the standards of church and state separation. You might remember the "voucher program" that would take public money away from public education and shovel it to private (often) religious schools. That was just dandy until I (and others) applauded the move and indicated that finally religious schools affiliated with Jewish synagogues and Islamic mosques could catch a break and get public funding. "Well, ah, no...ah that's not exactly what we have in mind." I was told.

Now comes the dangerous "Religious Freedom Bill" that says if you have a religious conviction against...oh, gee, let's say a same sex marriage...you can tell "Sally and Joan" to buzz off and take their heathen lifestyle someplace else. But, let's say a Christian walks into a Muslim owned coffee shop (sounds like the start of a great joke...right?) and because the Christian is an infidel the owner refuses to serve him/her and demands that the customer leave.  Or how about the Rastafari who believes that white people are inferior to black people and refuses service?

Silly? Well perhaps but...just like there is no "War on Christmas" this bill would do more to divide us than unite us. But, then again...that is the mission of Governor Kim and her ilk.

Speaking of Governor Kim

Recently I was speaking to a person who has some high-level interaction with the Governor and her staff.  This is what I was told, "When she was first elected I thought, perhaps, she might be a bit less partisan and govern by reaching across to the Democrats. That, in my view isn't what she and her staff see as their job. She has surrounded herself with people who are in election mode and not governing mode. They are clear supporters of the president and his divisive policies. She, sadly, is cut from the same cloth."

I wish I could spill the beans but I promised to not ID. However we have seen this played out in front of us time and time again. Yet another reason to work to remove the GOP majority in the House and Senate.  We can do this people....

Michael Bloomberg

Ah, no.

How Do You Feel?

This weekend I made my monthly trip to Mason City to conduct services for Adas Israel and then yesterday held what is called a Midrash or a study session focusing on the Torah Portion of the week. In case you are interested it's Exodus 18 - 20 and it's full of big time stuff. Following the 2 hour class I asked the twenty or so people there how they felt about the current political climate. The group is made up of pastors, MBA's, PhD's, engineers, and bible scholars from many different faith backgrounds.  Oh, and we have a couple of Jews with us as well. The resounding response was, "Scared", "Frightened", "Worried about our standing on the world stage." and "I'm concerned that if people fail to correct our course we will fail as a nation."  Now, to be sure we do not often talk about politics. However in this Torah Portion there is a line about leadership that may work well into our current situation.

Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, is giving his son-in-law some pointers about leadership and choosing what qualities he should look for when it comes to appointing judges. "And you shall discern from among the entire people, men of accomplishment, G-d fearing people, men of truth, people who despise money, and you shall appoint them leaders..." (Ex. 18:21). 

I'll leave it there...

Partly Personal

Hope you had a fantastic Valentines Day and date night was superior. I get it for some this is a non-holiday of sorts. Sort of like tomorrow and President's Day. Both are used to sell us stuff. Candy, flowers, cards and dinners on Valentines Day and mattresses on President's Day. But, hey I'm counting on you to boost the economy. Which, by the way is starting to sputter a bit because, if you are listening later today to News/Talk 1450 KXEL at 2PM I've got a story as to why and it has to do with consumers (us) not spending as much and having our credit cards maxed out.  Just in case you've run out of stuff to worry about it is the U.S. consumer that accounts for nearly 70% of our economic growth.

Our granddaughter is working to raise money for the American Heart Association and their "Jump Rope for Heart" program. Each year she raises hundreds both walking door-to-door and online. I think she's up to about $500 in cash and checks including her online donations. Just in case you are interested.

Finally I enjoyed visiting with the Dallas County Democrats this past week. I attended their Central Committee Meeting and they have come so far. I remember back in 2012 when I was working with my friend Desmund Adams in his bid for the Iowa State Senate and they Dallas County Dems were....well struggling a bit. Today they are sitting on a pile of cash and they are ready to assist Democrats taking back the Iowa State Senate. I'm so pleased that Warren Varley has jumped in the race to oppose the really awful Sen. Jake Chapman (R-Adel) who is no friend to the working families of this state. Welcome to the race my friend.  Let's do this!

And, finally, thank you to the folks who have stepped up and donated to my campaign for the Iowa State Senate. When I'm out in the district I hear from so many that are so very willing to stop the evil that is going on under the "Golden Dome". It seems that with every passing day there is another horror story coming out of the GOP controlled House and Senate. We must, must turn that state-house blue to uphold the Iowa values we all treasure. If you are so moved to donate to this campaign here is a link to my website.  Thank you to the people outside of my district who have donated and thank you, in advance, for your future support!

Have a wonderful Sunday...and thanks for reading! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 12 January 2020

Sunday Morning Coffee comes to you from Iowa. You know, the crossroads for politics. The new Iowa Poll commissioned by the Des Moines
 Register has four Democrats bunched at the top being led by Bernie Sanders, then Elizabeth Warren, Pete Buttigieg and Joe Biden round out the top four. Let's get going.

Iowa Split on Impeachment

According to the new Iowa Poll in the Des Moines Register 45% of Iowans disapprove of the impeachment of the president while 43% approve and 12% are "Not sure". The folks who are against the impeachment process continue to parrot the talking points of the president that it is a "witch hunt" and a "waste of time
and money". It looks like you can lie and cheat and 45% of Iowans don't much care. One of the stunning things is that while the House has passed over 400 bills dealing with everything from lowering drug prices to voter security there are still folks out there that contend the only thing on the minds of Democrats is impeachment. Not true but...who cares...right?

Action - Reaction

Sir Issac Newton, in his third law of of physics, said that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. That came to mind this past week as the United States killed off a terrorist, Iran (in response) launched missiles into Iraq targeting U.S forces. While Iran says 80 members of the U.S. military were killed the Pentagon says there were no casualties. But there were 176 innocent people who lost their lives when Iran shot down a Ukrainian commercial airline that had taken off from an airport in Tehran. You would think that would be enough. That both sides would stop, stand down and think about it all. 

But, no. As the week ended the White House announced further economic sanctions against Iran. We need some adults in the room...and quickly. 

Protests in Iran

When the news broke that the government of Iran shot down the airliner protesters took to the streets of Tehran calling for  "death to liars" and "death to the dictator," reportedly referencing Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. How this will play out with a government that is not shy from killing protesters to quell demonstrations is anybody's guess. (Photo: Al Jazeera)

Six in Des Moines

Six candidates will appear on stage for the national debate on Tuesday evening. Qualifying are Biden, Buttigieg, Klobuchar, Sanders, Steyer and Warren. Candidates had until the end of day on Friday to make the more demanding qualifications of the Democratic National Committee. It looked like Tom Steyer would not make the cut but did as he registered high enough in two Fox News Polls, one in Nevada and the other in South Carolina. To date Steyer has spent millions of his own money wooing voters across the country and indicators are that it is having an impact.

Welcome to Des Moines - Let's Talk Poverty

On hand to welcome the candidates to the debate stage at Drake University will be representatives from The Poor People's Campaign - A National Call for a Moral Revival. The march from the First Christian Church to Drake University will start about 4:30PM on Tuesday as protestors demand the candidates face the issue of rising poverty in America and in Iowa. The group, last week, released a statement indicating that, in Iowa alone, 1.1 million people are living in poverty. That my friends is nearly a third of the states population. 

Then on Wednesday the 15th there will be a rally at First Christian Church featuring Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II and Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Theoharis the co-chairs of the organization. The event will take place starting at 7:00PM. Here is a link to that event.

I'll be at the Tuesday March but absent for Wednesday as I'm out of town on assignment. HOWEVER, if you want to hear more about what this is all about I did sit down for an extended conversation with the Iowa leadership and here is a link to that interview. (Photo: The Nation)

Tax Cuts - We Need Tax Cuts

I attended a legislative breakfast last week put on by the Clive (Iowa) Chamber of Commerce. It was a stark reminder of how much has changed and how much has stayed the same. Sitting at the head table were four legislators. Three Democrats: Sen. Claire Celsi (D-WDM), Rep. Jennifer Konfrst (D-Windsor Heights) and Rep. Kenan Judge (D-Waukee) were there with the lone Republican Sen. Charles Schneider (R-WDM). 

It wasn't that long ago that all of those seats belonged to the GOP but lately the party has been getting beat, especially in the suburbs, as demographics are changing.

The take-a-way on some key issues and the response:

• We need to fix the workforce draught; (4 out of the 4 legislators agreed it's got to be done)
• We need to fix access to mental health; (Again 4 out of 4 said we've gotta do this)
• We need to cut taxes; (Uhm...one out of four on that one)
• We need to do more to support public education;(Three out of four think that's a good idea)
• We need to fix the Medicaid System in Iowa; (Three out of four said they agree)

There were lots of other issues but while everybody seemed to play nice and say that we need to do more there is one glaring problem. We ain't got no money.  Well, we do and Chuck crowed about how fantastic the budget is and that we've got a $400 million surplus, but if the goal of the GOP this session is going to be another round of tax cuts...how we gonna pay for...anything?

I dunno...you? The session kicks off this week. Should be fun to watch.

Partly Personal

It's been a busy weekend, already. On Friday I traveled to Mason City for services there and on Saturday held our Torah Study with a big crowd at the synagogue. Not to get all religious on you but in this Torah Portion (Gen. 37:28 - 50:26) we learned that as Jacob was blessing his children and making decisions about future leadership he said that the tribe of Reuben (the first born) should not be in a leadership role because, "a leader must think through his decisions and reckon their consequences". Something that lacked in the eldest son. Go ahead...read it and then think about our own "leadership".

A couple of years ago I was at a business "garden party" where about 60 folks came together to celebrate relationships and the start of fall. The Iowa legislature, under the leadership of the Iowa Republican Party, had just decided to make a stab at voter suppression. The GOP doesn't much care for lots of people voting. It cramps their style. On hand for the party was my opponent in the November 2020 election. I stood toe to toe with Chuck Schneider and told him to his face that I would fight him at every opportunity should the legislature enact suppression of the vote.

Well they did and I am. That is only one of many reasons I'm out to Chuck Chuck in 2020. If you would like to help in that effort, here is a link to my campaign website and its donation page.  Thank you, in advance!

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic Sunday.

Sunday Morning Coffee 5 January 2020

Welcome back to a new year of Sunday Morning Coffee! I've been getting up early on Sunday and writing my thoughts about politics (and sometimes a dash of religion) for over a decade. It's the news you've seen or, perhaps missed, all laced with my commentary. Why not... Much to share so let's go! 

Stopping a War

The president says that the killing of a top Iranian military commander, General Qassem Soleimani, was carried out to. "stop a war". However not he, nor his Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have shared any information that would back up that statement. While it is true that Soleimani has been a bad actor the question that must be asked is, "What are the plans going forward?" That seems to be in question as the administration, known for "flying by the seat of their pants" struggles to connect the dots. 

True to form this appears to be another decision by this president that has no start nor end game. And, to be fair, it reminds me of when, in December of 1987, President Clinton on the eve of an impeachment vote authorized four days of heavy bombardment of Iraq. The next day the U.S. House laid aside an impeachment vote. 

The bottom line here is that there is no sustained and thoughtful foreign policy from this president and that, my friends, is the real danger.

What We Don't Get

The Middle East is a confusing and dangerous place. You would think the United States would have that figured out by now. While I am no expert on that region it seems to be that top leaders in this administration don't have a clue. It all starts with two very divided factions of Islam. It is the oldest internal struggle of that faith group. While they have co-existed for centuries they differ in doctrine, ritual, law, theology and religious organisation. And they have been fighting each other for generations.

The bulk of the Arab States adhere to the Sunni tradition. The name "Sunni" is derived from the phrase "Ahl al-Sunnah", or "People of the Tradition". The tradition in this case refers to practices based on what the Prophet Muhammad said, did, agreed to or condemned.

Meanwhile about 10% of the world's Muslims adhere to the Shia tradition. In the Middle East Iran is the most populous Shia nation. Shia, by the way, means literally "Shiat Ali" or the "Party of Ali". They claimed that Ali was the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad who died in 632. as leader (imam) of the Muslim community following his death in 632.

OK, here is where it gets interesting: In countries which have been governed by Sunnis, Shia tend to make up the poorest sections of society. They often see themselves as victims of discrimination and oppression. Sunni extremists frequently denounce Shia as heretics who should be killed.

Iraq sits between Shia Iran and the majority Sunni nations which surround it. And, to complicate the issue Iraq has a mixture of Shia and Sunni who, once again, have been active in killing each other for centuries. 

And we want in on this? It's a boiling cauldron of religious, economic and political issues few understand and we fail at our peril.

The Iowa Caucus

Some are predicting that this will be the final year of Iowa being first in the nation. The exit of former Secretary Julian Castro from the presidential race heightened that sentiment. The rub is that Iowa is not representative of the rest of the nation so it, and New Hampshire, have no business in their outsized role of picking winners and losers.

But, my friends, it's more than that. And the uninitiated can't figure it out.

I came to Iowa in 1979 and attended my first Democratic Caucus in 1980. I thought the entire process was, in a word, weird. I mean where is it that people show up on a specific night, talk politics and policy and then wrangle votes and support among those in attendance for their prefered candidate? It's messy and personal and it is far more impactful that walking into a private booth to cast a secret vote.

The reason? Iowa is a place where organization follows message. While the message is always critical it takes an organization of people to carry that to voters. And, the voters in Iowa follow these things carefully. When candidates are asked questions they are never surprised at the depth of understanding the questioner brings to the discussion. Those that are surprised often fail here.

While the media may grumble Iowans listen and learn and they become some of the most informed voters in this nation. Rare is it that on caucus night you'll find folks that are simply "hanging on". (Photo: NPR)

Finally Iowa, and New Hampshire, make sense because they are small states where message and organization can be tested and perfected and not cost a boat load of cash. The winners in Iowa often do not carry the day but...and this is big...they are able to bring to the table their ideas and policy perspectives that impact and hone the message going forward for the eventual nominee. 

My opinion...but then, again, this entire piece is...yep, my opinion.

The Iowa Legislature

The 2020 effort to roll back citizen rights starts later this month. The Republicans that have held a stranglehold on both chambers as well as the governor's office will gavel to order what will be the last hurrah for many in the GOP. For a very long time Republicans have championed local control only to then pass laws that outlaw local control. They will, once again. come together to see how much money they can shovel into the coffers of already successful businesses as they commit education, infrastructure, health care, voter rights, equal rights, reproductive rights, worker rights, land and water action and public assistance services into a dung pile.

We have had enough and your time is over. 

Some may sense the discontent of Iowans and offer fig leaves to the Democrats but do not be fooled. This crowd is an insidious bunch who are not motivated by doing the most good but by doing evil for their masters the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) the Iowa Farm Bureau and the corporate shills that suck the life blood out of our great state.

They are not concerned that mothers and fathers can not find affordable day care. They are not concerned that workers get a good wage so they can spend time with family rather than working two or three jobs. They are not concerned with issues of affordable housing. They care not that Iowa continues to lag other states in education. They care not that even, as their faith demands, that workers be allowed and encouraged to collectively bargain for wages and benefits. They do not...care. They have theirs and screw the rest of you.

The battle is full on. Elections have consequences. It's time to change.

Partly Personal

We've had a flurry of activity going into the New Year. On the business side of things it's been an interesting couple of days. It's like people woke up on January 2nd and said, "Crap, I've not thought about business since the 20th of December! It's time to get busy!" My office phone rang more on the final two days of last week than it had for three weeks prior. And, of course, everybody wants everything done...like yesterday.  Focus people...focus.

It's been "A-Holes & Elbows" around here. Which, I believe, is a phrase my Father z"l used to say. I think it comes from his time in the Navy when folks were always scrubbing the deck. "All I wanna see is a-holes and elbows!" meaning....get busy.  Which is what we've been doing getting a room ready for a campaign staffer who will be with us in the coming days. I thought it would be OK to clean up a room, put the furniture in and be done. But nope...Georgie has a much different idea so it's a ceiling to floor adjustment.  Yikes...and one more day to go.

I was with several hundred at a Joe Biden event last evening. I believe it was his fifth of the day. This was held at McKinley School on the East Side of Des Moines. It had been moved from a facility in the East Village because of space. They should have moved it again to even a larger venue. With many standing in line outside prior to 7:00PM. And once inside the gym was packed. The Vice President along with Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (D-IA), a recent endorsement, and Bonnie Campbell didn't arrive until after 8:30PM and the event was still going on when we left at 9:30.  I honestly don't know how he does it. It is truly remarkable. Good times in Iowa and 29 days away from the caucus.

Tomorrow at 4:00PM my friend Congresswoman Cindy Axne (D-IA) is holding at Town Hall at Smokey Row in Des Moines. The GOP have already sent out a notice to their members asking them to show up and disrupt the event. It's what they do...fear and lies. I would be there but I'm conducting a funeral in Mason City. If YOU have time to go and support Cindy...please do!

Finally, thank you! Last week I included a link to my campaign for the Iowa State Senate donation page and many of you responded. This is going to be a hell of a fight picking off the president of the Iowa State Senate...and I can not do it alone. If you are so motivated to help a life long progressive Democrat who has been in the trenches working on behalf of working families in Iowa for decades, I'd ask for your support. Thanks so much, in advance!  The note cards are going out today!

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 22 December 2019

Gather around my friends for a fresh cup of Sunday Morning Coffee. The political news you've seen or, perhaps, missed all laced with my commentary.  It's what I get to do while others are sleeping.  Let's go.

The Reelection 

The polls out over the past two days indicate that "45" may be reelected in November of 2020. A CNN Poll and a Five-Thirty Eight poll both indicate that the approval rating of the president is on the increase. While the indication is that former Vice President Biden still leads in a head-to-head poll it's troubling that in some key battleground states that went heavy for "45" in 2016 are shaping up to once again bring us an election where the presidency is decided by the Electoral College rather than by the popular vote.

Meanwhile the Democrats

The same polls indicate voters are uneasy with the Democrats running. The polls could be the result of inter-party scuffling as candidate ramp up the attacks on each other.  Respondents to the polls say they are being positively impacted by the economy and they fear the Democrats will ruin the ride.

Two comforting thoughts just ahead of Christmas.

The Economy is Wonderful!

That's what I get to report on each day. If you watch and report on the business news you can get caught up in the idea that everybody is doing great. We've never had so much money. Disposable income is at an all time high and just yesterday on Super Saturday the projected sales numbers topped those of Black Friday not in millions but in billions. 

Something just doesn't seem right and if you look deeper you'll see that American Shoppers are loading up their purchases on ever expanding credit. Sort of like we did eleven years ago before the Great Recession. In fact the 128 U.S. households now have credit card debt that exceeds $1 trillion. A Federal Reserve Report indicates that credit card debt is rising. In October alone credit card debt was up 8.8% over what was owed in September and that number is expected to grow during the holiday shopping season.

It is to this back-drop that the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II will bring The Poor People's Campaign to Des Moines Iowa on Wednesday, January 15 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the First Christian Church located in the Drake University Neighborhood. It is also the actual birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

See you there.

And There Is This

Just in time for the holidays: US Steel has announced 1,545 layoffs at two plants in Michigan. Last year, 5 executives at US Steel received on average a compensation package of $4.8M, a 53 percent increase from 2017.

See a pattern here?

Impeachment

Yes...next? One thing looks certain. This will drag into next year while so many Americans are gearing up for the Iowa Caucus and the Democratic Primaries. Hang on.

We Love to Hate

Or so it would seem. Just this past week a woman in the Des Moines, Iowa suburb of Clive intentionally left the roadway with her vehicle and hit a young girl walking on the sidewalk. The reason? The police there say 42 year old Nicole Poole Franklin said she targeted the girl because the girl "is Mexican".

The Des Moines Register reported that my friend Joe Henry, president of the League of United Latin American Citizens Council No. 307 said racist attacks have been on the rise since "45" was elected. FBI says hate crimes against Latinos have risen by 13% over one year and if you look back at the past five years hate crimes against Latinos have soared upward by 48%.

Meanwhile, just this weekend, two young men stabbed to death outside of a bar in Nashville, TN (one the brother of former University of Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard) and 12 people shot at a house party in Chicago. And, that is just a tiny sample of the violence that happens every day here. 

Michael Franken

When former Navy Admiral Michael Franken announced he was running for the United States Senate and attempt to beat Sen.Joni Ernst (R-IA) in November of 2020 I had one of those, "Who is he?" moments. 

Last week I had the chance to sit down with Mike Franken for an extended interview which will air today in the 11AM hour on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. (I'll also post it on Insight on Business the News Hour later this week.) I was greatly impressed. Franken faces an uphill battle for traction considering that the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee endorsed my friend Theresa Greenfield way back in June.

But...and you knew that was coming...a growing group of voters have taken issue with that early endorsement saying it smacks of the same issue voters had in 2016 when the Democratic National Committee fully and early on endorsed Sec. Hillary Clinton over Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

Having said that you really should take some time to hear him out on the issues. And, if you want, that can start this morning. You can live-stream the interview by heading to the KXEL website link...above.

Partly Personal

Family was in town this past weekend and it was wonderful. All six grand-children the parents and my brother. It was a heartwarming. It was also a bit different. During the flurry of opening gifts nobody was taking a photo. Back in the day that was what we did. Now that the kids are getting older maybe it's not so...cute?  I dunno but it was, I thought, remarkable.

But we did get photos!  My good friend Lauren Campbell of Lauren Campbell Photography came over and took a bunch of shots. I keep telling her that she is my local "Pete Souza".  Thank you so much Lauren! Lauren has been a wonderful friend and advisor.  Thanks again! 

Tonight we'll light the first of the eight Chanukah Candles. If you want a bit of insight on that holiday here is the blog from my congregation Adas Israel based in Mason City, Iowa. Enjoy and Happy Chanukah!

Thank you to those of you who came to chat a bit about guns and gun violence during he event yesterday in West Des Moines. I know it's a busy time of the year and grateful that you took some time out of your busy schedule. Be looking for my next event later in January as I continue these "Listening Posts" right up until the November Election. For more about that campaign here is my website, Libbie for Iowa.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday and, once again... Happy Chanukah! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 8 December 2019

I know...if you are dialing up Sunday Morning Coffee and it's now lunch time...I take full responsibility. The past 24 hours are a blur from services in Mason City to bell ringing for the Salvation Army to a hockey game to getting our radio program out the door because of an early broadcast at 11:30...yikes.  Excuses...right? Let's go!

Disappointing

We have become so tribal and none of that is good for our nation. While members of the Republican Party continue to deny what "45" has done and seek to obfuscate the reality of a corrupt and dishonest president. His base continues to believe that what he has done to obstruct a co-equal branch of our federal government is just fine. We have seen this before friends and it is not that different to what we saw take place in Germany in the 1930's. For those of you who think things like that can not happen again...beware. It is on our doorstep.

Russian Bots?

As the Iowa caucuses heat up there has been a growing number of hateful remarks about various Democratic candidates. Usually those remarks have to do with ageism, sexism and homophobia. If I didn't know some of the people who are writing these insults, on Facebook or other platforms, I would think they were Russian Bots. 

The fact of the matter is that it is highly unlikely that your prefered candidate will become the nominee of the party. Then what do you do? Take your campaign lit with you to the basement and fail to work for the eventual nominee following the convention? 

Take a breath. You are not doing your candidate any favors. In fact, some of the comments made would embarrass your prefered candidate and my bet is they would disavow them and censure you in a heartbeat. We are better than that.  And, sure it's easy to click off a 20 word insult...but think before you send.  Are you really shedding a positive light on your candidate?  No...and it is more than disappointing.

Mayor of Des Moines

It was an expensive race. The two main candidates spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the contest. In the end the incumbent, Mayor Frank Cownie squeaked out a narrow win over former state senator and developer Jack Hatch. It was not only expensive but also toxic. While nobody asked my advice...had they...I believe the outcome may have been different. Both are friends of mine and I truly hope fences will be mended. But, fear that may take some time.

We Have a Race

Last Sunday I attended a house party for Kimberly Graham one of four running to become the next United States Senator from Iowa. I have watched this contest and over the past several months and noted how Graham has grown as a candidate. While not the favored one by many in the establishment circle she has become a solid campaigner and speaker. I was impressed.

I also know the other candidates and I'm personal friends with two of the three. I've yet to meet Admiral Franken but look forward to that opportunity. One thing is certain Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) is in trouble and that's more than me saying so...the polls also indicate she will fall in November.

Neighborhood Groups

Democrats all over the state are organizing what are being called "neighborhood groups". Geographical parts of the cities to rural towns are not only working with their county organization but are working at a more grass-roots level to encourage Democrats to mobilize. It's really refreshing and it's brought so many more people together.  Stunning.

Immigration

Last week, while campaigning, I heard a troubling story I'll share here. We have known for some time that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have been targeting hispanic folks and that has led to many staying out of sight. Even those in the country legally are avoiding community gatherings and events because they fear being caught up in the hysteria that has infected our nation. 

Imagine that you are an immigrant who is in the process of securing a Green Card. It's something that takes time and money. You have a job and you are doing everything right. But, one day, in a convenience store, you are confronted by ICE. Before you know it you are on a bus to Omaha and a detention center. There you are informed it will cost you $7,000 to be reunited with your family. No, you've not done anything wrong. You have been in the process but now you are told pay up of get shipped out. You call your family and they pony up the 7K and you are released.

Think it doesn't happen?  My sources tell me this is fairly common and that many immigrant families hord a stash of cash just in case.

Really?  Yes...really. What have we become?

The Jobs Report

It was a blockbuster. The U.S. added 266,000 jobs in November. That is nearly 100,000 more than what was projected. But, what kind of jobs are they? Yeah, you guessed it. Many are low pay jobs in health care, food service and hospitality. 45,000 jobs were GM workers going back on the job following their successful strike. 12,000 were government workers and a mere 1,000 in construction. 

Of the jobs created 80 out of 100 pay above average and while you might think that is pretty good consider that just ten years ago 94 out of 100 jobs created paid above average.

At the same time new data indicates that fully one-half of Americans are earning the median income of $18,000 a year.

One more stat for you. There is not one state in the United States where a person can work 40 hours a week and live "comfortably". Every state, based on numbers from the Labor Department for wages and then adding 20% for a "comfort factor", requires more hours of work. In Hawaii it is 91 hours a week. In Iowa a worker must log 48 hours a week to make $44,000 a year.

Yeah...but the economy is...booming.  For...who?

Partly Personal

It has been a busy weekend. Friday saw me driving to Mason City for my work at Adas Israel the Jewish Congregation of Northern Iowa. I go there once a month to do their services and to lead a two hour Torah (Bible) study session with folks from many religious backgrounds...and even several Jews.

Rolled back into town in time for Jovie and me to head to the Iowa Wild hockey game to raise money for the Salvation Army. What? Wait! A Jewish guy raising cash for a Christian group that many of my friends in the party don't much care for?  Yeah...it's what we do for each other.  We had a blast and a big thank you to my friend Tamyra Harrison for calling me and asking for some help.

From the campaign... I was able to speak at the Southeast Dallas County Democrats forum this past Tuesday. That was great fun and I'm grateful for that opportunity. This Tuesday I'll be speaking to the Clive Democrats for their December meeting. 

Between working, knocking doors, and "call time" it sorta keeps a person busy.  But, I've been encouraged by the number of people who sense that I have a solid message for working families and a solid background in working on behalf of others. Thank you. Here is the campaign website. 

Coming up on 21 December at the West Des Moines Library at 10:00AM I'll kick off the first of many "Listening Posts" that have to do with various issues confronting Iowans. This session will be about "Finding Common Ground with Common Sense on Gun Laws". 

Hey, sorry, once again this is so late...think of it as Sunday Morning (Brunch) Coffee.

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 1 December 2019

Snow...as I write this it's snowing in Central Iowa. Might have to brew a second pot and put a log on the fire.  Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee my weekly look at the news stories you may have seen (or missed) all with my, often, acerbic commentary. Let's go:

He Will Say Anything

It really is astounding. "45" will say anything, mostly lies, and people swoon. I don't get it and suspect you don't either. But, beyond the lies and the dishonesty in business and government the Republicans stick with him. Perhaps out of fear. Perhaps out of ignorance. When faced by reality his supporters shrug and say silly things like, "He's doing what he promised to do."  If this person gets another term it will, I believe, sink our democracy. We've got to move on.

Voting for "45"

it's a fun new game here in Iowa where Sean Bagniewski, the chair of the Polk County Democrats, continues to ask, publically, if current elected officials are going to vote for "45" next November. So far, from what I'm told...crickets. It's fun to see then squirm.

And The Beat Goes On

The House Intelligence Committee will begin reviewing a report tomorrow on the committee’s investigation into "45's" dealings with Ukraine. The committee is then expected to consider and adopt the report Tuesday evening. The report and any minority views will be sent to the House Judiciary Committee, which could draft articles of impeachment against the president in the next few weeks.

Sixty-Four Days

We're just 64 days away from the Iowa Caucus. 64 days. Sixty-five days from now we'll be reviewing every aspect of the event. Campaign staff, many of whom we've gotten to know well, will be moving on to New Hampshire, South Carolina, Nevada and beyond. It's such an honor to live in a place where we get to experience this process and get so close to the candidates. If you live here you know what I'm talking about. 

Field organizing is going to be full on over the next two months. Our phones will light up with text messages...and that's OK with me. It's all going to be over way too soon.

Shooting in The Big Easy

Eleven people are reported injured in New Orleans early this morning. Eleven people. Meanwhile yesterday a man was shot in Dallas as he sat in his car. Some guy opened the passenger side door and just fired. And then in Chicago one person died and four others wounded in a shooting there. Remember, we don't have a gun violence issue in America.

Election in Des Moines

Voters in Des Moines, Iowa will, once again, head to the polls on Tuesday to select a mayor and two city council members. The runoff, which was required after none of the candidates received more than 50% of the vote back in November. If you want to listen to an interview I did for Mayor Frank Cownie you can do so here. If you would like to listen to my conversation with challenger Jack Hatch that is here.

The race has been really ugly with plenty of scrappy ads by Jack Hatch that surprised some. Meanwhile the TV time purchased, lately, by Frank Cownie have been upbeat. Sort of "stay the course" message. Whatever happens on Tuesday it will cost Des Moines about $85,000. It's the price of democracy.

Partly Personal

I know...not much today. I have an excuse and she is sitting on my lap. Her name is "Tinker" and the rescue tells us she is six. She is a "special needs" dog who, we are told, suffered a fever as a puppy which caused her to lose her balance. So when she walks she looks like somebody on Court Avenue at 2:00AM. Her former owner was told by family members that he had to get rid of her. They were going to take her out and shoot her but somebody thought of a rescue center. And now she is with us. She's pretty clingy but that's OK. It's what we do...

I spent several hours on Thanksgiving helping others prepare a dinner and then serve it to some people in a drug and alcohol recovery center here in Central Iowa. It was a humbling experience. The stories were both shocking and sad. I am grateful that they allowed me to join them. It made a huge impact.

This coming Wednesday evening I'll be at a Flip Senate District 22 event in Clive with the Southeast Dallas County Democrats. It takes place at  Rookies Sports Bar & Grill - 2180 Northwest 156th Street. It's a fund-raiser for the eventual candidate that will seek to "Chuck Chuck" in November. Should be a good time.

Later this afternoon I'm headed to a "Meet & Greet" for Kimberly Graham who is running to represent Iowa as our next United States Senator. She will be with Rep. Cindy Anxe (D-IA) and I'm looking forward to the visit.

Two quick reminders: I'll be speaking to the Clive Democrats on Tuesday the 10th at Wobbly Boots in Clive about my campaign and then on December 21st the first of several "Town Hall Events" where my goal is to bring people together to listen to issues of importance to Iowa and to my Senate District 22. That event will be in West Des Moines at the Public Library starting at 10:00AM. 

Sorry for a short cup today...but next I've got to finish my broadcast for News/Talk 1540 KXEL that airs this afternoon at 2pm. Yikes!

Have a wonderful Sunday and thanks for reading! 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 24 November 2019

If it's Sunday... My name is Michael Libbie and each Sunday Morning I sit down to write about the political stories you've seen, or perhaps missed, and then add my, often acerbic, commentary. Grab your cup of joe and let's visit for a bit...and thanks for coming by.

Independents and Impeachment

The polls are saying that "independent voters" are starting to turn against impeachment. The reason might surprise you...or not. Independents believe that the impeachment process has consumed Washington D.C. and because of that "nothing is being done". And, nothing could be further from the truth. Since January the House of Representatives have passed over 300 bills many of which, the polls also say, are exactly what American's want. From making it easier to register to vote to protecting the rights of LGBTQ individuals to establishing a path to citizenship to universal background checks for firearms to action on climate change to lowering the cost of prescription drugs...you get it.  The list is long and, here is a link.

Trouble is nothing is getting a vote in the GOP Senate. Rather than fume about hearings that have now proven the president acted time and time again against the interests of this nation and for himself...Independents should be urging Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to actually do something other than stonewall. 

Voter Fatigue 

There is also something else brewing and that is voter fatigue. I'm a pretty active person in the world of politics and the lack of interest many show when it comes to politics and the direction of our state and nation is stunning. I have said, for years, that the two things people should be talking about are politics and religion. Why? Because those two things have a bigger impact on our lives than any other set of issues. Your job your wages your sense of fairness and self awareness can all be tied to politics and religion. So, why are we told not to engage in politics and religion? The simple answer is that most people know little about either...and that, my friends, we do to our peril.

Or...play video games.

Voter Participation

While you were sleeping the citizens of Hong Kong went to the polls in record numbers. As of this morning a whopping 63% of voters took part in the election of the City Legislature. Sixty-three percent! We're lucky to get 6% out for a city election here. 

This is what happens when people who fight for freedom get involved. The citizens of Hong Kong are turning their backs on the dictator in China and desire to have open and fair elections. Us? Pass the popcorn.

Speaking of China

Anybody hear a peep out of U.S. Ambassador to China...Terry Branstad? Not that there is anything going on like:

• A trade war that has decimated the farming interests of the United States;
• A trade war that is impacting every American causing higher prices;
• A trade war that has had a negative impact on businesses;
• Hong Kong citizens being brutalized by the Chinese government;
• The rounding up and internment of Chinese Muslim citizens.

This week we got a clue as to why he's so silent. Your Iowa tax dollars are now going to be spent, according to Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA), to appeal the jury verdict of $1.5 million against Ambassador Branstad for his discrimination against an openly gay department head while Branstad was governor of Iowa.

He's...busy.

If you count up the dollars spent in fines and legal fees for all the crap going on under the "Golden Dome" since the GOP took power of the House, Senate and the Executive Branch...we're now north of $12 million bucks. Your...bucks.

Had enough yet?

So Predictable

It's the "Silly Season" in Iowa and across the nation. We're 71 days away from the Iowa Caucus and things are getting "chippy" to use the word of my friend Peter Crane. Engaged Democrats don't just fall into line with their preferred candidate they love to attack other candidates and supporters of candidates not to their liking. That seems to be in stark contrast to the Republicans who march "lock step" and dare not criticise another. (Image from Lila Star)

Let me give you an example. Just yesterday I was visiting with Ed Fallon, a friend, former legislator and climate activist during an event in Des Moines for Vice President Joe Biden. Ed was "chipping" about Biden saying that he was incoherent on climate change and that "all polls indicate that he would lose the election to "45'".  I was standing with my friend Cynthia Fodor from KCCI-TV8 as Ed continued his harangue. Except Ed was and is wrong. The polls indicate the opposite and then, once Biden took the microphone in the packed event, he clearly outlined several critical climate change policy ideas. 

I get it that you "like" somebody else. I get it that you are going to caucus for somebody different than your neighbor but please people be civil and be accurate. Taking out the knives against each other plays well into the hands of the GOP.  They love it when you fight.

It's a Gay Jihad!

Last week, for five minutes, a Trans Flag flew above the Iowa Statehouse. It was a request from Iowa Safe Schools executive director Nate Monson to mark the Transgender Day of Remembrance. And that was enough to cause two GOP legislators to lose their mind calling the action a clear attempt at a "Rainbow Jihad". And questioning what would happen if a "Christian Flag" were flown over the capital.

Rep. Dean Fisher (R-Montour) said he plans to file legislation next session to limit what flags can be flown at the Capitol. Meanwhile Rep. Skyler Wheeler (R-Orange City) had an interesting quote in the Iowa Standard:  “How would the Rainbow Jihad react if we were trying to fly the Christian flag over the state Capitol? The Rainbow Jihad is not OK with simply living their lives. They are so hellbent on pushing their beliefs on us that they would go so far as to fly that flag over the state Capitol. It’s one of the most egregious acts of political aggression I’ve ever seen.”

Iowa was the first state in the nation to hoist the flag and it was done to remember the 22 Americans who have been killed this year for being transgender or gender non-conforming. Here is the article from the Iowa Starting Line who also is credited with the image. 

Partly Personal

It has begun. The annual "Remove Everything in The House so We Can Decorate for Christmas" ritual is in full swing here. I quit counting how many Christmas Trees my Bride puts up at 8. There may be more. The event will consume hours and hours and when complete it will, as always, be delightful...and beautiful. 

Me? I am a "Ritual Bystander" who is only occasionally asked to do a chore. When I decorate for Chanukah it takes me about 10 seconds to pull out the menorah. But...tis the season and Georgie is making magic happen.  I'll stay out of the way.

Note...even Moses gets into the act.

A campaign note:  I'll be participating in a candidate forum on December 4th in Clive with the other Iowa Senate District 22 candidates which should be informative. Also December 21st I'll be holding a "listening post" on gun violence at the West Des Moines Library starting at 10:00AM. It is part of my monthly series of events to better connect with voters in Clive, Waukee, West Des Moines and Windsor Heights. You can watch my Iowa Senate Campaign Website for details.

Thanks for coming by and have a wonderful Sunday! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Morning Coffee 10 November 2019

Hey and good morning! Sit a spell as I get to share some stories you may have seen or missed but all laced with my commentary. It's what I get to do early each Sunday Morning while the rest of the world sleeps. Welcome to Sunday Morning Coffee all hot and fresh. Let's go!

Virginia & Kentucky

Well now...THAT was interesting. "45" was handed a couple of defeats last week...or so it seems. Now that the Virginia legislature has turned blue Gov. Ralph Northam (D-VA) will propose, what he is calling, "Eight common sense gun laws" that when the legislature was in GOP hands received a full 90 minutes of debate before they tanked the bills. Asked if he expected any Republican to cross over and vote for them Gov. Northam was doubtful. "You would think they would listen to the voters rather than the NRA. We'll see." 

This is no small deal and one to watch carefully. My bet is that the bills will pass and become a model for other states. BTW Northam is a gun owner...as am I...but we recognize some basic facts that will help keep people safe and start to stem the tide of gun violence. 

Meanwhile in Kentucky it's no surprise that Gov. Matt Bevin (R-KY) and a huge supporter of "45", is doing exactly what his "Dear Leader" would want him to do. Telling the world that the election was rigged and there was "election fraud". Even Republicans are urging Bevin to prove it or step aside. Weary.  BTW elected to become the next Attorney General in Kentucky is Danial Cameron. He is the first African-American to be elected to that post. He is also a Republican and calls Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) his mentor. "Moscow Mitch" is pretty pumped and Cameron may well run for the U.S. Senate...in time.

Isn't That Nice...

Last week the Iowa Republicans held their annual dinner and "packed" a room with about 600 people. Isn't that nice?  Meanwhile the prior Friday say nearly 14,000 engaged Democrats who are eager to turn this state blue in 2020.

On hand for the "big" GOP event was Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) who offered up all sorts of "raw meat" to the adoring fans of hate and bigotry. Lindsey has flipped so often his nickname should be "Pancake".

Oh, one other thing: Proof that sexual orientation does not mean you will represent the people of your state equally is right here. Exhibit A: Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA). (Photo - Iowa Starting Line)

Let's Get Local 

Yesterday during a Polk County Democrats Leadership Meeting it was reported that prior to the Tuesday election about 37% of the municipal office holders in the county were Democrats. At the close of the election on Tuesday make that 60%. Seats were flipped all over the county. An interesting note, the Polk County Democrats really did have a hand in that. We not only knocked doors but sent out mailings and made over 10,000 phone calls, chased absentee ballots and more.

There were Democrats on the ballot that did not wish to participate in our efforts. They...lost.

Meanwhile the Polk County GOP is fuming. And come 2020 they will remember our efforts. As in the words of our County Chair, Sean Bagniewski, "Bless their hearts."

Final interesting item for you to ponder. Here is a look at the Polk County Democrats website.

Here, in contrast, is a look at the Polk County Republican website.

Notice that the Polk County GOP is STILL selling tickets to an event that was held in August. Yep, this is the party that wants to always take us back...way...back. They make me giggle...just a bit.

Outreach

One of the things we discussed during our leadership meeting are ways to reach out to other communities, not only in Polk County but in other parts of the state to see if we can be of some assistance with organization and GOTV. Not to take over but to help in some way. As Iowans know, it's all about organization and follow through. Just a thought. And, yes, we'll remain focused on Polk County as we've got some places where we believe we can help local candidates continue to flip seats and build on our values.

Work For Welfare

Here is something that will make you sit up straight. GOP political hack Todd Blodgett has an opinion piece in the Des Moines Register this morning that uses all the dog whistles available to argue that requiring welfare recipients to work is really good for Iowa.  He talks about how work will,  "...make folks too tired to make babies they can't afford and lack the ability to properly raise." And he gins up the old stories of people on food stamps buying steak while hard working Iowans purchase "bread, beans and hamburger". (Photo - Globe Gazette)

But it gets worse.

"...beneficiaries of Medicaid and other programs are lazy, irresponsible, entitled and ignorant."

Or this bit of crazy talk: "Electrical power like that created by wind turbines throughout Iowa can be produced, even by illiterate Medicaid recipients; they can jog or walk on treadmills, and/or stationary bicycles which are wired to inverters...so they can send electricity to the power grid." 

Bat-Shit Crazy....

But then again Blodgett is from Clear Lake, Iowa...in the heart of Rep. Steve King (R-IA) country so it all figures.

Here is where Blodgett is dead wrong. Most recipients of Medicaid are children and the elderly. Others are working two and three low-wage jobs just to get by. You want to talk about being "tired" Todd?  How the hell does that make a strong family.

And who...Todd...is responsible for your reprehensible screed? Your GOP allies who have created a low wage state and who fawn over those that have and seek to punish those that have not.  But I get it. You and your kind fear and loath those who are different than you. 

Dog whistles Todd...and I hear them.

Partly Personal

I'm about to roll out seven listening posts as I continue my campaign to "Chuck Chuck in 2020". The first will be in December and will focus on guns and gun violence. My goal is to listen to the people of Iowa Senate District 22 about their concerns for safety including suicide, family gun violence, high capacity magazines, and "red flag" laws.

Watch this space and my campaign website for details. I'll be holding one each month for the next seven months. They will center on mental illness, the for-profit managed care issue, voting rights, affordable housing, education, jobs and small business issues. It should be fun and informative.

My goal is to become the legislator that actually works for working families in Iowa. And that, my friends, will make a difference.

Tomorrow is Veterans Day...the reality of those two words are compelling. May the memory of those who died in defence of our nation be bound up and may we recognize their sacrifice...and never forget. 

Thanks for reading and have a great Sunday!