Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In addition to Project 2025’s attempt to spawn violence throughout the US so they can initiate martial law, we examine the Bromance Breakup of President TACO and the man who bought his presidency. Enjoy our doo-wop version of Bromance Breakup
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 18 (268 total reports)
28.05.2025-09.06.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In addition to Project 2025’s attempt to spawn violence throughout the US so they can initiate martial law, we examine the Bromance Breakup of President TACO and the man who bought his presidency. Enjoy our doo-wop version of Bromance Breakup.
Visual Stories!
When is the best time to stand up to hatred and authoritarianism? Anytime is the right time. This Southern Gospel song is designed to inspire you to continue your efforts (or start them) to say, “Hands Off,” to this President and his puppet-masters.
Top Links of the Week
10.06.2025
I Was Once Undocumented. Now I’m a Superintendent Speaking Out Against Trump’s Immigration Raids
Alberto M. Carvalho has an insider’s view of how damaging and evil the tactics that this administration is using are. He is a four-time national Superintendent of the Year award recipient and has served as the Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified School District since February 2022. He previously served as the Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools for nearly 14 years, where his transformational leadership was recognized at the state, national, and international levels. Carvalho sees the effects of this administration’s attacks on the fabric of our country, affecting our country’s most valuable resource, not our manufacturing, not our technology, not our military, but our children. He stands firmly in support of creating schools (and school zones) where children can live free, free of fear from their own government. This administration has intentionally pushed us into a time of national chaos and fear. They have done so purposely; this is a choice they are making. It is in the very blood of the GOP. When you’re unsure about the vote, use fear, and especially use immigrants. Demonize them, make them the enemy, attack them, attack their beliefs, attack their families, and… even, attack their children. Welcome to Trump’s USA.
09.06.2025
What Trump's national emergencies could mean for American democracy
This is what Project 2025 told us would happen—and yet, people voted for their President. President 47 has to force violence to erupt if he is going to reach his ultimate prize: Martial Law. As this article points out, this administration has declared emergencies on multiple fronts across the US and throughout the world. Most of the emergencies are of their making. The GOP always uses immigration as its “Boogey Man” to raise fear across the US and ramp up votes. They use it because it works. It has worked in a number of their election wins. It is their modus operandi. They can’t get votes by reasoning with people; cult followers don’t reason; they do what their cult leader tells them. In this case, the cult leader (President 47) follows another cult (Project 2025), that wrote out a Mein Kampf of directions long before they decided to use this Game Show Host/Carney to carry out their desires. They want the violence, they want to threaten, they want to do all of this so they can take ultimate control. Martial Law is their aim, nothing less. They will create violence to get it. Lives lost, people illegally deported, all of that is collateral, incidental, in their quest for absolute control.
07.06.2025
It Would Be So Funny If Trump Nationalized Elon Musk’s Companies
Kate Aranoff of The New Republic has an idea I think is marvelous in light of the Breaking Boy Band Bromance between President TACO and his purchaser, Elon Musk. What if instead of canceling Musk’s contracts, Trump nationalized them? In Aranoff’s own words, “As The Washington Post reported in February, Musk’s businesses have over the years received $38 billion in government contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits. In many ways, Musk owes his fortune to the U.S. government. A truce between Trump and Musk may be imminent, but if he wishes to use it, Trump has a powerful wild card for sticking it to Musk: nationalize his companies.” None other than Steve Bannon floated a variant of this idea on Thursday, suggesting the President TACO use the “Defense Production Act” to seize SpaceX. We reviewed yesterday the potential cost to this Administration’s OBBB if Musk made good on his threats to undermine Congress members who support the bill. What comes next for the dueling dinos in the White House?
06.06.2025
What Musk and Trump Risk Losing in Their High-Stakes Breakup
https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/musk-trump-fallout-stakes-51bf1b5c?st=KMnqAV&mod=flipboard
We all knew that eventually, there would not be enough air in the universe for the two of them to share the oxygen. Inevitably, there would be a spat, but like two elephants fighting in your living room, there’s going to be collateral damage—and the citizens of the world stand to be the victims. Brian Schwartz and Micah Maidenber, at the Wall Street Journal, diagnose this “Bromance Breakup.” The damage won’t all be on the US Economy to bear; Musk stands to lose significant business advantages if he doesn’t have President TACO grifting for him in the Republican corner. SpaceX, Tesla, all of these enterprises have come to rely on government subsidies to keep their snorkel above the water line. 47 also stands to lose. His budget made it through the House 215-214. It returns to the House for an additional vote following the Senate vote. As the authors point out, “Musk said the bill would add $2.5 trillion to the federal deficit, calling it a ‘disgusting abomination’ and threatening to fire politicians ‘who betrayed the American people.’” Musk only needs to pull away a handful of Representatives for the bill to fail, and he has threatened to use his personal war chest to attack those members supporting it. The mid-term is fast approaching, and Republicans need lots and lots of money; Musk has it. On his own platform, X, Musk played with the idea of starting his own political party, and 81% of respondents supported the idea. He can’t be President, but owning one was the closest thing; who will he seek to own next?
05.06.2025
PRRI's Robert P. Jones: "Donald Trump sees himself as the king of kings"
Chauncey DeVega is a senior politics writer for Salon. In this article, he warns us that President 47 can do no wrong in the eyes of his followers. In other words, it doesn’t matter what laws he breaks or who he locks up, his cult followers are going to support him. I hope that you are finding alternative strategies to trying to change the opinions of those who have given their souls (and brains) to this lunatic. They are in so deep, they won’t be able to pull themselves out. Our strategy must be to support the resistance, be present to those who stand against this insanity, and, while making your voice heard now, keep an eye on the long run. The midterms are coming, and the economy under this administration is floundering. Don’t look for more Republicans to change sides. Instead, support people to turn out and vote this time—if they want to stop the chaos.
04.06.2025
6 Nobel prize-winning economists wrote a letter opposing Trump's budget bill: 'We have grave concerns'
This letter by six Nobel Prize-Winning economists warns the US of the crippling long-term debt and poverty the OBBB is adding to the US economy. In short, it will cripple the economy for generations to come. It is not that unusual for Republicans to spend the US into massive debt (in fact, that is their modus operandi), what is unusual is the blatant greed, spending, and cuts to middle income and the poor to which this bill has condemned the US. It is obvious that Republicans have no shame, no conscience, and will do whatever President TACO requests of them. This bill is destined to hurt the MAGA followers most of all. Another sign of their blind stupidity to a grifting con artist.
03.06.2025
The No. 1 Rule for Understanding Trump
In this “The Atlantic” article, Derek Thompson reminds us that almost as much is “undone” in this Administration as “is done.” In other words, Thompson deepens our understanding of the current term for President 47 as, “President TACO,” (Trump Always Chickens Out). It’s not just that this President chickens out on his tariff threats; it is also the courts turning back his illegal actions. Deportations, lawsuits, actions against Universities, DOGE cuts; this President has always acted helter-skelter, setting as many brush fires as possible before the courts and common sense catch up with him. This is not new behavior by this disordered man; it’s how he ran his real estate business and his personal life has always been: a craven rush to gain attention and satisfy his immediate urges. However, this time, the chaos was predetermined and directed by both Putin and Project 2025 (is there really any difference in their end game)? Global Dominance… add to that the drug-induced behavior of the megalomaniac, Elon Musk, and you have the recipe for disaster we now call the TACO Administration.
02.06.2025
June 1, 2025
This morning’s Substack commentary by Heather Cox Richardson chronicles the attack on the US population by this administration. It takes a quantifiable look into the Federal Protective Service, the Department of Homeland Security, ICE, Elon Musk, and Health and Human Services. After invading a leading US Senator’s home office in New York and handcuffing a top aide, it is hard to imagine the extent to which this government is running amok—and how far it will go to fill its arrest quotas. Who’s next to be arrested? That’s hard to say, but it could be anyone of us.
01.06.2025
Elon Musk’s Reign of Terror Is Only Just Beginning
This is a very important message for those duped into believing the smokescreen put out by this Administration, that the Joseph Mengele of President 47 (Elon Musk), is done destroying lives. He’s not, as this article points out, he just has to leave before he has to actually apply for his position (which requires the same discloser that any Federal Employee—except Trump—must submit to). If you wonder why I am referring to him as the Joseph Mengele of this administration, consider these numbers revealed in this article: “Brown University professor Brooke Nichols has estimated that Musk’s destruction of USAID has already led to 300,000 deaths, the majority of which are children. As The American Prospect’s Ryan Cooper noted in his excellent piece on Musk’s legacy, ‘Roughly 1,500 babies have been born HIV-positive every day since January 21, because Musk cut off their mothers’ medication.’” This is why Elon Musk will forever be remembered throughout the world as the contemporary, “Dr. Death.” Dr. Death and President TACO, what a pair of lunatics we have in the loony stew that has become this administration.
31.05.2025
May 30, 2025
Heather Cox Richardson’s sub-stacks are always worth the read, and in this one, she examines the damaging (and potentially illegal) foray of Elon Musk into the US Government’s innermost workings. No one elected Musk; he bought President 47 and made him his puppet. Now, we learn, between drug-laced tirades and ego-based decision-making, the claims of Musk and DOGE leave no paper trail as to what he actually did (or undid) while 47 gave him access to our most private information. It is apparent that Musk used government contracts to make himself significantly more wealthy, while undermining the poorest in the world—especially through his dismantling of USAID. How much damage he has done, we might not know for years. How much access to information and power he has, we might also not know that for years. If we were to quote Yoda, we might say, “The graft is strong with this one.”
30.05.2025
Karl Rove Says This ‘Muddled Mess’ Trump Policy Will Cost The GOP Next Year’s Midterms
When Rove speaks, even Republicans should listen. Perhaps no one is more responsible for the eventual success of the Republican party, the GOP, and MAGA, than Karl Rove. He was the brains behind Reagan’s election. His marketing techniques have been the lusted-after standard of authoritarians wherever they sought to undermine democracy. So when Rove says that the mid-terms will flounder because of the “muddled mess” of this administration’s economic policy, it is time for even this cultic group of President TACO’s (Trump Always Chickens Out) peeps to take an ear. This is great news for those of us who believe in democracy, but it reminds us how important it will be actually to SHOW UP at the polls in 2026. In both of this President’s terms, he has been elected by those who stayed home even more than by those who voted. It’s not too early to make a plan and make sure your vote will actually count.
29.05.2025
Where is Trump Taking America?
This article by Thomas Carothers, the director of the Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, takes an in-depth look into the deceptive chaos of the Project 2025/President 47 regime. We must always remember that the President is merely the front man, the carney, the reality show circus barker that represents the ghoulish face of this organization that would like to remain camouflaged to the public. Carothers points out the four pillars of this organization’s clandestine efforts: there are “four major interrelated endeavors: a sociocultural project, an economic project, a political project, and a foreign-policy project.” Each one overlaps and each one is nefarious, seeking to undermine the so-called “liberal gains” in the government during the last half-century. This is nothing new for conservatives; they keep trying to “Make America Great Again,” by making white people feel less vulnerable, evangelical Christians feel more powerful, and rich people richer. They keep trying to create a “Mudsill economy” with a permanent underclass of released prisoners, uneducated and impoverished employees that will serve as the underpaid servants of these predominantly white, Christian, overlords. The OBBB is the economic framework for their handiwork, featuring not only ways to undermine the lower and middle class, but also to prevent future GOP presidents from checks and balances. This is not the brainchild of President Taco (as he is now often referred to); he doesn’t have the capacity. Donny needs his grifters, and he has a full cabinet behind him.
28.05.2025
American soft power is evaporating in the Age of Trump
Alfred W. McCoy is the Harrington Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In this article, he points to the importance of “Soft Power” in world politics, but lacking in this Administration’s wheelhouse, saying, “In President Donald Trump’s transactional diplomacy, only the hard power of mineral deals, gifted airplanes, or military might matters. And yet, as we learned in the Cold War years, it’s much easier to exercise world leadership with willing followers won over by the form of diplomacy scholars have dubbed ‘soft power.’ As the progenitor of the concept, Harvard Professor Joseph Nye put it: ‘Seduction is always more effective than coercion. And many of our values, such as democracy, human rights, and individual opportunity, are deeply seductive.’ He first coined the term in 1990, just as the Cold War was ending, writing that ‘when one country gets other countries to want what it wants.’” Of course, all of this requires two things which this President deeply lacks: intelligence and the will/ability to negotiate. The symbols that would best exemplify this administration’s negotiating abilities would (oddly enough) be a hammer and a sickle. He is trying to beat his way to the world that he sees, but is willing to change that version of reality for the highest bidder. We can and must resist. When? Anytime is the right time.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
Let’s spend time this week examining President 47’s new nickname, President TACO, and the permanent global damage done by his drug-infused master, Elon Musk.RESI
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 17 (267 total reports)
28.05.20245-03.06.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
Let’s spend time this week examining President 47’s new nickname, President TACO, and the permanent global damage done by his drug-infused master, Elon Musk.
Visual Stories!
When is the best time to stand up to hatred and authoritarianism? Anytime is the right time. This Southern Gospel song is designed to inspire you to continue your efforts (or start them) to say, “Hands Off,” to this President and his puppet-masters.
Top Links of the Week
03.06.2025
The No. 1 Rule for Understanding Trump
In this “The Atlantic” article, Derek Thompson reminds us that almost as much is “undone” in this Administration as “is done.” In other words, Thompson deepens our understanding of the current term for President 47 as, “President TACO,” (Trump Always Chickens Out). It’s not just that this President chickens out on his tariff threats; it is also the courts turning back his illegal actions. Deportations, lawsuits, actions against Universities, DOGE cuts; this President has always acted helter-skelter, setting as many brush fires as possible before the courts and common sense catch up with him. This is not new behavior by this disordered man; it’s how he ran his real estate business and his personal life has always been: a craven rush to gain attention and satisfy his immediate urges. However, this time, the chaos was predetermined and directed by both Putin and Project 2025 (is there really any difference in their end game)? Global Dominance… add to that the drug-induced behavior of the megalomaniac, Elon Musk, and you have the recipe for disaster we now call the TACO Administration.
02.06.2025
June 1, 2025
This morning’s Substack commentary by Heather Cox Richardson chronicles the attack on the US population by this administration. It takes a quantifiable look into the Federal Protective Service, the Department of Homeland Security, ICE, Elon Musk, and Health and Human Services. After invading a leading US Senator’s home office in New York and handcuffing a top aide, it is hard to imagine the extent to which this government is running amok—and how far it will go to fill its arrest quotas. Who’s next to be arrested? That’s hard to say, but it could be anyone of us.
01.06.2025
Elon Musk’s Reign of Terror Is Only Just Beginning
This is a very important message for those duped into believing the smokescreen put out by this Administration, that the Joseph Mengele of President 47 (Elon Musk), is done destroying lives. He’s not, as this article points out, he just has to leave before he has to actually apply for his position (which requires the same discloser that any Federal Employee—except Trump—must submit to). If you wonder why I am referring to him as the Joseph Mengele of this administration, consider these numbers revealed in this article: “Brown University professor Brooke Nichols has estimated that Musk’s destruction of USAID has already led to 300,000 deaths, the majority of which are children. As The American Prospect’s Ryan Cooper noted in his excellent piece on Musk’s legacy, ‘Roughly 1,500 babies have been born HIV-positive every day since January 21, because Musk cut off their mothers’ medication.’” This is why Elon Musk will forever be remembered throughout the world as the contemporary, “Dr. Death.” Dr. Death and President TACO, what a pair of lunatics we have in the loony stew that has become this administration.
31.05.2025
May 30, 2025
Heather Cox Richardson’s sub-stacks are always worth the read, and in this one, she examines the damaging (and potentially illegal) foray of Elon Musk into the US Government’s innermost workings. No one elected Musk; he bought President 47 and made him his puppet. Now, we learn, between drug-laced tirades and ego-based decision-making, the claims of Musk and DOGE leave no paper trail as to what he actually did (or undid) while 47 gave him access to our most private information. It is apparent that Musk used government contracts to make himself significantly more wealthy, while undermining the poorest in the world—especially through his dismantling of USAID. How much damage he has done, we might not know for years. How much access to information and power he has, we might also not know that for years. If we were to quote Yoda, we might say, “The graft is strong with this one.”
30.05.2025
Karl Rove Says This ‘Muddled Mess’ Trump Policy Will Cost The GOP Next Year’s Midterms
When Rove speaks, even Republicans should listen. Perhaps no one is more responsible for the eventual success of the Republican party, the GOP, and MAGA, than Karl Rove. He was the brains behind Reagan’s election. His marketing techniques have been the lusted-after standard of authoritarians wherever they sought to undermine democracy. So when Rove says that the mid-terms will flounder because of the “muddled mess” of this administration’s economic policy, it is time for even this cultic group of President TACO’s (Trump Always Chickens Out) peeps to take an ear. This is great news for those of us who believe in democracy, but it reminds us how important it will be actually to SHOW UP at the polls in 2026. In both of this President’s terms, he has been elected by those who stayed home even more than by those who voted. It’s not too early to make a plan and make sure your vote will actually count.
29.05.2025
Where is Trump Taking America?
This article by Thomas Carothers, the director of the Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, takes an in-depth look into the deceptive chaos of the Project 2025/President 47 regime. We must always remember that the President is merely the front man, the carney, the reality show circus barker that represents the ghoulish face of this organization that would like to remain camouflaged to the public. Carothers points out the four pillars of this organization’s clandestine efforts: there are “four major interrelated endeavors: a sociocultural project, an economic project, a political project, and a foreign-policy project.” Each one overlaps and each one is nefarious, seeking to undermine the so-called “liberal gains” in the government during the last half-century. This is nothing new for conservatives; they keep trying to “Make America Great Again,” by making white people feel less vulnerable, evangelical Christians feel more powerful, and rich people richer. They keep trying to create a “Mudsill economy” with a permanent underclass of released prisoners, uneducated and impoverished employees that will serve as the underpaid servants of these predominantly white, Christian, overlords. The OBBB is the economic framework for their handiwork, featuring not only ways to undermine the lower and middle class, but also to prevent future GOP presidents from checks and balances. This is not the brainchild of President Taco (as he is now often referred to); he doesn’t have the capacity. Donny needs his grifters, and he has a full cabinet behind him.
28.05.2025
American soft power is evaporating in the Age of Trump
Alfred W. McCoy is the Harrington Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In this article, he points to the importance of “Soft Power” in world politics, but lacking in this Administration’s wheelhouse, saying, “In President Donald Trump’s transactional diplomacy, only the hard power of mineral deals, gifted airplanes, or military might matters. And yet, as we learned in the Cold War years, it’s much easier to exercise world leadership with willing followers won over by the form of diplomacy scholars have dubbed ‘soft power.’ As the progenitor of the concept, Harvard Professor Joseph Nye put it: ‘Seduction is always more effective than coercion. And many of our values, such as democracy, human rights, and individual opportunity, are deeply seductive.’ He first coined the term in 1990, just as the Cold War was ending, writing that ‘when one country gets other countries to want what it wants.’” Of course, all of this requires two things which this President deeply lacks: intelligence and the will/ability to negotiate. The symbols that would best exemplify this administration’s negotiating abilities would (oddly enough) be a hammer and a sickle. He is trying to beat his way to the world that he sees, but is willing to change that version of reality for the highest bidder. We can and must resist. When? Anytime is the right time.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We look this week at how the President’s words have become increasingly unattached to reality and embedded in conspiracy theories.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 16 (266 total reports)
21.05.20245-27.05.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We look this week at how the President’s words have become increasingly unattached to reality and embedded in conspiracy theories.
Visual Stories!
When is the best time to stand up to hatred and authoritarianism? Anytime is the right time. This Southern Gospel song is designed to inspire you to continue your efforts (or start them) to say, “Hands Off,” to this President and his puppet-masters.
Top Links of the Week
27.05.2025
May 26, 2025
This sub-stack by Heather Cox Richardson is well worth the read, in fact, I try to read all of her columns when they are released. Clicking on the article, you can find a place to subscribe, or just do an Internet search for her name. I forced myself to read the texts of speeches he gave over the weekend, simply because I think it’s important to know how unbalanced and incompetent President 47 really is. I knew this before, of course, but every time he opens his mouth is a new, revelatory moment into how far the GOP has gone to reduce themselves to become his henchmen and women. This President is a shame to the US, he would be a laughingstock—if he wasn’t so dangerous. And, we must remember, it isn’t just 47, but the sycophants that surround him. We need to rid the US, not just of this President, but all those lackeys that support him, excuse him, and assist in his predefined actions.
26.05.2025
Is Trump the America We Want Young People Across the World to See?
This sub-stack by Jim Acosta takes us inside the fiasco that was supposed to be a congratulation speech to West Point graduates. Instead, the demented one (as Acosta reviews) “paid homage, as only Trump can, to a late real estate developer friend, William Levitt whose personal life apparently included a yacht and “trophy wife.” How might this inspire this nation’s next generation of military leaders? You be the judge.” Indeed, let’s be the judge. A whole generation that is the age of this graduate has no personal experience of life before the Trump Era. What a sad commentary on history!
24.05.2025
Can Trump suspend habeas corpus?
This review, posted on NPR by Conner Donevan, Courtney Dorning, and Alisa Chang, begins with a sound bite from Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, when she was “schooled” at a Senate hearing this week. The question came from Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, that query (which should be simple for anyone having passed an elementary school civics class to answer), was, “What is habeas corpus?” Noem declared it was the “constitutional right that the president has to be able to remove people from this country.” UC Berkeley law professor Amanda Tyler explains the true definition, “Well, literally, habeas corpus is to undergo and receive the body. And what does that mean? It means that in Anglo-American legal tradition, courts have the right and, indeed, the obligation when asked to look into the legal justification for someone being arrested and detained by the government. And so for centuries, that is the role that courts have played. They have worked to ensure that the executive, whether it's the King of England or the president of the United States, is not detaining somebody illegally.” Chang asks, “whether the president of the United States can unilaterally suspend habeas corpus?” To which Tyler responds, “The president does not have the power to suspend habeas ahead of Congress.” Like so many of President 47’s actions, they are blatantly illegal, but it is his M.O. is to break the law—because there’s been no consequence for doing so—then wait for the courts (and Congress) to remain inactive by not repealing or punishing his behavior. Will this be just another example of the American people rolling over and forgetting the illegalities (and immorality) of this President—who already faces a host of inconsequential legal actions? Only by taking to the streets, demanding a response from your Congress people and voting the GOP out in 2026, can this madman be stopped. What will you do this week, month, or year, to prevent the US from becoming even more of an autocracy beholden to Vladimir Putin and Elon Musk?
23.05.2025
Department Of Government Chaos, Revenge, And Patronage – OpEd
John Feffer is an author and columnist and the director of Foreign Policy In Focus. In this article, he points out how painful it is returning to the United States after trips to Europe and Asia. “The United States ranks pretty low in quality of life compared to its European and Asian competitors. In the U.S. News and World Report’s Quality of Life index, the United States is a middling 22 out of 89 countries, below Belgium, Japan, and Ireland. It’s tied for seventeenth place in the latest UN Human Development Report, below Hong Kong, Singapore, and Canada. That’s pretty lousy marks for the largest economy in the world.” Feffer goes on to say, “The recently rechristened (by me) Department of Government Chaos, Revenge, and Patronage (DOGCRAP) is making sure that the United States falls even further in the global rankings of quality of life.” It is important to read and understand Feffer’s “The Four Rs of National Self-Destruction,” if we are going to understand the pending damage of this Administration and the “think-tank” (wow, that’s an oxymoron), that backs it (Project 2025). This author’s insights are well worth the read, and I can’t sum them up well enough in a short column. Do yourself a favor and dig into this article. Definitely worth your time.
22.05.2025
Yes, Trump’s Budget Bill Is Really That Bad, That Cruel, and That Billionaire Friendly
It doesn’t take a deep dive into the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) to understand why these Republican hooligans wanted to pass the bill and save the arguments for the middle of the night. Cuts to Medicare, sales of public lands, and yes… the Big, Stupid Wall. Perhaps you’ve seen some of the arguments in Congress about tax breaks for tanning beds, while cutting the funds for hospital beds (who do we know that needs a little midnight tanning)? Charles P. Pierce of Esquire does a great job with this summary, revealing just how irresponsible and greedy this bill is.
21.05.2025
The Unlearning of America
https://www.theindex.media/the-unlearning-of-america/?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=other
Nothing says “Brainwashed Barbie,” like a panel hearing with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. As the writer, Joan Westenberg, points out, Noem was asked by Senator Maggie Hassan, Democrat of New Hampshire, to define habeas corpus. Her answer: “It is a constitutional power the president has to deport people.” In short, the Secretary of Homeland Security for the United States of America has no concept of what habeas corpus means and is either reciting her own made-up answer or one given to her by the current administration. One doesn’t need more than a plastic spork to dig down and find that this cabinet is nothing but a hand-picked crop of fraudulent sycophants. This is the result of electing 47 to the White House. They are as morally bankrupt and intellectually hollow as their cultic leader. His cabinet was picked, not for their knowledge or capability, but for their propensity for revenge-politics. If we want that to change, we need to show up in every city possible to join with Hands Off Rallies and make our voices heard in any manner you are able. Question those who supported this abomination and let them work their way into a corner of their own making.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
Our lead stories this week are about President 47’s grifting and the Republican Congress’ malfeasance.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 15 (265 total reports)
14.05.20245-20.05.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
Our lead stories this week are about President 47’s grifting and the Republican Congress’ malfeasance.
Visual Stories!
Who profits from poverty? From scarcity? From guns and wars? From chaos? If we “Follow the Money,” it will lead us to who is pulling this President’s strings.
Top Links of the Week
20.05.2025
Credit rating downgrade triggers warning signs for U.S. economy
This President and the Republican Congress have done what Republican Administrations typically do: create a budget that gives tax breaks to big companies and billionaires, while stripping people of Medicaid, Medicare, and attacking Social Security. In short, robbing the poor and middle income to feed the greedy. The Income Divide avalanche that Reaganomics started is but an inkling of what this administration and this irresponsible Republican Congress call, One Big, Beautiful Bill. Why? Because those are the simple words this President can grasp. And, of course, it is One Big Beautiful Bill if you are among the Nation’s 0.001% or higher. This would be an incredible coup for the President. The people who purchased this presidency will benefit “Biggly.”
19.05.2025
Trump, lawmakers wish Biden well after cancer diagnoses
Joe Biden has lived a life of public service, culminating in the presidency. Along the way, he has known deep sorrow and multiple personal setbacks. Those setbacks and that grief had a lot to do with molding him into the man of service he became. On Friday, his representatives announced he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. People around the world are wishing him well. This morning, that is all I want to do in this column. To the president and his family, we send our best wishes. You will be remembered forever for your service.
18.05.2025
Trump the Grifter
This article looks at the history of the Constitutional Provisions limiting corruption and how important those limits were to the founders of this fundamental US document. The author states, “The drafters made anti-corruption provisions a cornerstone of the new Constitution. Indeed, if the frequency of their attention to a particular issue is a measure of how significant their concern was, then few issues were as alarming to them as corruption, which the original Constitution explicitly addresses in four separate instances—plus a fifth that was later added.” The author, Paul Rosenzweig, is not new to government investigations. He is a principal at Red Branch Consulting. From 2005 to 2009, he was the deputy assistant secretary for policy of the Department of Homeland Security. He teaches cybersecurity at the George Washington University Law School. He previously served as a senior counsel in the investigation of President Bill Clinton. While the US Economy is floundering (see the Moody article from 15.05), this President is accepting gifts from foreign governments and granting favors in return that Congress has both turned a blind eye to or affirmed in the most outlandish of excuses (the $400 million dollar plane from Qatar is no different than Grover Cleveland accepting the Statue of Liberty from France—see the article from 16.05).
17.05.2025
Moody's cuts U.S. credit rating on growing debt burden
If you want to know exactly how negligent this administration and Congress have been in representing the United States, look at this rating from Moody. Between President 47, the Senate, and the House, this administration has acted like a parent refusing to pay court-ordered child support. The primary purpose of the House is to craft a budget that will assure the growth and security of the United States; rather than do this, they have chosen to continue their role as minions of this President and the various interests that own him. The budget they put forward, according to Moody, lowers the creditworthiness of the United States and makes it a greater risk for financial insolvency. When you think of all the businesses this President has bankrupted, why wouldn’t this country be next? We need to get rid of this Congress in November 2026 and this President—whenever they allow us to vote again.
16.05.2025
The Darker Design Behind Trump’s $400 Million Plane
$400 million, $400,000,000, that’s the cost of President 47’s new toy and “gift” from Qatar. Anne Coulter (on X) compared it to Grover Cleveland receiving the gift of “The Statue of Liberty” from France, and 47 reposted that comparison on his own social media network, Truth Social. What they both fail to mention (as this article’s author, Yair Rosenberg), points out: “The receipt of the Statue of Liberty was approved by Congress, and Cleveland did not subsequently ride around the world in it along with the country’s leadership.” Qatar has made huge financial investments in this administration, giving millions to members of the President’s cabinet like Pam Bondi and Kash Patel (Bondi approved the gift from Qatar to 47—how convenient…). What is most apparent is that this Administration under this president has taken graft and greed to a whole new echelon. We can stop this… first we must identify and confront it. Thankfully, there are articles like this one today that look at the history of Qatar’s presence in global affairs (such as buying the FIFA World Soccer championships) and US politics (both Democrats and Republicans). Qatar is flush with money and using it as a weapon in its war against democracy. But this President is one of their paramount players; bought and sold. The list of those who own this president is revealed in more depth daily.
15.05.2025
Produce the Body: Why Habeas Corpus Is the Mother of All Our Rights
Claire Belinski, of Who, What, Why—a non-profit, reader-supported news organization—does an outstanding job in this article of reminding us why Habeas Corpus came into being in 1626 against King Charles I, and why the intentionally offensive little minion, Stephen Miller, is so disgusting in even hinting that it is a “privilege” which President 47 and this administration may decide to discontinue. Belinski goes on to say, “I doubt they’ll really try to suspend habeas corpus — formally, anyway. They’ll just keep ignoring the Constitution and the courts while insisting they’re obeying both.” If you’re tired of the constant attempt to shock us, find a way to resist. Make your voice heard. Democracy is under global threat from this administration, and we must not diminish the threat it is facing.
14.05.2025
The End of Rule of Law in America
This in-depth article by J. Michael Luttig, a former federal judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, is a primer on the laws broken by this President. It is important to remember that Luttig, a conservative judge, was appointed by President George H.W. Bush. The modus operandi of this President is obvious: break the law and wait for the courts to catch up. He deviously knows this will take years and that—with the support of a spineless GOP Congress—he can get away with a number of indecencies during that period of time. Luttig reminds us of how “contra-constitutional” this President is by pointing to a recent interview where a television journalist asked Trump the simple question, “Don’t you need to uphold the Constitution of the United States as President?” Astonishingly, the President answered, “I don’t know.” The interviewer then asked, “Don’t you agree that every person in the United States is entitled to due process?” The President again replied, “I don’t know.” This is the President who said, within his first 100 days, that, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” Luttig’s point is that the US Democracy cannot be restored until President 47 is no longer on the political scene. Only you and I can make that happen by resisting at every bend and using all of our talents to defend the Constitution of the United States of America against this President and the GOP Congress that supports him.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
If you’re not yet convinced that this president wants to be King of the United States, then you haven’t been reading the news. This week, his aide, Stephen Miller, suggested repealing the “privilege” of Habeas Corpus. 47 tells Americans to expect less for Christmas while he prepares to accept a new luxury jet from the UAE. Can it be more evident? This man is a tyrant.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 14 (264 total reports)
07.05.20245-13.05.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
If you’re not yet convinced that this president wants to be King of the United States, then you haven’t been reading the news. This week, his aide, Stephen Miller, suggested repealing the “privilege” of Habeas Corpus. 47 tells Americans to expect less for Christmas while he prepares to accept a new luxury jet from the UAE. Can it be more evident? This man is a tyrant.
Visual Stories!
In order for authoritarians to rule, they first need to cause panic and fear among voters. This song, Rule Them, Scare Them, focuses on how this administration is using fear to force martial law and take powers that do not belong to them.
Top Links of the Week
13.05.2025
The White House Just Casually Floated a Move That Would Be Traitorous to the Very Idea of America
Stephen Miller, White House aide and harbinger of all these unconstitutional acts in the President 45 and 47 Administrations, has declared that “Habeas Corpus”—a right granted to every human being as far back as the Magna Carta, in 1215—is now a privilege instead of a right. A privilege, according to Wright, that this administration has the right to ignore based on their own whims. What he is proposing will make the US a prison state where officials have the right to jail anyone they deem against them. This, folks, is what Project 2025 wants and what this administration longs for. Miller simply is the lightning rod to distract any flak before President 47 criminally acts upon this illegal, immoral, and unethical action. As Charles P. Pierce (author of this Esquire article) puts it: “In 1789, speaking in Congress as part of his Great Flip-flop on the Bill of Rights, James Madison said, ‘In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, to be informed of the cause and nature of the accusation, to be confronted with his accusers and the witnesses against him; to have a compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor; and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.’” This is the country that many US citizens voted for, but it is also the country we can take to the streets and defend. Find your nearest protest today and join in. What can you do to make sure your children and grandchildren don’t grow up in a kingdom without rights?
12.05.2025
US popularity collapses worldwide in wake of Trump’s return
This president has done many things during his short, but damaging stint. He has added the US to an international watch list for human rights abuses, he has increased the popularity of China, and he is destroying the US economy. While he is telling Americans to expect less for Christmas, he is receiving a gift luxury jet from the United Arab Emirates. If you voted for this fraudster (or stayed home while others kept their responsibilities), this is what you wanted. For the rest of us, resistance must become a deeply embedded value. As Senator John Lewis would tell us, it’s time to “Get in Good Trouble.”
11.05.2025
Inside MAGA's fight for "Western civilization"
The MAGA fight symbolized in the current presidency can only be truly understood in light of Project 2025 and Conservative Christians’ larger struggle to “save Western Civilization.” This article does an excellent job of examining this larger conspiracy and how it is determining their right-wing policies attacking other cultures, DEI, and women. Alarm bells should go off when you read this article, but it should give you deeper insights into the insidious forces that created this administration and do NOT want to let go of power—ever!
10.05.2025
Trump’s Orwellian Erasure of Women
Sunday, the 11th of May, is Mother’s Day, that is unless you’re living in Donald Trump’s US, then it’s Happy Domesticated Woman’s Day. This article makes it evident that this administration is doing all it can to erase the historic contributions of women. It only wants to feature women in their role as domesticated wives and mothers. This is part of the Orwellian plot to pressure women back to the original roles in the 50s. Happy Mother’s Day, but only if you’re barefoot and pregnant…
09.05.2025
The Republicans’ Budget Makes No Sense
Could anything be more traditional for the GOP than tax cuts for the rich, cutting programs for the poor and middle class, while increasing spending for the military? Once again, the Republican mantra is near-deafening: Medicare and Social Security are “entitlements,” while wealthy tax cuts will “trickle down.” Has this worked before? Never… This is why Democratic administrations continually have to bail out the economy after Republicans have done their economic damage. Post-Reagan, Post-Both Bushes, Post-Trump 45, and it will evidently be the same if there is a Post-Trump 47 (there will not be, according to him and Project 2025). The cronyism and self-enrichment of this administration is unsurpassed in its blatant greed. This budget is the embodiment of that avarice (as are all budgets). If you want to see what the Republicans value, look at their budgets.
08.05.2025
No One Has Ever Defeated Autocracy From the Sidelines
The time for being an observer has passed. This warning from authors, political scientists, and professors— Steven Levitsky, Lucan Way, and Daniel Ziblatt— should alarm all of us—it is a call to immediate action. Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt are professors of government at Harvard and the authors of “Tyranny of the Minority” and “How Democracies Die.” Lucan Way is a professor of political science at the University of Toronto and an author, with Mr. Levitsky, of “Revolution and Dictatorship: The Violent Origins of Durable Authoritarianism” and “Competitive Authoritarianism: Hybrid Regimes After the Cold War.” The authors expound on the concept of “Competitive Authoritarianism” and the measurements they would use to evaluate whether or not we live in one. By their metrics, we certainly are. They point out, “The Trump administration’s weaponization of government agencies and flurry of punitive actions against critics has raised the cost of opposition for a wide range of Americans.” Like other autocratic regimes, this administration has attacked the media, universities, private citizens, law firms, and a plethora of entities that it perceives as threats. It has shown disdain for judges that it disagrees with, even trampling on the rights of due process. All of these point to the extent this administration is willing to go to take control and spread fear. In a bold paragraph, these authors call out for civil leaders not to back down and acquiesce as many have been doing… they state; “acts of individual self-preservation have serious collective costs. For one, acquiescence will probably embolden the administration, encouraging it to intensify and broaden its attacks. Autocrats rarely entrench themselves in power through force alone; they are enabled by the accommodation and inaction of those who might have resisted. Appeasement, as Churchill warned, is like feeding a crocodile and hoping to be the last one eaten.” There is much we can still do, but our time is running out. Project 2025 and its mouthpieces (like Stephen Banning) have made great strides to undermine democracy. We can still speak up, speak out, and—as John Lewis would say—“Get in good trouble.” Show up at demonstrations. Don’t be afraid to dig deeper into the opinions of others who have supported or still support this regime. Learn as much as you can and share it wherever you can. This is the beginning of the end for the US Democracy and a continuation of the attack on Global Democracy that has been led by Vladimir Putin.
07.05.2025
‘It’s All Cronyism Going Forward’
Katherine J. Wu does an excellent job of laying bare the amount of cronyism (the appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications) occurring in this administration. The account in question involves Matthew J. Memoli, who before his recent appointment as the acting director of the $48 billion federal agency, was a relatively little-known flu researcher running a small lab at the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). What are his qualifications? He hates DEI and idolizes RFK, Jr. In essence, he’s a boot-licker of this administration. Now, as the NIH’s principal deputy director, Memoli will soon see his own research thrive as it never has before. As with Defense, Education, and Homeland Security, your background and experience are meaningless—perhaps even detrimental. All that matters is that you honor the Orange God in Mar-a-Lago. As Signalgate and the closing of the Department of Education (DOE) indicate, all that matters is that you blindly do whatever Project 2025 and their President tell you to do.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
When a president says he doesn’t have to follow the law and is too busy to offer due process to Americans, that’s called authoritarianism. This week, we examine the steps this administration (aided by a defunct Congress and Project 2025) has taken to undermine the US Constitution
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 13 (263 total reports)
03.05.20245-06.05.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
When a president says he doesn’t have to follow the law and is too busy to offer due process to Americans, that’s called authoritarianism. This week, we examine the steps this administration (aided by a defunct Congress and Project 2025) has taken to undermine the US Constitution.
Visual Stories!
In order for authoritarians to rule, they first need to cause panic and fear among voters. This song, Rule Them, Scare Them, focuses on how this administration is using fear to force martial law and take powers that do not belong to them.
Top Links of the Week
05.05.2025
The Missing Branch
Is this a lazy Congress or a jellyfish Congress? Is it some semblance of both? As this article points out, the workings of Congress for decades now have largely been shaped by the ultra-conservative, Newt Gingrich. As this article points out, since Gingrich, this body of legislators has become compulsively focused on performative partisanship and party loyalty. It has brought us such classless abominations as Marjorie Taylor Greene and the finally disgraced and resigned, Matt Gaetz, accused of regularly paying for sex and using illegal drugs. Perhaps no contemporary conformist has done more to create the inept body that we now call “Congress” than the spineless, MAGA-sotted, leadership of House Speaker, Mike Johnson. Johnson sees himself in biblical proportions, calling himself a modern-day Moses. The truth is he is a non-entity, political hack, from the backwater constituency of Shreveport, Louisiana. Johnson is inebriated with President 47—who is closer to Johnson’s true god than the YHWH of the Old Testament that led Moses.
04.05.2025
Trump is acting like it’s his choice whether he obeys the Constitution
When hasn’t this president been above the law? Surrounded by sycophants who defend all of his most base ideas (like becoming pope), 47 is now saying that a president has the “option” to follow the Constitution. This is the man who considered granting himself clemency for anything that he might do illegally—and the Supreme Court and GOP backed him up! Why not break laws if there are no consequences for doing so?
03.05.2025
Trump Shares WTF Image Of Himself As The Pope: 'Every Day Is More Absurd Than The Last'
Does President 47’s lunacy know any boundaries? Why should it? He’s never experienced consequences for any of the illicit actions he has taken. If he hasn’t bought his way out of problems, he’s used Congress and his cultic supporters to avoid them, or he just ignores them. This image that was shared by the White House (and promoted by ultra-white, ultra-right whacko, Lindsey Graham) is the latest in this man’s roller coaster ride to insanity (and taking the nation—perhaps the world—with him). To make matters more ludicrous (if possible), J.D. Vance jumped on the bandwagon to support 47’s wild imaginings of himself as the new Holy See.
02.06.2025
5 times the Trump team told Americans to accept being poorer
How interesting, the man with the most insatiable appetites—for sex, greed, power, and real estate—is telling the rest of the US that they are too consumption-oriented and that they should prepare to tighten their belts as America goes through a “Biden Overhang.” Yes, he is admitting that the cost of his tariffs will land primarily on consumers and blaming it on the previous administration. Of course, his GOP lackeys—rather than reining him in—are backing him 110%. This week, Lindsey Graham (always eager to please his master) suggested that President 47 should be pope, and in customary style, the White House released a photo of Pope Donny on its own news feeds.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The focus this week is on the gaps being revealed in the current administration and the excuses President 47 (and his sycophants) are using to explain their growing failures.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 12 (262 total reports)
23.04.20245-02.05.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The focus this week is on the gaps being revealed in the current administration and the excuses President 47 (and his sycophants) are using to explain their growing failures.
Visual Stories!
In order for authoritarians to rule, they first need to cause panic and fear among voters. This song, Rule Them, Scare Them, focuses on how this administration is using fear to force martial law and take powers that do not belong to them.
Top Links of the Week
02.05.2025
A Gutted Education Department’s New Agenda: Roll Back Civil Rights Cases, Target Transgender Students
It is not the goal of this administration to educate young people; it is their goal to indoctrinate them. Draconian cuts are being made to undermine the future of our children’s ability to thrive in a global economy (but, of course, this administration is also trying to undermine that economic order as well). Among those cuts are teaching substantive history or sex education classes, mental health support, anything that doesn’t support the radical right’s conservative so-called “Christian” agenda. Nothing would please Project 2025 more than a generation that doesn’t question its authoritarian dictums or explore the racism in the country’s past—which is now more likely to crop up in this administration’s future. Education Secretary Linda McMahon—who has no experience in education—and has publicly called AI, A1—is President 47’s choice to dismantle the education department. Like other cabinet members, she is doing his bidding, and the bidding of the greater source behind 47’s doctrines, Project 2025. Are you prepared to graduate the dumbest, meanest, most amenable generation since the Hitler Youth Corp? That’s the goal here.
01.05.2025
April 30, 2025
This commentary is filled with well-researched facts—unlike the President’s interviews. One of the things it reveals is how ludicrous (totally bonker bananas) this administration’s explanations for its obvious failures are: in economic policy, in immigration policy, in foreign policy, but also how crazy his minions have become in defending him. The GOP has even been redefining the meaning of the word “Day” to keep Congress from acting on its responsibility to set tariffs—a responsibility defined by the Constitution. President 47 is using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to strip Congress of its role as the body that sets tariffs. There is a time limit to the Presidential use of the IEEPA, which is why the GOP must redefine what the word “Day” means. According to President 47, the downturns we are seeing in the US economy, and even the downturns we are expected to see in the next quarter, are the sole fault of Joe Biden and what 47 calls “The Biden Overhang.” Washington Post legal and economic columnist Natasha Sarin called this administration’s justifications “totally bonker bananas.” The sad part is, this is going to get worse before it gets better. The economy will continue to tank as 47’s tariffs begin to take effect and goods stop flowing to the US market, the lies will continue to increase, and the GOP will expand its smokescreen. This President is preparing us for the “Christmas Slump” by saying, “Well, maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls, you know? And maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally.” Leave it to this felon, this bankruptcy king, to tell us that we should lower children’s expectations for Christmas this year—as if only they will experience the effects of his utter economic absurdity. And leave it to the GOP Congress to defend his lunacy—and even more—as hypocrites like Lindsay Graham try to suggest that this President should be the next Pope!
30.04.2025
Russia Is in Demographic Free Fall. Putin Isn’t Helping.
Read in The Atlantic: https://apple.news/AxyQzeaZySq2icQDnS9F8vw
If you wonder about the validity of Margaret Atwood’s “The Handsmaid’s Tale,” you need to read this article. Russia is facing a birth rate crisis and the way that Putin is addressing it would be comical, if it weren’t so devious and deranged. And—as if that part is not frightening enough—we need to understand that authoritarians and conservatives among the lunatic right wing will use this (are using this) as a model for their policies. In the article’s summary, the author, Anna Nemtsova, points to the real reason, Russian women aren’t having children; Putin has, “created a society that Russians no longer want to bring children into.”
29.04.2025
Trump’s Poll Numbers Have Plummeted and He’s Not Taking It Well at All
Charles P. Pierce, whose musings on this presidency are never without a sardonic smile, tells us that President 47’s poll ratings, after 100 days, are the worst of any president (including himself—the previous low). Of course, he is not going to accept these ratings. In customary fashion, he says the pollsters are “out to get him, liars, and should be prosecuted for election fraud.” These ratings, along with the loss of his pick in Canada, are beginning to mark this imbecile as the true pariah that he is. We need to keep it up, folks. Keep showing up to stand against this monarchy and his authoritarian dictatorship. It’s our only hope to save democracy for our children.
28.04.2025
‘I Run the Country and the World’
This is an important article chronicling the process of getting a face-to-face interview with a madman, as well as looking at what he’s done in his first 100 days. For me, the article points out how incredibly stupid the US electorate has been in electing this egomaniacal narcissist to office a second time, despite dire warnings that what he wanted (and what he is doing) is “blowing it all up—gleefully.” Yes, 47 even says he is “having fun doing it.” Over and over again, 47 tells the reporters what he has done and then asks, “Were you shocked by that?” As if that is the primary answer he is seeking from people, “Are you shocked?” If we’re not, we should be. Tearing down Global Democracy and leaving chaos in its wake is the priority of this administration—and he’s having fun doing it. If we think it can’t get worse, we’re fooling ourselves. For some reason, this president thinks he is worshipped—no doubt he is by the people with whom he’s surrounded himself. It is up to us to take to the streets and show him we do not support this behavior. We are not just shocked, we are appalled. The next series of national rallies occurs on May 1st (May Day). Please find your nearest rally and make your voice heard. “Hands Off!”
27.04.2025
One Hundred Days of Ineptitude
This excellent article by David Remnick, editor at the New Yorker since 1998 and writer since 1992, takes a refresher look at the travesties of this administration’s first One Hundred Days. We are seeing the truths of Adam Serwer’s book, “Cruelty is the Point,” come to life, especially over the weekend where we witnessed three children (one as young as two and one with brain cancer) deported with no access to attorneys and no due process. This administration is beyond cruel, it is inhumane—and revels in its inhumanity as if that were a badge of honor. In a flash of brilliance, this article ends with a quote from one of my favorite American leaders, quoting Remnick, “‘The limits of tyrants,’ Frederick Douglass said, ‘are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress.’ The President will persist in his assault until he feels the resistance of a people who will tolerate it no longer.”
26.04.2025
Judge charged with obstructing immigration agents, escalating Trump’s fight with judiciary
This administration wants to flaunt its authoritarian control and, like a two-year-old, push its boundaries until they are at the breaking point. Folks, only you and I can show these fascists that that point has been reached. Ignoring the Supreme Court, and now, using the FBI to arrest a judge in Wisconsin, are examples of how far this reactionary government-by-chaos is willing to go. Polls are showing that President 47 has the worst approval rating of any president (except for himself during his first term), but polls mean nothing to this administration. Only when those around him begin to see how politically costly it is to support this conservative regime will they begin to act differently. It’s time to take to the streets (if you have not) in order to literally save democracy. We need the overwhelming support of those who don’t want their children to be raised in a dictatorial nation.
25.04.2025
Keeping Score: Bill Disenfranchising Women Voters Passes U.S. House, Heads to Senate; Barbara Lee Becomes Mayor of Oakland; Republicans Threaten SNAP and Medicaid
If this administration confuses you, you’re not alone. It is evident that they are even confusing themselves. The Republicans call themselves “Pronatalists,” wanting families to have more babies. Meanwhile, their idol, Elon Musk, has 14. Between President 47 and Musk, they have 17 children by six women. Yet, while pushing this misogynist agenda, they also are making it increasingly difficult for women to vote, get medical care, receive support payments, and feed their children. The most evident semblance of a policy is that they want women to have more babies, but they don’t want to support them when they do. They also don’t want women to vote in elections. This is the new GOP feminism.
24.04.2025
Transcript: Trump Is a Weak and Failing President. Treat Him that Way.
President 47 is obsessed with adulation—and he’s not getting it. In fact, his poll numbers have tanked. President 47 has the worst 100-day approval rating of any president in history (the previous worst president was himself as President 45). So what does he do? What does he have his spokespeople do? Make up adulation, spin the facts like they’re a roulette wheel, and try to stay ahead of the news cycle, only—with multiple fronts collapsing (tariffs, defense, deportations, health)—it is getting increasingly hard to spin the wheel fast enough—even for this professional carny. The great negotiator is increasingly looking like a bumbling agitator, and this interview with Simon Rosenberg analyzes the broad array of failures this administration is encountering. But there’s no time to be smug or enjoy the implosion; 47 is still doing a lot of damage through executive actions and orders. Sure, they can be walked back judicially when this administration is finally gone; but there is substantial damage that can be done between then and now. Keep up the pressure, keep showing up, keep using your purchasing power. Keep informed. An advisor of 47’s administration stated today that opposing deportation is an act of terrorism. This, of course, is part of the branding this administration has to do in order to declare martial law. Keep it up, folks; let’s make sure that this brand of authoritarian conservatism can never find a foothold in the US again.
23.04.2025
The Trump Administration’s War on Children
Republicans love babies—before they’re born—after that, they make it very difficult for children to live sustainable lives. Children are a commodity to this administration, and like any bad parent, they can’t wait to wash their hands of their commitments to support them. This administration wants to diminish child support payments, undermine education, eradicate school lunch programs, indeed, any food programs that might support young children. This article documents the numerous ways this administration has literally attacked programs supporting the welfare of children—especially impoverished children. It is imperative, for the future of our young ones, that this conservative viewpoint be extinguished once and for all. No more attacks on children, no more escorting our future into ignorance and poverty. The duplicity of the GOP must be called out and canceled.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The review this week focuses on this president’s attempts to create enough chaos to declare martial law. The only way this administration can do what it really wants to do (prevent future elections) is to sow enough chaos to take control of the US. Whether that be through chaos in the economy, on campuses, or at the border. Let’s not be distracted; he (they) wants to declare martial law.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 11 (261 total reports)
16.04.20245-22.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The review this week focuses on this president’s attempts to create enough chaos to declare martial law. The only way this administration can do what it really wants to do (prevent future elections) is to sow enough chaos to take control of the US. Whether that be through chaos in the economy, on campuses, or at the border. Let’s not be distracted; he (they) wants to declare martial law.
Visual Stories!
This administration is intent on bypassing the civil rights of US Citizens and ignoring the court. Their latest action is a step towards incarceration-at-will. Jailing anyone who disagrees with this president and making them “Disappear.”
Top Links of the Week
22.04.2025
Hundreds of scholars say U.S. is swiftly heading toward authoritarianism
Widespread opinion among political scientists finds that the US is heading towards authoritarianism—swiftly. Not in a measured, paced manner, but rapidly, chaotically, each day’s varied actions by this administration compile upon the previous day’s efforts like a snowball gaining momentum as it barrels downhill. President 47 is an arsonist; he is busy starting as many fires as possible to see which one will ignite the US so that he can finally declare martial law. Only by declaring this crisis scenario can his administration justify disregarding the courts and, eventually, the electorate. This is how an arsonist starts a house on fire. Not with one large flame, but many small blazes in multiple places until it all becomes an inferno. President 47 and his handlers want to see which flame will actually cause the whole house to explode; the economy, universities, immigration, civil rights, all of these embers are designed towards one purpose: to end the rule of law in the United States. These scholars say he (they) are getting closer daily to their ultimate goal.
21.04.2025
Why Democrats should keep talking about immigration
Keep in mind, in order to enact the full range of powers sought by this administration (Project 2025, Musk, and President 47), the current president has to create enough chaos to declare martial law. Whether that be via an economic crisis, a university crisis, or a crisis at the border. We must not become distracted. This current president serves one purpose for the clandestine agencies that truly own him: to be the face that draws the hate that will justify martial law. Once he has done that, they will be done with him and ready to move onto their next patsy: J.D. Vance. The current president is merely a front man; he is the “Apprentice” television carny who is their lightning rod, but not their long-term choice. He merely is serving a purpose to their true ends: that of undermining democracy at home and abroad. Democrats should not fall into his traps, distracted daily by the chaos and smokescreens of this administration. It’s the long run we should keep our eye on: their desire to use martial laws to create an emergency that will justify preventing the next election.
20.04.2025
A conservative judge makes the case: Time is running out on American democracy
The opinion from this judge is all the more important because it comes from J. Harvie Wilkinson, a well-respected and deeply conservative judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. This judge was appointed by Ronald Reagan in 1983. If this opinion doesn’t make conservatives wake up to the constitutional crisis, nothing will, and sadly… probably nothing will. Ignoring the Supreme Court and refusing to return Kilmar Garcia from an El Salvador prison camp is in defiance of the most fundamental laws of the U.S. democracy. Yesterday was the 250th anniversary of the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World,” and Paul Revere’s Midnight ride. All around the world, people gathered for 50501 (50 States, 50 protests, 1 day). Mass demonstrations against this administration declared, “Hands Off” to Project 2025, Elon Musk, and their patsy, President 47. Last night, in Merida, Mexico, my wife and I attended a rally organized by Democrats Abroad, Yucatan. I learned of ways that we—people who have immigrated to other countries but still want our voices heard—can participate in furthering the cause of ending this despicable oligarchy. One way to make your voice heard, no matter where you live, is to join the site, Five Calls. This app allows you to find your legislators, pick a cause important to you (a total of 55 contemporary issues, updating constantly), and send five recorded phone messages to people you want to encourage to learn more about these causes. They provide a script and guidance on making your calls. Over 8 million calls have been made. Will you be part of the next 8 million?
19.04.2025
NPR obtained documents showing major upcoming changes that could limit human rights
It would be foolish to think that the State Department under this administration wouldn’t try to dummy down Human Rights reports around the world. Especially in countries where they want to partner for prison camps, like El Salvador. The report in this document provides clarity into a practice this Administration would rather you didn’t know. Along with many other of President 47’s policy changes, it is despicable and another way to whitewash the abuses he is committing at home and abroad. Thank you, NPR, for bringing this to the public. Fine reporting at its best. Not opinion news, like many other sources, but uncovering truth and revealing it.
18.04.2025
Don't believe fake Trump post saying 'most ladies' don't want to vote
President 47, in his vast understanding of women, wants us to know why it’s okay to take the vote away from them (i.e. the SAVE Act recently passed by Congress). In his “genius” reasoning, it’s because women don’t really want to vote. I’m sure, from his perspective, it’s an imposition on their feminine duties and what they were really put on Earth to do (serve him). The horror is that it is not just 47 who supports this thinking, but the GOP MAGA cult he has established around him. Congress passed this act! They should not be able to scurry away like rats hiding in a pantry on the Titanic. Seek out your Congressperson and place the blame squarely where it belongs. Across the nation, GOP Representatives are being harassed at town hall meetings. Marjorie Taylor Greene responded by having voters in her district knocked down by stun guns. We should all be offended by this bill—not just women—but men as well.
17.04.2025
The Emergency Is Here
This article is a dire warning about the constitutional crisis the US is NOW facing. Not someday, but TOday! This administration is “disappearing” people without due process and sending them to a prison camp in a country that has stated, “the only way out is death…” This is what the Trump Administration wants, and they are coming for you next. Do not pass this off as hyperbole; President 47 has stated publicly that he wants to begin sending US Citizens to this prison camp if they offend him. He wants to prevent people from entering the US if they have disagreed with him. He is acting… in all practical ways as a dictator, supported by his administration and uncontested by Congress. Saturday, April 19, are the next “Hands Off” rallies across the US. Please find one near you and show up. This tells those in power that a significant percentage of the US is against these actions and the direction of this administration. Show up! There’s still time.
16.04.2025
"Disappear without recourse": Trump's defiance of a court order means "any American" could be next
He told people that his administration would do this… yet millions, tens of millions, voted him in. He told people he would be a dictator, yet millions, tens of millions stayed at home and let him have his way with the country. This administration is ignoring the Supreme Court—when it suits them—and running to it for protection—when it suits them. They not only want it both ways, but Chief Justice Roberts is only too eager to attend to his whims. All in the name of taking permanent control of US democracy. April 19 is a huge day! An opportunity to show this administration—and its lackeys—that there is strong opposition to what this administration is doing. Remember, it only takes three point five percent to make a difference!
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week’s news review focuses on the “extraordinary danger” President 47 and his cabinet pose to the United States and looks at those forming opposition to him.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 10 (260 total reports)
09.04.20245-15.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week’s news review focuses on the “extraordinary danger” President 47 and his cabinet pose to the United States and looks at those forming opposition to him. Will you be among the resistors? Remember, all it takes is three point five percent to cause significant change, and this week’s “Hands Off” rally is your chance to participate.
Visual Stories!
In support of those resisting the oligarchy this week, please check out the new visual story, Three Point Five, we don’t need everyone, we just need YOU!
And, if you want to pass on information about the man who brought tariffs to military bases and islands of penguins, enjoy this song, “Trump the Biggly Tariff Maker.” Please take a moment to like, subscribe, and/or share.
Top Links of the Week
15.04.2025
Over 24 hours, Trump makes his authoritarian-style vision plain
I still find it hard to fathom that so many people did not take Project 2025 and the now-President 47 at his word when they revealed their agenda for undermining democracy in the United States. Now, we are living the nightmare; this continues to be evident in the actions of the president and his cabinet, but the 24 hours between April 13 and 14 was a real doozy. Is this what the US voters wanted—or didn’t want badly enough to prevent? He’s not done; if anything, he is spurred on by a Congress that won’t confront him and seems impotent in his presence. All the more reason for people to prepare to show up at the nearest “Hands Off” rally this weekend. Remember, all we need is 3.5% of the population, and the movement will solidify. The last Hands Off rally was close to that percentage, and this one can go over the top. Three Point FIVE! How can you be a part?
14.04.2025
Bernie Sanders warns of 'extraordinary danger' facing U.S. under Trump at LA rally
The octogenarian, who has served his country with clarity for decades, is now speaking loudly about the extraordinary danger we currently face under this authoritarian regime. In Sanders’ own words, he says, "We are living in a moment of extraordinary danger," he said, "and how we respond to this moment will not only impact our lives but will impact the lives of our kids and future generations." There are times when I review what I am writing and how far I’ve strayed from focusing on purely adolescent issues, but speeches like this remind me, “This is the battle we must fight for future generations.”
13.04.2025
The Economist
This behind-the-scenes article tells us that the major decider behind the tariff chaos is President 47 himself. There does not seem to be an overall picture, although the videos of 47 with his billionaire cronies talking about how much they made in the last market collapse are pretty telling. Like everything related to this president, it’s all about the money and how manipulating others enriches him and the puppet-masters who put him on his throne.
12.04.2025
A Perfect Case for Congressional Action
There’s a whacko at the wheel. Folks, it’s time to tell Congress to do its job. They could be checking this administration on the constant whims and wackiness of their madman President. As this article points out… no one person (especially a mentally unstable one) should be allowed to control the global economy. It IS within the power of Congress to prevent this. But apparently, they don’t think it’s pressing enough to respond even though scores of people are seeing their retirement income and life savings threatened. Call your Congressperson—especially if you have a spineless Republican lackey of Mike Johnson and President 47. Tell them to do their job and hem in this whacko at the wheel.
11.04.2025
Ketanji Brown Jackson is not holding back against Trump or her fellow justices
The majority of the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Roberts may be tidily in President 47’s back pocket (or him in theirs—it’s hard to tell who owns whom these days), but Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is boldly speaking truth to power and giving other justices like Sotomayor, Kagan, and even Coney-Barrett the courage to stand behind her. She might eventually replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg as the leading liberal justice voice. Her last dissent about sending people from the US to prison camps abroad compares the actions of the Conservative court to those who voted to intern Japanese Americans during World War II. Only she says, this Supreme Court is far more nefarious in its desire to hide their opinions behind legalese. Apparently, they do not want their opinions to see the light of day in the future if the US does return to some form of normality. Shame on them. Shame on the GOP, and shame on those people who voted for this termination of people’s civil rights and those who stayed home or declared they were Independents at a time when Project 2025 and President 47 (then 45) declared their intention to be a dictatorship! No excuses, none!
10.04.2025
America, the Isolated
https://www.theindex.media/america-the-isolated/?utm_source=flipbJoaoard&utm_content=other
This writer, Joan Westenberg, should be noted not only for her insight but also for her lilting style. She unmasks this administration’s chaos with eloquence. Not only does the emperor have no clothes, but he is appalling indeed to behold. He’s the exhibitionist everyone wishes they had not seen. This administration (and its global cohorts) are intent on dismantling cooperative trade globally and moving the world back to a medieval age of feudalism; revenge economics or… (as she points out, cultural revanchism). They will only be satisfied with the destruction of global cooperation and current alliances all over the democratic world, all bowing down to one authoritarian regime (assumably Russia). We must keep our eye on the long game and the deviousness behind the apparent chaos. Prepare for the next “Hands Off” rallies and support DEI stores. Use your voice and your pocketbook to undermine this far-right radical regime.
09.04.2025
Robert Reich: The Real Reason We’re In A National Emergency – OpEd
This administration has declared an national emergency and is using those powers to undermine democracy. Reich looks at the varied ways that President 47 and his puppet-masters (we must remind ourselves that 47 isn’t smart enough to act alone, he is a front man for multiple nefarious agencies like Project 2025, Elon Musk, John Roberts, Mike Johnson, and Vladimir Putin). They have to continually concoct new emergencies to continue undermining global democracy. Remember, their primary goal is to use chaos and smokescreens to overwhelm you. Don’t give in to it. The next “Hands Off” rally is April 19, find a way to attend and show that citizens of the US hate this president and his regime.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In this week’s news review, President 47 is losing influence, and Congress is beginning to pay attention to the number of people protesting. Keep up the resistance!
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 09 (251 total reports)
02.04.20245-08.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In this week’s news review, President 47 is losing influence, and Congress is beginning to pay attention to the number of people protesting. Keep up the resistance! Examine the Harvard Rule saying, “If a movement can mobilize 3.5% of the population to participate, there are likely much larger proportions of the population that sympathize with and support the movement.” Republicans are beginning to get nervous at town halls and watching the response to those who hate this administration.
Visual Stories!
One blogger stated, “My kitchen cabinets have more intelligence than the cabinet this presidency has compiled.” This miscarriage of an administration was not assembled for their knowledge or ability; they were chosen for their fealty, their allegiance to “King-You-Know-Who.” Enjoy this tongue-in-cheek examination of President 47’s inept appointees in this visual story, “Fraudulent Sycophants.” And, if you want to pass on information about the man who brought tariffs to military bases and islands of penguins, enjoy this song, “Trump the Biggly Tariff Maker.” Please take a moment to like, subscribe, and/or share.
Top Links of the Week
08.04.2025
Freedom of speech is shifting under the Trump administration. We're exploring how
This administration has an interesting new direction for US students: “How do you raise a generation of idiot racists that are clueless about world history—especially US history?” Teachers are becoming afraid of teaching actual history because of new policies from this administration that encourage parents to report educators that make children feel uncomfortable about what is taught in class. What??!!! Let’s say that again, “narc on teachers that make their child feel uncomfortable!!!” It’s not just teachers who are nervous either; across the US, students are afraid of showing up for protests for fear they will be deported. Scientists fear research that will make them appear they support diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI). In fact, many researchers are already leaving the US for foreign countries where they can openly study (for example) climate issues or vaccines. This is the US that citizens voted for; this is the president they wanted. If you don’t want to raise a generation of idiot racists and fascists, then perhaps you will join those who are marching in the streets in the “Hands Off” rallies across the nation. Remember folks (as mentioned two days ago), we only need 3.5% to make the politicians take heed. Let them know you disagree! Let them hear you. Do what you can now to make a difference by speaking truth to power.
07.04.2025
I Should Have Seen This Coming
I admit to being a pretty die-hard fan of David Brooks. He’s one of the very few conservatives I will bend an ear to. So when he examines the rise of MAGAism and the Far Right nihilists, I want to digest every word. I think you will too. This article is filled with historical context and balanced by contemporary insight. It is a longer read, but worth the time. Please review it and share it. Discuss it with those around you who want to understand this reactionary administration and their power base. It will be worth your time. I guarantee it.
06.04.2025
Photos: Nationwide Protests Against Trump and Musk
I took great pleasure in looking at all the photos of the marches against authoritarianism yesterday. Remember people, it only takes 3.5 percent of a population—with a common vision—to overthrow a government. Or, as the Harvard Rule says, “If a movement can mobilize 3.5% of the population to participate, there are likely much larger proportions of the population that sympathize with and support the movement.” The current U.S. population is 235 million, so 11% would be around 8,225,000. The “Hands Off” protests yesterday were estimated at a total of 3.3 to 4.6 million people. The next marches will be on April 19th, so please mark your calendars and dust off your walking shoes!
05.04.2025
We just declared a trade war with the world
Don’t ask why, and certainly don’t look for a well-thought-out strategy, but this administration just started a trade war with the rest of the world. The U.S. has already lost; at least the working people of the United States. The stock market lost, penguins lost, and a little island that is home to no one except U.S. military personnel lost. These are the crazy workings of the inner mind of the madman that the U.S. elected president. However, be assured, Congress could stop this—but the GOP still lacks the spine to stand up to their Orange Demigod in diapers.
04.04.2025
There Is Only One Way to Make Sense of the Tariffs
Back in the days of sanity, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) used to run commercials that ended with the tagline, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste…” The slogan for these days of President 47 should be “A wasted mind is a terrible thing.” This article, by The Atlantic magazine, and written by Derek Thomson, tries to explain the tariffs being thrown about the world as insights into the demented mind of this administration’s President. Including tariffs against some islands that are more inhabited by penguins than people and Africa’s smallest nation, Lesotho, which seemed to own special anger by this administration, drawing the highest tariffs in the world. With no checks and balances to speak of and a Congress run by spineless MAGA Cult followers (be assured, a united Congress could stop 47’s manic tariff madness), we are left with a viewpoint into one of the sickest, most decrepit minds in the world. It is indeed a terrible thing.
03.04.2025
Wisconsin’s Message for Trump
Despite flying in at the last minute, wearing a cheese-head hat, and offering a $1 million bribe to anyone who voted for the Republican Supreme Court candidate, Elon Musk lost “biggly” in Wisconsin. As the author of this article, Charles Sykes, points out, “In a state where many elections are decided by razor-thin margins and where Trump won only narrowly in November, Musk’s conservative candidate was shellacked.” As Sykes points out, what is most apparent is that Musk has become a “political boat anchor.” Rumors are that the self-styled “Kingmaker” may be seeing the door at the end of his agreed-upon term of 130 days. Apparently, many voters—especially in Wisconsin—agree that it cannot come soon enough.
02.04.2025
Cory Booker Reminds Democrats What Fighting Back Looks Like
As this article notes, Cory Booker showed us “how it’s done.” Booker has never shied away from a fight, and he took on—not just this administration—but a previous speech record held by racist Strom Thurmond. Senator Booker stood, without any breaks, for 25 hours and read into official congressional history the story of the US’s struggle against racism and now, this administration’s fascism. It was a shot in the arm that Democrats needed in their stand against the authoritarian policies of Project 2025, Putin, Musk, and the other people who own this president. Let’s hope this is just the start and that the bravery continues. Simultaneously, congratulations to Susan Crawford—and all of Wisconsin—who stood up to Musk’s bribery attempts to buy votes in the state election for their supreme court. It was a major setback for Musk and President 47 in a deeply seated Republican state.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week we focus on the works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who bravely confronted the Hitler regime and was imprisoned and executed for his efforts. He determined that the underlying cause of Hitler’s support was not malice but stupidity. Indeed, one of my favorite Bonhoeffer quotes is: “The power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.”
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 08 (250 total reports)
25.03.20245-01.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week we focus on the works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who bravely confronted the Hitler regime and was imprisoned and executed for his efforts. He determined that the underlying cause of Hitler’s support was not malice but stupidity. Indeed, one of my favorite Bonhoeffer quotes is: “The power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.”
Bonhoeffer also told us, "The ultimate question for a responsible man to ask is not how he is to extricate himself from this whole affair, but how the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for Truth." The focus of this blog is help the coming generation to continue to survive and live for truth.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Two new releases this week focus on the works of Bonhoeffer, “Bonhoeffer; We Must Ask,” and the ineptitude of this administration, “Fraudulent Sycophants.” Please take a moment to listen, subscribe, and share…
Top Links of the Week
01.04.2025
This Is Not An April Fools' Day Joke
The point of this well-written article is: “Who needs April Fools Day this year?”Just an overview of the first 72 days of this Administration is enough to make our heads swirl; but that was always the intent, always the plan. Steve Bannon and other White House deceivers made this clear even before he was released from prison. Their intent was to “flood the zone,” create “shock and awe,” do so much damage in such a short period of time that the press, Congress, and the courts could not keep up. Truly, the major things we need to focus on are: 1) the intent to undermine global democracy, and 2) the intent to create enough havoc to implement Martial Law (so they can undermine democracy).
31.03.2025
SNL Has Entered the Chat
We need more articles like this from Megan Garber of The Atlantic. And more skits like this from the comedic minds of SNL. “The Chat” referred to here is, of course, Signalgate. The use of an unprotected chat platform to discuss attack plans and state secrets by the incompetent sycophants of President 47’s administration. All the while again revealing that they have no experience and little knowledge of the work they are doing. Their only true qualification for their jobs—they hate who 47 hates. The arts; drama, comedy, and music, may be the best way we can resist in the midst of this administration’s cacophony. While you read up on this article, take a moment to enjoy my new video song, Fraudulent Sycophants.
30.03.2035
Don’t think ‘it can’t happen here’ — it’s already happening
For those of you who voted for this administration (or were too apathetic to turn out…), here’s the regime you asked for. US representatives (ICE) are now arresting people and sending them to prison camps and foreign countries with no due process. This act, now known as “Disappearing,” is a flagrant violation of civil rights and human rights. It is directly from the playbook of fascists everywhere. And, as Robert Reich points out; “If they can ‘disappear’ them, they can disappear you.” This administration has reached a point where they are ignoring the courts, and the Constitution doesn’t matter anymore. Well done, supporters of 47 and his regime. This is exactly what you signed up for.
29.03.2025
America's academic brain drain has begun
As Project 2025 and their President begin closing down science and academics in the US, irreparable damage is being done to the education and research structure. Highly qualified professors and scientists are a hot commodity globally, and they are beginning to leave the US for countries that will allow them to do open research; especially in areas like disease control and climate change. The intent of this administration is clear: thinking people will not vote for an oligarchy, or, as our friend Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “the power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.” This administration intentionally wants to substitute education with indoctrination. It doesn’t want a generation of young people who have the critical ability to think for themselves. It wants a generation of sycophants that will do what they’re told. If that means destroying the intelligence bank of the US forever—they will please them to no end. Keep resisting—they have not won yet!
28.03.2025
The Biggest Scandal of the Second Trump Term Isn’t “Signalgate”
This administration is all about Chaos and Smokescreens. They hope to “flood the zone” with so many catastrophic decisions that people will miss the essence of what they are attempting to do. This article calls that behavior out. This administration is violating constitutional rights and acting like the gestapo, abducting (literally kidnapping) people off the streets for illegal reasons and deporting them without due process. Nothing could be more “Hitler-esque.” Folks, we are witnessing the demise of democracy. Project 2025 and their patsy, President 47, said they were going to do it, and the American people voted for it anyway. Once again, I return to Bonhoeffer’s important words: “How the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for truth.” Will we be among those who say, “I did everything within my means to resist these authoritarians…”
27.03.2025
The SAVE Act’s Impact on Women Voters Isn’t a Coincidence. It’s Voter Suppression.
This critically important article by Beth Lynk, of Ms. Magazine, lays out the hypocrisy and duplicity of this administration (and its patsies, like Speaker Mike Johnson) in seeking to prevent women—and especially impoverished women— from voting. In true Orwellian fashion, they are even calling their bill, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. Lynk points out that the result of this bill (if fast-tracked through Congress this week) would be to prevent “as many as 69 million married women and 3.3 million trans voters from being able to vote because they lack a birth certificate that matches their legal name and another 140 million American citizens who do not have a passport,” including, as Lynk states, “56 percent of Black Americans”. We must keep our eye on the ball; the aim of this administration is to undermine global democracy beginning with the US. They do not want you to vote. They are doing everything they can to prevent you from voting. Picking up from the article about Dietrich Bonhoeffer yesterday, I leave you with this quote: "the ultimate question for a responsible man (person) to ask is not how he is to extricate himself from this whole affair, but how the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for Truth."
26.03.2025
When Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German Pastor, Theorized How Stupidity Enabled the Rise of the Nazis (1942)
Bonhoeffer was a theologian, activist, and dissenter during the rise and reign of Hitler. For his beliefs, he was imprisoned and eventually executed, but his words have perhaps never been clearer as indicated in this concise, but critical article about Bonhoeffer’s studies on “stupidity.” An enemy that he said was greater than evil. To understand this regime (the administration of President 47), we must understand stupidity. Perhaps the pivotal quotes in this article by Colin Marshall are, ““Every strong upsurge of power in the public sphere, be it of a political or of a religious nature, infects a large part of humankind with stupidity,” and, “Since such phenomena could hardly arise without blindly obedient masses, it seems that “the power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.” How insightfully true of today’s political situation in the United States.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The cruelty of this administration was predictable. One could also have suggested incompetence based on the lack of knowledge and experience in picking members of this administration, but the level of incompetence is frightening.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 07 (249 total reports)
19.03.20245-24.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The cruelty of this administration was predictable. One could also have suggested incompetence based on the lack of knowledge and experience in picking members of this administration, but the level of incompetence is frightening.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
For those who are determined to resist the efforts of this administration, I’m posting a number of visual stories (original songs with videos) to hopefully provide inspiration and motivation. This week’s newly released songs include “Resistance, Resilience,” and a tribute to civil rights justice, Ruth Bader-Ginsberg. “The Notorious RBG.”
Top Links of the Week
25.03.2025
The Hollow Men
This article takes the incompetency of Pete Hegseth and other 47 administrators (including the Vice President) one step deeper and looks at the empty suits with whom this president has surrounded himself. They were not just picked for the reasons of fealty to 47 and a commitment to his platform of revenge, but they are dangerously incompetent. The leaked top-secret war plan was posted on a platform (Signal) that could be later deleted and hidden (unlike federal e-mails and texts) and was accidentally sent to a journalist at The Atlantic (Jeffrey Goldberg). How do you “accidentally” send state secrets to a journalist? We already knew that cruelty was the point of this administration; now we can justifiably add incompetence as a second level of frightening qualities.
24.03.2045
Educators raise alarm about childhood hunger
Apparently, this is the US that many people wanted. A US that alienates its best global friends and, in particular, other democracies, a US that ranks as one of the unhappiest countries in the world, a US that is identified as an abuser of civil rights, and a US where children can’t focus in school because of hunger. To all you 47 supporters out there, this is what you wanted. To all you who stayed home and elected 47 by your indifference, this is what you wanted.
23.04.2025
A Constitutional Redline
This panel of constitutional scholars (18 legal experts) is giving us dire warnings that President 47 and his administration are flagrantly breaking the law established by the Constitution of the United States when it comes to the Administration Branch following the rulings of the Judicial Branch. This is a constitutional crisis. This is an administration determining itself to be above the law. Congress must respond with impeachment proceedings. Anything less is not an option! This is the showdown that Project 2025 wants, and it would be derelict not to respond.
22.03.2025
Musk Comes for the ‘Third Rail of American Politics’
In order to fund himself, Musk needs to cut Social Security and Medicare. 47 promised not to do it, but his owner, Musk, did not make that promise. Remember, that’s because Musk never ran for election; he’s not elected; he just bought a president. This article looks at the alarming moves that Musk is making to make Social Security increasingly difficult to receive. It is not new in the Republican playbook; G.W. Bush tried it and lost the election because of it. The GOP fears little—outside of pleasing their demigod— but they do fear losing their seats, and town halls are erupting all over the US shouting down Republican congressional officials for kowtowing to Musk and this administration. It’s become so bad that the RNC is telling its members to quit showing up at town halls (just like they told them to quit debating opponents). This article looks at what happened to Republicans in the past when they tried to tamper with Social Security. But the money put away by workers of the US is just too enticing for these greedy monsters. In more positive news, 34,000 people attended a rally yesterday in Colorado for Bernie Sanders and AOC—record-breaking. The resistance is working, folks, keep showing up!
21.03.2025
‘The Second Coming’: The Dismantling of Six Decades of U.S. Foreign Assistance Investments by Trump and His Vandals
Whenever you desire a perspective on how bad things are for women’s rights and families in the US or world, Ms. Magazine is the best source. This article examines the illegality of DOGE and Musk’s special appointment by President 47, as well as the potentially illegal disassembling of USAID around the world. It is normally the first step of every GOP administration to turn back the clock on women’s rights, but, of course, this administration has taken dismantling to a whole new level of cruelty. Women and families are under attack by this administration and its shadow board of directors, Project 2025. Barbarism is their new byword, and there is a certain sadistic enjoyment being displayed by this administration’s attempts to turn the clock back to the dark ages and rivaling the Taliban in its actions. Thank you to Ms. Magazine for keeping us informed. The damage done already may be irreparable, but we must continue resisting nonetheless.
20.03.2025
U.S. falls to lowest-ever ranking on 2025 World Happiness Report
Looks like US Voters got what they wanted, but it didn’t make them happy. The meanness of 47’s character is having ripples around the globe. People are unleashing their anger as they watch it made acceptable by their fake orange cult leader. But there is no cathartic effect. Research has indicated that releasing our anger doesn’t make us feel better, it just affirms the pattern of a juvenile response to aggravating stimuli. The US now has the pitiful, small-minded, icon it desired, but is realizing it isn’t the ticket to happiness it thought it would experience. To become happy, focus on curiosity and the habits of joy. Seek to validate others daily, not tear them down. The first step to resisting this administration of revenge is to build personal resilience. What can you do today to grow stronger internally and encourage those around you?
19.03.2025
Trump Admin Continues To Defy Judge After Sending Migrants To Salvadoran Prison
El Salvador is 47’s Poland. This is where he is beginning to build his illegal gulag. This is the presidency that his MAGA-Cult followers wanted and now have. Defying judges and creating his own laws. Deporting people because they dared to practice free speech on US campuses. Fait accompli. King 47 has taken office. The resistance must dig in and stay strong. What can you do to resist today?
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We’re in a long-term fight for democracy, and we need to find strategies to sustain our energy to continue resisting. Hopefully, this news review will provide you with insights into what is happening this week.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 06 (248 total reports)
12.03.20245-18.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We’re in a long-term fight for democracy, and we need to find strategies to sustain our energy to continue resisting. Hopefully, this news review will provide you with insights into what is happening this week.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
This week I introduced two songs about American legends that stood for civil rights. RBG broke through glass ceilings as one of the major voices for civil rights (and especially women’s rights) in US history. Please pass her story to others through this original song and presentation: “The Notorious RBG.” The second song features Congressman John Lewis, whose famous words, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble,” are remembered in this visual story: “Good Trouble.”
Top Links of the Week
18.03.2024
The Political Fight of the Century
This article gives insightful glimpses into the reasons the current administration won the last election, the disillusionment of voters over the economy, and the inability of Democrats to capitalize on those feelings and offer a stirring response. It also gives a way forward if the Dems want to fight their way out of the basement and reasons why the current administration is failing the very people who put it into office. This truly is… the Political Fight of the Century and a deciding battle for global democracy.
17.03.2025
One Word of Truth Shall Outweigh the Whole World
This well-timed, reprinted op-ed piece by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is desperately needed at this time. Very few people understand oligarchies—and, in particular, Russian oligarchies—better than Solzhenitsyn. The Nobel Prize-winning laureate spent nearly a decade in the Russian gulag under Joseph Stalin. Peter Wehner, who reprinted this reflection, reminds us that the courage needed in Russia then is needed in the US today. Quoting Solzhenitsyn, he reminds us: “The world is being inundated by the brazen conviction that power can do anything, justice nothing. The price of cowardice will only be evil; we shall reap courage and victory only when we dare to make sacrifices.” It is time to shake off any complacency or sense that this administration will ever seek to negotiate a halfway point with its opposition. Democrats like Chuck Schumer are wrong if they think they can deal with President 47, his oligarchic regime, Putin, and Musk. It is time for full-on resistance!
16.03.2025
The Kind of Thing Dictators Do
Remember the famous poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller?
First they came for the Communists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the Socialists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me,
And there was no one left
To speak out for me.
This case of Mahmoud Khalil is exactly that kind of situation. As stated in this “The Atlantic” article by Graeme Wood, “Finding someone whose politics you don’t like and using some flimsy excuse to put him in handcuffs is the kind of thing dictators do.” Khalil is a Syrian Palestinian graduate student with U.S. permanent residency, and 47’s administration plans to eject him from the country for protesting at Columbia University. There’s been no case filed against him by 47’s administration. This is straight out of the books of Hitler, and it can’t be overlooked. It is a radical departure from the civil rights that are afforded by our Constitution for free speech. Since it seems apparent that Congress will not act to rein in President 47, it is up to courts and demonstrators. As the Notorious RGB once said, “When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty.”
15.03.2025
How Worried Should We Be About the Economy?
In this interview, Nobel Prize Winner and Professor, Paul Krugman, interviews someone he respects for balanced and non-reactive views on the economy; macroeconomist, Neil Dutta. To date, Dutta has been cautiously bullish about the economy slipping into a recession. Dutta is a real insider, deeply researching the halls of Congress and the inner workings of Wall Street financial corporations. Both Krugman and Dutta examine the housing market and remark that it has stayed south for an extended period of time. (A personal note here… Republicans—including this administration—have consistently sold off the national treasure of our forests to fund building.) Dutta cites layoffs at companies like Starbucks and Southwest Airlines, not to mention the drastic attempted cuts by Musk at DOGE, leading to jobs being cut “downstream” from the Federal government and then suggests the impact of Higher Education layoffs. To quote Krugman, “…consumers are unhappy, businesses are maybe fading out. Elon Musk is chopping up the government with a chainsaw…” The pair examine this administration for someone, “with the chops” to oversee all these economic levers and the best thing they can say about the only person they come up with, “Scott Beeson,” is, “at least he’s not an idiot…” That’s pretty telling to readers. The best thing these world-famous economists can say about the “main brain” behind Project 2025 (and soon to be released, Project 2026) is, “at least he’s not an idiot…? Just think, what does that imply about the rest of the administration tinkering with our economic future? Idiots? No doubt…
14.03.2025
EA-Times Radio VideoCast: "Trump Is Biggest Threat to US Constitution Since 1865" - EA WorldView
This article (podcast) is from Ireland, another country that used to be an ally of the US and now being shafted by President 47 and his rulers: Musk and Putin. Scott Lucas, the interviewer, explains why 47 is the biggest threat to the Constitution since Andrew Johnson’s presidency in 1865. 47 has said that Johnson is the president that he admires the most. Johnson, a Southern Democrat, took over from Lincoln when the President was assassinated. Like 47, Johnson was impeached (in 1868) for trying to usurp Congress. Eleven articles were filed against him. And like 47, he did not agree that African Americans were equal to Anglo-Americans. 47 has the record for being impeached (twice, in 2019 and 2021), yet the people of the United States voted him back into office anyway. Over 90 million people did not vote (which was more than those who voted for both 47 and Kamala Harris). 47 and his Radical Republican think tank did not disguise their intent to undermine the Constitution; in fact, at first, they bragged about it (until they began to see that it was costing them at the polls, whereupon they tried to hide their intentions). Now, thanks to the MAGA cult and those too apathetic to vote, the US faces a constitutional crisis. This is THE ISSUE, everything else 47 is doing is a distraction to keep people from understanding the true intent of this administration. If the US is going to save its democracy, it needs to wake up and resist at every level, personally and corporately, possible.
13.03.2025
U.S. Added to Global Human Rights Watchlist Over Declining Civil Liberties
Congratulations, Trump voters, your guy just added a new notch to his gun. The second-worst president (second only to himself during his first term) and the US economy’s leader in stock market declines, has now made a global list that includes other favorites like Serbia, Pakistan, and Sudan. The author of this Time Magazine article, Solcré Burga, points out, “the US was added Sunday to the CIVICUS Monitor Watchlist, a research tool that publicizes the status of freedoms and threats to civil liberties worldwide.” In the words of Mandeep Tiwana, Interim Co-Secretary General of CIVICUS, “The Trump Administration seems hellbent on dismantling the system of checks and balances which are the pillars of a democratic society.” The man who represents you, 47 voters (and stay-at-home ignoramuses), is fulfilling your inner fantasies of bullying and taking away the rights—and living standards—of the poorest of the poor in the world. This is what you wanted, this is what you now have.
12.03.2025
Why Psychopathic People Need So Much Power
The Canadian Beer Company, Molson Canadian, just released a brilliant marketing scheme, a “Presidential Pack” of beer. 1,461 beers, amounting to one a day for President 47’s term. Are they being optimistic or pessimistic? Do they really think that this administration is going to turn over power at the end of this term if 47 (or whomever holds the reins at that point) is still in power? That is certainly not their plan. President 47 is not only psychopathic, but he has surrounded himself with psychopaths and cult worshippers who are there solely to do his bidding (or the bidding of whomever paid him to win the election; let’s see… Putin? Musk? Project 2025? Just how many people does he owe his position to)? This article is timely—and important—for giving us insights into the nature of power and psychopathology.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In this week’s news review, we examine who profits from the dismantling of the US’s economy, global influence, and democracy globally.Civil
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 05 (247 total reports)
04.03.20245-11.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In this week’s news review, we examine who profits from the dismantling of the US’s economy, global influence, and democracy globally.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
This week, I released two new original songs in visual form. Both are designed to inform about the motivations and machinations of President 47’s administration. “Chaos and Smokescreens” as well as “Rulers, Not Leaders.” If you know people who are trying to understand the “shock and awe” of the administration of President 47, these videos will be informative.
Top Links of the Week
11.03.2025
How reliable is the government's economic data? Under Trump, there are real concerns
Bruce Colville, once stated, “Withholding information is the essence of tyranny.” Control of the flow of information is the tool of dictatorship.” President 47 and his puppet masters (Putin, Project 2025, the “Crony Capitalists”) do not see information as a tool to inform; they see it as a tool to rule. If we look at how desperately this administration has tried to control information, we begin to see key elements into its machinations. It’s little wonder that 47 so easily succumbed to allowing Musk to actually be in charge of his agenda—even taking over White House briefings. The power of manipulating information is not new to this administration, but its use is especially nefarious. Once we understand who benefits from ruining the US economy, the US’s relationship with the world, as well as global democracy, we begin to get a hint at who is working to control the information we see on a daily basis? Where do you get your news, and how do you confirm its legitimacy?
10.03.2025
The Tragic Success of Global Putinism
Yesterday and today we are examining “who wins” by destroying democracy—not just in the US, but globally. Yesterday we examined “Crony Capitalism,” and today we study “Global Putinism.” Thank you again, to “The Atlantic” for such in-depth reporting and analysis. There are still people out there protecting President 47 and the decisions he is making to “Drain the Swamp.” In truth, he is filling it with self-serving slimy carnivores that only want to satiate themselves. Putin ranks at the top of the list, but he is headed for a world power playoff with Musk… Unlimited military power vs. unlimited capital. Which one will collect the most obscene influence and dominate the world? How does President 47 play into all this? The carny showman selling lunches at Mar-a-Lago for a million or more a pop. Stand firm and resist… Do what you can to support others as they resist too. Tell the truth to power through whatever means you have available to yourself and… build your own resilience in the process. We’re no use to anyone if we are burned out too.
09.03.2025
Move Fast and Destroy Democracy
Who makes money by destroying democracy? Not just Elon Musk, but all the tech billionaires that bought and sold this administration according to Kara Swisher, in a fait accompli she calls, “Crony Capitalism.” This is an excellent, well-researched article (in the tradition of “The Atlantic”) about the efforts of the major tech billionaires since hiring President 47 to do their bidding. Whenever there are major problems in the world, particularly problems involving global inequality, it is imperative we ask, “Who makes the money off this injustice?” The analysis by Swisher lays out the culprits in clear fashion: the Crony Capitalists are making billions off of Project 2025 and the administration of this president.
07.03.2025
The House censures Democratic Rep. Al Green for disrupting Trump's joint address to Congress
In what is one of the many egregious acts of disrespect this week, House Cretin Mike Johnson led his GOP patsies in censuring a true patriot, Rep. Al Green, for speaking truth to power when—during President 47’s lie-laced diatribe to Congress, Green rose up and shouted, “You have no mandate!” Immediately, the spineless members of the GOP started chanting, “USA, USA!!!” which is an obscene joke since they have been selling out the USA to 47 and the oligarchs that control him/them. Apparently, Johnson and his minions forgot when another Greene (Marjorie Taylor Greene) called President Biden a “Liar” during his State of the Union address. I’m sure this is but a beginning to the many indignities the American people will have to witness as President 47 and his worshippers take us down a path of indecency and embarrassment as they dismantle the Constitution and bully foreign leaders on behalf of their true leader, Vladimir Putin.
06.03.2025
Donald Trump is emboldening bad behavior from every day Americans. But we can counteract this. - LGBTQ Nation
The author of this article, Dr. Warren J. Blumenfield, is a well-established author, also having written, "The What, The So What, and The Now What of Social Justice Education" and co-editor of "Readings for Diversity and Social Justice." Dr. Blumenfield chronicles the actions of the current administration and also the previous 45 administrations, going beyond labeling the President as a bully; the author calls the President a sadist; “Trump enjoys the hurt he causes. This is the very definition of a sadist.” Blumenfeld reminds us of the book, “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump: 27 Psychiatrists and Mental Health Experts Assess a President,” and their conclusions regarding the President’s, “narcissistic sociopathic personality.” One of the dangers we all are seeing—on airplanes, in our neighborhoods, and on our roads—Blumenfeld cites are the people who, “see the president’s behavior as justification for their own mean-spirited and uncivil actions.” I live in Mexico and moved here after living and working in Canada for twelve years, but I can’t help but also notice the increase in behaviors that foster claims about the “ugly” North American. People walking away from restaurants without paying their bills, people making ugly scenes in the streets because of minor parking infractions, dangerous and angry driving on local roads, as well as just being oblivious to local customs and language courtesies. In an age of social media, these discourteous events are all too public, creating a tension among locals in a beautiful community. I invite you to respond by going out of your way—wherever you are—to be increasingly courteous, go out of your way to be considerate, and allow someone to go in front of you. Constantly look for ways to increase kindness in your community.
05.03.2023
Trump Official Tells Americans to Buy Chickens to Deal With Egg Pricing Crisis
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollin has told US citizens that the increase of 25% on egg prices since 47 took office is actually a “silver lining,” and that citizens should start “buying chickens.” This is 47’s response to the economic hardships most middle and lower-income Americans are facing. Basically, “You’re on your own.” 47 and his administration have no interest in helping lower or middle America; he has no plan to reduce prices; he doesn’t even know what a trip to a grocery store costs. All 47 wants are tax cuts for the rich billionaires who got him elected. Meanwhile, 47 has been the overseer of the greatest five stock market crashes in the last forty years. No other president can make that claim! 47 is apparently running the US economy like his other business endeavors: into the ground.
04.03.2025
Linda McMahon has been confirmed as Trump's secretary of education
When administrators are appointed by cultic politicos, that’s not education, that’s indoctrination. McMahon has limited experience in education, no knowledge of educational theory, or curriculum development. What does she have? Fealty to her masters; President 47, Project 2025, and Elon Musk. What does that mean for the rest of us who truly advocate for the education of children? Prepare to resist. Education is about to become blatant indoctrination; into religious myths instead of science, whitewashed history (and I emphasize the “White”), adoration of the GOP leader, President 47, and pro-Russian propaganda. Our children will not learn real history, they will learn fundamental Christian theology that supports the principles of MAGA. I’m including a link to a new tongue-in-cheek song of mine with this post; “Indoctrination, not Education. Prepare to organize small group communities for helping your children learn the principles and a curriculum that will help them thrive in the world that is not MAGA-brainwashed.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no other way to label this administration than the “Enemy Within.” Project 2025, Elon Musk, and President 47 are committed to destroying democracy in the United States and doing as much damage as possible abroad.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 04 (246 total reports)
26.02.20245-04.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no other way to label this administration than the “Enemy Within.” Project 2025, Elon Musk, and President 47 are committed to destroying democracy in the United States and doing as much damage as possible abroad.
https://www.communitiesoftrust-jerrygoebel.com/youthadvocacy
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account, which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. You can find it by going to YouTube and searching for “Jerry Goebel.” Please subscribe while you’re there. This week’s feature is “Chaos and Smokescreens,” about the two primary goals of this administration.
Top Links of the Week
04.03.2025
Linda McMahon has been confirmed as Trump's secretary of education
When administrators are appointed by cultic politicos, that’s not education, that’s indoctrination. McMahon has limited experience in education, no knowledge of educational theory, or curriculum development. What does she have? Fealty to her masters; President 47, Project 2025, and Elon Musk. What does that mean for the rest of us who truly advocate for the education of children? Prepare to resist. Education is about to become blatant indoctrination; into religious myths instead of science, whitewashed history (and I emphasize the “White”), adoration of the GOP leader, President 47, and pro-Russian propaganda. Our children will not learn real history, they will learn fundamental Christian theology that supports the principles of MAGA. I’m including a link to a new tongue-in-cheek song of mine with this post; “Indoctrination, not Education. Prepare to organize small group communities for helping your children learn the principles and a curriculum that will help them thrive in the world that is not MAGA-brainwashed.
03.03.2025
There's really only one way to refer to Trump now. "The Enemy Within"
Someone with no less stature than Susan Rice, former National Security Advisor and UN Ambassador, tells us that we have reached “Code Red” with this administration’s dealings with foreign governments, that this administration needs to be labeled as “The Enemy Within.” Our only hope, according to Rice, is to use this label constantly and widely. Broadcast it from the mountaintops and in all of your social media posts. Our nation is being dismantled and sold to the highest bidder from within. What can you do today to issue a “Code Red” warning to the people you know?
02.03.2025
Trumpism Isn’t Working
This article points out in very direct terms how the administration of 47, bolstered up by Putin, Musk, and Project 2025, is flailing and likely to get worse. All signs are pointing to a floundering economy, a deeply divided administration, and a drowning geo-political strategy. Those of us who did NOT vote for this felon/rapist to become President cannot afford to just say, “I told you so,” and turn away. We must use our voices and our talents to resist the further inept actions of this sophomoric administration. We must be prepared to resist long-term with economic boycotts or supporting demonstrations whenever possible. Keep informed and keep resisting.
01.03.2025
It Was an Ambush
Never has the office of the president been so disgraced as yesterday, when a democratically elected leader of a country struggling for its freedom against an authoritarian regime (Russia) was yelled at and lied to by two miscreants who hold the office of President and Vice-President. The only one who can be proud of yesterday’s meeting is Vladimir Putin. 47 was his mouthpiece and serviced the dictator well. It was sickening to watch and will, undoubtedly, serve to continue turning the rest of the free world (the sane world) against the US and this administration. Can this goodwill ever be recovered? Probably not. Europe and other allies like Canada and Mexico are better served remembering it was the vote of the American people (and the choice of others to stay home) that put these buffoons in office. Many are already making new alliances that don’t include the US, and abroad—where 60-year-old USAID has been crippled—China is stepping in to replace our dysfunctional absence. To those who elected this abhorrent creature to office, to Musk, and to Putin, you got what you paid for…
28.02.2025
1 thing that upended years of U.S. foreign policy — and other big Trump developments
President 47 is beholden (owned) by numerous donors, not the least of whom are Elon Musk and Vladimir Putin. They paid for the media machine that elected him, and they have expectations. Those expectations are becoming clearer that this despicable, rapist/felon is in office. It was clear before the election that 47 was neither energetic nor intelligent enough to create the flurry of actions his administration is enacting. He is little more than a bought-and-paid-for pawn of foreign interests. Those interests are becoming even clearer as 47 operates as a stooge for Putin on a global stage and a stooge for Musk on the national stage. The actions of this administration are undermining the government internally and the US/NATO internationally. Even some Republicans are beginning to grumble about the depths of deceit and the President is now displaying. It matters little; they caved into him; he is their plant now. They can’t run away from the toddler/monster they have empowered. Today is Economic Blackout Day (Feb. 28) in the United States. I truly hope that people will vote with their pocketbooks, realizing how little their votes have mattered. Hopefully, you also read the article below about “The Rhythm of Resistance.” We’re in this for the long term, but it is working. Perhaps today’s blackout will reveal the local power even more. Hang in there…
27.02.2025
The Rhythm Of Resistance: How Can I Play A Part In This Movement?
The resistance is working, but it’s going to be a long haul. A favorite and primary tactic of the administrations of 45 and now 47 has been to break the law and wait for the public (and the courts) to catch up. As MLK said, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This article does a good job of teaching how to resist long-term. It reminds us about the importance of self-care and relationships that will prevent our burnout and foster our energy for the “arc of the moral universe” to catch up to the immorality and illegality of the Putin/Musk, Project 2025, 47 administration. It was in their design plan (according to Stephen Bannon) to throw so much at the press and public that people would not be able to keep up. That is exactly what they are doing. Creating Chaos and Smokescreens is a highlight of this administration. They will continue this strategy in the hopes that the press, the law, and the public can’t keep up. This strategy obviously worked well in getting 47 reelected. But, it too, is not a long-term strategy and the cracks are already showing at the seams of this administration. They don’t have the capacity to lead, only to rule. They are Rulers, not Leaders. Let’s make sure our strategy is long-term and not one that will burn out in a couple of months.
26.02.2025
The Adolescent Style in American Politics
This article by Paul Spella in The Atlantic truly spells out who adores President 47 and his rulership elite: People stuck in their adolescence. People who still think that getting front-row seats at UFC fights, having a yacht, and a third wife are prime examples of the lifestyles of the rich and famous. People who see themselves as being privy to that lifestyle someday without realizing that the exclusive 0.01% will put up all barriers possible for them to make it there. These people may spend like they are tycoons, but they are living on debt or the edge of bankruptcy—if not financially, then morally. They want to return to the days pictured in the misogynist television series about pseudo-wealth, Madmen. This article can be summed up in Spella’s statement, “at his core, Trump is an adolescent president, surrounded by adolescent flunkies, cheered into office by adolescent men.” Level-headed people do not vote for a convicted felon and rapist to lead them. Mature people have no desire to gain a fortune through the manipulation of others. Breaking the law (or pushing it to its ethical edge) is not the way they want to get ahead. Mature people want steady leadership, they want people who honor their allies, whose personal values are not up for sale to the rich and powerful. Mature people see through the smokescreens and chaos of a liar bent on solely making himself richer. If it perplexes you that this type of person is now President of the United States, if you wonder why anyone would vote for an administration so obviously driven by greed, misogyny, and racism, then you probably did not vote for 47 and do not support what the GOP has become under him. If this is not the type of government that you want to pass on to your children, do not feel you are alone. Resistance is on the rise, and you can be an active part. Join the boycotts, support the demonstrations, lend your voice. Raise an alternative vision. Because this administration is an adolescent administration, it is driven by the adolescent motivations of immediate gratification and continual self-pleasure. It is not destined to lead; it can only rule. Rulership is not sustainable; controlling people by bullying is not sustainable. The costs of such behavior are already showing up as cracks in this administration. Resist; don’t succumb. Hold on to your mature beliefs and keep your eye on the real agenda of Project 2025 and the puppet president, undermining democracy in the United States of America.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Continue resisting the patrimonial government of Project 2025, President 47, and his evil Rasputin henchman, Elon Musk. Signs show it’s working.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 03 (245 total reports)
19.02.20245-25.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Continue resisting the patrimonial government of Project 2025, President 47, and his evil Rasputin henchman, Elon Musk. Signs show it’s working.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. You can find it by going to YouTube and searching for “Jerry Goebel.” Please subscribe while you’re there. These presentation/slide shows are perfect for continuing education but also for assisting individuals dealing with online bullying, grief, or striving to be more resilient.
Top Links of the Week
25.02.2025
Uncle Sam Goes Rogue
The US, under President 47 and his authoritarian advisors, has just voted to side with authoritarian countries around the world or, as the Council on Foreign Relations states, they just “went rogue.” Under this administration, the US no longer stands for democracy or supports democratic efforts around the world. This is sickening to watch, but not unexpected. Project 2025, President 47, and his very own “Rasputin,” Elon Musk, are not believers in democracy. Their plan is to undermine it in the US and apparently, globally, as well. The sacrifices of Ukraine—even the truth of the narrative—mean nothing to them. It was embarrassing, but also enjoyable, to watch 47 be fact-checked live yesterday in a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, when 47 attempted to say that Ukraine initiated the war with Russia and that the US is footing the bill while France and other countries only supply loans. Good job, Macron. We can all stand up for truth by supporting economic blackouts like the one this Friday: no purchases on Friday across the US. The resistance is taking hold, and 47’s administration is starting to crack. Keep it up.
24.02.205
One Word Describes Trump
This article by Jonathon Rausch, senior fellow in the Governance Studies program at the Brookings Institution, was well worth the time it took to read it. In it, he reminds us of the concept introduced by Max Weber (1864-1920), German sociologist, of patrimonialism. Patrimonialists claim to be the symbolic father and protector of the people. This was exemplified in 47’s statement of Feb. 15th declaration on Truth Social, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” Of course, the too-lazy president (who apparently can’t be bothered by legality) has broken many laws, some of which are already backfiring on him. But patrimonialists see those who follow the law or support the bureaucracy as enemies because they are loyal to the law (the constitution) which might conflict with their loyalty to him. This is behind the purge undertaken by—what another publication/podcast, “Who, What, Why,” refers to as 47’s “very own Rasputin,” Elon Musk. Musk, like classic patrimonialists, wraps himself in democratic rhetoric by declaring himself and the purpose of his extralegal actions as, the “unelected fourth unconstitutional branch of government” so as to be “responsive to the people.” Rausch goes on to challenge Democrats to confront this administration’s actions by borrowing from the playbook of Newt Gingrich and pursuing a “relentless, strategic, and thematic campaign branding Trump as America’s most corrupt president.” Gingrich is, of course, a despicable character, responsible for much of what is wrong with today’s GOP, the rise of Project 2025, and their puppet, President 47. But there can be no doubt that his relentless attacks on Democratic House Speaker, Jim Wright, were sadly effective. Rausch points out that Democrats are too punch-drunk in response mode to congeal themselves around a central plan, but they will need to do it—and soon—if they are going to prevent this administration from solidifying their patrimony.
23.02.2025
How to teach hope when democracy is retreating
Astra Taylor, who wrote, “The People’s Platform,” winning the American Book Award, says we are living in a time of the “deliberate manufacturing of insecurity.” In this article, democracy and education professor, Joel Westheimer of the University of Ottawa, reminds us what we need to teach to young people in order for them to remain committed to democracy. Manufacturing fear is done primarily by organizations (like Project 2025) and authoritarians, like Putin and Trump, for the purpose of sowing chaos to frighten people into wanting autocratic rule. It has worked in many countries—including the United States—and if we have an interest in seeing the demise of dictatorships, then teaching civics, history, and democracy is critical for our children. As education in the US becomes less about facts and more about ideology, this role will fall less to schools and more to small communities of parents who believe it is important for their young people to learn. Home-based learning may have to become home-based resilience, even, home-based resistance.
22.02.2025
The DOGE Project Will Backfire
As with everything else he does, 47’s quest to gut federal agencies is not based upon research or facts. In fact, if you read this important article (please do), it will illustrate the truths that President Musk and self-claimed King 47 are ignoring, like: the federal workforce has actually been decreasing in recent years, and putting USAID workers on leave does not decrease expenditures; it just means the government is still paying them while they do not work. There are many more important notes in this examination. For example, an organization that focuses on using terror for motivation never thrives, and any government actually needs a viable workforce to function. These would seem obvious truths to anyone who has run a successful business, but isn’t that the point? King 47 certainly has never run a functional business, and the owner of X certainly doesn’t have high marks either. The sad part for all of us is how long do we have before the government finally comes to a grinding and complete halt? This administration is doing irreparable damage to the workings and reputation of the US government. People like Putin couldn’t be more gleeful than to watch this administration do to undermine the US what he would be unable to do from the outside. Our role is to keep resisting; there are signs that the plan we read about from Senator Elizabeth Warren yesterday is working. What can you do this week to increase your resilience?
21.02.2025
Sen. Elizabeth Warren: Here’s the Plan to Fight Back
Senator Warren has been a consistent and clear voice opposing government by billionaires for years. Her own campaigns reflect her commitment to public funding, rather than the dark money funding that has cursed the US since the passing of the so-called “Citizens United” (certainly an Orwellian name given the power it gives to behind-the-scenes billionaires like Musk, Zuckerberg, and Bezos). In this article, Warren lays out a multi-tiered, multi-year plan to stall 47 and his cronies while Democrats rebuild trust with the American people. The plan begins—as it should—with what went wrong in the last election and how the Democrats lost the trust of the working class. This is an important article for those who want to retain a democracy in the United States of America and not just hand over the country to authoritarians like 47 or oligarchs like Musk.
20.02.2025
Trump’s Latest Executive Order Is a Big Step Toward Authoritarian Control
We must not lose focus with all the distractions. The primary aim of Project 2025 and their puppet President 47 is to prevent future elections so they can retain their power and solidify it. Tariffs, border protection, all of it is in support of one aim: remaining in power. The hardest part for the press (and those of us not enraptured by his constant stream of lies) is keeping up with whom 47 owes his allegiance. Putin? Musk? Project 2025? The list goes on. President 47 is their front man. They needed him to win the election, but they would just as soon ditch him if he got in the way of what they wanted. Don’t take your eye off the ball. It’s power they want, and they want it permanently.
19.02.2025
It’s Going to Take Years to Train Another Generation of Federal Workers
I watched with bated breath this morning to see if my Social Security check would arrive. I put money into that account every month for decades; it does not belong to the government—and certainly not to Elon Musk. However, the GOP has been trying to tell Americans for years that the account they paid into is really a government handout and could be used for other purposes. The truth is that they have been seeking ways to take those funds and destroy the solvency of Social Security for years. They want to spend it just as they’ve spent so many other taxpayer dollars, on tax cuts for themselves and rich supporters, as well as defense contracts—now going to people like Elon Musk. Many of us, including federal workers who are being illegally fired, feel we must find ways to protect ourselves against our own government. How did that come to pass? Quite simply, the US voted for an oligarchy. Musk and other oligarchs bought and paid for 47’s election, and now they want a return on investment. They want to turn off the spigot to those who have diligently poured their lives into the jobs and into their savings. They want to abuse allies that have built a relationship with the US over decades since WWII. They are passionate about turning that spigot into their own pockets so they will have unrequited power and money. Federal workers and others are rising up all around the United States, and a lot of their protests are focused on Tesla plants. Yesterday’s President’s Day protests were just a start. As those who voted for this administration begin to see how 47 crassly lied about what he would deliver, they will see their funding cutoffs, their favorite programs overseen by Musk’s incompetent technicians (like those who absentmindedly fired the staff overseeing the country’s nuclear codes), they will see their Medicare cut off, and the price of drugs skyrocket. Eggs won’t be the only item whose price becomes unaffordable. The US won’t be Great Again; it will be the Depression again, leading to eventual national confrontation. My advice to you: keep resisting, show up at posted events, and participate in the blackouts that are being scheduled. I will post them on here regularly. Someday your children will ask what you did to stop fascism in the US; have something positive to share with them.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are yo the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube Page and find multiple videos to empower, calm down, and educate those around you. Go to You Tube and type Jerry Goebel in your search. Thank you.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 02 (244 total reports)
13.02.20245-18.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are you the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. Topics vary from dealing with grief to songs about historic female resistors. Songs can be customized to fit your group. Tell me the details of what you’d like, and share pre-approved pictures with me, and I’ll create a custom-made presentation for your group from the songs in my compilations.
Top Links of the Week
18.02.2025
Presidents Day protests: See photos from demonstrations across the nation
People are taking action all across the United States, turning out for demonstrations at a level that rivals the protests during the Vietnam War. There is nothing this administration would like more than for you to remain isolated in your home, thumbing through the daily disasters and feeling helpless. In fact, that was the plan as crafted by Steve Bannon and Project 2025 long before the election. Their playbook was to take so many egregious actions as rapidly as possible that the press and the public would feel unable to respond. But always remember, even a small response is empowering. Read about the boycotts of oligarch products and commit to them; read about the protests and join them. Don’t let their strategy of “shock and awe” keep you from being involved.
17.02.2025
The Death of Government Expertise
There is a difference between being an expert and having expertise. Someone who has expertise is likely the first one to tell you they are not an expert; they may have studied an area—perhaps even for a lifetime—but they still explore life with curiosity and are open to learning more. An expert believes they have already garnered as much information as possible and no one else can match their knowledge. President Musk and his 47th minion both believe they are experts and do not want to be surrounded by expertise because their “expert” opinions are often false and based on misinformation that they want to be true (as opposed to actually being true). This administration is making a conscious effort to surround themselves with people who will not disagree with them. That type of hubris is part of what makes them so dangerous. In our modeling of knowledge with young people, let us make sure that we always reveal our expertise and shun the title “expert.”
16.02.2025
European leaders set to hold emergency summit on Ukraine
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04nw1pg3k2o?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=other
President 47 has a full agenda to achieve for the ones who pull his strings (almost too many people to mention at this point; Putin, Musk, Project 2025, the list is almost overwhelming regarding who he owes favors to), but the primary two goals of his campaign remain the same—sow chaos, seek revenge. Those are the bookends of 47’s life. His whole being is fueled by four insatiable motivations: hatred, greed, lust, and revenge. Many of us are seeking ways to protect ourselves from our own government (federal employees or those like me, dependent on the money I put into Social Security over decades of hard work), and now those abroad are gathering to ask, “How do we defend ourselves against the American people and the idiots they continue to elect? It would be convenient to blame this disaster solely on 47 and his actions, but we must never forget how many people voted for this horrible person and the others who didn’t even show up to cast their vote.
15.02.2025
Robert Reich: Profiles In Courage – OpEd
I have respected Robert Reich since he first worked for Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, long before he became the Secretary of Labor under Clinton. His insights into who has been a Profile in Courage during the first terrible days of 47’s reign of chaos are a good read. It helps set a standard for what courage looks like today. And—he can’t help himself—he also points out a few profiles in cowardice.
14.02.2025
60 years of progress in expanding rights is being rolled back by Trump − a pattern that’s all too familiar in US history
The plethora of policies dumped on the US by Project 2025, Elon Musk, and their orange-haired buffoon is designed to roll back the rights of Americans, not just certain Americans, but all Americans. Because indeed, when the rights of anyone in a democracy are rolled back, the rights of all are rolled back, and if these three entities have their way, democracy itself will be rolled back. This historic look at America’s pursuit of “Liberty, Justice, and Freedom for all” compares the latest attempts by 47’s administration to the rollback of rights during the Jim Crow era. It is evident that 47 is NOT in charge, that his strings are being pulled by a myriad of backstage players, but the intent is singular: tear down democracy and replace it with authoritarian rule.
13.02.2025
America Is Its Own Worst Enemy
This historical perspective into powerful countries undermining themselves is so apropos while watching the implosion of the Elon Musk and Project 2025 government under the amateurish figurehead of 47. Comparisons to Mao Zedong in the late 1950s and Nikita Khrushchev (also in the 1950s) are intriguing and accurate. So are the comparisons to Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, rapacious autocrats who ruined their economies and caused the death (and emigration) of thousands. Will America survive this oligarchy as a democratic government? I think the jury is still out. It certainly won’t be the America promised by George H.W. W. Bush, as a “ kinder and gentler nation.” What nation we leave future generations will largely depend on our daily acts of “good trouble” and “civil disobedience.” How can you use your one, small voice (Carole King in her 1982 song, based on the Hans Christian Andersen story, “The Emperor’s New Clothes”) to alert others of the danger we are facing?
Youth Advocacy
Are you the kind of person that wants toRacism share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 01 (243 total reports)
05.01.20245-04.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are you the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories shared in presentations to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. Topics vary from dealing with grief to learning to be quiet. Songs can be customized to fit your group. Tell me the details of what you’d like, and share pre-approved pictures with me, and I’ll create a custom-made presentation for your group from the songs in my compilations.
Top Links of the Week
12.02.2025
Women This Week: Trump Administration Restricts Scientific Research Aimed at Improving Lives of Women and Minorities
Grants to scientific organizations and universities from the US Government are being screened and removed from funding if they carry any words like, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion.” But also words like, “Women,” and “Race.” Meanwhile, DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency)—the unilaterally appointed empire of non-elected Elon Musk—moved its Sauron-like eye to start cutting the DOE (Department of Education), while simultaneously walking away with a $38.8 million contract from NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). Is there any doubt left that Musk’s $277 million dollar “campaign package” to buy 47’s election was a minor investment compared to what he is going to reap from this administration? Who owns the presidency? It is certainly not the voters of the United States. Many of them were willing to sell the democracy of their country for a decrease in the price of eggs (that they will, of course, never see; egg prices are now the “worst they’ve ever been in history,” and expected to increase). Judges are slowly reacting to the more radical actions of Musk and his puppet, 47, but the two have already begun hinting that they will just ignore the judges that don’t back their programs. If the democracy makes it to 2026, mid-terms might provide an opportunity to impair some of the most reviling changes caused by this unholy duo, but only if people show up to vote. It’s never too early to start rallying the troops.
11.02.2025
What the judicial branch can do when a president refuses to comply with a court order
Should we really be surprised when President Elon Musk and his minions, 47, start making noises about ignoring court rulings when the rulings aren’t in their favor? Why not just avoid those laws too? They’ve avoided so many others. The hallmark of this administration is picking and choosing: picking and choosing what laws they will follow, picking and choosing what the public wants, picking and choosing what people (and especially women) tell them is acceptable to do with their bodies. Apparently, this is what the majority of US citizens have chosen as their authentic government. What a disgrace. Is this really the leadership we want to pass on to our children?
10.02.2025
Legal experts warn of 'constitutional crisis' as JD Vance and Elon Musk question judges' authority over Trump
Those of us who did NOT vote for President 47 and did NOT stay home during the voting process knew this day was coming. Like anything else, this administration (and all its proprietors) believe in the rule of law until… Until it affects them… Until it confronts their plans… Until it finds them guilty of the crimes they are committing. This administration is not an administration of values; it is an administration of convenience. Whatever is convenient for them, they will most assuredly do. Is this the type of government we really want for our children and grandchildren? Whatever you can do to resist it, do it. And if you voted for them—or didn’t show up to vote, don’t act surprised that this is occurring; these are the people and the policies you voted for, and this is what they promised they would do.
09.02.2025
Remember What Audre Lorde Told Us: The Oppressor Doesn’t Determine What’s True
Project 2025, President Elon Musk, and their rag doll carnie-man, T-Rump, are trying to dismantle any references to the richness of diversity in US history. An insightful article I read this week suggested asking MAGA-cult followers: “Exactly, which part of D.E.I. are you against? Are you against diversity? Are you against equality? Are you against including others?” In the writings of Audre Lorde—especially now during Black History Month—this administration would find a reason to be against all that she has said. Lorde defined herself as, “Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet.” This interview is a longer, but engaging read on a voice that is essential today. So please, take a moment to put down other things and learn from the article. Lorde’s words are important to history, her words are important to our future. These are the very words that Project 2025 and their cult following long to erase. Which is exactly why we should read them and pass them on.
08.02.2025
Trump and Musk Are Destroying the Basics of a Healthy Democracy
Tom Nichols, of The Atlantic, tells us about the high achievement accomplished when a government is able to staff itself with thousands of highly trained and educated employees. Such a feat takes years to attain and—apparently—weeks to undermine. This despicable dismantling is being done (mostly illegally) by President 47 and someone not even elected to the government. Elon Musk’s sole legitimacy in the US Government was granted because he paid for President 47’s election, in short, he bought the election and he bought the president. As Nichols states, “The president has a solipsistic and binary view of the world in which everything revolves around him, and other people either support him or oppose him.” In short, 47 doesn’t trust what he doesn’t know and he doesn’t know a LOT, nor is he interested in learning. He’s only interested in a vengeful purging. What Musk, 47, and Project 2025, are tearing down may never be rebuilt in our lifetime. High quality employees are difficult to hire and retain (especially in an environment of distrust). This is the case as well with the international friendships that 47 and his cult are disassembling. Former close friends are distancing themselves from the US and international governments are seeking out China to fill the voids left by the ruination of USAID. The government of the next generation will not be a government of fair-minded, intelligent, people hired for their expertise. The US Government will experience a brain drain staffed by cultic loyalists and relatives.
07.02.2025
The Cost of the Trump Administration’s Foreign Aid Debacle
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is well-positioned to examine the tragic cost of 47’s massacre of aid to other countries through the USAID (United States Agency for International Development). First, I must write a disclaimer because my father worked for USAID in multiple countries around the world. His expertise and scholarship aided in the long term development of countries in dire need of reversing desertification and preventing erosion. 47’s dismantling of the critical international aid and knowledge sharing system will be devastating, it will also be another opportunity for China to fill the gap his administration leaves in international development. This will not be a short-term crisis; reducing a workforce from more than 10,000 to less than 300 in a two-week span is ludicrous and the kind of idiocy we have grown to expect from 47, Musk, and Project 2025 in this raging wildfire of his first 100 days.
06.02.2025
The MAGA Coalition Provisional Authority Has Plunged The Country Into A Constitutional Crisis
It was J.D. Vance himself that created the concept that he now tries to conceal (but Vance has never had a value that couldn’t be swayed by the promise of power), he was the one originally calling for the De-Ba’athification of the Federal Government (referring to purges by the Saddam Hussein’s Ba’ath Party in post-Iraq war). Now, he is the heir apparent to the same type of Saddam Authoritarianism government in the form of President 47 and his non-elected patron, Elon Musk. While pretending to start a trade war with Canada, Mexico, and China (and then immediately backing down in the face of US’s neighbors) 47 is creating constitutional crises after crises while Vance, MAGA, and the spineless GOP giddily play along. This is nothing short of a coup d’etat and the undermining of the US constitution. Protests are finally springing up in cities all across America; some even in Red States. As people begin to understand that consequences of the dictates developed by Project 2025 and enacted by their presidential stooge, the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago. What kind of government will be left for our children? Unless congress takes urgent action now, it will certainly not be a democracy.
05.02.3035
Protests against Trump and Project 2025 are planned in cities across the US
If you’re tiring of the mindless insanity and outright cruelty of 47’s chaos, this is a good website to review. There are demonstrations and protests being scheduled all across the US to protest, not just 47, but one of his puppet-masters, (he has many) Project 2025. Most protests are scheduled at State Capitals, but the list is comprehensive with links to additional information. Find out where you can stand up, speak out, and join the resistance.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The Bluffs-at-the-Borders are smokescreens for the real damage that is being inflicted by Elon Musk and Project 2025. Don’t be distracted. If we don’t want our children to grow up in an oligarchy, we need to stay focused.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 52 (242 total reports)
25.01.20245-04.02.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The Bluffs-at-the-Borders are smokescreens for the real damage that is being inflicted by Elon Musk and Project 2025. Don’t be distracted. If we don’t want our children to grow up in an oligarchy, we need to stay focused.
Song of the Week
Songs with inspiring, true, stories about people, like Harriett Tubman, Louis Riehl, and Congressman John Lewis, who have risen to defend human rights at pivotal times.
Top Links of the Week
04.02.2025
Elon Musk Is President
If anything should be clear following 47’s Bluffs-at-the-Borders escapades, it is that this administration is using a smokescreen to block the real agenda as defined by Project 2025 and Elon Musk. 47 is simply a tool to pursue their real agendas, the agenda of Project 2025 has been—for decades—the dismantling of the Federal Government and the US Constitution, the agenda of Elon Musk is to use his immense fortune to take over governments around the world (beginning with his purchase of the US government and using his all-too-compliant carnie, the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago). The “department” that Musk oversees (DOGE), is not federally approved, he has no governmental authority except what T-Rump grants and the sycophants in the GOP allow him. Musk and Project 2025 want to divert our attention elsewhere so we cannot see the real catastrophe the US has in store if congress does not check Musk’s growing power.
03.02.2025
It’s Easier to Destroy
This is an administration of smokescreens, and we should always ask what 47 and his cronies are trying to hide. They play a global shell game with economies and human beings as their pieces coldly oblivious to the suffering they are causing while golfing weekends at Mar-a-Lago. While distracting us with the most insane economic policies of this century, there is a more insidious agenda being pursued. This is the dark underbelly of a long-term conservative strategy designed by Project 2025 many Republican administrations ago. Their true goal is to sow chaos while they dismantle the Federal Government. Many long term political watchdogs, like Robert Reich, tell us to keep our eye on the ball. 47 and his oligarch friends want to undermine the constitution. While the president is distracting us on one hand, his unelected puppet-masters (Putin and Musk) are dismantling the government with the other. Most of the Executive Actions that 47 is rapidly passing, will be easy to repeal—if there is a constitutional process to do so, but don’t be deceived, Candidate 47 made it clear in his campaigning, he does not want US Citizens to “ever have to” vote again.
02.02.2025
Trump Unveils Ingenious Plan to Raise Prices, Harm American Consumers
A sane person would listen to experts on issues they obviously didn’t understand. A sane person would not attempt to start trade wars with consistent, time-honored allies. A sane person would not seek to undermine the government of those his/her electorate. But President 47 is none of those things, because he is not tied to sanity. He is tied to self, what will promote him, and what will curry favor with the oligarchs who give into his self-pleasuring. This president has gone out of his way to harm American consumers. This president has gone out of his way to undermine the constitution. This president has gone out of his way to tear the very fabric of his own nation. This President is not sane, this president is a malignant narcissist, an indicted felon, a twice-impeached incompetent leader responsible for the deaths of 100’s of thousands. And yet, he is America’s choice. We shall see how long that lasts as almost every action he takes undermines the well-being of the very people who ignorantly supported him (or allowed him to be elected by caring so little that they wouldn’t even get off their couches to vote). The theme of this administration should not be MAGA (Make America Great Again), but MCGA (Make China Great Again) as his policies are driving former allies of the United States into the welcoming economic and (by comparison) stable arms of that Asian Global Super-Power.
01.02.2025
How to Cultivate Meaning When Life Feels Absurd
Life seems extremely chaotic and many people are feeling both hopeless and helpless. Enter Professor Steven Heine professor of social and cultural psychology at the University of British Columbia. Heine has written a book, “Start Making Sense: How Existential Psychology Can Help Us Build Meaningful Lives in Absurd Times,” that seems perfectly suited to the current situation. He presents us with a roadmap, including many useful exercises, for regaining homeostasis when our sense of meaning has lost equilibrium. Reflecting on many existential thought leaders such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, and others, Professor Heine offers sound advice to help you build (or rebuild) a meaningful life and to coach others to do the same. If you are a thought-leader in your own community, at home, or at work, this book can help you and those around you. We could all use a sense of meaning and purpose right now and the outer chaos is only going to increase (that is 47’s trademark; sow confusion and fear to maintain power). Grow your own inner meaning to help build resilience to maintain balance with the outer pandemonium.
31.01.2025
Alabama teachers seek to halt state law limiting lessons on Black history and civil rights
Good Trouble (as John Lewis would say) always seems to start in the most oppressed places, and few places are more oppressive to quality education these days than Red States like Alabama. These teachers are seeking “Good Trouble” as they seek to prevent education from becoming GOP Indoctrination. As mentioned yesterday, it is the goal of 47 and Project 2025 to whitewash history in education, to fabricate stories and hide difficult truths from students. What good is education if it can’t stand the test of time, or be useful in the world? Thank you to these educators, let’s hope they become a source of hope to others who seek truth in education and not the racist lies of this administration and it’s racist, fascist, biases.
30.01.2025
Trump signs sweeping executive orders that overhaul U.S. education system
What is the difference between indoctrination and education? We are about to find out. If you are involved in the lives of young people and children in the United States (or other autocratic countries), the sweeping changes brought by the Executive Action of 47 yesterday and designed (of course) by Project 2025, will soon sanction such policies as tax-payer funding of Private Education, fundamental Christian proselytization in classrooms, the rewriting of history (to exalt the role of white colonialism and diminish the impact of women, minorities, and the complete eradication of any contributions made by non-heterosexual persons. It will feature a new “patriotic admiration” (no doubt admiring the administration of the 45th and 47th president and justifying the January 6th insurrection. In short, these changes will not seek to educate children; but to brainwash them into the Project 2025 cult. How will this help make young people competitive in the world? In short, that’s no longer the goal for Project 2025’s education platform. There is going to have to be a growing emphasis on home-based learning and instruction in small community collectives. How will you prepare for this with the children you impact? What will you do to ensure our children will have accurate access to history and an education that will make them competitive in the job market of the future?
29.01.2025
‘Elections Have Consequences’: Trump and Rubio’s Foreign Aid Halt Will Hit the World’s Most Vulnerable
Heartless and cruel, these are the words I would use to describe the kickoff of the presidency designed by Project 2025, Elon Musk, and 47. As oligarchs garner more money than they could ever possibly spend, the most vulnerable in both the United States—and the world—are immediately suffering the consequences. People who voted for a reduction in the “price of eggs” are seeing the opposite occur; there is no agenda for lowering the cost of living for either the poor or the middle class. Acting surprised and feigning ignorance while watching the vulnerable around the world starve, disease increase, and education diminish, and immigrants were the first-to-blame (the whipping post) for all the political injustices, doesn’t work anymore. The people of the US have spoken, they wanted a racist, rapist, felon president who would promise to return America to a day when whites didn’t have to share public spaces with those of color, when women were silenced and kept at home. The tepid apathetic who stayed home rather than voting bear the brunt of this as well—if not more so. There is nothing worse than lukewarm. If you’re into scripture, remember this one, “So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth [Rev. 3:16].” This is what they voted for, now these are the consequences you are reaping. The cost in human lives will be staggering, especially if there is another pandemic on 47’s watch. This time, it will be far worse as he has already dismantled the agencies designed to keep the public informed about disease.
28.01.2025
Public schools try to protect undocumented students from Trump immigration raids
Under 47 and with direction from Project 2025 and tech oligarchs, ICE has become the new Gestapo. As the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago attempts to militarize immigration, he is now sending ICE to raid public schools. But some schools are standing firm against their agenda, declaring that, “education is for every child regardless of their immigration status.” Only valueless, vile, adults would attempt to prevent a child from being educated; any child, anywhere. Yet, that is exactly what this administration is attempting to do. This is the same administration that made it a policy to separate children from their parents without keeping an account of what prison camp either party was forced into. This is criminal, and those accepting, supporting, or enacting these policies will one day have to stand up to the raw lens of history as surely as the Nazi supporters (and deniers) of Hitler’s Germany. I’m so very grateful for these brave educators willing to put their livelihoods and careers on the line for the children they have sworn to teach. Another reason why, in a future time, we must remember that teaching is a sacred profession and deserves to be rewarded with the highest respect and recompense.
27.01.2025
How The US Became So Dysfunctional, Oligarchic, And Corrupt – OpEd
It should be noted, prior to reading this article, that the author, Finn Andreen, is a Swedish libertarian living in France. With that understanding, Mr. Andreen provides an engaging historic summary of the rise of Federalism in the US, particularly since President Lincoln. The continued power of the Federal Government over the States has—in Andreen’s opinion, led to the issues we have today with the centralized oligarchy of 47’s government under the direction of Elon Musk and Project 2025. This has become increasingly evident this week with the President’s blustery blowup (and backdown) of sending Colombian migrants to Colombia handcuffed in military planes. It is also apparent in the bellicose rants of the President about Greenland, Panama, and Canada. Despite the will of the American people, this President is recklessly pursuing a course that alienates long-time global allies. Thankfully, as we have seen in the terse showdown with President Gustavo Petro, the Colombian President, 47 is unable to sustain any whim longer than a day and has to back down when it comes to actually pursuing a policy that takes more focus than an afternoon. Apparently, no one is also around to help the President spell-check his tariff announcements as he even misspelled the name of the country he was addressing. Let’s hope this lack of focus continues.
26.01.2025
The Ungovernable Economy
This brilliant review by Trevor Jackson, of the Martin Wolf’s book, “The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism,” is perfectly timed to the political situation in which we currently find ourselves under 47’s, Project 2025-mandated economy. Jackson points out that economies that have historically led to collapse included; “policies (that) have privatized gains and socialized losses,” in which those running the government, “remove themselves from communities of obligation,” then blame immigrants, women, and minorities for the distress experienced by the economic “losers.” Besides being insightful about current economic issues from a historic perspective, Wolf goes on to present creative solutions that have stabilized countries and led to economic fairness in the past. As I read this article, additional alarm bells went off for me about the policies that 47 is trying to execute as he proceeds—through presidential fiat—the rapacious mandates of Project 2025 and the shadow president, Elon Musk. This is well-worth the read, though not exactly an easy piece.
25.01.2025
One Analysis to Rule Them All
This is a very important reminder of basic psychological principles; we become what gets rewarded or what doesn’t get punished. As the article points out, in 1957, famed Behavioral psychologist, B.F. Skinner said, “Men act upon the world, and change it, and are changed in turn by the consequences of their action.” It’s obvious why this remains important today when we look at the monster that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has become. He has been emboldened in his racist and fascist views by both his supporters and the apathy of others who don’t seem to care about the policies he is enacting. With the release of seditious criminals who tried to take over the capital at his direction, their criminal behavior will be reinforced and will become criterion for future criminal behavior as courts rally to cite this as a precedent. On a personal/educational/fundamental level, how will we explain to young people that consequences matter when they obviously don’t if you are rich and powerful?
24.01.2025
Noam Chomsky Defines What It Means to Be a Truly Educated Person
Professor Chomsky would not be appreciated in most school board discussions today, especially in the Red States—seats of MAGA cult thinking. The MIT scholar has pointed to an all-out attack on public institutions by corporations for years now. Those who support oligarchies would not want his ideas repeated in their boardrooms or public school gatherings. In this article, the author points to what Chomsky would define as the goal of education. Not the retention of knowledge, and certainly not the repetition of political propaganda, but (in his own words); “to be truly educated means to be resourceful, to be able to ‘formulate serious questions’ and ‘question standard doctrine, if that’s appropriate’… It means to ‘find your own way.’”
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
As 47 sends his Gestapo to raid schools and prevent children from being educated. It is a time for all of us to ask, “Which side of history will we be on?”
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 51 (241 total reports)
24.01.20245-28.01.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
As 47 sends his Gestapo to raid schools and prevent children from being educated. It is a time for all of us to ask, “Which side of history will we be on?”
Song of the Week
Songs with inspiring, true, stories about people who have risen to defend human rights at pivotal times.
Top Links of the Week
28.01.2025
Public schools try to protect undocumented students from Trump immigration raids
Under 47 and with direction from Project 2025 and tech oligarchs, ICE has become the new Gestapo. As the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago attempts to militarize immigration, he is now sending ICE to raid public schools. But some schools are standing firm against their agenda, declaring that, “education is for every child regardless of their immigration status.” Only valueless, vile, adults would attempt to prevent a child from being educated; any child, anywhere. Yet, that is exactly what this administration is attempting to do. This is the same administration that made it a policy to separate children from their parents without keeping an account of what prison camp either party was forced into. This is criminal, and those accepting, supporting, or enacting these policies will one day have to stand up to the raw lens of history as surely as the Nazi supporters (and deniers) of Hitler’s Germany. I’m so very grateful for these brave educators willing to put their livelihoods and careers on the line for the children they have sworn to teach. Another reason why, in a future time, we must remember that teaching is a sacred profession and deserves to be rewarded with the highest respect and recompense.
27.01.2025
How The US Became So Dysfunctional, Oligarchic, And Corrupt – OpEd
It should be noted, prior to reading this article, that the author, Finn Andreen, is a Swedish libertarian living in France. With that understanding, Mr. Andreen provides an engaging historic summary of the rise of Federalism in the US, particularly since President Lincoln. The continued power of the Federal Government over the States has—in Andreen’s opinion, led to the issues we have today with the centralized oligarchy of 47’s government under the direction of Elon Musk and Project 2025. This has become increasingly evident this week with the President’s blustery blowup (and backdown) of sending Colombian migrants to Colombia handcuffed in military planes. It is also apparent in the bellicose rants of the President about Greenland, Panama, and Canada. Despite the will of the American people, this President is recklessly pursuing a course that alienates long-time global allies. Thankfully, as we have seen in the terse showdown with President Gustavo Petro, the Colombian President, 47 is unable to sustain any whim longer than a day and has to back down when it comes to actually pursuing a policy that takes more focus than an afternoon. Apparently, no one is also around to help the President spell-check his tariff announcements as he even misspelled the name of the country he was addressing. Let’s hope this lack of focus continues.
26.01.2025
The Ungovernable Economy
This brilliant review by Trevor Jackson, of the Martin Wolf’s book, “The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism,” is perfectly timed to the political situation in which we currently find ourselves under 47’s, Project 2025-mandated economy. Jackson points out that economies that have historically led to collapse included; “policies (that) have privatized gains and socialized losses,” in which those running the government, “remove themselves from communities of obligation,” then blame immigrants, women, and minorities for the distress experienced by the economic “losers.” Besides being insightful about current economic issues from a historic perspective, Wolf goes on to present creative solutions that have stabilized countries and led to economic fairness in the past. As I read this article, additional alarm bells went off for me about the policies that 47 is trying to execute as he proceeds—through presidential fiat—the rapacious mandates of Project 2025 and the shadow president, Elon Musk. This is well-worth the read, though not exactly an easy piece.
25.01.2025
One Analysis to Rule Them All
This is a very important reminder of basic psychological principles; we become what gets rewarded or what doesn’t get punished. As the article points out, in 1957, famed Behavioral psychologist, B.F. Skinner said, “Men act upon the world, and change it, and are changed in turn by the consequences of their action.” It’s obvious why this remains important today when we look at the monster that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has become. He has been emboldened in his racist and fascist views by both his supporters and the apathy of others who don’t seem to care about the policies he is enacting. With the release of seditious criminals who tried to take over the capital at his direction, their criminal behavior will be reinforced and will become criterion for future criminal behavior as courts rally to cite this as a precedent. On a personal/educational/fundamental level, how will we explain to young people that consequences matter when they obviously don’t if you are rich and powerful?
24.01.2025
Noam Chomsky Defines What It Means to Be a Truly Educated Person
Professor Chomsky would not be appreciated in most school board discussions today, especially in the Red States—seats of MAGA cult thinking. The MIT scholar has pointed to an all-out attack on public institutions by corporations for years now. Those who support oligarchies would not want his ideas repeated in their boardrooms or public school gatherings. In this article, the author points to what Chomsky would define as the goal of education. Not the retention of knowledge, and certainly not the repetition of political propaganda, but (in his own words); “to be truly educated means to be resourceful, to be able to ‘formulate serious questions’ and ‘question standard doctrine, if that’s appropriate’… It means to ‘find your own way.’”
