@9:03, , 4/20/21 First Pfizer

 |

 

1

Georgia Faith Leaders to Urge Boycott of Home Depot Over Voting Law

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Black religious leaders representing more than 1,000 churches in the state are planning a “warning shot” for other Republican-led states that are trying to limit voting access.

 

The Black churches are organized.

2

YouTube Videos Brainwashed My Father. Can I Reprogram His Feed?

Kwame Anthony Appiah, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The magazine’s Ethicist columnist on dealing with a parent radicalized by a recommendation engine and whether to cut off a friend who has joined a cult.

 

Changing minds is demanding on both sides.

 

3

Jimmy Carter Leads Tributes to Walter Mondale

Neil Vigdor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The 42nd vice president, who died Monday at 93, was recalled for his collaborative role in the Carter administration and his liberal advocacy.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Mondale

I must have voted for him.  There seemed to be no choice.

4

Walter Mondale, Ex-Vice President Under Jimmy Carter, Dies

Steven R. Weisman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Under Jimmy Carter, he was the first V.P. to serve as a genuine partner of a president. His own run for the top position ended in a crushing defeat.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Mondale

I must have voted for him.  There seemed to be no choice.

5

Progressives Propose Tripling Housing Commitment in Infrastructure Plan

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The proposal, called the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act, is a marker for liberals as Democrats seek to influence President Biden’s $2.3 trillion public-works package.

 

Public housing is an unsolved design problem.

The charitably housed are not a limited set.

They are not included in urban streetblife,

 

6

U.S. to Begin Offering Vaccines to Detainees at Guantánamo Bay

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

The plan, initiated during the Trump administration, had been delayed after a political and public outcry.

 

Trump was not the most monsterous thing found on the political right.

 

7

Why Do We Do That?

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 11 hours ago

So today I stopped by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and picked up a small bottle of sake. The teller seemed unhappy, so we chatted for a bit. I told him I’d worked at the LCBO for a couple months about 25 years ago (for the Christmas season), and he opened up a […]

 

The minions of the wealthy are very good at pleasing everyone.

They are not skilled at doing it with facts.

 

8

Officer Attacked in Capitol Riot Died of Strokes, Medical Examiner Rules

Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

The determination is likely to complicate efforts to prosecute anyone in the death of the officer, Brian Sicknick.

 

Identifying the source of brain injuries is dificult.

9

How Much Sway Does the N.R.A. Still Have?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

The group’s lobbying power is diminished — but that hasn’t shaken Republican opposition to gun control.

 

The NRA has spent a century selling "Sam Colt's equalizer" to former slave masters.

 

10

Amid Biden Climate Push, a Question Looms: Is America’s Word Good?

Lisa Friedman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

After four years of “America First,” the president tries this week to reclaim U.S. leadership in the fight against climate change. Can the world trust his promises?

 

In foreign policy "The Word" of the U.S. is the word of the current president.

 

11 

Health Agencies Compromised Safety of Evacuees and Staff Early in Pandemic, Watchdog Says

Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

A new report from the Government Accountability Office on the repatriation effort last year said that poor training and bureaucratic infighting left Americans unsafe.

 

Donald Trump did not care and had the support of his staff.

 

12

Supreme Court Seems Poised to Back Limits on Green Cards

Adam Liptak, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The justices heard arguments on whether immigrants with “temporary protected status” who entered the country illegally may apply for lawful permanent residency.

 

We are learning if the Supreme Court is populated with monsters.

 

13

One America News Network Stays True to Trump

Rachel Abrams, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

A recent OAN segment said there were “serious doubts about who’s actually president,” and another blamed “anti-Trump extremists” for the Capitol attack.

 

One America Network is a propaganda front.

 

14

A confused federal effort to retrieve Americans overseas in the initial outbreak led to safety risks, a new report says.

Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

The federal report concluded that the evacuation of Americans from China bogged down badly as different divisions within the federal health department argued over which was responsible.

 

The Trump Republicans did not care.

 

15

U.S. to Begin Offering Vaccines to Detainees at Guantánamo Bay

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The plan, initiated during the Trump administration, had been delayed after a political and public outcry.

 

A proper action among a flood of improper actions.

16

A.C.L.U. Asks Supreme Court to Let It Seek Secret Surveillance Court Rulings

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

A prominent Republican — Ted Olson — backed the request for high court review of a spy court ruling, which would be the first of its kind.

 

Justice is not done in the dark.

 

17

The Supreme Court’s Increasingly Dim View of the News Media

Adam Liptak, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A comprehensive look at references to the press in justices’ opinions revealed “a marked and previously undocumented uptick in negative depictions.”

 

"The facts have a distinct liberal bias"

                       Paul Kugman

 

18

Activists Question Whether Police Reform Bills Are Enough

Steve Eder, Michael H. Keller and Blacki Migliozzi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

States have passed over 140 police oversight bills since the killing of George Floyd, increasing accountability and overhauling rules on the use of force. But the calls for change continue.

 

Most of the police function is socialwork.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_work 

19

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 18, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 18, 2021 by Tony Wikrent Strategic Political Economy Michael Hudson: America’s Neoliberal Financialization Policy vs. China’s Industrial Socialism Michael Hudson, April 15, 2021 [Naked Capitalism] US West prepares for possible 1st water shortage declaration [Associated Press, via Mike Norman Economics, April 17, 2021] The Pandemic India’s health system has […]

 

https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/04/michael-hudson-americas-neoliberal-financialization-policy-vs-chinas-industrial-socialism.html

 

This is a continuing discussion.  Neither of the presented sides is correct.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberalism

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoliberalism

I am no wiser.

 

20

Alex Jones Faces a Reckoning

Elizabeth Williamson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Dan Friesen and Jordan Holmes turned their Infowars-skewering podcast into a business. In the post-Trump era, they’re documenting Mr. Jones’s reckoning.

 

Alex Jones has been publishing fiction without the label.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_War_of_the_Worlds_(1938_radio_drama)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_War_of_the_Worlds

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@19:54, , 4/18/21

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1

Activists Question Whether Police Reform Bills Are Enough

Steve Eder, Michael H. Keller and Blacki Migliozzi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 56 minutes ago

States have passed over 140 police oversight bills since the killing of George Floyd, increasing accountability and overhauling rules on the use of force. But the calls for change continue.

 

Activists are never happy.

 

2

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 18, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 5 hours ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 18, 2021 by Tony Wikrent Strategic Political Economy Michael Hudson: America’s Neoliberal Financialization Policy vs. China’s Industrial Socialism Michael Hudson, April 15, 2021 [Naked Capitalism] US West prepares for possible 1st water shortage declaration [Associated Press, via Mike Norman Economics, April 17, 2021] The Pandemic India’s health system has […]

 

Tony Wikrent has not surprised me. 

He is negative on the future of politics.

 

3 

Alex Jones Faces a Reckoning

Elizabeth Williamson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

Dan Friesen and Jordan Holmes turned their Infowars-skewering podcast into a business. In the post-Trump era, they’re documenting Mr. Jones’s reckoning.

 

Getting Trump Republicans attention is a problem.

 

4

Despite Tensions, U.S. and China Agree to Work Together on Climate Change

Steven Lee Myers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

The two countries said they would treat global warming “with the seriousness and urgency that it demands.”

 

There may be ratinality in responses to global heating.

 

5

One America News Network Stays True to Trump

Rachel Abrams, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

A recent OAN segment said there were “serious doubts about who’s actually president,” and another blamed “anti-Trump extremists” for the Capitol attack.

 

I am not missing anything by giving OAN a miss.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Herring_(businessman) 

6

One America News Network Stays True to Trump

Rachel Abrams, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

A recent OAN segment said there were “serious doubts about who’s actually president,” and another blamed “anti-Trump extremists” for the Capitol attack.

 

I am not missing anything by giving OAN a miss.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Herring_(businessman)

 

7

Donations Surge for Republicans Who Challenged Election Results

Luke Broadwater, Catie Edmondson and Rachel Shorey, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The lawmakers, who encouraged their followers to protest in Washington on Jan. 6, have capitalized on the riot to draw huge campaign donations.

 

Faith can do terrible things to people.

 

8

Biden Rejects Pentagon's Views on Afghanistan Withdrawal

Helene Cooper, Eric Schmitt and David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Over two decades of war, the Pentagon had fended off the political instincts of elected leaders frustrated with the grind of Afghanistan. But President Biden refused to be persuaded.

 

Biden is correct.

 

9

100 Days Without Trump on Twitter: A Nation Scrolls More Calmly

Sarah Lyall, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Democrats are breathing easier. Republicans are crying censorship. For all of the country’s news consumers, a strange quiet has descended after a four-year bombardment of presidential verbiage.

 

I am relieved.

 

10

Biden's Choice for Justice Dept.'s No. 2 Is Lisa Monaco

Katie Benner, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Lisa Monaco, a veteran of national security posts, is expected to be a key player in the administration’s push to combat domestic extremism, embodied most publicly in the department’s inquiry into the Capitol attack.

 

Good choice.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisa_Monaco

 

11

The Covid-19 Plasma Boom Is Over. What Did We Learn From It?

Katie Thomas and Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The U.S. government invested $800 million in plasma when the country was desperate for Covid-19 treatments. A year later, the program has fizzled.

 

"But by the end of the year, good evidence for convalescent plasma had not materialized, prompting many prestigious medical centers to quietly abandon it. By February, with cases and hospitalizations dropping, demand dipped below what blood banks had stockpiled. In March, the New York Blood Center called Mr. Cohen to cancel his 12th appointment. It didn’t need any more plasma."

 

A salable idea that did not work.

 

12

The Afghanistan War Is Ending. A Pennsylvania Town Exhales.

Trip Gabriel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

In Canonsburg, known for its big Fourth of July parade, many people say they are proud of America and its military but weary of the two-decade war in Afghanistan.

 

The Afghanistan campaign should never have been more than a raid.

Any action there results in "Blood Feude".

13

A War Is Ending. A Pennsylvania Town Exhales.

Trip Gabriel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

In Canonsburg, known for its big Fourth of July parade, many people say they are proud of America and its military but weary of the two-decade war in Afghanistan.

 

The Afghanistan campaign should never have been more than a raid.

Any action there results in "Blood Feude".

 

14

Danica Roem, a Pathbreaking Lawmaker, on the Fight for Trans Rights

Jennifer Medina, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Ms. Roem, a Virginia delegate who in 2018 became the first openly transgender legislator in the country, spoke with The Times about Republicans’ anti-trans crusade and how Democrats can push back.

 

Some will like it.

Masochism is acquired.

15

The Republican Retreat on World Affairs

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

What will G.O.P. foreign policy be post-Trump? Who knows!

 

"Neil Newhouse, a Republican pollster, said he saw three foreign policy issues resonating with G.O.P. voters: restricting immigration, taking a tougher stance against China (which many blame for the spread of the coronavirus) and ending foreign entanglements."

 

All of these are failed policies.

 

16

Biden and Suga Agree US and Japan Will Work Together on 5G

David E. Sanger and Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The subtext of the meeting was responding to China’s influence and its aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga resisted being drawn into a rivalry.

 

The U.S. security establishment wants trusted chip design.

 

17

Biden and Suga Agree U.S. and Japan Will Work Together on 5G

David E. Sanger and Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The subtext of the meeting was responding to China’s influence and its aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga resisted being drawn into a rivalry.

 

The U.S. security establishment wants trusted chip design.

 

18 

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Use comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

Sooner is better.    As soon as you can is best.

 

19

President Biden Wavers on Restricting Refugee Entry

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Miriam Jordan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Biden administration will for now maintain a historically low refugee cap. But after a widespread backlash from Democrats, the White House said it would raise refugee admissions in May.

 

Biden is faced with four years of accumulated chaos and racism on refugee policy.

20

Biden Wavers on Restricting Refugee Entry

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Miriam Jordan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Biden administration will for now maintain a historically low refugee cap. But after a widespread backlash from Democrats, the White House said it would raise refugee admissions in May.

 

Biden is faced with four years of accumulated chaos and racism on refugee policy.

||

@10:20, , 4/17/21

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1

Dark Money in the New York Mayor’s Race

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

This year’s election is shaping up to be the city’s first in which super PACs play a major role.

 

The businessman Andrew Yang seems to believe human life is fungible.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fungibility 

2

The Afghanistan War Is Ending. A Pennsylvania Town Exhales.

Trip Gabriel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

In Canonsburg, known for its big Fourth of July parade, many people say they are proud of America and its military but weary of the two-decade war in Afghanistan.

 

W. Bush should have known better and resisted the impulse.

 

3

A War Is Ending. A Pennsylvania Town Exhales.

Trip Gabriel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

In Canonsburg, known for its big Fourth of July parade, many people say they are proud of America and its military but weary of the two-decade war in Afghanistan.

 

W. Bush should have known better and resisted the impulse.

 

4

100 Days Without Trump on Twitter: A Nation Scrolls More Calmly

Sarah Lyall, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Democrats are breathing easier. Republicans are crying censorship. For all of the country’s news consumers, a strange quiet has descended after a four-year bombardment of presidential verbiage.

 

Twitter was not imagined as a broadcast system.

Trump's missuse presented a problem.

 

5

Danica Roem, a Pathbreaking Lawmaker, on the Fight for Trans Rights

Jennifer Medina, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Ms. Roem, a Virginia delegate who in 2018 became the first openly transgender legislator in the country, spoke with The Times about Republicans’ anti-trans crusade and how Democrats can push back.

 

Gender and sex are personal  Civil governments have almost no say.

 

6

The Republican Retreat on World Affairs

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

What will G.O.P. foreign policy be post-Trump? Who knows!

 

Much of foreign policy is bound by treaty and other international agreements.

 

7

Biden and Suga Agree US and Japan Will Work Together on 5G

David E. Sanger and Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The subtext of the meeting was responding to China’s influence and its aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga resisted being drawn into a rivalry.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5G

The U.S. wants a trusted chip foundry.  It does not have one.

 

8 

Biden and Suga Agree U.S. and Japan Will Work Together on 5G

David E. Sanger and Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The subtext of the meeting was responding to China’s influence and its aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga resisted being drawn into a rivalry.

 

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5G

The U.S. wants a trusted chip foundry.  It does not have one.

 

9

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 10 hours ago

Use comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

talk

Sooner is better.  As soon as you can is best.

 

10

President Biden Wavers on Restricting Refugee Entry

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Miriam Jordan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The Biden administration will for now maintain a historically low refugee cap. But after a widespread backlash from Democrats, the White House said it would raise refugee admissions in May.

 

Nothing in government is instant.

Zero South American immigration was a Republican goal.

Full reversal on refugees will take several months.

 

11

Biden Wavers on Restricting Refugee Entry

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Miriam Jordan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The Biden administration will for now maintain a historically low refugee cap. But after a widespread backlash from Democrats, the White House said it would raise refugee admissions in May.

 

Nothing in government is instant.

Zero South American immigration was a Republican goal.

Full reversal on refugees will take several months.

12

Justice Dept. Restores Use of Consent Decrees for Police Abuses

Katie Benner, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Attorney General Merrick Garland rescinded a Trump administration policy curbing use of the decrees, which provide a way to force changes in police departments.

 

The Attorney General has done a proper thing.

 

13

SpaceX Wins NASA $2.9 Billion Contract to Build Moon Lander

Kenneth Chang, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

Elon Musk’s company bested Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin and others in the contest to carry American astronauts to the lunar surface.

 

Inexpensive.

 

14

Oath Keeper Pleads Guilty and Will Cooperate in Jan. 6 Riot Inquiry

Alan Feuer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

The plea by a member of the far-right extremist group the Oath Keepers was the first to be entered publicly by any of the more than 400 people who have been charged so far in the attack.

 

Ultimately he gets an infrastructure job.

 

15 

Florida Passes Public Disorder Bill

Michael Levenson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Critics call the measure racist and anti-democratic, and say it could criminalize peaceful demonstrations.

 

The riot act is a patch on broken politics.

Fix the politics.  

Fix the racism. 

Fix the class systems.   I don't know how.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riot_Act 

16

World War I Memorial in Washington Raises First Flag After Years of Wrangling

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

As the United States withdraws from its longest war, a memorial that recognizes one of its most complicated ones officially opened in Washington, D.C., on Friday.

 

Heroism is not inheritable.

 

"If they ask you why we died

 Say because our fathers lied" 

                           Kipling

 

17

Trump is gone, but land disputes along the border continue under Biden.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

 

Trump is gone.

His stench lingers.

 

18

How Democrats Who Lost in Deep-Red Places Might Have Helped Biden

Isabella Grullón Paz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A study by a liberal group found a reverse coattails effect in 2020: Down-ballot candidates may have helped elect President Biden, rather than the other way around.

 

Organization is powerful.

 

19

What Can Taiwan Do To Protect Itself From China?

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Article by Mark Pontin Lyle Goldstein, research professor and founding director of the China Maritime Studies Institute at the U.S. Naval War College, in a YouTube video, claims, in the words of commenter someofparts ‘One clear fact that emerges is that China will be taking Taiwan back. It’s a question of when not if … […]

 

Keep talking.

Keep Trading. 

Acquire nuclear weapons.

There will be no nuclear wars.

20

Biden’s Approval Rating Rises, Helped by Vaccine Distribution Push

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Americans don’t think the president deserves sole credit for the widespread availability of Covid vaccines, but they like the job he’s doing getting them distributed, a new poll found.

 

The curriculum of U.S. education is faulty.

Systems thinking is not explicitly taught.

 

 

||

@9:49, , 4/16/21

 |

 

1

As Biden Pulls Out of Afghanistan, How Much Do Americans Care?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

For the American public, there was never any great outcry for withdrawing, polling suggests.

 

The invasion of Afghanistan was a crime from the start.

 

2

Supreme Court Commission to Scrutinize Changes Beyond Expanding Justice Seats

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

President Biden’s new panel, which is set to meet on Friday, has ambitions to tackle many other proposals to overhaul the court.

 

The Biden administration must examine the situation.

It should not try for changes without sufficient votes in congress.

 

3

World War I Memorial in Washington Raises First Flag After Years of Wrangling

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

As the United States withdraws from its longest war, a memorial that recognizes one of its most complicated ones officially opens in Washington, D.C., on Friday.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFdBvpjA5Zc

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_LhOO6Q6p8

 

We don't remember on purpose.

 

4

How Democrats Who Lost in Deep-Red Places Might Have Helped Biden

Isabella Grullón Paz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

A study by a liberal group found a reverse coattails effect in 2020: Down-ballot candidates may have helped elect President Biden, rather than the other way around.

 

Organization always helps.

 

5

Democrats’ Supreme Court Expansion Plan Draws Resistance

Carl Hulse, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

Lawmakers and activists say more justices are needed to rebalance the court, but a top Democrat said any action would have to await the work of a new presidential commission.

 

The present supreme court is a Republican victory.

The Republican party is unable to retreat from victories.

 

6

States Struggle With Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Pause as Federal Officials Reassure Public

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Abby Goodnough and Mitch Smith, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Dr. Anthony S. Fauci said he hoped for a decision “quite soon” on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, as local governments shifted to more complicated two-dose vaccines for marginal populations.

 

The pause is only a problem if the paused want it to be a problem. 

7

U.S. Imposes Stiff Sanctions on Russia, Blaming It for Major Hacking Operation

David E. Sanger and Andrew E. Kramer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

After years of wrist slaps under President Donald J. Trump, the new measures are intended to have a noticeable effect on the Russian economy.

 

Collective punishment:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collective_punishment

 

8 

What Can Taiwan Do To Protect Itself From China?

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 11 hours ago

Article by Mark Pontin Lyle Goldstein, research professor and founding director of the China Maritime Studies Institute at the U.S. Naval War College, in a YouTube video, claims, in the words of commenter someofparts ‘One clear fact that emerges is that China will be taking Taiwan back. It’s a question of when not if … […]

 

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/08/us/politics/biden-china-taiwan.html

 

Mark Pontin is chicken.

Taiwan ships to China in containers.

Nuclear bombs are smaller than containers.

Lithium hydride needs no refrigeration 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_hydride

Thermonuclear weapons are easy and light.

"The only way to win is not to play"

                     War Games

 

9

Biden Administration Says Russian Intelligence Obtained Trump Campaign Data

Mark Mazzetti and Michael S. Schmidt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

A Treasury Department document shed more light on links between the campaign and Russian spies.

 

The FBI is said to never close an unresolved file.

 

10

Florida Passes Public Disorder Bill

Michael Levenson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

Critics call the measure racist and anti-democratic, and say it could criminalize peaceful demonstrations.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riot_Act

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Massacre

 

11

Biden’s Approval Rating Rises, Helped by Vaccine Distribution Push

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

Americans don’t think the president deserves sole credit for the widespread availability of Covid vaccines, but they like the job he’s doing getting them distributed, a new poll found.to be

 

People want Covid-19 gone.

 

12

Trump Is Gone, but Land Disputes Along Border Continue Under Biden

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

A Texas judge allowed the government this week to take possession of a family’s land because the Biden administration has yet to end lawsuits seeking property along the border.

 

Trump's wall will not be built.  

Texas must cease and desist.

 

13

Alabama and North Dakota Advance Sports Rules Against Transgender Females

Dan Levin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Republican lawmakers in more than 30 states have introduced dozens of measures this year, the highest number of anti-transgender bills ever filed in a single year.

 

The girls are capable of protecting their games.

 

14

House and Senate Democrats Propose Bill to Expand the Supreme Court

Carl Hulse, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

The legislation would expand the Supreme Court from 9 members to 13, trying to spur momentum for the first change in the makeup of the court in 150 years.

 

The Supreme Court is building enthusiasm for expansion.

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/15/opinion/supreme-court-religion-orders.html

 

15

How the G.O.P. Lost Its Clear Voice on Foreign Policy

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

After four years of Donald J. Trump’s America-first mantra, Republican views on foreign intervention, long a signature part of the party’s brand, have splintered.

 

The Republican coalition can't deal with error.

 

16

White House Warns Russia on Bounties, but Stops Short of Sanctions

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The available evidence supporting a stunning C.I.A. assessment — which President Donald J. Trump’s inaction on prompted bipartisan uproar — remains less than definitive proof.

 

Biden has acted properly.

A Rusian bounty is not an American crime.

 

17

Republicans Question Spy Agencies’ Work on Domestic Extremism

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

Agency officials say they are analyzing information, not collecting intelligence on Americans.

 

This is an inversion of the situation of other days.

 "Man bites dog"

 

18

Mike Pence Undergoes Surgery for Pacemaker Implant

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Mr. Pence, 61, has a condition known as a left bundle branch block, an abnormality in the electrical impulses of his heart that can cause a dangerously low heartbeat.

 

Mike Pence did remind one of the walking dead.

 

19

Biden Takes On Sagging Safety Net With Plan to Fix Long-Term Care

Eduardo Porter, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

The proposal to spend $400 billion over eight years faces political challenges and a funding system not designed for the burden it has come to bear.

 

Trump was fixing the over population problem.

20

Senate Acts on Bill to Fight Hate Crimes Against Asian-Americans

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

Democrats’ push to quickly pass the legislation comes amid a sharp increase in reports of attacks targeting Asian-Americans.

 

Crime against a class does not cease to be a crime.

 

 

 

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@13:30, , 4/15/21

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1

House and Senate Democrats Propose Bill to Expand the Supreme Court

Carl Hulse, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The legislation would expand the Supreme Court from 9 members to 13, trying to spur momentum for the first change in the makeup of the court in 150 years.

 

The Trump Republicans acted in an arbitrary and political manner.

I do not fault the Democrats for an attempt at correction.

I will not be further offended if the attempt fails.

 

2 

Biden Takes On Sagging Safety Net With Plan to Fix Long-Term Care

Eduardo Porter, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The proposal to spend $400 billion over eight years faces political challenges and a funding system not designed for the burden it has come to bear.

 

Long term care is concomitant with long life.

Governent attaches both to infrastructure.

 

3

Senate Acts on Bill to Fight Hate Crimes Against Asian-Americans

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Democrats’ push to quickly pass the legislation comes amid a sharp increase in reports of attacks targeting Asian-Americans.

 

The U.S. congress should not make a special case of Asian-Americans.

It implies there are other classes deserving of hate.

 

4

Capitol Police Inspector General to Testify Before House Panel

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Michael A. Bolton, the Capitol Police’s inspector general, will testify before a House committee on Thursday.

 

As he should.

 

5

Biden Administration to Impose Tough Sanctions on Russia

Julian E. Barnes, David E. Sanger and Lara Jakes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Administration officials were determined to draft a response that would impose real costs on Moscow, as many previous rounds of sanctions have been shrugged off.

 

This looks like collective punishment.

It looks lazy.

 

6

How the U.S. Plans to Fight From Afar After Troops Exit Afghanistan

Eric Schmitt and Helene Cooper, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Drones, long-range bombers and spy networks will be used in an effort to prevent Afghanistan from re-emerging as a terrorist base to threaten the United States.

 

It makes withdrawal look like a lazy lie.

 

7

Scott Stringer Has Trained to Be Mayor for Decades. Will Voters Be Persuaded?

Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Scott Stringer’s deep experience in New York City politics has yet to translate into momentum in the mayor’s race. Could an endorsement from the Working Families Party help?

 

I do not need to choose

At this point I do not know enough to begin to choose.

 

8

Intelligence Chiefs Warn of Russian Troops Near Ukraine and Other Threats

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Officials said that China’s push for global power posed a threat to the United States, and they dwelled on climate change, domestic extremism and more.

 

Report would be a better choice of words.

 

9

Voters Like Biden's Infrastructure Plan; Taxes Are an Issue

Jim Tankersley, Ben Casselman and Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

A Times poll shows large majorities back spending on roads, ports, broadband and more. But Republicans aim to make corporate tax increases the issue.

 

There is no reason not to debt finance infrastructure.

 

10

NATO Is Expected to Confirm Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal

Steven Erlanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

The alliance’s mantra has always been “in together and out together,” so with the U.S. leaving, the pullout did not come as a surprise.

 

The U.S. appears not to know the definition of withdrawal.

 

11

Biden, Setting Afghanistan Withdrawal, Says ‘It Is Time to End the Forever War’

David E. Sanger and Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

The president said the main objective of ensuring that Afghanistan would not be a launching pad for terrorism had been achieved and that it was time for American troops to come home.

 

The U.S.military appears to disagree.

 

12

House Panel Advances Bill to Study Reparations in Historic Vote

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The legislation, which would create a panel to consider reparations for slavery, is being considered as President Biden works to address racial inequity.

 

The question of who gets howmuch will rankle everyone if an attempt is made.

Equality before the law and governments is the best that can be done.

 

13

Shades of 2016: Republicans Stay Silent on Trump, Hoping He Fades Away

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Just like when Donald J. Trump was a candidate in 2016, rival Republicans are trying to avoid becoming the target of his attacks or directly confronting him, while hoping someone else will.

 

Trump should be convicted and sentenced. 

14

Biden’s Choice for Civil Rights Post Has Worked to Defend Voting Rights

Katie Benner, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Kristen Clarke, the nominee for a top Justice Department role, vowed at her confirmation hearing to use legal tools to ensure ballot access.

 

That is a good qualification.

 

15

What the Fight for D.C. Statehood Means

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Democrats embark on a new long-shot mission to give 700,000 Americans voting representation in Congress.

 

The District of Columbia is intentionally not a state.  

The power of the national capitol could not be given to any of the several states.

16

U.S. Is Expected to Approve Some Arms Sales to U.A.E. and Saudis

Michael Crowley and Edward Wong, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The Biden administration is close to completing a review of Trump-era weapons sales to the two Gulf Arab states. Democrats in Congress oppose the deals.

 

Meeting contracts is important.

The Trump Republicans never understood diplomacy.

 

17

How Carolyn Maloney Has Become the New Target of NY's Ascendant Left

Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Justice Democrats, a left-wing group that fueled the rise of Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is backing Rana Abdelhamid’s primary bid.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJ236CwhlPw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxAh7wunhHM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=az75TZuy5aE

 

Katie Glueck is having visions.

 

18 

Nearly Half of Republicans Say They Don’t Want a Covid-19 Vaccine

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Over half of American adults have now received at least one shot, but resistance to vaccination among Republicans remains strong, two new polls found.

 

The death rate for Covid-19 is only about one percent.

Republican enthusiasts are about thirty percent of the U.S. population.

Biological warfare costs too much.

 

19

Shades of 2016: Republicans Stay Silent on Trump, Hoping He Fades Away

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

Just like when Donald J. Trump was a candidate in 2016, rival Republicans are trying to avoid becoming the target of his attacks or directly confronting him, while hoping someone else will.

 

That did not work in 2016.

Trump should go to prison.

 

20

How the Capitol Riot Suspects Are Challenging the Charges

Alan Feuer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

Defense lawyers have complained that some charges do not apply to what unfolded on Jan. 6, and one argues it will be impossible to get a fair trial in Washington.

 

Many of these rioters posted confessions on the internet.

 

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@6:15, , 4/14/21

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1

New Target for New York’s Ascendant Left: Rep. Carolyn Maloney

Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Justice Democrats, a left-wing group that fueled the rise of Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is backing Rana Abdelhamid’s primary bid.

 

Running is not the same as winning.

There will be a primary.

 

2

Democrats Were Lukewarm on Campaign Biden. They Love President Biden.

Lisa Lerer and Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Joe Biden never captured the hearts of Democratic voters in the way Barack Obama once did. But now that he is in office, he is drawing nearly universal approval from his party.

 

Biden needs the total backing of the congressional Democratic caucus.

 

3

Hundreds of Companies Unite to Oppose Voting Limits, but Others Abstain

David Gelles and Andrew Ross Sorkin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Amazon, Google, G.M. and Starbucks were among those joining the biggest show of solidarity by businesses over legislation in numerous states.

 

Companies cannot hold political oppinions.

 

4

John Kerry Heads to China to Talk Climate

Steven Lee Myers and Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

After contentious talks in Alaska, the visit by President Biden’s climate envoy could signal that the two countries are willing work together on some issues, even as they clash on others.

 

Do what works.

 

5

Police Told to Hold Back on Capitol Riot Response, Report Finds

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Despite being tipped that “Congress itself is the target” on Jan. 6, Capitol Police were ordered not to use their most powerful crowd-control weapons, according to a scathing new watchdog report.

 

The next step is a grand jury.

 

6

Key Findings from the Inspector General's Capitol Riot Report

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Intelligence failures, orders to use less aggressive measures and equipment breakdowns contributed to the Capitol Police’s botched response, a watchdog found.

 

The next step is a grand jury.

 

7 

With Afghan Decision, Biden Seeks to Focus U.S. on New Challenges

David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The president’s choice to set a firm date for a full withdrawal reflected a belief that the priorities of 2021 require moving on from policies set in 2001.

 

Biden shows the ability to learn.

 

8

Pelosi Invites Biden to Address Joint Session of Congress

Traci Carl, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The session would lay out the president’s plan after his first 100 days in office.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_of_the_Union

 

The state of the Union is not "sound".

 

9

Could a Rare Covid Vaccine Side Effect Put More at Risk?

Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Jan Hoffman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Some public health officials fear that the pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may fuel vaccine hesitancy and expose more Americans to a bigger danger: the coronavirus.

 

These public health officials are incompetent.

 

10

Two Georgia Republicans Censure Gov. Kemp and Raffensperger

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

The actions were driven by anger over the governor’s refusal to overturn the state’s 2020 primary results in favor of Trump.

 

Trump is the former president.

He should be facing treason charges.

 

11

If Biden Actually Withdraws Troops From Afghanistan By 9/11 He’ll Have Done Something Good

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 10 hours ago

Sort of self-explanatory. We’ll see if he actually does, Trump had planned to withdraw by May 1st, after all, and spent most of his Presidency talking about withdrawing without actually doing so. But Biden saying there are no conditions for the withdrawal is a promising sign. This does mean the Taliban will almost certainly wind […]

 

Proper action is short of justice.

 

12

China Poses Biggest Threat to U.S., Intelligence Report Says

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The annual assessment does not predict a military confrontation with either Russia or China, but it suggests that intelligence operations, cyberattacks and global drives for influence will intensify.

 

Misaprehension is the greatest threat.

13

Will Afghanistan Become a Terrorism Safe Haven Once Again?

Julian E. Barnes and Eric Schmitt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Not likely, at least in the short term, intelligence officials assess. But stopping terrorism groups over the long term could be more difficult.

 

It is not a U.S. concern. 

14

Biden Urges Calm After Police Shooting. Activists Want Answers.

Katie Rogers and Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The police shooting of Daunte Wright in Minnesota has renewed questions about what the administration will be able to accomplish on policing.

 

The activists are making demands of the wrong office.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posse_Comitatus_Act 

The FBI can give some answers.

 

15

After Another Police Shooting, Biden Urges Calm. Activists Want Answers.

Katie Rogers and Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The police shooting of Daunte Wright in Minnesota has renewed questions about what the administration will be able to accomplish on policing.

 

The activists are making demands of the wrong office.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posse_Comitatus_Act 

 

The FBI can give some answers.

 

16

Pause in Vaccinations Leads to Canceled Appointments Across States

Mitch Smith and Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Health departments scrambled to postpone vaccine clinics and rebook patients after the one-dose offering from Johnson & Johnson was sidelined.

 

The many a slip department.

 

17

Biden to Withdraw All Combat Troops From Afghanistan by Sept. 11

Helene Cooper, Thomas Gibbons-Neff and Eric Schmitt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

After years of arguing against an extended military presence in Afghanistan, President Biden is doing things his way, with the deadline for withdrawal set for the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks.

 

There will be Afghans who will need to run from the Taliban.

We must take them in before the U.S. troops leave.

The U.S. should leave none of its people behind.

 

18

Matt Gaetz Associate Is Cooperating With Justice Dept.

Michael S. Schmidt and Katie Benner, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Joel Greenberg, a former elected official in Florida, has been talking to federal investigators since last year about the conduct of Representative Matt Gaetz and others.

 

Sending Matt Gaetz into the Florida general prison population would be a death sentence. 

19

Can These Democratic Pollsters Figure Out What Went Wrong?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Five competing Democratic polling firms put their heads (and their data) together about 2020.

 

I know of no rule that bookmaking must be profitable.

Count all the votes.  Only votes count.

 

20

Biden to Name Robert Santos to Census Bureau

Zach Montague, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

If confirmed by the Senate, Mr. Santos would be the first person of color to serve as permanent head of the beleaguered agency.

 

The census must count all resident persons.

The ones that hide and the ones that advertise.

A statistician is the proper personality.

 

 

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