@16:00, , 5/30/21

 |

 

1

Biden’s Budget Has Racial Equity Efforts Baked In

Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The budget, which was released on Friday, includes tens of billions of dollars worth of programs intended to bolster the fortunes of people of color and other historically underserved groups.

 

Equality means what it says.

It is a reparation that can and must be provided.

2

Biden's $6 Trillion Budget Aims for Path to Middle Class, Financed by the Rich

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The president’s budget envisions a redistribution of wealth that will allow more Americans to enjoy prosperity, buoyed by investments in education, infrastructure and climate-related initiatives.

 

The new budget will be baid by bonded debt.  The bonds will be paid from the general fund.

Much will be rolled into the distant future.

This Republican trope is recognized as the petard it is.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trope_(literature)

3

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – May 30, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 2 hours ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – May 30, 2021 by Tony Wikrent Strategic Political Economy Long Slide Looms for World Population, With Sweeping Ramifications [NYT, via Naked Capitalism 5-23-2021] “1 big thing: The state of the world, according to me” Dion Rabouin [Axios, via Naked Capitalism Water Cooler 5-27-21] I find this very interesting because Rabouin […]

 

Alvin Toffler made his points.

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

 

The partisan battle continues with the left shooting at the democrats for not winning final victory.

 

4

Texas Senate Passes One of the Nation’s Strictest Voting Bills

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The Republican-led bill, which would toughen already stringent voting rules in Texas, is likely to pass the State House. Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to sign it.

 

Texas is insane.   It has been since it joined the union.

 

5

Texas Voting Bill Nears Passage as Republicans Advance It

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The bill, which includes some of the strictest voting measures in the country, would head to the desk of Gov. Greg Abbott if it passes. He is expected to sign it into law.

 

The Texas voting bill failed on a quorum call.

 

6

A Look at What's Inside Biden’s $6 Trillion Plan

The New York Times, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

President Biden’s funding request to Congress lays out his economic ambitions, with proposals for significant new spending in areas like infrastructure, education and the environment.

 

Making the national economy able to earn is an admirable project.

7

Air Force Tries Virtual Reality to Stem Suicide and Sexual Assault

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

Officials are hoping that an immersive virtual reality experience aimed at getting airmen to intervene will succeed where years of traditional training have failed.

 

Do what works.   The experiment is worth the cost.

 

8

Foster Friess, Big Donor to Republicans, Dies at 81

Neil Genzlinger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A conservative Christian and wealthy businessman, he gave millions to Rick Santorum and Donald Trump in their presidential bids.

 

No is not the answer.

 

9

The D.N.C. Didn’t Get Hacked in 2020. Here’s Why.

Nicole Perlroth, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A devastating email breach of the D.N.C. roiled Democrats in the final months of 2016. An unassuming security official made it his mission to prevent a recurrence.

 

The D.N.C. membership learned the first time.

 

10

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Use the comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

Negotiation is essential

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

 

11

Foster Friess, Big Donor to Republicans, Dies at 81

Neil Genzlinger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A conservative Christian and wealthy businessman, he gave millions to Rick Santorum and Donald Trump in their presidential bids.

 

No is not the answer.

 

12

Biden Banks on $3.6 Trillion Tax Hike on the Rich and Corporations

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The White House is proposing substantial increases in personal income tax rates for those earning about a half-million dollars and higher tax rates on large corporations.

 

Biden does not need more taxes to spend money now.

 

13

Senate Republicans Filibuster Jan. 6 Inquiry Bill, Blocking a Capitol Riots Investigation

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The vote killed the best chance for an independent accounting of the deadly Capitol attack, which Republicans feared would damage them politically.

 

That is one investigation of many.

 

14

Republican Dissent Delays Passage of China Competitiveness Bill

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Some Republican senators argued they needed more time to review the bill. Others said its nearly $200 billion price tag was too high.

 

Subsidizing semiconductor manufacture may have some effect on China trade.

Most of the bill is a collection of orphan causes.

The Republicans are sabotaging themselves.

 

15

Here's One Thing Missing from President Biden's Budget: Booming Growth

Neil Irwin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

For all the administration’s focus on transformational policies, it’s not forecasting an outburst of economic potential.

 

Rationally booming growth is not desirable.

A boom implies a future bust.

 

16

Biden Banks on $3.6 Trillion Tax Hike on the Rich and Corporations

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The White House is proposing substantial increases in personal income tax rates for those earning about a half-million dollars and higher tax rates on large corporations.

 

There is no reason not to mortgage the future.  Federal Reserve credit is good. 

17

Why Biden Isn’t Cracking Down on Fossil Fuels

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

Environmental activists had high hopes when he entered office, but have found his record mixed.

 

"Cracking down" on fossil fuels now would crash the retail economy.

 

18

Biden Recognizes Service Members Ahead of Memorial Day

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The speech came a day after the Pentagon confirmed that United States troops and their NATO allies intend to be out of Afghanistan by July.

 

The returning troops are welcome.  

They are not conquoring heroes.

Heroes deserve a separate recognition.

 

19 

'Special Master' to Decide if FBI Can Use Giuliani's Data

Benjamin Weiser, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

The review would decide if prosecutors, who are investigating whether Mr. Giuliani broke lobbying laws, can access material from devices the F.B.I. found in a search of his home.

 

Keeping records is a precondition to subpoena records.

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

 

The question is: are these discoveries covered by the writ.

20

Biden’s $6 Trillion Budget Aims for Path to Middle Class, Financed by the Rich

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

The president’s budget envisions a redistribution of wealth that will allow more Americans to enjoy prosperity, and it invests in climate change, education and infrastructure.

 

Biden will mortgage the future.

 

||

@13:23, , 5/29/21

 |

 

1

Air Force Tries Virtual Reality to Stem Suicide and Sexual Assault

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Officials are hoping that an immersive virtual reality experience aimed at getting airmen to intervene will succeed where years of traditional training have failed.

 

Do what works.

 

2

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 12 hours ago

Use the comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

Let us negotiate.

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

 

3

Fox News Intensifies Its Pro-Trump Politics as Dissenters Depart

Michael M. Grynbaum, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Donna Brazile, a Democratic analyst, has left the Murdoch-owned network as some hosts and journalists who questioned Donald Trump have exited or been sidelined.

 

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

 

4

Foster Friess, Big Donor to Republicans, Dies at 81

Neil Genzlinger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

A conservative Christian and wealthy businessman, he gave millions to Rick Santorum and Donald Trump in their presidential bids.

 

A recruit of the Koch brothers.

 

5

Biden Banks on $3.6 Trillion Tax Hike on the Rich and Corporations

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

The White House is proposing substantial increases in personal income tax rates for those earning about a half-million dollars and higher tax rates on large corporations.

 

Such a tax hike is a good idea.

The proposed spending will be paid for with bonds.

The bonds will be paid with much more modest taxes.  Most of them will be rolled over several times.

 

6

Senate Republicans Filibuster Jan. 6 Inquiry Bill, Blocking a Capitol Riots Investigation

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The vote killed the best chance for an independent accounting of the deadly Capitol attack, which Republicans feared would damage them politically.

 

The house will continue to investigate.

 

7

A Look at What's Inside Biden’s $6 Trillion Plan

The New York Times, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

President Biden’s funding request to Congress lays out his economic ambitions, with proposals for significant new spending in areas like infrastructure, education and the environment.

 

Infrastructure is larger than Republicans imagined.

It includes people.

 

8

Republican Dissent Delays Passage of China Competitiveness Bill

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Some Republican senators argued they needed more time to review the bill. Others said its nearly $200 billion price tag was too high.

 

Trump never stopped spending.

 The bill is due.

9

Here's One Thing Missing from President Biden's Budget: Booming Growth

Neil Irwin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

For all the administration’s focus on transformational policies, it’s not forecasting an outburst of economic potential.

 

The infrastructure bill was not in the budget.

 

10

Biden Banks on $3.6 Trillion Tax Hike on the Rich and Corporations

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The White House is proposing substantial increases in personal income tax rates for those earning about a half-million dollars and higher tax rates on large corporations.

 

A tax hike is appropriate but it cannot be depended on to happen.

It threatens the Republican financial base.

In itself a good thing to do.  The Republicans in the senate will fight new taxes any way they can.

 

11 

Biden's $6 Trillion Budget Aims for Path to Middle Class, Financed by the Rich

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The president’s budget envisions a redistribution of wealth that will allow more Americans to enjoy prosperity, buoyed by investments in education, infrastructure and climate-related initiatives.

 

Bonds are paid from the general fund, slowly.

 

12

Why Biden Isn’t Cracking Down on Fossil Fuels

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Environmental activists had high hopes when he entered office, but have found his record mixed.

 

To do so would crash what economy the U.S. has at the moment.

 

13

Biden Recognizes Service Members Ahead of Memorial Day

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The speech came a day after the Pentagon confirmed that United States troops and their NATO allies intend to be out of Afghanistan by July.

 

Good people under stupid orders.

The good deserve special recognition. 

14

Republicans Block The Creation of Jan 6th. Capitol Riot Commission

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The vote was a stinging defeat for proponents of the commission, who had argued that it was the only way to assemble a truly comprehensive account of the riot for a polarized nation.

 

The riot on Jan. 6 is being investigated by the house.

15

'Special Master' to Decide if FBI Can Use Giuliani's Data

Benjamin Weiser, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

The review would decide if prosecutors, who are investigating whether Mr. Giuliani broke lobbying laws, can access material from devices the F.B.I. found in a search of his home.

 

No court needs to give permission for one to record oneself.

The FBI has found a treasure.

 

16

One Thing Missing From the Biden Budget: Booming Growth

Neil Irwin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

For all the administration’s focus on transformational policies, it’s not forecasting an outburst of economic potential.

 

The budget did not include infrastructure.

 

17

Biden’s $6 Trillion Budget Aims for Path to Middle Class, Financed by the Rich

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

The president’s budget envisions a redistribution of wealth that will allow more Americans to enjoy prosperity, and it invests in climate change, education and infrastructure.

 

Only in the Republican immagination.

 

18

Tribes to Confront Bias Against Descendants of Enslaved People

Chris Cameron and Mark Walker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Choctaw Nation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in Oklahoma said they would consider granting citizenship to the Freedmen.

 

The Choctaw Nation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in Oklahoma did not practice chattel slavery.

 

The federal government did not recognize the distinction.

 

19

Fox News Intensifies Its Pro-Trump Politics as Dissenters Depart

Michael M. Grynbaum, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Donna Brazile, a Democratic analyst, has left the Murdoch-owned network as some hosts and journalists who questioned Donald Trump have exited or been sidelined.

 

The Murdochs will kill their empire rather than think.

 

20

Republicans Block Jan. 6 Commission

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The vote was a stinging defeat for proponents of the commission, who had argued that it was the only way to assemble a truly comprehensive account of the riot for a polarized nation.

 

The Republicans are committed to another failure.

A grand jury will not care.

 

 

||

 

@10:45, , 5/27/21

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1

Biden to Require Pipeline Companies to Report Cyberattacks

David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 55 minutes ago

The move, which will require companies to report to the government any significant attacks, is a response to the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attacks.

 

"Windows" software cannot be hack   resistant. 

There is no other barrier to the world wide web.

Reporting will make that apparent.

2

Paul Ryan Critiques Trump’s Grip on the Republican Party

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

In a speech, the former House speaker called on the Republican Party not to move forward in Donald Trump’s image, though he did not criticize the former president by name.

 

"Mr. Trump responded on Friday morning with a lengthy statement calling Mr. Ryan “a curse to the Republican Party,” adding that “he has no clue as to what needs to be done for our Country, was a weak and ineffective leader." 

Another magic astorisk.

3

QAnon Now as Popular in U.S. as Some Major Religions, Poll Suggests

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

Fifteen percent of Americans believe that “patriots may have to resort to violence” to restore the country’s rightful order, the poll indicated.

 

Witch craft is more popular than I had thought.

 

4

Senate Poised to Pass $195 Billion Bill to Bolster Competitiveness With China

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The legislation, which has bipartisan support, would be the first major industrial policy effort in decades.

 

China competes on the price of labor.

This is money for the rich.

 

5

U.S. Is Said to Have Unexamined Intelligence to Pore Over on Coronavirus Origins

Julian E. Barnes and David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Intelligence officials have told the White House that computer analysis may shed light on the mystery.

 

The Trump administration seeded the pandemic intentionally.

 

6

U.S. Says It Will Not Rejoin Open Skies Treaty With Russia

Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The 30-year-old agreement was put in place to ensure that Russia and the United States could monitor each other’s military movements.

 

The joint chiefs are frightening Putin.

 

7

Biden's Plan: President to Propose $6 Trillion Budget to Boost Middle Class, Infrastructure

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The president’s plans to invest in infrastructure, education, health care and more would push federal spending to its highest sustained levels since World War II.

 

At these interest rates "there is nothing to fear but fear itself." 

8

Republicans Present $928 Billion Counteroffer to Biden on Infrastructure

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The plan’s total price tag came close to what the president has said he would consider, but it included only a fraction of the new spending he has requested. A compromise faces long odds.

 

"A day late and a dollar short"

The loan is called.

 

9

Biden’s Budget Sees Low Inflation, Rising Debt and Slow Economic Growth

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The proposal sheds new light on President Biden’s economic agenda and underscores the administration’s belief that the country’s fiscal situation is manageable.

 

Alan Rappeport does not understand the reasoning.

 

10

How Finance Sharks Destroy Industries: Chicago Tribune Edition

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 6 hours ago

This isn’t going to be a long one. The way private-equity and other takeover artists today work is simple. They buy a company up and then load it up with debt to pay for having bought it. They generally take healthy companies (ToysRUs was running a profit), then once taken over slash and cut.  The […]

 

Republicans have never been rational about business management.

Democrats are marginally better.

11

Walter Kissinger, Businessman and Brother of Henry, Dies at 96

Katharine Q. Seelye, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Walter shed his Bavarian accent, while Henry notably did not. Asked why he lost his, Walter told interviewers, “Because I am the Kissinger who listens.”

 

The kissingers were never very rational.

Henry is well out of government.

 

12

Biden’s Silence on Abortion Rights at a Key Moment Worries Liberals

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

As a case before the Supreme Court threatens Roe v. Wade and Democrats’ urgency grows, many activists believe the president needs to be bolder in defending reproductive rights.

 

Biden is not able to defend or attack abortion.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_the_United_States#

Safeguards_of_civil_rights_(Amendments_13,_14,_15,_19,_23,_24,_and_26) 

The Republicans with their justices do not hear the civil government.

13

Scientists Don’t Want to Ignore the Wuhan ‘Lab Leak’ Theory, Despite No New Evidence

Carl Zimmer, James Gorman and Benjamin Mueller, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Many scientists welcomed President Biden’s call for a more rigorous investigation of a virus lab in Wuhan, China, though they said the so-called lab leak theory was still unlikely.

 

It is easier to quash a slander before it is established. 

Later it may not be possible.

 

14

Biden's Plan: President to Propose $6 Trillion Budget to Boost Middle Class, Infrastructure

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

The president’s plans to invest in infrastructure, education, health care and more would push federal spending to its highest sustained levels since World War II.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_A._Taft

 

 There has been a long fight against FDR and his programs.

15

Biden to Propose $6 Trillion Budget to Boost Middle Class and Infrastructure

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

The president’s plans to invest in infrastructure, education, health care and more would push federal spending to its highest sustained levels since World War II.

 

Much has fallen into disrepair since Truman.

16

On Voting Rights, Biden Prefers to Negotiate. This Time, It Might Not Be Possible.

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

The president’s long history of deal making on the issue is crashing into the realities of a more sharply partisan time.

 

The Republicans do not negotiate.

 

17

On Voting Rights, Biden Prefers to Negotiate. This Time, It Might Not Be Possible.

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

The president’s long history of deal making on the issue is crashing into the realities of a more sharply partisan time.

 

The Republicans do not negotiate.

 

18

Medicare Expansion: Broad Coalition of Democrats Press President Biden on Plan

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Over 150 House Democrats are pushing the president to include a plan in his infrastructure package to lower the eligibility age, expand benefits and negotiate drug prices.

 

Biden is supposed to make faster progress.

 

19

Broad Coalition of Democrats Presses Biden to Expand Medicare

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Over 150 House Democrats are pushing the president to include a plan in his infrastructure package to lower the eligibility age, expand benefits and negotiate drug prices.

 

Biden is supposed to make faster progress.

 

20

Biden is said to be planning to nominate Burns and Garcetti for ambassadorships.

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The president has also selected Thomas R. Nides, Rahm Emanuel and Ken Salazar for posts, according to people familiar with the process.

 

Diplomats who agree with their government make faster progress.

 

 

 

||

@12:10, 5/27/21

 |

 

1

Biden's Plan: President to Propose $6 Trillion Budget to Boost Middle Class, Infrastructure

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The president’s plans to invest in infrastructure, education, health care and more would push federal spending to its highest sustained levels since World War II.

 

The Republican attempt at deflation would be over.

 

2

Biden to Require Pipeline Companies to Report Cyberattacks

David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The move, which will require companies to report to the government any significant attacks, is a response to the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attacks.

 

The opportunity to fire-wall the U.S. never existed.

Do not use Microsoft.

 

3

Biden to Propose $6 Trillion Budget to Boost Middle Class and Infrastructure

Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The president’s plans to invest in infrastructure, education, health care and more would push federal spending to its highest sustained levels since World War II.

 

There is much that must be rebuilt toward that more perfect union found in the preamble of the Constitution.

 

4

Biden’s Silence on Abortion Rights at a Key Moment Worries Liberals

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

As a case before the Supreme Court threatens Roe v. Wade and Democrats’ urgency grows, many activists believe the president needs to be bolder in defending reproductive rights.

 

Talk does not reach Republicans.  

If they do as seems probable the resolution will be a Constitutional amendment.

The U.S. is a civil state.

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

#Safeguards_of_civil_rights_(Amendments_13,_14,_15,_19,_23,_24,_and_26)

 

5

On Voting Rights, Biden Prefers to Negotiate. This Time, It Might Not Be Possible.

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The president’s long history of deal making on the issue is crashing into the realities of a more sharply partisan time.

 Republicans didn't hear it the first few times.

6

On Voting Rights, Biden Prefers to Negotiate. This Time, It Might Not Be Possible.

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The president’s long history of deal making on the issue is crashing into the realities of a more sharply partisan time.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_the_United_States#

Safeguards_of_civil_rights_(Amendments_13,_14,_15,_19,_23,_24,_and_26) 

 

Biden will try again.

7

Medicare Expansion: Broad Coalition of Democrats Press President Biden on Plan

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

Over 150 House Democrats are pushing the president to include a plan in his infrastructure package to lower the eligibility age, expand benefits and negotiate drug prices.

 

Biden should not need much encouragement.

 

8

Broad Coalition of Democrats Presses Biden to Expand Medicare

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

Over 150 House Democrats are pushing the president to include a plan in his infrastructure package to lower the eligibility age, expand benefits and negotiate drug prices. 

 

The Republican faithful whine so when pushed.

9

 Biden is said to be planning to nominate Burns and Garcetti for ambassadorships.

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The president has also selected Thomas R. Nides, Rahm Emanuel and Ken Salazar for posts, according to people familiar with the process.

 

Biden has different friends.

 

10

Biden Orders Intelligence Inquiry Into Origins of the Coronavirus

Michael D. Shear, Julian E. Barnes, Carl Zimmer and Benjamin Mueller, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The directive came as health officials and scientists have renewed calls for a more rigorous examination.

 

Let us have some facts.

 

11

After Skirting Filibuster Fight for Months, Democrats Near a First Battle

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

The looming vote on creating a commission to investigate the Jan. 6 Capitol assault could reignite a clash over the Senate blocking tactic. Activists worry that time is short for a bid to eliminate it.

 

There must be a price demanded for filabustering.

 

12

Blinken Meets Leaders of Egypt and Jordan on Rebuilding Gaza

Lara Jakes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with the leaders of Egypt and Jordan to discuss rebuilding war-ravaged Gaza, largely avoiding talk of a long-term Israeli-Palestinian agreement.

 

Only a one state solution can be stable.

 

13

How Congress Has Undermined Gun Regulators

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

In a rarity, the A.T.F. may soon have a director. But the agency still faces N.R.A.-backed limitations.

 

The NRA hides racism behind the second amendment. 

14

John Warner, Genteel Senator From Virginia, Dies at 94

Carl Hulse, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

In his 30 years in the Senate, the former Navy secretary was a leading Republican voice on military policy. He was once married to Elizabeth Taylor.

 

Old Republicans die of  heart failure.

 

15

Republicans Attack Biden’s A.T.F. Pick in Confirmation Hearing

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

If confirmed, David Chipman would inherit an agency seriously depleted by the National Rifle Association’s campaign to undermine it.

 

The second amendment has sheilded racists since the failure of militias in 1812. 

16

Biden's Pick to Lead ATF Appears Before Senate Panel

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

David Chipman made his case for running the agency during a high-stakes hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

 

Trump did not appoint a leader for the ATF.

 

17

Meet Chris Coons, the president’s extra eyes and ears in the Senate.

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Chris Coons, a Delaware Democrat who once interned for President Biden, is the White House’s main conduit to senators in both parties.

 

As president Biden cannot attend committee meetings.

Chris Coons can and does.

 

18

Karine Jean-Pierre Takes Her Turn at the White House Podium

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

Her appearance was seen internally and externally as an audition for the press secretary job, which Jen Psaki has said she will leave after a year.

 

The press office does not make policy.

It exists to answer reporters questions about policy.

 

19

He Fought Trump’s 2020 Lies. He Also Backs New Scrutiny of Ballots.

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

Brad Raffensperger, the Republican secretary of state in Georgia, told The Times that a new, disinformation-driven attempt to inspect 2020 ballots wouldn’t unearth wrongdoing, and would help restore voter confidence.

 

Georgia has a functioning government.

 

20

John Warner, Genteel Senator From Virginia, Dies at 94

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

In his 30 years in the Senate, the former Navy secretary was a leading Republican voice on military policy. He was also once married to Elizabeth Taylor.

 

Old Republicans die gracefully.

 

 

 

 

 

||

@23:30, , 5/24/21

 |

 

1

Democrats Quieter About Migrant Children Detention

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

House Democrats led angry efforts to denounce the Trump administration’s treatment of migrant children. With the issue bedeviling President Biden, they are voicing worries privately.

 

The Biden administration is not blaming the victims.

 

2

Iran Extends Nuclear Program Inspections Agreement

Michael Crowley and Farnaz Fassihi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Tehran agreed to give the International Atomic Energy Agency continued access to cameras at its nuclear sites while it negotiates with the United States over the ruptured 2015 deal.

 

Iran is bargaining in good faith.

 

3

Biden Under Pressure Over ‘Public Health’ Border Expulsions

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

The president faces a balancing act: how to keep his pledge of a more compassionate approach to migrants while managing a surge of people at the border amid a pandemic.

 

Trump left another trap for refugees.

 

4

Long After Trump’s Loss, a Push to Inspect Ballots Persists

Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Efforts to review 2020 ballots in Georgia and Arizona reflect the staying power of Donald Trump’s falsehoods, and Democrats fear that the findings could be twisted by Republicans.

 

Republicans Find Trump's loss incomprehenceable.

5

Democrats, About to Miss a Police Reform Deadline, Hold Out Hope

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

The party will need G.O.P. buy-in to pass a bill — which could threaten activists’ priorities.

 

There seem to be no consequences to this purported deadline.

 

6

E.U. and Britain Move to Impede Belarus’s Access to Air Travel

Niraj Chokshi and Stanley Reed, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The European Union told airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace after the country forced a commercial flight to land in order to arrest a journalist.

 

Aleksandr G. Lukashenko is surprised.

 

7

McGahn Likely to Testify on Trump's Efforts to Obstruct Russia Inquiry

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

A delay is said to have stemmed from an initial threat by former President Donald J. Trump to intervene, but he apparently reversed course.

 

"The mills of the gods grind slowly but they grind exceeding fine."

 

8

McGahn Is Likely to Testify Next Week on Trump’s Efforts to Obstruct Russia Inquiry

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

A delay is said to have stemmed from an initial threat by former President Donald J. Trump to intervene, but he apparently reversed course.

 

Old politicians never die.  They just fade away.

 

9

White House Supports Barring Seizures of Reporters' Phone Data

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

But the Justice Department is not commenting on whether a seemingly off-the-cuff remark by President Biden is now a policy directive.

 

Biden understands that reporters work product is constitutionally protected.

 

10

The Post-Embarrassment Media Campaign of Andrew Yang

James Poniewozik, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

He once called himself the opposite of Trump. But he is another test of the theory that in politics, there’s no such thing as bad publicity.

 

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

Yang is an expert in public relations.

 

11

Types of Enlightenment #1: World As Self

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 8 hours ago

In the West this is probably the most common definition of enlightenment: you experience yourself as everything in the world, including people. Among others this is the traditional definition for Hermetic Mages, though they don’t call it enlightenment. It is also the most common definition of enlightenment in Hindu folk tradition (though full Hinduism has […]

 

https://deconstructingyourself.com/nondual-awareness-meditation-series

 

It is easy to get lost in this tangle.

Enter as a known risk.

 

12

Klobuchar to Propose Ban on Prechecked Boxes in Political Donations

Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Senator Amy Klobuchar is pressing for legislation after a Times investigation showed that the use of prechecked boxes for recurring donations by former President Donald Trump’s campaign led to a surge of refunds.

 

Klobuchar has a good idea.

I wish her success.

 

13

Andrew Yang and Eric Adams Under Fire as Primary Nears

Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

With less than a month before the June 22 primary, Democratic mayoral candidates are targeting the perceived front-runners, Eric Adams and Andrew Yang, in a bid to shift momentum.

 

Fragging the leaders always changes the leaders.

The results are rarely satisfactory.

14

Blinken Hopes to Solidify Hamas and Israel's Cease-Fire

Lara Jakes, Vivian Yee and Isabel Kershner, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

The secretary of state will also use his trip to the region this week to work on humanitarian aid for Gaza but has no plans to pursue full-fledged peace talks.

 

The effort would be better spent on other problems.

 

15

Supreme Court Rejects Ernest Johnson's Death Penalty Method Plea

Adam Liptak, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The inmate, Ernest Johnson, argued that Missouri’s planned use of pentobarbital to execute him would cause excruciating pain.

 

If painless death is the objective a supply of Fentanil is most effective. 

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

16

Why Arkansas Is a Test Case for a Post-Trump Republican Party

Jonathan Martin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Sarah Huckabee Sanders seems likely to bring the Trump brand to Arkansas politics in a big way. But the state is a testing ground for different possible futures for the party.

 

Trump lost reelection.

Republicans in Arkansas know victory will cost in cash.

 

17

As Talks Bog Down, Hopes for Bipartisan Deals on Biden’s Priorities Dim

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Democrats and Republicans remain at odds on issues such as infrastructure, policing reform and a commission on the Jan. 6 Capitol assault.

 

Bipartisanship is a rotting zombi.

 

18

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – May 23, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – May 23, 2021 by Tony Wikrent Predatory Capitalism in the Time of COVID19 ‘Government Money That’s Gone Into Vaccine Development Is Being Privatized by a Handful of Companies’ [FAIR, via Naked Capitalism 5-16-2021] It Was The Government That Produced COVID-19 Vaccine Success [Health Affairs Blog, via Naked Capitalism 5-16-2021] […]

 

There looks to be no news here. There is a strong bias against corporate power.

"Be careful what you wish for."

19

A Teenager’s ‘Hannibal’ Fan Art Will Hang in the U.S. Capitol

Christina Morales and Daniel Victor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Representative Andy Kim of New Jersey, who picked the painting to represent his district in the Capitol, did not know it was inspired by a canceled TV show.

 

Art by accident.

There is a lot of it about.

I look but try not to remember. 

20

US Grants Temporary Protection Status to Thousands of Haitians

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The designation, which will be in place for 18 months, could protect as many as 150,000 Haitians living temporarily in the United States.

 

These are the smart and quick.

Most were stopped at sea.

Haiti is showing no signs of recovery.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inconstant_Moon#%22Bordered_in_Black%22

 

 

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@15:52, , 5/22/21

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 1

Risk of Nuclear War Over Taiwan in 1958 Said to Be Greater Than Publicly Known

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The famed source of the Pentagon Papers, Daniel Ellsberg, has made another unauthorized disclosure — and wants to be prosecuted for it.

 

Eisenhower had removed Macarthur from command at the Yalu river for his threat to use nuclear weapons against the Chinese army.

The noise in the Pentagon over the threat to Taiwan did not seem significant to my eight year old self.

2

Republicans Move to Limit a Grass-Roots Tradition of Direct Democracy

Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Through ballot initiatives, voters in red states have defied legislators’ wishes and produced liberal outcomes in recent years. Republicans want to make the practice harder, or even eliminate it.

 

Obviously Republicans are not democrats.

 

3

U.S. Confirms It Does Not Want to Buy Greenland

Chris Cameron, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

News of President Donald J. Trump’s interest in buying the territory in 2019 bewildered its leadership and became the butt of jokes.

 

Taking a long term lease on northern Greenland is appealing.

 

4

Florida Republican Byron Donalds on Election Integrity and Trump’s Fraud Claims

Astead W. Herndon, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Byron Donalds, a newly elected congressman, says Republicans are trying to secure elections, not suppress votes. And he disputes Donald Trump’s influence on trust.

 

Fixing elections is the Republican objective.

 

5

A Florida Republican on Election Integrity and Trump’s Fraud Claims

Astead W. Herndon, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Byron Donalds, a newly elected congressman, says Republicans are trying to secure elections, not suppress votes. And he disputes Donald Trump’s influence on trust.

 

Representative Byron Donalds is simply wrong.

 

6 

Biden Tried to Keep It Boring. This Week Intervened.

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

His team has projected the image of a calmer White House, but recent days showed that it can’t outrun chaos.

 

Biden is doing well.  The Republicans want him to stop doing well.

 

7

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 13 hours ago

Use the comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts. In particular, please do not discuss the Israel/Palestine issue here.

 

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

Next steps will need to be negotiated.

 

8

White House Says Dating Apps Can Help Vaccinated (and Frisky) Find Love

Katie Rogers and Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

With new “I’m Vaccinated” badges, dating apps are plugging into a cultural conversation over how Americans can approach postpandemic dating.

 

Dating at a distance might make the girls fathers happier.

 

9

White House Touts Online Dating Plan to Push Covid Vaccine

Katie Rogers and Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

With a non-zero amount of awkwardness, the Biden administration highlighted a new plan to encourage more people — particularly the young and frisky ones — to get vaccinated.

 

Do what works.

 

10

Biden Faces New Challenges in Middle East After Cease-Fire

Michael Crowley and Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The administration is considering how to recalibrate its policy in the region in light of the cease-fire between Israel and the Palestinians without distracting from other priorities.

 

President is not a trivial job.

 

11

How Texas Republicans Want to Recast History

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

We spoke with our reporter Simon Romero about legislative proposals that could shape the way future Texans see the world.

 

Legends do not triumph over the historical record.

Texas Republicans are assuring their fictional status.

12

Anthony Bouchard Says He Impregnated 14-Year-Old When He Was 18

Maggie Astor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The actions that State Senator Anthony Bouchard of Wyoming disclosed would be statutory rape in many states and would be illegal under current law in Florida, where he lived at the time.

 

Anthony Bouchard should tend to his business.

 

13

Congress Now Supersedes Generals on Military Issues

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

The shift mirrors broader societal frustrations after two decades of wars, a pervasive problem of sexual assault and harassment of female troops and the exposure of political extremism in the ranks.

 

"When in doubt, send the marines" has not made for good diplomatic relations.

 

14

Big Hospital Chains Get Covid Aid, and Buy Up Competitors

Reed Abelson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

The pandemic barely dented the financial outlook for some major networks, which continued to acquire weaker hospitals and ailing doctors’ practices. Critics worry consolidation leads to higher prices for medical care.

 

Monopoly should not work for healthcare.

 

15

Biden Gives Medal of Honor to Col. Ralph Puckett

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Col. Ralph Puckett’s soldiers were “inspired and motivated by the extraordinary leadership and courageous example” he provided, the Biden administration said.

 

Col. Ralph Puckett earned his honors.

 

16

How Hopes for a Bipartisan Jan. 6 Commission Fell Apart

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

A full accounting of the Capitol riot, with backing from both parties, is harder than ever to envision.hope for

 

There has been no real hope for bipartisanship since Newt Gingritch.

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

 

17

Voting Machines in Arizona Recount Should Be Replaced, Election Official Says

Michael Wines, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Democratic secretary of state said she had “grave concerns regarding the security and integrity” of the machines that were examined to appease ardent backers of Donald J. Trump.

 

The audit showed no significant errors.

The terminals are insecure and should be replaced.

 

18

Trump Justice Dept. Seized CNN Reporter’s Email and Phone Records

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

In a wide-ranging request, federal prosecutors obtained records for Barbara Starr’s email accounts and multiple phone lines, the network said.

 

https://www.cjr.org/united_states_project/journalists_privilege_shield_law_primer.php

 

"“CNN strongly condemns the secret collection of any aspect of a journalist’s correspondence, which is clearly protected by the First Amendment,” said Jeff Zucker, the network’s president. “We are asking for an immediate meeting with the Justice Department for an explanation.”" 

The Trump administration should have known better.

19

South Korean Leader to Meet With White House

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

The Biden administration is expected to press for deeper cuts in South Korea’s greenhouse gas emissions when President Moon Jae-in visits Washington on Friday.

 

South Korea will probably build more nuclear power plants.

 

20

Both parties are gaming out how a Supreme Court ruling on abortion next year could upend the midterms.

Carl Hulse and Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

 

The separation of church and state is black letter law in the U.S.

 

 

 

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