Black Voters Beware!

Though reports are just being revealed about the nature of Russian disinformation and misinformation, it is astounding to see how much they understood how easily manipulated Black voters would be. Most of the misinformation under the guise of accounts supposedly belonging to Black Lives Matter or other such accounts, they were able to feed Black voters information that intentionally targeted them to either vote for Republicans or not to vote at all.

The report reveals that the Russian trolls were able to convince Black folks to attend rallies that became chaotic and unruly resulting in arrests, create such animosity against Black politicians and the Democratic party that many chose to stay at home and not vote or to vote and write in ridiculous names for the presidential candidate, and then to me, the most appalling event was in having Black folks malign and disparage other Black folks if they dared to discuss being a Democrat.  When so-called professionals, deliberately attempt to undermine the democratic process by promoting misinformation, we have a problem. The only people who can alleviate the problem is the Black Voter by educating themselves to the facts.

I've written about this before in my blogs, but it warrants repeating to some degree.

• "The Inconvenient Truth About the Democrat Party" as told by Carol Swain, Ph.D. at PragerU is partial truth and to me a whole lie. This is a conservative production, deliberately attempting to conflate truth with their own narrative.
• Fox Entertainment Network is not a news show and none of the Black hosts or pundits will ever represent the Black Community. They are shills (especially Candace Owens) who are paid to get Black Americans to rethink their values and hopefully persuade them to vote for Republicans.
• The Republican party of the 21st Century is not the same party of the 19th or 20th Century. Common sense--if all are paying attention to what's going on in politics--should rule. Republicans are responsible for voter suppression (shutting down early voting, closing voting locations, not counting all absentee ballots, criminally collecting ballots to either change them or to make sure they are never returned, to intimidation--having racist monitors at polling places). Just recently, we have seen election fraud in North Carolina by the Republican candidate--Mike Harris, and Republican legislators trying to subvert the will of the voters in Michigan (Rick Snyder) and Wisconsin (Scott Walker)--simply because they lost leadership positions to Democrats and yet they think they have the right to legislate incoming Democrat authority.
• Republicans are still trying to keep Americans from being healthy and this particularly true for Black Americans who may be stripped of healthcare coverage because of their mandates, designed to strip people of dignity and access to adequate healthcare, especially for those with preexisting conditions.
• Republicans are slashing educational budgets in Washington to make sure that Black communities don't have the resources needed for a quality education from K-12 and beyond.
• Republicans are reversing consumer protections that allow us breathe cleaner air, drink uncontaminated water and eat food not poisoned by chemicals in the soil.
• Republicans are creating a mockery of economic wealth enjoyed only by the rich since most of us end up paying the costs for unwarranted tariffs on goods we all all use. Ask the farmers how this has worked out for them and then while you're shopping, understand why a head of iceberg lettuce will cost $2 or more in the grocery store. Don't get upset with companies falling by the wayside and closing shop, get upset with the idiot in the WH who thinks "trade wars are fun."
• Republicans are also reconstructing what anti-discrimination laws look like and that directly affects what access most of us will have to educational systems and jobs.

The point of all this is to make the Black Community aware of what has been done to discourage our votes for those (Democrats) who actually attempt to make laws that benefit us. The more we know--especially those of us who have lived through the 50s and 60s--the more wisdom we have to pass along to the younger generations. We must provide them with all the tools they'll need to be successful and to survive the onslaught of racism and bigotry that will exist for generations to come. We must educate ourselves to the truth, living in the present moment--taking what we learn from the past regarding political parties and using it to build a solid foundation for our future--as forward thinking Democrats.

BLACK VOTERS--LISTEN AND HEAR ME WELL--We are an important factor in every election--local, state and national and it's time we started acting like we are part of the solution and not part of the problem. How do we manage that? We get involved--totally engaged in the political process making sure our concerns are heard and addressed and and making sure we're willing to "work" to make it happen. Talk is cheap and the only prayers answered are those that are followed up with action. Heard the saying, "Action speaks louder than words?" It's true, we more involved we are as a community of Americans of Color, the less likely we'll be ignored and the greater the likelihood we'll see legislative policies enacted that benefit us, and not treat us like we are "less than" anyone else.

Is this clear enough for you? If not, please don't hesitate to do the research for yourself or contact other Black leaders in the Democratic party for resources or to contact me via the email listed on my campaign page: facebook.com/YesIAm2020. This is not an attempt to solicit your vote, but the email address on this page is public knowledge and has a phone number you may call and leave a message. I care enough about the Black Community and what we can accomplish through the political machinery to risk having idiots contact me, however--my political platform is to represent all Everyday Americans and if elected President of the United States, that's exactly what I'll do--sign bills and lobby for those which benefit all the people, not just some of them. We can do this--unified--when we understand who we are and how the forces outside of us attempt to keep us marginalized, disenfranchised,  and underrepresented in all arenas.

Find a local Dem club and get involved and then run for office--on the local, state or national level. Don't just sit twiddling your thumbs and complaining--jump in where you fit in and work it to your advantage--to benefit the entire community. Our Vote Is Our Voice In Our Democracy!

Letter to American Congress

Dear lawmakers:

As a citizen in this already great country, I find it incumbent upon me to remind you of your obligations and responsibilities for all Americans since you chose to run for the office you currently have.

Most people think politics is a dirty business and want no part of it. I'm sure in the beginning of your political career you probably thought the same thing, but you were determined to make a real difference in what happens in this country and to make lives better for all. Unfortunately, you like so many others before you, have forgotten about the importance of people and have instead become inured to the plight of the poor and working class in order to keep your position by caving to those with money. "The lust of money (will do anything to get it) is the root of all evil." And it appears that particular passage of scripture (from most bibles) is true. Greed and the need to satiate a desire for power has been a disruptive factor for many in Congress. I hope this does not describe you, but if it does, it's time to make a change.

Most Americans realize by now that had it not been for the interference by Russia in 2016 election that many of those in Congress and certainly the person in the White House would not be there. We know you knew about the cheating and it's time you're held accountable. Since truth and integrity were not part of the plan to get what you wanted from the beginning, we don't really expect truth and integrity to find its way back into your lives, but we can hope. While we're waiting, we're demanding that you exercise the Constitutional right of oversight of the White House before there won't be any of us left.

Unless you are totally blind and deaf and ignorant, lacking the mental capacity to see that greed and corruption are what brought us to this place, you know it's time to remove Donald J. Trump from the Oval Office and Mike Pence who is complicit in the knowledge that greed was the motivator and criminality the end results. We do not need criminals or those who are criminal-minded to be in positions of authority in America. And we certainly don't need a dictator-wanna-be demanding loyalty from others, seeking praise and attention to appease his insecurities.

The continued existence of our democracy is up to you. Everything that happens--all the bloodshed and deaths--are on your hands. You are responsible. If you no longer have a conscience, you will still stand before God and be judged for all you've done--good and bad. If you plan to hear, "well done," I suggest you do well and govern for the sake of all the people and not just for the Koch Brothers, the Mercers and Murdochs of this world and certainly not for the Russians or the money they give to keep their plan going--to destroy democracy. If you have family, you should care about how the history books will note this passage of your life.

Thank you for being a true, patriotic American in responding the needs of the people and just remember, compromise is not a bad word and neither is bipartisanship if we want to keep America moving forward and not sliding backwards.

Sincerely,

Everyday Americans

 

The Fallibility of Human Nature

Before we can understand how imperfect we are, we need to admit we all have imperfections and flaws. That said, let's look at what happens when we refuse to see ourselves as we really are.

Take the daily news we tend to absorb. What motivates what we see or read? The headlines tend to grab us--based upon our individual stances or beliefs--and we're often ensnared by the headlines and never read the details of an article or listen to the details of newscasts. Then, when we don't bother with the details, but want to share what we just read or heard, we become arbiters of spreading *fake news* if in fact, what we shared was not truth. Allowing headlines to ensnare us is a human flaw--we all do it--and this is one of the reasons why we saw what happened in 2016--false headlines led many to believe lies about Hillary Clinton. Okay, this isn't about Hillary, but it does serve to make the point being made--we are flawed human beings and sometimes, we allow our biases to interfere with good judgment.

Recent news (not fake, but very real) has revealed that Donald Trump is an un-indicted co-conspirator in crimes involving campaign violations (and others as we'll soon see). He was listed as "individual 1" in a sentencing memo for Michael Cohen--his former fixer. At any rate, many people--including Republican elected leaders--have chosen to ignore the obvious because it doesn't gel with their personal biases. In fact, Orrin Hatch (invisible glasses) has even stated that if trump has committed a crime, he doesn't care. Kevin McCarthy has said, "if campaign violations is a crime, then we'd have to prosecute a number of people in Congress" (not exactly a statement that builds trust or faith in our elected officials). As a consequence, trump supporters (Cult45 and MAGAts), tend to believe the menace because he tweeted, "totally cleared the president. Thank you," after the sentencing memo dropped. Why? He didn't read the memo to discover he was referenced in it. And because of his ego and narcissistic tendencies, he would never admit it anyway, at least not publicly. Word on the street has it--he's totally unnerved by the findings, but since his supporters only watch Fox News, they'll never know the truth of the matter because--they're not interested in truth, just in finding news that supports their thinking.

Someone on Twitter earlier today suggested that we go back to the Fairness Doctrine where all sides are presented in the media so then the consumer would be able to make wise decisions about the news. In theory, it sounds good, but wouldn't it make more sense to educate the public in how to recognize credible sources of information? First of all, the consumer of information has to "want to know truth" in order to recognize it when it's being told. How do we determine truth? What are the facts/evidence supporting what is reported? Who collected the facts/evidence and what is their reputation/credibility? What is their motive in collecting the facts/evidence and in the subsequent reporting? If the person presenting the information has extreme biases about what they're presenting, can they really be objective in their perception of how the consumer will either receive or reject what they say?

Then, we have to take into account the "place" where the consumer of information is when they either hear or see certain types of information. On a good day, when everything is going our way, we can be a bit cynical about some of what we hear, but on the other hand, if we're already soured about events surrounding us, we tend to only want to hear those things that encourage our being sour on everything. It's human nature! It's what we do!

Right now, many (not all) of us only want to hear the very worst about trump because it serves our purposes in knowing we were right about him all along. But are we right? Did we miss something in the process of wanting to be right? It's possible, but that's not the purpose of this article. I'm simply pointing out the fallibility of human nature and the fact that none of us are always right or always wrong. We're simply human beings with biases developed over the course of lives. Sometimes, we're wise enough to look deeper--see the details and change our perspectives, but that doesn't happen too often. When we have hardened views on almost any subject, we're only inclined to listen to those people who build pillars to support our views, rather than listen to those who deliberately challenge us to widen our horizons and hone our views based upon the facts/evidence we discover.

Today, we live in such a divided society that no matter what one person says (Democrat or Republican) they are judged because of stances they've taken with or without justification. We can move our society to a better place if all--everyone--regardless of party affiliation would simply take the time to *research* information, determining whether it is credible or not, analyzing the motivation behind what we use, before drawing any conclusions about any presented information.
Now, I'll admit--I have some favorite news outlets and most of them will actually support my biases. However, when I hear things that don't sound credible--I research--and I don't care who said what. I'd rather take the time to research the information before spreading lies, creating undue animosity--which is what many people do. I know trump supporters don't like the fact that *he lies* consistently, with no purpose at this point because we all know, he lies. The problem is--one day--he just might tell us the truth (though he and truth have no relationship) and no one will believe it because he lies. I encouraged him over two years to have someone read to him, "The Boy Who Cried Wolf." I don't think he ever read that or had anyone read it to him.

The really sad part is, he never read about Pinocchio either. His comprehension skills, to say the least, are negligible.  The proof of that statement is available in a video clip of him, "tossing a coin" to determine which team did what (Army vs Navy last weekend), but he took that literally. The "coin toss" is actually, flipping the coin, but he didn't understand that and made a fool of himself and as a result, social media lambasted him. But I digress. The point of this is to encourage others to understand the need to research information from a variety of sources before we decide how we feel about it or spread it to others.  If we're going to read or listen to *conservative* views, we might want to sprinkle enough information from the other side to come to a logical, rational conclusion. I'm reminded of the nonsense that was spread by conservative outlets about Hillary and the Parkland Students--created because of conspiracy theorists who had no evidence on which to base or promote their fraudulent theories, but they promoted them anyway and many gullible people, swallowed them whole.

Non-credible sources include: Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, Tomi Lahren, Tucker Carlson,  Jeanine Pirro, The Daily Caller, Breitbart, Common Dreams, New York Post, Fox News (Entertainment) Network, or anyone who cannot or will not provide facts/evidence to support what they say and that includes Jerry Falwell, Jr. Franklin Graham, Pat Robertson, Jim Bakker, or Paula White or a multitude of other Evangelicals who lied to their congregations when they told them, "God chose trump to be president." Where's the evidence? Are they operating on feelings? Is it based upon The Word of God? The Character of God? Do trump's actions align with the Word of God?

What the Evangelicals won't tell people is how they have contrived for years to find someone who will do whatever they want done--under cover of the White House--for an exchange of money--the almighty dollar that speaks volumes for those who are greedy and corrupt. And yes, I'm calling out the Evangelical Community that lied to people and is still lying to people. They do not know God, or His Word, or His Character. If they did, they would not have told people God chose trump. It's just that simple and that can be researched and proven by trying to align trump's character and behavior with The Word of God.

But we know, the lying Evangelicals won't tell people the truth, because they don't want to admit their fallibility as human beings because to them, being a Christian means you can never be wrong. The reality is, being a Christian really means--we try to live like Christ--admitting our shortcomings, recognizing we'll never be perfect and always seeking Him to guide us in all things. And when we "think" we've heard Him speak to us, we can prove it by aligning what He says to us with what He's already said in His Word. God is not a man that He should lie or change His mind about What He's said or the Purpose for which He said, anything.

God knows just how imperfect we are and the fact that we'll never reach perfection as long as we are in a position to "choose" what we say or do. When we fall short, we acknowledge it, seek forgiveness and guidance and keep it moving, until the next time and there will be a next time. It's what happens to fallible human beings--we are true to our nature.

Democracy Undermined By GOP

It's bad enough to know that Republicans can only win an election when they cheat--by various means--gerrymandering, voter suppression and now--inhibiting the ability of incoming, newly elected Democrats--subverting the will of the people.

First, it was North Carolina--when remaining GOP legislators--deliberately and with malicious intent, passed legislation to keep the new Governor from having full authority of the office of his job.
Jealousy and hatred ruled and apparently, set the stage for other states to follow their odious example.

Now, after the 2018 Mid Terms, Wisconsin, Michigan, and perhaps, Pennsylvania and Utah are experiencing similar issues with corrupt, un-American, Republicans who disdain our democracy.

If and when outgoing governors--sign these bills into law--limiting the authority of incoming
governors--they are traitors to their state and to the democracy that most of value. In a democracy, the rule of the people--when they vote--should be honored and respected. The people, by their vote--voiced their choice in who they wanted to govern them. Anyone else interfering with that process is guilty of violating constitutional rights of the people and infringing upon the rights of elected officials --curtailing their ability to do their job--govern for all the people.

This is beyond shameful, but so indicative of hate-filled, bigoted people. The once respected Republican party has become a party of disingenuous zealots who only care about controlling people, not the people themselves.

Rick Scott--in Wisconsin--will bear the shame and tainted legacy he leaves.

Rick Snyder--in Michigan--who has already left many with dubious thoughts about him because of the Flint water situation--will also bear the shame and leave a further tainted legacy when he leaves. It's a shame and embarrassment to the Republican party and it should leave a really sour taste in the mouths of all who support this kind of subversion of elections.

I believe this behavior is a concerted, planned ploy by the Republican Governors Association (RGA) to deny incoming elected officials their right to govern and in the case in Michigan, we know Republicans are angry that the top positions elected will now be held by women--and like the misogynists they are--they're trying to control what the women do--as if they need babysitters.

The people of Wisconsin are fighting back, just like those in North Carolina (on the heels of re-doing their election because of election fraud) and those of us in Michigan, will not lay down and let repulsive Republicans get away with this effort to thwart the voters. In our democracy--we have a constitutional right to choose who we want to govern us and the fact that there are those who choose to "rampantly push through legislation out of spite" during lame duck sessions--reveal how much they hate our democracy.

Those supporting repressive and probably illegal practices of subverting a voter's constitutional right to choose who they want to govern, should be sanctioned and never allowed to hold public office, anywhere.

The People--in every state--have a right to choose who governs them and how they choose to do so, not the outgoing legislators--passing dubious bills--limiting authority of duly elected leaders.

It's Time To Fight Back, America

In Every State That Tries To Deny

The Rights Of Duly-Elected Leaders!

We Need To Outlaw Lame Duck Legislation That Interferes With The Authority of In-coming Leaders!

I'm In--Are You?

Write, call, fax, email, tweet your legislators who are trying to interfere with the democratic process and let them know, you're paying attention and you will make sure they're never elected for anything, ever again. This behavior is fraudulent and they should all be sued for "subverting democracy and the constitutional rights of voters." Check your state's government websites for contact information for your legislators and get busy. I've been involved in the protest in the capitol in Lansing, emailing, faxing, and calling, and tweeting the legislative leaders and the governor. We must stand up and fight back, if we're to maintain our democracy.

Our Vote Is Our Voice And It Matters!

Protesters at Michigan Capitol--I'm on the end "live streaming" event.

Get Involved!

Who Has The Real Power!

I've been listening to the news and scrolling Twitter and Facebook and I'm always surprised at the level of hate some use to target others. While thinking about this, I realized that people who hate others--have given the "others" immense power. Think about it! When people hate others enough to obsess over everything they do, that's power because they don't have time or the inclination to do anything, but hate!

Listening to an "interview" with a voter in MS--they (a White male) said, they'd rather do without healthcare because--"my grandpa didn't have have healthcare, my paw didn't have healthcare and I don't need healthcare (the man said with a toothless grin). I'll vote for a Republican just because they're Republican over a Black person any day."

So, rather than have access to healthcare, education, and a living wage (the agenda Democrats are promoting), this person and I can only conclude, many like him--hate Black people so much, they've given them power over their lives. Really? Hate is more important than having a life worth living? That's powerful stuff!

I can only imagine how the Black people in MS feel knowing how much people hate them. Some may be intimidated by the hatred, but others (hopefully) will use it to their advantage and really give the haters something to hate. They should unite in their efforts to establish and maintain an educational arena where their children thrive, where healthcare is readily available to the residents in the poorest, communities of Black folks, and they learn to create their own employment opportunities that leaves the haters out in the cold.

Now, before you start thinking that idea is racist, think about what I said and why. For decades, Black people have been forced to do things for themselves when they were denied access to a dentist office, a doctor's office, a quality education and even the use of public bathrooms and water fountains. If you didn't think that was racist, don't you dare think what I said was racist. If poor white people cared about their standard of living, they'd wake up, bury the hate and really see what it is that Democrats want to accomplish for all the people, not just some. But if their hatred is so strong they would rather hold onto it rather than progress in life--that's their decision. And trust me--Black people have been marginalized for most of their lives; they're used to it and know how to accomplish in spite of it--without whining about it. Is it fair? Absolutely not, but it is the reality in a region where poor white people have blamed Black people for their lots in life, not having what they want or at least what they think they want.

The reality is--White people have always had the advantage--the access to books, banks, education, healthcare and businesses. That was part of their privilege of being White. Black folks had to earn every thing they accomplished in life and they had no privilege to give them advantage. The weird thing about watching what's going on in the southern Red States with all of their racism and hatred is the fact that the poor White people, keep electing other White people who are rich and always vote against any possibility of anyone getting ahead in their states--other than those who already have.

Look at Kentucky, with Mitch McConnell leading the Senate and now he's worth millions, but his constituents are poor, have lousy access to healthcare, one of the worst educational systems in the country and their water is killing them. And yet, Mitch voted in favor of rolling back the consumer protections established to protect people in order to gain favor and money from the corporations who are polluting the water. It would appear that Mitch McConnell could care less about his constituents as long as he can line his pockets.

But Mitch is not the only trumplican who hates their constituents. Look at Florida and Rick Scott's governance with the Red Tide--killing off sea life, endangering the lives of the people and the economy because of the tourism needed to keep things afloat. They voted against their own interests because of hate. Doesn't seem like such a smart thing to do, but they did it.

What most "christian" Republicans haven't realized is that it is Democrats who actually do what the Bible says for us to do. We are commanded to take care of the poor and the needy, to feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty and to love all unconditionally. That's what Democrats do because the bottom line is--love is more powerful than hate because love accomplishes, while hate destroys. And when the haters openly voice their hatred, they empower the target of their hatred to do even more great things.

The White Supremacists have targeted Black folks in a number of states, killed innocent people because of their hate and then end up spending the rest of their lives behind bars, and becoming targets by those who are determined to teach the haters a lesson. So, now--who has the real power?

I'm sure I haven't said anything new--nothing that hasn't been said before, but I wanted to emphasize the fact that hatred--gives power to the targets of the hate and does nothing for those who hate. It's time folks realize that together we all win, but divided--few win and all suffer. Take the time to think about everything I've said and really understand who has the most to lose when hate is the driver force in a person's life.

Accountability For All!

Dear trump supporters:

I've had a lot to say for the past two years, but this is my first letter directed at you. And yes, I know I didn't capitalize his name, I seldom do. I have no respect for him and I won't pretend that I do. What amazes me is that anyone could have any respect for him, but apparently, some do.

Let me begin with those who voted for him--shortsightedness, frustration, anger, apathy or just plain stupidity guided this shipwreck of a decision and here we are. I really don't care about those who claim to be pro-life when in actuality, they are pro-fetus, not the life of those outside the womb. The proof--the mindless moron just condoned the killing of an American journalist because he can't stand the thought of losing any business (his personal business--it's not about America First) from the Saudis. This is what gets me--he lies and lies, deflects and denies and that same segment of people, keep making excuses for him and justifying his behavior. And for those hoping a Republican court system will prevail against abortions--think again. It won't. If you don't want to have an abortion, don't have one. If you don't want to be married to a person who is the same sex as you are, don't marry them. And before you get your underwear in a bunch, I'm more Christian than any of the dolts who voted for this moron, and I know the most important commandment we have from Jesus is to love--unconditionally, so keep your religious, Phariseetical comments to yourself.

He does not care about America--if he did, the deficit would be decreasing and not increasing. He does not care about our military--if he did the 5800 troops at the border would be home with their families, he would have gone to combat zones before now to visit our troops, and he hasn't done a thing to support our veterans. Anyone with even partial vision and hearing knows by now, he disrespected veterans by not going to the Arlington Cemetery on Veterans Day or the cemetery in France. He met with Putin and was so glad to see him that everyone remarked at the pure joy that showed in his face. Most of the veterans I know and have an affiliation with--are totally po'd with him. They have not been paid benefits for some time now and it's going to cause problems for many. But does he care--not one whit. He disparaged Admiral McRaven--claiming Bin Laden should have taken out sooner than he was. But now, please remember--trump avoided the draft with phony deferments five times to avoid Viet Nam and now, he claims he doesn't want to visit the troops for fear someone will kill him. Amazing how that fear never stopped other presidents from visiting troops in combat zones and yet--he claimed he'd run into a building with an active shooter in a school. More lies. He's afraid of the rain because he can't manage an umbrella.

And then there was the tax cut scam that many are going to soon regret when they realize, they did not gain anything because all the exemptions and deductions will no longer exist when they file their taxes. So some thought getting a few extra dollars in a paycheck was going to make a difference--short term and temporary. The corporations who got all the real breaks, bought back their own stocks, laid off workers and many closed doors, leaving the workers--behind the eight-ball. Right now, GM is cutting their work force by 18K. What are these folks supposed to do? Join the rolls of the unemployed and watch that percentage rise from 3.9% back to 5.1% nationally. It's coming--this is what always happens when Republicans control government--they enrich themselves, cut spending for the poor and then we see a recession. Democrats are the ones always left to clean up the messes and reduce the deficit--by raising taxes--because cutting them led to the increased deficit to start with and the working class, did not benefit the same way the rich did.

He's abused and misused the office of the presidency to the point where America is the laughingstock of the world. We have more lawsuits pending in court than ever before (and we're only 2 years into this fiasco) and now--journalists have been put in danger all over the world with his stupid, mindless, reckless, rhetoric--calling the media the enemy of the people.  The true enemy of the people--is trump--the wanna-be dictator who wanted to prosecute and jail anyone who criticized him and primarily to impede the investigation into the Russian involvement in the 2016 election. I know some will never believe it, but it's true, and not believing--won't change the truth. You know--the way some people say they don't believe in God--they don't have to believe Him--and it doesn't change the truth of who He is.

Further evidence that trump doesn't care about Americans or America is found in the roll-back of all the "consumer protections" that were established to protect us from corporate greed and disregard. Now, corporations can poison the water, the soil and pollute the air. We'll end up with all sorts of diseases from the protections being rolled back and then we'll just die because he doesn't want to provide healthcare for all. I'm guessing how we bury our dead is not a concern to him.

If I tried to relate all the stupid he's done in just two years, this would be a very long letter. So, let me get to the point of this. There needs to be accountability for every person in an elected office and since there's no one in this administration that has shown any capability of being an adult, the culpability for the stupid falls on the shoulders of every person who voted for the menace in the White House. I didn't vote for him because I knew from listening to him during the campaign that would be the biggest mistake I could ever make. There were at least 65 million of us who saw through all his blather and lies. Strangely, most of that 65 million don't claim to be Christians and I would have thought, that Christians--who are like me--who can hear Holy Spirit when He speaks--would have known better. I guess that's the difference between being religious and being in relationship with Christ. I heard Him speak to my heart and did everything I could to warn people, but the religious folks didn't care. They even lied and said God chose trump to be in the White House. The God of Heaven that I serve is far too wise to have chosen a person who is the antithesis of who He is. If people truly know God--they'd know this. They would also know that according to the bible, if we warn people of impending danger and they ignore us--their blood is on their hands. If they heed the warning, they are safe. But if we don't warn people when we see impending danger and people are harmed, then their blood is on our hands. I didn't and don't want anyone's blood on my hands, so I warned and I am continuing to warn about the menace in the White House. What you do about it, is on you. Not me.

So, whatever happens from this menace being in the White House, if you voted for trump, you're responsible. The lack of assistance and support for those in Puerto Rico, the delay in FEMA action from natural disasters, the death of the journalist (complicity), the veterans, the poor, the educational system, the deaths of millions who will succumb to illness because of the heartless, mindless moron you installed in the White House. This disastrous situation is all on you.
We can only hope--that a Democratic House will finally put a check on the menace and maybe, because of their example, the GOP in the Senate will wake up from the drug induced stupor (probably due to Russian connections and bribery) and uphold their oaths of office--which they haven't done so far.

So knowing all that has transpired in the White House since January 20, 2017, can you look into a mirror and not cringe when you think about how lives have been affected, adversely since his inauguration? If you can look at yourself in the mirror and think he's doing good things for America, then you are just as heartless and mindless as he is and the world would be better off without you. And when you die--I pray you suffer the same indignities that caged children have suffered and every person who has lost a loved one in a mass shooting or died because of a lack of access to healthcare. That's all on you and I won't let you forget it. Count on it.

THERE ARE NO ADULTS IN THE WHITE HOUSE AND NONE IN THE GOP SENATE. WHERE ARE THE ADULTS IN THIS SITUATION THAT CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE DIRECTION OUR GREAT NATION IS TAKING?

They're on their way and some have already begun the process to make sure trump is exposed for all the evil he's done and when those in Congress find their spines, they'll do what they need to do. At any rate, 2020 is looking better and better for me (or someone like me) to win the presidential election and start cleaning up the mess made by trump on the national and international levels.
Let's face it--you really blew it this time and almost cost the country its democracy. Happy now?

Sincerely,
Mary Hall-Rayford

Success Begins With A Step

No matter how badly we may to accomplish anything worthwhile, until we make the first step to get it done, we'll never know how successful we could be. This applies to every area of our adult life.

Too many times, far too many people are inhibited from seeking success because someone told them they couldn't or wouldn't be able to do what they wanted to do. I've heard those same comments, but I want to make sure everyone knows--you never know what you can do until you try. Success stories seldom occur because life just dropped success in someone's life. People have to try and some have to try harder than others. There is one exception to this quaint notion--and that's for those who were born into luxury and had everything they ever wanted--handed to them, while they made no effort at all to accomplish anything. Whatever is accomplished by the rich and famous without effort is not success--it's privilege and often not very fulfilling. That's one of the reasons the "rich and famous" do more stupid than the average person.

But let me get back to the discussion at hand. The best way I can offer insight as to what I'm suggesting is to provide examples from my own life.  Since I've shared portions of my life story countless times in my blogs I won't bore the reader with redundancy. So, let's start with my move to Houston--where I knew no one, didn't have a job, and no money to speak of. Some said I was crazy to try, but then--I've always loved a challenge. I moved, found employment and stayed four years. The only reason I left was to support my mother while living in the same state (I had been supporting her financially for two years and it was becoming burdensome).

For me, coming back was the biggest challenge--with a potential job no longer available to me, I had to wonder how I would make it, but I did. I'm about as tenacious as a pit bull--refusing to let go. At any rate, I managed to do what was needed and found a job I loved. That ended with a car accident that prevented me from doing the job--mostly driving. At any rate, sitting at home for three years waiting for lawsuits to be settled, I decided to go back to school and finish that BA I'd started many years earlier. Funny thing about going back to school in your 40s, you feel out of place in a classroom with much younger students, but I decided not to let that bother me. I ended my last semester on the Dean's list with a 3.6 GPA. Imagine that!

From there, I decided I loved learning and continued my education--completed a MA, obtained my teaching credentials passing all the required testing--the first time. Then I decided, what the heck, might as well keep going, so I applied to a graduate program, was accepted and completed all the coursework towards a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (teaching teachers). A significant change for the worse in the teaching field caused me to pause and rethink the direction I was taking. I no longer had a heart to encourage people to enter a field that was not a viable career. When I retired, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but the 2016 election--propelled me in the direction of political activism and that is where I am right now, seeking support for a presidential run in 2020.

I'm not just seeking support, I'm actively involved in the process as some readers may know. I'm happy to report that all the top slots for Michigan government that I supported and promoted were successful. I spent hours knocking on doors, distributing literature, and making some phone calls. I spent even more time promoting the candidates online and talking to people wherever I went. My first time on an election ballot resulted in a loss, but it didn't deter me. I was on the ballot for a precinct delegate and the person who won--by 18 votes-- has never put in an appearance to do the job--I did. As a result, post-midterm election, I am now on the Executive Committee of my county's democratic party, and a current nominee for secretary for the local Democrat club. My involvement with my online promotions for candidates got me more attention that I thought. On a personal note--just so some understand--there was no pay involved in anything I did--all volunteer--all to make sure Democrats won in Michigan. And I'll do it again, as often as needed. The upside to all of this is--I met all the candidates and had chance to talk to them. People are beginning to recognize me and it's all because of a step I took.

There are some who think I won't make it to the White House. They may be right, but their attitude won't stop me from trying. I've already taken the steps needed towards success, but not everything we try is successful as others measure success. What I've been successful at doing is getting my name out there in the atmosphere, stratosphere, cybersphere or however one wants to call it. I've had people threaten me because of my political stances and distaste of trump. I've had people applaud me because of my political stances and distaste of trump. So, success is all about the angle or perspective from which one is looking. I'm headed in the right direction to achieve my goals and right now, I'm confident I'm going to get there. We'll know in 2020. But while we're waiting, you can check me out and see where I stand at facebook.com/YesIAm2020!

Come on, take the first step and decide to join me in my quest and we travel the road to success together.

https://youtu.be/Kd3XafCqHPo

No More Lies!

Trump is averaging -- AVERAGING -- 30 false or misleading claims a day in the last seven weeks. And, per the Fact Checker, he often of late soars far above that average. As one example: On October 22, when he traveled to Houston to hold a rally for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (R), Trump, said 83 untrue things in a single day. 83!

A recent interview published in Vanity Fair reveals that trump said, "blacks were too stupid to vote for him."

At a rally this past week, trump claimed that President Obama was the biggest liar because he said over a period of time, that people would be able to keep their own doctors (he thought was true at the time) 28 times. Yes, it was a promise that President Obama thought would happen with the ACA, but because of glitches in the program he had no control over, it didn't come true. However, the lies told by trump number over 6 thousand, averaging 30 lies per day--since he was sworn into office.

He's lying to his base about the danger of the "caravans" attempting to come into the United States illegally. He's lying about the need for 5K troops, undermining the military use of soldiers to invoke fear.

He's lying about Democrats wanting to "take your healthcare" when it has been Democrats fighting for access to healthcare for everyone. Republicans have 9 cases in court--to deny health coverage to people with pre-existing conditions through the ACA program. They know if they can deny people the right to health coverage for pre-existing conditions, it will effectively make the ACA ineffective and they can stop providing all coverage.

Some of the pre-existing conditions Republicans in congress don't want covered are: cancer treatments, diabetes, asthma, pregnancies, mental illness/treatment, and opioid treatments. Now, days and hours before the Mid Term elections, they're "lying" about covering pre-existing conditions only because it is Democrats fighting for the protections and they are discussing in their campaigns.

It's time for people to wake up and some have. I've noticed a number of people on Twitter declaring they were Republicans, but are voting for every Democrat on their ballots with the hashtag #GOPVotingBlue! They are tired of the lies, the hatred, the bigotry, the fearmongering and lack of empathy and compassion they've seen from the White House. I don't know if anyone could have imagined a resident of the Oval House complain that coverage of a "mass murder" at a Jewish synagogue interfered with the momentum of his hate rallies. Really? That was his concern. The media wasn't covering his rallies, but were instead covering the loss of lives by a madman, stoked by fear listening to trump. And let's not forget, the idiot trump supporter who mailed pipe bombs to those who have vocally criticized him--members of Congress, past presidents, celebrities and the media. He didn't even take time to condemn the act.

So, if you're as tired of the lies as I am, it's time to do something about it. Democrats are not for open borders--we want sustainable immigration reform. Democrats are not trying to take anyone's guns--we want common sense gun reform so that people won't be able to walk into a worship service and gun down people with an assault rifle. Democrats want reduced taxes for the middle class and working families and want the wealthy to pay their fair share of taxes. Democrats want all workers to have a living wage and not have to work two and three jobs to survive. Democrats want consumer protections to make sure all can breathe the air, drink the water and eat food produced from soil that has not been contaminated by poisonous chemicals. Democrats want every person who desires a higher education to be able to afford getting one, without mounds of debt. Democrats want Senior Citizens to enjoy their final years without worrying about how they're to eat, keep a roof over their heads or to pay for their healthcare. Democrats want every veteran who has served our country to have the benefits they need.

If you haven't already voted, make sure you exercise your right to do so or this may be the last time.  Fascism--taking away the rights as guaranteed every American in our Constitution--is encroaching with trump since the GOP Congress won't do their job. America has no need for a dictator and we won't stand for having one.

The desperation people in hear in trump's voice, invoking fear and hatred is real. That's the only thing he's not lying about, because he knows--a Democratic Congress will hold him accountable for everything he does and he will no longer have a free pass to rape the US Treasury or pass legislation that is vindictive and spiteful. But because he is so fearful and insecure, he will stoke anger and hatred among those who refuse to think for themselves and he hopes enough anger with arise for him to employ martial law--bringing in the military to keep order, while really establishing himself as the lone wolf--instructed by Putin--to destroy our democracy.

Oh, and the lies people hear in churches--are designed to keep those listening under control. It's really a shame that many good people are sitting in churches everywhere, listening to the lies being told by church leadership--just to control them. They will never tell people the truth--God gives us choices and respects our choices. Religious folks simply want to control others and their bodies (except for the men). I will say this one more time--just in case people didn't "hear" it before--

God did not choose trump to lead this country; fearful, hateful, bigoted people chose trump!

If people haven't figured this out by now, God help them. But if they have, do like those who are now voting for Democrats--Vote Blue--because whether some like it or not, Democratic values are more aligned with Scripture than anything the Religious Right are demonstrating. Don't take my word for it--read the bible for yourself (Matthew 25:31-45).  Of course, understanding the Bible would mean a person has a relationship with Christ and He is dwelling in their hearts, so full of love there is no room for hate or fear.

Did not Jesus tell us in John 8:32 that if we held to His teaching (not men's), "We shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free?"

We're also told in the bible that Satan is the father of lies, a master of deception, and his only job is to kill, steal, and destroy. We see all the character traits of Satan in trump in all he says and does. His constant lies indicate who his father is, his invention of problems where there are none--deceptive to get media attention; he's killing people by withholding subsidies for healthcare, stealing from tax payers on a daily basis, and trying his best to destroy our democracy. Pay attention, America!

I've already voted and I voted Blue--for the people--all the people! What are you going to do?

Undecided?

I don't know how many people are viewing my posts, but whoever you are, if you're in the United States of America, you need to understand how important it is for you to vote!

Many people chose not to vote or voted for a third party in 2016 and we ended up with the orange menace in the WH. We cannot afford to let him or his #Trumplican Congress stay in office. If we do, we lose our democracy and won't have an opportunity to vote again for the foreseeable future.

America has always been the place where those who feel persecuted could find solace and an opportunity for a better life for themselves and their family. The orange menace wants to "change the Constitution" to aid and abet Putin's agenda--to leave America vulnerable and open to invasion from Russia--not Mexico.  Pay attention to news sources other than conservative publications and anything owned by Rupert Murdoch or Sinclair broadcasting. That is--if you want to know the truth and for those who claim they are still believing Christians, Jesus tells us, "we shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free."

It's Time Folks!

https://maryhallrayford.wordpress.com/2018/10/28/its-time-folks/

Enjoy and vote on 11/6/18 like your life depends on it, because it does!

Mid Term Election Upon Us!

The Twenty-Sixth Amendment provides, “The right of citizens of the United States, who are 18 years of age or older, to vote, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any state on account of age.” It prohibits states from discriminating among voters based on age, for people who are at least 18 years old, and grants Congress power to “enforce” that prohibition through “appropriate legislation.” The Twenty-Sixth Amendment is the last in a series of amendments enacted over more than a century expanding constitutional protection for voting rights. Like many other amendments, it was enacted as a direct repudiation of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

We can see with our own eyes (even though the orange menace in the WH told his base, not to believe what they see, hear, or read--cult mentality) that the Republican party is doing everything it can to keep citizens from voting.

In North Dakota--they've come with a "legal street residence requirement" for Native Americans who live in rural areas where no streets have been established. It is designed to keep them from exercising their right to vote. Fear of them voting for Democrats--is the real reason since most usually vote for Democrats.

In Georgia--Brian Kemp is afraid of losing to Stacey Abrams--a Black woman who is the Democrat challenging him. Right now--Kemp--is the Secretary of State in Georgia--has over 53,000 voter registrations sitting on his desk because--get this--the signatures don't match "exactly" those already in their data files. Realistically, if I signed my name three times within three minutes, they won't match exactly. This excuse is just that--another attempt to suppress the Black vote in Georgia by Republicans.

In North Carolina--the Republicans shut down "Sunday Voting" in counties that are predominantly Black--to keep the citizens from exercising their right to vote.

In Michigan--just weeks before the election--the Republicans changed the rules about "straight party" voting by excluding it. Their hope is that most of the residents won't take the time to complete their ballots.

All across the nation--wherever Republicans are in charge of the state government--they are enacting "cheating rules" to control how people vote. This is a gross violation of every citizen's constitutional rights. The word, "abridged" means no state or the nation has the right to curtail, get in the way of anyone of legal age to vote.

So, America--we don't have to let Republicans get in our way, but we do need to understand that the only way Republicans win--in any election--is by cheating and we have a record of that--in recent elections starting with George W. Bush with the "hanging chads" in Florida where his brother was governor. Fearmongering is another favorite tactic used by Republicans as Laura Ingraham so aptly demonstrates on Fox News by warning their viewers they must vote for Republicans or the Democrats will "replace them with immigrants." That is fraudulently false that she should be sued for it, but apparently, all's fair in war and politics--use of the first amendment that is.

Well, I'm exercising my 1st amendment rights in every blog I write and today, this is dedicated to every person eligible to vote, but is hesitating because of lies promoted by Republicans through a number of means--including videos produced by right-wing entities like Prague U and Carol Swain (The Inconvenient Truth About The Democratic Party). What Swain does is to take the viewer of the video to a specific point in history--prior to the Republicans and Democrats--switching their philosophies and platforms--and leaving it there. That was the late 19th Century and Early 20th Century history of the political parties. This is the 21st Century and I guarantee everyone reading this--The Democratic Party is the only political party that cares about "all the people" and not just some as we see in the Republican party (tax cuts for the rich, loss of services for everyone else who now pay higher prices for everything).

 

Okay, so I know this is a lot to read, but check out my YouTube Channel--Everyday Americans 2020--and listen to the videos I've produced to encourage all to vote.

https://youtu.be/8Op8DgkPgsA


And for the Black Community--don't be mislead and tricked into voting for people who really don't care about you and their very recent legislated policies--prove it. Republicans don't want people to have access to affordable healthcare, education, veteran's benefits, clean air, water and non-toxic soil from which all of our food production is dependent. Listen, remember, research and then march to the polls on 11/6/18 and vote like your life and our democracy depend on it because they do.
 
https://youtu.be/Nk_gKzZpsks

If you still don't see the need to vote and to vote for every Democrat on your ballot--I'll have to assume you've partaken of the orange shake and incapable of rational thinking--especially if you're paying attention to the daily news--which demonstrates how our democracy is at risk. The Republicans won't exercise their constitutional right to "check" all the nonsense trump does and some have even considered, rewriting the Constitution to eliminate terms for a president--that is a dictatorship--when one party rules and keeps others from exercising any choice. Don't believe me--research it for yourself!

Until then, remember--we only have a little over two weeks before 11/6/18 and the outcome will be a reflection of who we are as Americans--whether we are True Patriots--ready to live out the inscription on the Statue of Liberty--

"Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

or whether we are just inclined to go along with a party--no matter how much it could endanger us. Elections have consequences and see that every day since the 2016 election. Let's not be foolish and repeat the mistakes of the past election. We deserve better and it's up to us--to make sure we have what we deserve--freedom to choose and the right to exercise our choices in government with our vote.

I'm Mary M. Hall-Rayford and I approve the message of the content of this blog.

Kanye West Should Be Ignored!

In his most recent attempt to have something intelligent to say, he failed miserably. But this was not the firs time!

https://youtu.be/f4QJSmgYJCY

Detaining Children Is Immoral and Inhumane!

Contact Sec. Azar, Sec. Nielsen, VP and Jeff Sessions and tell them to reunite the children with their own parents. 

https://youtu.be/OvCRbk_fQD8

Why We Must Vote!

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more engaging videos! 

https://youtu.be/Nk_gKzZpsks

Money, Money, Money!

Sitting here thinking about "the new world" Christopher Columbus was so excited about when he was making his journey from Spain and got lost. To be clear, he was not the first person to set their sights on the Americas, but that's a discussion for another time. For now, people need to take a serious look at what we have called a democracy in America.

The pillars for which this democracy upholds are being eroded by Russian influence and a traitor to America. We know that Russia attacked our electoral system and I believe it was not just through the social media accounts--gaslighting gullible people, but it was also through deliberate bribes of those in the electoral college. Notice that in all the swing states where a recount was requested and in some cases started, money convinced judges to call them off. So if money can determine the direction of our country, what is the purpose of the Constitution? What was the purpose of establishing three branches of government by which all policies would be established, reinforced and adjudicated when needed? We have an illegitmately elected clown in the White House--who has ignored the Constitution from the beginning and more despicable clowns in Congress who refuse to exercise their oversight responsibilities. And now, with the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh, a blatant liar, and possible serial sexual predator, the Supreme Court will never again be seen as an arbiter of justice and truth. Three pillars missing from the democratic structure leaves only one left--a free press and even there, that pillar is endanger of toppling with all of the vicious lies told by the White House clown.

I have to wonder if people really understand the significance of this process in which it was nothing like the process, usually observed. Brett Kavanaugh has had several sexual assault allegations lodged against him, he perjured himself under oath during his last hearing, he's had political PACs paying for advertisements (out of the norm for a judicial nominee), and then because he knew he had screwed up with his belligerence, wrote an OP ED in the Wall Street Journal (owned by Rupert Murdoch who also owns Fox), which defies all logic, other than to conclude, he was begging for the position. His behavior is abominable, but that won't stop Republicans from confirming him into the position he feels he's entitled to have. Law Professors have sent letters to the Senate warning them not to confirm him; the ABA has warned them not to confirm him and former classmates have attested to the fact that he was lying while under oath. And why oh why wasn't the FBI allowed to question the 20 or more people who contacted them with information? Cover-up anyone? If Brett Kavanaugh had any integrity or honor he'd step aside rather than have the Supreme Court's reputation tainted forever.  Oh yeah, the Republicans know he's not fit to sit on the bench of the Supreme Court but they don't care because they care more about their agenda, than people and doing what's right. Traitor Don will have his "get out jail card" when the crap catches up with him. That's what this is really all about--along with all other Republicans who are complicit in the Russian meddling. We know. We are not the victims of the gaslighting. That's trump's base. Gaslighted into cult worship.

Here's the thing--all women, Black and White--our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren will be subject to Supreme Court decisions for decades to come. And the one thing I don't understand is why women would sit back and allow this travesty to continue. When women vote, they should vote for people who are committed to serving them, not the lobbyists who pay them. We deserve a return on the tax dollars all elected persons get for their pay. As a result, voters must take more time in getting to know who it is they're electing, since we are actually their employers. I don't want to pay anyone who neglects or ignores my rights in order to obtain money from corporate entities or rich old white men who have nothing better to do with their money than to influence politics and politicians.

With the Supreme Court appointment--a life time appointment--we pay them, too. And if they choose to screw over us all, we've allowed it to happen by those we elected who confirmed them. So, now--it really boils down to--how do you want your tax dollars used--to promote sexual predators and those like-minded elected officials who support them or people who look out for all the people, protecting their interest for decades to come? The real issue here is that elected officials get greedy with corporate lobbyists and others. They're not happy or satisfied with the $174K salary, they want more money and some think they are entitled to more money so they allow their greed to lead them into situations like Russia, where so many are guilty of receiving money from a foreign entity.

So, if we want democracy to work--to have government, "by the people for the people," we must engage in the process. We must get to know the candidates that seek our support and vote, before we vote for them. We must work side-by-side with those candidates we have *vetted* to encourage others to vote for them. If we're not going to be part of the process, we can expect to see the dismantling of our democracy by those who wish for it to crumble--the rich and powerful--who will not consider the people since they only care about money. Think--Mr. Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) and remember how the only thing he cared about was his money and making a profit. That's what we have in the White House now--policies are legislated for the rich, not the poor; tax dollars are being wasted on the rich (US Marshall protection of DeVos, Conway, and others) instead of being used for the poor (healthcare, education, etc.). They're stripping away all the consumer protections just so their rich cronies can make money--ravaging the land, out of greed. We see it. Gas prices rising along with food costs and everything, but do those in the legislative branch of our democracy care about what happens to the people they're supposed to be writing legislation for?

I can't speak for anyone other than me at the moment and all these shenanigans are giving me a headache. My blood pressure is also rising and I guess the next step I need to take would be in suing the White House for decimating my health. That's a thought. I have to think about it more. Perhaps, the ACLU will take on the case as a class action suit.

I'm not rambling incoherently, I'm thinking out loud about my options and the possible options for others. Someone has to be thinking about--what's next? We already know trump lied about his own wealth and how he accumulated it (I've known since 2016) and the fact that he doesn't want anyone to see his tax returns, is telling. But we will see them, one way or another. But knowing, definitively, won't change a thing about our lives, so we must muster all the energy we can to get people out to vote. This is key! We must get people to vote. This is our voice in our crumbling government and if we want to salvage it, we must vote and vote Blue or we may never get a chance to vote again. This is not a scare tactic--this is reality. Anyone can do the research for themselves--pay attention to what Steve Bannon said--destroy democracy in America. Pay attention to the Koch Brothers who have never wanted government in charge of anything. Pay attention to all the Republican politicians who are only interested in pushing forth their agenda--taking steps to move us backwards instead of forward. PAY ATTENTION! If you don't see what's happening right in front of you on a daily basis, it's because you're not paying attention or you're willfully blind to the facts as they unfold.

I'm not blinded by gaslighting, nor am I gullible. I am fully capable of thinking for myself, researching information and analyzing what I discover, and drawing accurate conclusions. I know there are millions of others who are just as capable as I am of knowing what needs to be done--65M others who know right from wrong and they are not Putin's puppets and we don't have an agenda that involves us getting more money, money, money by ripping off the US Treasury.

How Did We Get Here?

The allegations of sexual assault and subsequent hearings conducted this week have set the entire country on edge and everyone has an opinion about who's the most credible.

I watched Dr. Christine Blasey Ford provide her testimony with tears running down my face because my heart was moved and my mind triggered about the abuse I had also suffered at the hands of despicable human beings. I've related my story a number of times so I won't bother to repeat what's already been said, but as I listened to Brett Kavanaugh and recognized the lies behind the belligerence, rudeness and total disregard for the positions of the senators, I began thinking, "how did we get here?"

After talking to my husband and remembering the attitude of our society from the beginning of time, I realized that men have never considered women their equal and they have always felt it was their right to treat women anyway they wanted to and the women were supposed to shut up and take it. We're not going to be silenced and we're not taking it any more. This upcoming election will be the proof of that.

But just to review--the ugliness of our history--let's start with the way men didn't think we couldn't own a house, have credit cards, have good paying jobs, had sense enough to know how vote and a couple million other things. Women have been raped for centuries and had no recourse because the men--in law enforcement and in the courts and on juries, didn't believe them. Getting tired of not being believed, a lot of women simply stopped reporting the assaults. The #MeToo movement--in more recent times--has empowered many people--men and women--to step up and speak out about sexual abuse and bravely named their assailant. And still, not all women are being believed as we saw in the recent testimony from Dr. Ford.

What has fascinated many people is the number of men who have come forward and told their stories about being molested and raped by other men and in some cases--women. Why on earth are we as a society of supposedly civilized human beings still in a place where a person's body is not respected and some don't understand that, "no means no." This only applies to adults who are capable of saying no, but it certainly does not apply to children who are intimidated and bullied into keeping silent. Aren't we better than this? Is one person's sexual insecurities worth ruining lives of others?

Rape--is not a sexual act--it is an act of violence, perpetuated against people against their will and usually at the point of a threat. These angry, vicious, insecure people who think their manhood hangs between their legs need serious counseling because raping others, doesn't make them me--it makes them cowards of the worst degree--especially those who abuse children.

How did we get here? We got here because in this society we have failed to value women and their worth. We got here because there are too many men who have no control over their sexual appetites and their low self-esteem. We got here because there are no laws governing oversight of men's bodies because the lawmakers are 90% men. We got here because too many women have been taught to be submissive to abusive husbands. We got here because the church leadership has misled their congregants about the bible and the intent of the words contained within. We got here because too many women and men don't understand how their own bodies function (the science of hormones). We got here because of ignorance and gullibility--the low educated who believed the lies because they don't know any better. We got here because too many people have been complacent over decades in refusing to exercise their rights as an American citizen. We got here because apathy prevails in a nation where people think they don't really matter. We got here because the wrong people have been elected and the masses misled into re-electing them. We got here because we failed to teach our male children they do not have a right to put their hands on a female whenever they wanted to do so. We got here because too many women--acting upon their own insecurities in trying to attract or keep men in their lives--have allowed the men to think, we're all like them. This is simply a partial list of how we got here and now we need to determine how we move forward, eliminating the tragic events that have caused so many to live with anxieties and fears.

We can and we must change our tactics and start believing children and women when they come forth and speak out about sexual abuse and molestation. We must believe and support all who tell their stories and make sure they know--they are valued and worthy of our belief in them and our trust not to judge them wrongly for things they had no control over (and we've done that, too).

We can start changing the course of events with the upcoming election on 11/6/18. We can AUTHORIZE AND EMPOWER WOMEN to write legislation that provides more protections and remedies for those who have been assaulted. On a personal note, I'd like to see at least two bills written and made laws: Any time a man is convicted of rape, he should be castrated. Any time a man refuses to pay child support, he should sterilized. If this sounds vindictive and vengeful--you don't know my story.

As a reminder for some who may have forgotten what I've written in the past about my story, I'm including a letter to Brett Kavanaugh and tweeted to most of the GOP senators who seem either not to understand the predicament Dr. Ford described or care.

Sexual assault is not a partisan issue it is a cancer and stain on our society and we must eradicate it. That may only occur with electing the right people, getting rid of the wrong people, and learning to see ourselves as better people.

  

 

Women of America--now is the time for us to have a say over what happens to us--our access to appropriate medical care and to the laws of the lands.

This is just the beginning of my journey--I'm on a mission to make life better for all, but especially children and women. Are you with me?

At some point, we have to go beyond #MeToo and ask the question, "who else?"

What In The World?

I've been pretty vocal about all the nonsense Americans have had to endure for the past two years, but it's getting crazier and crazier with no end in sight (except 11/6/18). I mean really, we are facing the most autocratic Oval Office resident this country has ever seen. And it's all part of a grander plan. When our democracy falls apart (if people don't vote Blue in November), all those who fell for the okey doke of trump's campaign can blame the Republicans in Congress who would not exercise their constitutional right of oversight of the executive office. But here's why they didn't do their job. They wanted tax cuts for the rich, and conservative judges who will rule against individual rights of people regarding: women's reproductive rights, who people can love, access to affordable healthcare, and of course we cannot forget--the corporate promises fulfilled with the roll back of consumer protections that will lead to the deaths of many people. Now, don't forget--trump also wants the Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, to prosecute people for disagreeing with him, for criticizing him, and for daring to exercise their 1st Amendment rights in expressing their criticism.

This is the gist of what they wanted and have succeeded in obtaining:

 

What the world has had an opportunity to observe with the "confirmation hearings" of Brett Kavanaugh, we are assured that he will cave to "party preference" and not care about what's best for the country if given an opportunity to overturn, Roe v Wade, the Marriage Equality Act, and the Affordable Care Act leaving millions without healthcare. Additionally, the conflated views of "religious freedom" will be tested when corporations and insurance companies can use "their faith" to reject the rights of others.

The most interesting thing about this hearing is the fact that the nominee, avoids answering any questions and it won't matter to the Republican majority because they have already determined they are going to confirm him. So what is the point of these hearings in which no answers are expected? This had been such a farce and waste of time, but his non-responsive answers--tell the average American a great deal about the character of the person.

And now we have the rantings of the moron-in-chief upset about an anonymous OpEd, all because someone in the White House dared to tell the truth about his behavior and lack of knowledge.
Personally, I'm glad the person wrote it--whoever it was, since it confirms what has already been said--trump is a psychotic narcissistic moron who knows nothing and is consistently endangering our national security. Michael Wolff said it in his book, Omarosa said it in her book, and now it would appear that Bob Woodward has unveiled the same sentiments--with receipts!

What is it going to take for the those who blindly support the "enemy of the people" to wake up and smell the stench of treason emanating from the White House? Did they really drink a mind-numbing shake or other drink at his hate rallies that makes them incapable of rational, logical thought?

I don't know what's going to happen to America if people don't get out and vote in November, but I know it won't be pretty since we already know Russia has a tight, vise-like grip on trump's balls and he's afraid of him. What does Putin have on trump and the rest of the GOP? It's got to be really bad for them to cave to foolishness and risk alienating our allies!

Here's the thing. What in the world are you going to do about it? Yes, you--whoever is reading this. Are you going to make it your business to encourage the vote in November and for people to vote Blue or are you going to sit back on the sidelines and just shake your head? We, the people, have the power to change the course of events and save Americans and our democracy. Are you going to be part of the solution or part of the problem? I know what I'm going to do. I'm going to help get people registered to vote, encourage them to Vote Blue and take them to the polls with me--if I have to--to make sure they vote. I am going to use all of my social media platforms to make sure everyone knows this is not a drill! Our rights to vote are on the line if we don't get this right in November!

So, again, I ask you--what in the world are you going to do?

 

Why? Because Democrats care about the people and they will work #ForThePeople!

 

If you care at all about our environment, how veterans are treated, how our senior citizens are treated, education, a living wage, and access to affordable healthcare--now is the time to act--get it in gear and move mountains to get out the Blue Vote on November 6, 2018 so we can all breathe a little easier, knowing there will be checks and balances as the Democrats do the job, Republicans won't do.

Don't forget--if we have a democracy surviving the resident idiot, I'm running for president in 2020 and I guarantee you, I won't forget who it is I'm supposed to represent and serve. I will always work #ForThePeople--the Everyday Americans!

Michigan Democratic Candidates

Presidential Qualifications!

According to the constitution--there are only a few qualifications a person must meet in order to run for president in this country. They are:

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States.

Therefore, if we're going to be real and factual, our claims (including mine) that trump is not qualified to be president are not necessarily true--according the requirements as written. Apparently, the founding fathers didn't think far enough ahead to anticipate the menace we now have in the White House--who certainly is not fit to hold the office. Ah ha! The difference between being qualified and being fit is exposed on a daily basis.
So, now how do we determine a person's fitness for the office?
I'm not convinced that a person has to have held an elected position prior to running for president or be rich or have a well-connected family name. I am convinced that anyone running for the office of president should have a genuine concern and desire to serve all the people in the United States and not just some of them. Therefore, based upon what we've seen, the current Oval Office resident is only concerned with establishing policies that benefit the rich and campaigning to appease his base (40%) of the American population. And because people were so foolish to not vote because their candidate didn't get the nomination in 2016, here we are today, in 2018, trying to figure out how we get out from under the oppressive, authoritarian mess that now exists.
The one bright spot to the traitor's election is the fact that people--from all walks of life--have felt impelled to run for office and that's a good thing. Complacency has taken a back seat to the horrors of what we now face as a nation.
I've talked to a number of people in the past year and will probably talk to more. Many are running for offices or have run and the recurring them for their political involvement is, "trump happened." I know that's true for me--if he had never been installed in office, I probably would have lived out the rest of my life, totally inactive, thinking that voting was enough. Just voting--is not enough! If we want to see a change in this country, every able-bodied, mentally stable American needs to get actively involved in the political process of this country--it's the way Democracy works.
At any rate, let's get back to the point I want to make--about having presidential qualifications which include being fit for the office. As most of my followers know, I plan to run for President in 2020. Many have said, they don't think I'm qualified based upon a few factors: I've not held an elected public office (not a career politician), I'm not rich (no matter how rich is defined), and I'm not affiliated with any religious institution (meant to appease the religious sector in the country).
On the other hand, there are number of reasons why I believe I'm the perfect person (qualified and fit) for the position of President of the United States.

• I am an American (though the founding fathers didn't have me in mind) who believes in adhering to the Constitution of the United States.
• I have been a public servant for over 20 years as an educator and volunteer in various situations.
• I know the three branches of government and the intent for checks and balances needed for a democratic process to work and have an affinity for understanding history.
• I have a better than average understanding of how government is supposed to work and will work to maintain (or restore in this case) the relationships between our allies.
• I have a heart for all people regardless of their ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs or anything else.
• I care about our planet and want to make sure my grandchildren and their children can enjoy breathing clean air, drinking clean water, and in eating foods not poisoned by toxic soil.
• I want every person who desires a higher education to have access to one without overwhelming debt (I know all too well how this is overwhelming)
• I want every educator to be treated with respect and dignity and paid as the professionals they are.
• I want every Senior Citizen to live secure in the knowledge that benefits they paid into will always be available to them.
• I want every American--regardless of age or pre-existing conditions to have access to affordable healthcare.
• I want every veteran who has served this country to be honored as the heroes they are and for them to have every service they need to continue living a productive life.
• I want every American to be treated with respect and dignity and afforded equal rights in every area of their lives.
• I want corporations to pay their fair share of taxes and for them to pay employees a living wage commensurate with their skills and ability.
• I want access for every person who wants to run for an elected office to be able to do so without finances being a barrier that impedes.
• I want to see America's Democratic process work for every American and that the people determine the direction of our nation, not corrupt, bought and paid for politicians who forget how they were elected in the first place.
• I am as mentally stable as anyone can be at the moment with the constant threat of nuclear war by the menace in the White House who is truly the enemy of the people.

In addition to the above bulleted points--I am physically fit to endure rigors of the office and if for any reason, my physical ability should falter, I have no qualms about moving aside so that the country moves forward with the best person at the helm. My strongest character traits are my integrity and tenacity. My weakest character trait (and I'm working on overcoming it) is believing in the best of people. When I see the worst in them, I acknowledge it and sever ties with them. I know how to love from afar.
For those who think that having an affiliation with a religious institution is important, let me say this. My relationship with Jesus Christ is far more important than an affiliation with any religious institution since they "change" and Jesus does not. I'm happy with my relationship with other believers and even those who don't. Neither belief or unbelief changes who I am or how I try to live life as a living representation of who God is.
So, now do you think I'm qualified to run for president? Only the voters will make that decision and I hope they find in my favor and elect an Everyday American who cares about all people, rather than a career politician, or entertainer simply because they have the money or family name. I want people to research who I am and determine for themselves whether they think I can represent who they are and address their needs.