Russia, Russia, Russia!

Now, do people believe that Donald J. Trump is a Russian asset? Those of us who had already figured it out, feel vindicated in our stance trying to warn others that Russia was running our government. Of course, I don't expect Trumplicans or MAGAts to believe anything that doesn't flow from trump's mouth or the liars on Fox News, but hey, at some point, probably when they need to start speaking Russian, they'll figure it out. But that's their problem. They can all go exile to Russia and be happy. But the rest of us--who are more than the 38% of those who support the Russian, know who's who in America and we know--trump is not a loyal American, but a Russian plant.

In order to keep people unfocused, trump has pushed for and allowed the government shutdown--is it to make sure Putin has time to worm his way in and supplant American workers so they'll have control over our resources and assets and infrastructure? Well, is it? I'm sure the FBI knows, but every American--true Patriots--should feel the hair rising on the backs of the necks because trump truly is a national emergency and we need to remove him for the safety and security of our nation.
Will our impotent GOP Congress finally do something for America instead of for trump? We may never know. DOJ has to do its job and file charges of treason against trump and any of the GOP who have been complicit in their attempts to dismantle our government by interfering with the election process--across the nation--with attempts to suppress voters' rights or infringe upon their ability to vote. We are America! We are Americans! And America is governed by Democracy--not Democrats or Republicans, but Patriots who respect our Constitution and understand the importance of maintaining our Sovereign Republic for all Americans.

I challenge every trump supporter to ask him, point-blank--why he chose Russia over us. I wonder if they really understand that the Russian Asset has sold them out, too. They don't matter to trump as we can see from his stance about a wall that won't deter anyone from trying to get into this country. The gullible, hateful,  and fearful bigots are so easily led down a merry path of treason and they're too foolish to even know, they're being led to slaughter by their low IQ leader.

If a person hasn't taken the time to speak up before now--to acknowledge America is in a Constitutional Crisis and we must find resolution and the answer is not Pence or any other Republican--ever again, since we know, they cannot be trusted to safeguard American interests, they may never get the chance to express their thoughts about the matter. White Evangelicals are also responsible for this mess since they lied to their congregations about "God putting trump in the White House." God is not concerned about who is in the White House, but He is concerned about those He loves--regardless of political affiliation because those of us who believe God, know He operates out of love, not hate.  I am so sick of "so-called Christians" adding to the fearmongering we get from the White House. I know they're not true Christians because they don't function out of love, but hatred and fear, especially since they're supposed to believe that, "perfect love casts out fear." There is no "fearmongering employed by Jesus" in the Bible.

Where do we go from here? I suggest we all pay attention to all the information we have access to and not just Fox News who never tells the truth about trump on any level and know what our options are. We do have options. We can descend up Washington, DC like the locusts during the plague or we can sit back and twiddle our thumbs while democracy crumbles. It's up to us. Don't believe me? Let me refresh your memory--

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Who is the people? Those of us who are Americans, citizens of the United States, have an absolute right to hold those we elect accountable to abiding by the Constitution of the United States. If we don't hold them accountable, we become complicit in American's demise and eventual subjugation to other countries--especially our adversaries--like Russia.

In spite of all the hogwash being perpetuated by some, regarding the fact Democrats "were" the party of slaveholders--which is true, but it is also true that the Republican party's ideologies are more in line with the Democratic party of old. It is the Republican party who wants to control others while the Democratic party wants to liberate the spirit in every citizen, freeing them to achieve all they can achieve, shoring up equality for all and making sure that access to education, healthcare, and earned benefits (for veterans and senior citizens) are available to and for all--without discriminating practices hindering anyone from becoming all they can.

We have a reached a time--since the trump candidacy and time in the White House in which we must sure we are on the right side of history. For all that has been done and all that will be done will surely be written in the history books and when our grandchildren and great grandchildren ask us what we did to keep democracy working in America, what will we say? I've worked diligently to support all Democratic efforts to elect those who care about all and am now, still exploring the possibility of a Presidential Run, even the field is expanding with potential candidates. No matter what I end up doing, I know for a fact that I've been on the right side of history--warning people about the danger of electing trump even when people didn't believe me, and I've maintained a stance to keep people aware of what's going on in our country--continually--even though some have accused me falsely of perpetuating a lie. I'm not a liar, but there is a pathological liar currently residing in the White House and he's not there because I voted for him. Can you say the same?

If in fact, our planet still exists in the next 50 years--the historians will prove who was right and who was wrong. Since I'm already beyond the halfway mark of a century, I'm sure I won't be around to see it, but my grandchildren and their descendants will be. I'm acting on behalf of those I love because I want them to breathe clean air, drink clean water and not have their food supply contaminated by toxins in chemicals used in our soil.

Russia is here--in the White House at 1600 Pennsylvania, Washington, DC! Will we continue to allow Russia to govern this great country or will we stand up and fight back to maintain and sustain our Democracy? We are Americans, so let's act like the Americans who fought in revolutions who at every turn, refused to back down from the liberty we sought and we will not do so, now!

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

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.

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.

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!

It's About Our Democracy!

For a number of weeks now, I've been trying to encourage voters every where to Vote Blue--for a Democrat! It's about saving our Democracy from those who would attempt to deprive us of our rights as American Citizens per the constitution. How will they do it? If Republicans remain in control of government, the plan--a not so well kept secret is to rewrite the Constitution and they have the financial means to do it--with the Koch Brothers millions.

Don't take my word for it--check it out for yourselves.
https://billmoyers.com/story/kochs-to-rewrite-constitution/

And does anyone know why Rand Paul was in Russia this past weekend? Call him and ask him why he invited the Russians to America. Of course he'll lie, but ask him anyway. In fact there were a number of Republicans who visited Russia on our Independence Day this year and they came back, all rejecting the vote to protect our elections from hacking. I wonder why.

Tomorrow, in Michigan and in other states, we have an opportunity to make a difference for everyone--not just the rich and illiterate. We can vote Blue for every Democrat on a ballot (in one role of course) and encourage our family and friends to do likewise. If we don't take control of the House and Senate in November, we will open the door for a dictatorship--nullifying Democracy in America. Please, pay attention and know what's going on in government that will impact all of our lives.

Now is the time, Michigan! Vote for the one person who actually has demonstrated leadership and legislative experience--in Michigan, not in other states. Gretchen Whitmer is the only choice we have to guarantee a better life for all in Michigan and she'll fight for us on a national level as well. Voting Blue for down ballot will ensure she has the full house she'll need to get it done.

If not now--we may never have another chance!

Think about this for a minute before casting your vote tomorrow. One of the democratic candidates is a recent resident of Michigan, who has no known democratic ties anywhere. Another one is touting being a doctor, but not licensed to practice medicine in Michigan and very little is known about his "Democrat" experience, and both of these candidates have so little to say about themselves they have attacked the proven Democrat--Gretchen Whitmer!

I really don't have the kind of time I need to make this point clearer, but let's be realistic, now is not the time to play footloose and fancy free with out votes out of ignorance or frustration. Now is the time to vote for the one candidate who can beat Bill Schuette or any other Republican. Now is the time for Michiganders to take a firm stand against racism and bigotry of all kinds. Now is the time for Michiganders to fight for the rights of all people; especially for our children and their rights to a quality education, clean water, and job opportunities that pay a living wage. This is our fight and I'm ready for it! Are you?

We Can Do This!

I'm Tired!

I'm tired of all the lies and all the liars!

I'm tired of Republicans acting like there's nothing wrong with trump.

I'm tired of the white Evangelicals making excuses for the WH menace.

I'm tired of trump supporters' inability to think for themselves.

I'm tired of the media outlets allowing ignorance to manipulate the news cycles.

I'm tired of seeing children separated from their parents being treated like animals.

I'm tired of people who know truth but won't speak up to help end this nightmare.

I'm tired of politicians who are afraid to speak truth to power because they might lose an election.

I'm tired of all the people who complain, but won't vote to change things.

I'm tired of listening to the cult expound the lies they've been told and believe.

I'm tired of those who won't uphold their oaths of office and are allowing this country to sink.

I'm tired of apologizing to our allies for the nut job in the WH.

I'm tired of watching rising prices for gas, good and healthcare.

I'm tired of people thinking that Democrats can't be Christians even though we're more Christian than the Republicans who apparently don't know Jesus.

I'm tired of the evil ones who use the bible to perpetuate their evil.

I'm tired of not knowing where all this will end--in the next year or two.

Okay, so I'm tired and I'm sure there are millions of others just as tired as I am of all the stupid we've had to endure. There is a way out from under the stupid--people simply have to get out and vote and vote for the party who has a heart, not just ideological beliefs.

Regardless of party affiliation or none--it's time for Americans to step up and take control of the situation and vote for Democrats up and down the ballot in every city, township, and state. We must start where we live with local elections and then spread it out to all the general elections so the United States of America will have a chance to preserve our democracy for future generations.

Are you ready? Let's get it done!

The Lies Are Disrupting My Peace!

This is going to be short and sweet--I think!

The lies coming from the WH have finally gotten to me. It's not just that trump has told over 5 thousand lies since taking office; it's not just that Sarah Huckabee Sanders lies daily; and it's not just because all the trump surrogates simply regurgitate the lies--I am tired of hearing the lies about the lies!

In 2016, when trump presented a letter on the Dr. Oz show--supposedly written by Dr. Borstein--I knew from the content--it was a lie. No credible doctor would write such crap. This week, the doctor admitted--trump dictated the letter read on the Dr. Oz show.

Considering the tone of the health report presented by Ronny Jackson, most of us knew it was a lie, but we reserved judgment until now.  I have concluded that if the doctors are willing to lie (because of bribe or bullying), then everyone around trump will lie.

And they all (WH and spokespersons) called Hillary a liar and Comey a liar--which is hypocritical to say the least since neither have told the whoppers fed by trump administration. In fact, just yesterday, someone provided a graph of the lies told by Obama and trump--in 8 years, Obama was listed at telling 18 lies--in 468 days, trump listed at telling over 5 thousand.

First trump didn't know anything about the $130K payment to Stormy Daniels (his lie on Air Force One), now Giuliani tells Sean Hannity, trump reimbursed Cohen for the payment.

They have all lied about Russian involvement and it has and is being revealed now. They have all lied about what they knew about--anything remotely related to the election meddling (they knew and cooperated).

I don't know about you, but I'm tired of the lies and my inner peace is disrupted every time I hear them lie. The lies prove to me--that none of these so-called Christians are in fact Christians; they have no clue what The Word says about lying and liars. So, here's my reminder:

Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 1 John 2:4 NIV

But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8 NIV

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community. Proverbs 6:16-19 NIV

There is so much more from the bible the lying, irresponsible Republicans claim to read. They haven't read or haven't understood what they claim they read. And then, they had the nerve to get upset with Michelle Wolf, a comedian, who confronted them with truth and they couldn't handle the truth because the lies have warped all sense of honesty and morality within them.

It's time for a change--a change that benefits all Everyday Americans and change that will promoted with integrity and truth--no more lies!

Can We See It Now?

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:16-21 NIV

To clarify, the question--can we see it now--we must be able to understand that if we do not see how love motivates our behavior, we cannot see Christ in those who claim to be Christian, yet have not love for all, unconditionally. Do we see the love of Christ in those who consistently support and applaud a person who ignites hatred in people just because they are not male and white? Do we see the love of Christ operating in those who assault others because of their religious beliefs? Do we see the love of Christ in those who deliberately lie to others? Do we see the love of Christ in those who mock the disabled and do all within their power to not care for the poor and needy? Do we see the love of Christ in the policies established by those in government that burden the poor and enrich the wealthy?

Can we see--how the promotion of false propaganda, Russian meddling, and a pathological liar conned their way into the White House? Can we see--how Evangelicals misled people simply because they want to control what others do? Can we see it now? If we cannot see how misinformation and disinformation led people hate Hillary and Obama just because, it is due to the scales over our eyes that blind us, and the molten wax in our ears that keep us from hearing truth.

If we refuse to see--how our democracy is being demolished at the hands of a few--compromised by their connection and involvement with Russia, we are doomed to deal with the consequences--already formulated and playing out in America. The House and Senate are compromised and are complicit in all that's unfolding in DC because they refuse to uphold the oaths of their office. They have allowed countless violations of the Constitution to go unchecked because of their fear of being exposed in the duplicitous efforts to rig an election.

And these are the men and women (primarily men) who claim to be Christians and adhere to Christian values, yet we have not seen those values illuminated in any of their actions. They lie. Anyone supporting them lies and the truth is not in them. I can only imagine how distraught and disappointed our God is watching those misuse and misrepresent who He is--making a mockery of all He has done in coming down to earth to save us from ourselves and now--this! We are in the midst of a Constitutional Crisis and our elected leaders have abrogated their responsibilities in not checking evil coming from the White House. They have a constitutional duty to oversee what happens in this country and they have not once--attempted to keep this country from being derailed by Vladimir Putin.

America Has No President. Congress Has No Balls Or Integrity! The American People Have No Hope Unless they change the dynamics of who is governing our country. It is imperative, for the sake of sustaining our democracy and sovereignty that we elect people who are true Patriots--those who love the country more than a person in office, and those who do what is right for all!

We can no longer afford to listen to those standing behind podiums in a church--leading us in the wrong direction--those pretending to be followers of Christ--all the while making a mockery of who He is, when they preach hatred and dissension, instead of love and unity. Perhaps it is because they have forgotten (if they ever learned), that where there is love--there is no room for hatred. They tout forgiveness of the adulterer, the pathological liar, the misogynist, and con man, yet they want to demonize everyone else who won't go along with their agenda. They promote fear of anyone who doesn't look like them or worship like them or lives their lives according to how they think a person who lives. If they operate from a position of fear--they demonstrate no love resides within them. If no love resides within them, they are not Christians, they are "label-wearers, not label doers--for all who belong to Christ, dwell in His love and His love dwells in them.

Love does not seek to destroy, but build and embrace all. For where there is love, peace and hope abide and thrive--taking care of the needs of all it encounters.

There is yet time to hope for change--not only in the November election of 2018, but in every election from this point forward. We need to elect those who care more about people than status or position or the opportunity to control what others do. God is pro-choice. He gives us the right to choose--what we do and the consequences of our choices. Mere man should never attempt to usurp the position of God in our lives. For God never forces us to do anything and we should never allow mere mortals to force upon us anything that is not like God.

I'm ready to serve as the next President of the United States and I can assure all--America will have a president that honors the position and the standing we have in the world.

 

 

I'm ready for the change I know will come with Democrats--the ones who care about all--are leading this country into the next era of greatness.

No Collusion?

The Republicans on the House Intelligence (oxymoron) Committee has determined there is no evidence of collusion on the part of anyone in the trump campaign--a conclusion they announced with the termination of their investigation.

I'm not an attorney, but I've worked with a number of them and it seems to me that this conclusion is premature at best--complicit at worse:

When there is an investigation of anyone to determine any wrong doing, all stones should be looked under to see what may be there. Since there were a number of "witnesses" who refused to answer questions--claiming "attorney-client privilege" when none existed and since the chairman of the Intel committee refused to subpoena them, they did not conduct a thorough investigation. Of course, Devin Nunes has his own reasons for terminating the investigation. The truth was about to reveal his part in the complicity of the Russian meddling.

Here's the thing, no matter what happens from this point forward--Republicans are not to be trusted in any public office and no one who is sane should ever consider voting for them again.

There has never been as much turmoil and stupidity running rampant in the White House, spilling over to Capitol Hill as there has been since January 21, 2017. Putin's influence and sway (whatever it is) over trump is costing this country dearly and at this point--no other country or world leader should trust us since we have proven, we can't be trusted to handle our own domestic affairs.

But we can earn the trust back with upcoming elections. We must elect responsible adults to be in public offices and right now that means--we elect Democrats--who care about all people. We must vote blue in special elections, the midterms in every state and again in 2020--to elect a president who thinks with their brains, not their guts.

Of course, the final verdict about "conspiring against America" has yet to be made and even when Mueller makes it--we cannot count on the Republican-led Congress to do its job and divest themselves of any so-called loyalty to trump. But a flipped House and Senate--Democrats leading--will put America back on track and we will see beneficial change for all.

Who am I that any should believe me? Take a little time and do some research and discover--who I am and where I stand. I am an American with heart, compassion, and a desire to address every need of other Everyday Americans. Right now, I am a LittleKnownEducator, but give me a few months and all of that will change.

My name (remember it well) is Mary M. Hall-Rayford and I approve this message!

New Day, Old Lies!

For those living in Michigan--time to pay attention!

Yesterday, I was out with a team of volunteers collecting signatures for Gretchen Whitmer--to get her on the ballot--in a very public place where I met people from Pennsylvania, Canada, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Missouri, Massachusetts, and a number of different counties in MI. Where was I? Eastern Market in Detroit!

There I stood at the foot of the ramp of the bridge crossing over 375 and gave my 30 second spiel about Gretchen Whitmer for those who said they didn't know her. After meeting another petitioner who was collecting signatures for, "Promote The Vote," we stood together and made quite a team. The Camaraderie was great and we connected on a number of levels. Both us are Democrats, both of us love this country and want the best for Michigan and the United States; we're both retired, working educators and we both volunteer to help others. That was a pretty good starting point and I think we'll have a lasting relationship. That was the new day--yesterday, but the comments made by some--were the same old lies, designed to defeat.

We could tell by the reaction people when we approached who was a Republican and who was a Democrat--the Republicans didn't want to hear anything I had to say about a woman running for governor and they didn't want to hear anything Therese had to say about making sure everyone had an easier access to voting--including an absentee ballot--without having an excuse. They didn't want to hear it. Now why would they not want people to have easier access to voting?  Fear of others voting for Democrats? I can imagine they drew some conclusions about the two of us--a white woman and a black woman, working together to make sure there is change for the better for Michigan.

And then there were the "natives" who are still holding onto the lie that voting won't matter because all politicians lie. There's no ignoring the fact that many politicians--mere human beings make promises without knowing if they can keep them or not; it doesn't make them bad people--it simply means they didn't have enough support to get the job done.

• When Democrats had control of the House and the Senate in Washington for Obama's first two years--they were able to save the automotive industry with bailouts that were repaid and establish a healthcare bill that gave millions access to healthcare. After the first two years--and with the promise McConnell made to the Republican Senate--not much worthwhile was accomplished--with Paul Ryan leading the House because they were determined, "to make Obama a one-term president."  When that didn't happen, they simply refused to support anything that would benefit the nation as a whole.
• For the past eight years, we've had a Republican controlled government as governor, house and senate--and no matter what any Democrat candidate said while running, it probably didn't matter since the Republicans were determined to make government about and for the rich--not all the people. There were a few instances--one in which Gretchen Whitmer was successful in achieving a bi-partisan effort in the expansion of Medicaid in Michigan.

The above "points" indicate the necessity of having a well-balanced congressional government or if we really want to see change that benefits "all" the people, Democrats need to be in control of the House and Senate--both on a local and national level because it is the Democrats who establish policies and governance for all, not just the rich.

Here are a few tips about voting this year and every year.

• Don't believe the hype or the polls--do your own research, get registered, volunteer for a candidate and then get out and vote and make sure those you know--vote as well.
• Know for a fact--if you don't vote--your vote won't count and if 20,000 people sit at home thinking their votes won't matter, chances are we'll end up with Republicans controlling government for the next 10 years or more.
• Stop and think--our country is in danger of our democracy being dismantled, deliberately by those in office right now. We know because neither the House or the Senate is upholding their oaths of office and leaving #Rumplethinskin in office is going to cost this nation dearly.

Don't take my word for it--pay attention to the world around you and beyond Fox News. Other nations are more concerned about us than many in this country are--which makes one wonder--do we have what it takes to set aside our differences long enough to get our country back on track? Or will be simply allow the Putin implant to destroy our country and our values?

We don't live in a world that is simply "black or white," but right and wrong--have never changed. Racism, bigotry, xenophobia, homophobia, misogyny are all WRONG! Love is always RIGHT and we cannot take care of those in need if we are in capable of loving others--no matter what they do.
We can disagree about lifestyles without hating; we can disagree about religions without hating; we can disagree--agreeably about anything--without hating.

Are we going to let the "old lies" keep us from living in the greatest country ever that acknowledges every person as a human being and where laws and policies demonstrate equal treatment of all?

• A woman's hormones will not be a deterrent for them to be great leaders in government.
• Black people are just as smart as their counterparts with different skin tones and have been great leaders for centuries.
• Teenagers have just as much right to voice their opinions and concerns as any other group--they see, they analyze and they vocalize.
• We are not a nation divided by race and religion--we are all Americans--united as one--fighting for the survival of this one nation--America.
• Our votes do matter because they're our voice in government--if we don't vote--we have no say in what happens to us.

This is just the tip of the iceberg and we need to make sure--the iceberg doesn't sink us all into oblivion. Go vote! And if you don't know enough about a candidate--#VoteBlue (down ballot)--you can't go wrong! As long as we're divided in government, nothing will ever be accomplished that will benefit the Everyday American.

 

 

TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE DEMOCRACY WORK AGAIN FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL!

The Lost Country!

“My people have been lost sheep.
Their shepherds have led them astray
and turned them loose in the mountains.
They have lost their way
and can’t remember how to get back to the sheepfold. Jeremiah 50:6 NLT
Then the LORD said to me, “Take again the equipment of a foolish shepherd. For I am going to raise up a shepherd over the land who will not care for the lost, or seek the young, or heal the injured, or feed the healthy, but will eat the meat of the choice sheep, tearing off their hooves. “Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May the sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered, his right eye totally blinded!" Zechariah 11:15-17 NIV
Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 1 Corinthians 15:18 NIV

There are those in this country who proclaim to be Christians--followers of Christ and doing what Christ would do, yet, when looking at the plight of the land in America, we do not see Christ-like behavior in much of what they condone in "their choice" an elected leader--one who is supposed to be "president of America," which includes all Americans, not just some.

Though I may appear to be a broken record, it makes sense to repeat those things that need to be repeated, in order to bring realization to those who may be asleep or have deliberately ignored the signs in front of them--America is in crisis--and the crisis is the result of the promotion of a person who has never known God, does not know God, and thinks he is a god (and some are worshiping him as one). His malignant narcissism keeps his focus on him and what he wants rather than what is best for the nation. Before anyone attempts to refute this statement by saying, "you don't know his heart," let me say for the record--I do know his heart and everyone with a brain and knowledge of The Word--knows his heart. For The Word states, "From the abundance of the heart--the mouth speaks." (Matthew 12:34, Luke 6:45)

Right out the gate--the cult followers will say, "But we have more money in our pay checks." "He's rolling back job-killing regulations." "He's getting rid of all the immigrants who are taking American jobs." "He's pushing the Christian agenda."

Let me address each of these four points (there are more) separately.

Some people will see more money in their paychecks because of the "tax cut scam" passed which gave the wealthiest Americans the greatest tax cut and still did not benefit the working class the most. When we understand the government "runs on tax dollars" we also understand cutting the revenue will place an undue burden on future generations and Senior Citizens now, since the next step of the "great tax cut" includes gutting Social Security and medicare to make up some of the lost revenue that was given to the rich. 

Can't ignore the fact that though many companies touted giving bonuses because of the tax cut, 93K jobs have been outsourced, 63 Sam's Clubs closed, ATT laying off workers and many others. I'm sure those who received bonuses and later (some in the same week) lost their jobs, would rather have the job than a one-time bonus of a $1K.

Who loses with the tax cuts? Every poor person who ever dependent on social programs funded by tax dollars loses. Every student in America who attends a public school loses because of budget cuts. Every veteran in America who has served this country and as a result--suffered either physical or mental trauma--loses benefits because of tax cuts. Every Senior Citizen stands to lose benefits they earned and contributed to because Republicans (in particular--Paul Ryan) thinks Social Security is not an "earned benefit" but something people think they're entitled to having. We are entitled to having what we contributed to--and nothing a greedy person who received $500K from a donor for cutting taxes says or does, will ever deter us from fighting for what is rightfully ours. And by the way, Paul Ryan bragged on Twitter on 2/3/18 (later deleted) that a secretary in PA was, "pleasantly surprised to see an increase of a $1.50 in her paycheck." I'm not sure he missed the sarcasm that may have provoked the statement or if he's just that obtuse. But I'm sure the Koch Brothers, the Mercers and Murdochs, as well as other rich donors are thrilled.

Rolling back job-killing regulations--For every regulation that is rolled back--those put in place to maintain the safety of consumers and workers, we risk life and limb just so the demagogue can brag and those supporting him--grin and brag--about him getting rid of "everything President Obama did" to keep us safe. This is the real reason for much of what he does--his motivation is hatred for Obama--not concern for the American people. Because of those "roll backs," we risk dying from contaminated water and soil and polluted air. I have to conclude he'd rather people die than keep safety precautions in place. Five people have died from a gas-rig fire, Amtrak has had three accidents in which people have died, and oil spills have contaminated land will contaminate the water if plans move forward for coastline drilling. This is pure greed and has nothing to do with the welfare of Americans, but in making sure they die early--especially those in coal mines.

On keeping immigrants out of America to keep them from taking jobs from Americans--I'm still waiting for all those making such complaints to come forward and show us--the entire world--how willing they are to help gather produce for farmers, clean hotel rooms, and do it all for very low wages. If there are Americans out there who want these jobs, why was it necessary for the demagogue to obtain Visas for immigrants to work at his properties? And on the same note--why is the demagogue and his family still producing goods in China and other countries? Is it because he doesn't want to pay a living wage to Americans?

We've lost out on trade because of his ignorance as to how "world trade" works and many of the countries (11) have decided to move forth without us and many farmers are not happy about this development. Implementing tariffs on goods--makes it more difficult for Americans to purchase goods produced outside of America and when we cannot purchase the goods, those who distribute the goods won't need workers to sell them. Not a lot of thought went into this decision and again, the only driving force--greed for those who already are rich.

Thinking the resident in the Oval Office is a Christian and pushing a Christian agenda is probably the biggest farce "White Evangelicals" have promoted to their unsuspecting congregations. Or maybe the congregation knew and didn't care. At any rate, let me reiterate some of the character traits that demonstrate one is a follower of Christ.

• We love all unconditionally because God loved us so much, He sent His only Son (came in the likeness of sinful flesh) to do what we couldn't do--on our own. He took sin upon Himself and opened the way for us to ascend into Heaven for all eternity.
• We take care of the poor and the needy.
• We visit those in prisons or are otherwise incapacitated (the shut-in, not shut-out).
• We promote unity of all, not division.
• We provide shelter for the homeless and refuge for the disenfranchised.
• We stand firm against the wiles of the devil and recognize when he has "deceived the very elect."
• We don't lie or protect pathological liars for The Word says, "all liars will end up in the lake of fire."
• We don't provoke hatred or war with other countries.

Listening to the "shepherds" who were supposed to guide and direct--we have allowed them to be the reason--our country is lost and we may have difficulty finding our way back--to being who Christ wants us to be.

For those who would attempt to refute what I've said by falsely claiming that America was founded on Christianity, I would say get out your history books and understand that using "biblical principles" to establish our Constitution does not mean it was founded upon Christianity. The bible makes no reference to Christianity and to clarify the matter--the Bible is a summary of historical events that provide us with insight as to how God worked with the Children of Israel, and how we came to be joint-heirs with them. Don't buy into the hype--know for certain--what you believe and why.

This won't be the last time I address this issue, and today--it was important to emphasize it for those who think this country is headed in the right direction--we're not-- but we can be, if we exercise our right to vote--without interference or hindrance from those who would attempt to oppress us.