I can definitely understand the anger and frustration, but also remember that what he posted is not actually a 'thing' and therefore can't happen, just like a lot of the BS he posts daily.
I know it’s very frustrating, but I urge you to look deeper. ICE funding has been blocked, war powers resolutions are put to a vote by Democrats frequently. I’m sure you know that until we have majorities in the House and hopefully the Senate, we’re not going see a whole lot of change, but I see many Democrats working as hard as they can in this adverse environments. And if you want to see what might be possible in the future, take a look at all the creative things Mamdani doing in New York. Getting people who feel uninspired to vote seems like one of the most important things we can do now, we need to give people enough faith to vote…look to Mamdani. Look to Talerico. Look to Ossoff. They are the future … we’re building that future with them with everything we do here.
What bothers me is that he is allowed to stay in his appointed position no matter what he does!! I can understand the corruption in the Supreme Court. I don’t accept it, but it seems there is nothing that can be done about it, although I hear the Justices can be impeached. It’s the lack of action from the Congress that angers me!!! Anyone can force a vote to impeach Trump!!! We cannot wait for the midterms!!!!
Sheila need you to tone it down here a bit. Thank you. Impeachment is a waste of time. We have to keep our head down and keep working as hard as we can.
Well Simon, we shall see what happens. I stand with the MANY who want Trump gone now!!! Who don’t want to wait for the midterms. Who see the danger for our country and the world. Trump is ticking time bomb. So far, he and his enablers are doing everything possible for him to stay in power. He is not going to leave without a fight. Also, even if Dems gain the house we still don’t know what will happen. We shall see!!
Understand the frustration. It's difficult to read or watch each day's developments. But it's not accurate to say, "anyone can force a vote to impeach Trump." And even if there were enough support to force such a vote (pretty impossible with Rs in control of the House), an impeachment resolution would not pass (yet) nor would the Senate vote to convict. So, while those efforts might make us all feel better, they wouldn't accomplish anything. And they would distract from other things Ds are doing that have a better chance of being successful.
It does appear the man continues to be determined to foment violence in our country, which will likely be the result (in my opinion) if red state governors heed his call to rerun their primaries (though I don't see why they would--he's not just a lame duck, he's politically mortally wounded--but...).
As usual, the Supreme Court has created a mess, something they've been doing on a regular basis since 1857 when the Dred Scott decision precipitated the Civil War. Which should have told our country, once and for all, that governing should be left up to elected officials, as the Founders intended, but here we are, waiting to take over Congress and neuter the Supremes.
For the record, the Court's decision didn't *demand* or say *anything* about the *necessity* for any state anywhere to redistrict *anything.* It "merely" opened the door for them to do so if they so choose. But in fairness, it's easy to see why he'd fail to see that, since I doubt the decision was filled with pictures, and almost certainly failed to include his name, in ALL CAPS, in every sentence.
Sheila I've taken this post down for its implies that political violence may in some cases be justified. I am sure that was not your intention and feel free to report something in this thread that better reflects your sentiment.
I called Congressman Raskin and Senators Alsobrooks and Van Hollen to say Trump needs to leave DC's public golf courses alone and that he is seriously out of touch with reality and needs to be removed from office as soon as possible.
If I were a Republican, I wouldn't want Trump out there repeating all the time that the party in the WH usually loses the midterms. It's going to make it more difficult for them to claim that the elections are stolen when Dems win. After all, Trump's been predicting the Dems would win for months.
I'm writing postcards to Ohio voters today and looking forward to your discussion with Stuart Stevens.
Daily calls are in to WI elected members of Congress regarding our Hopium agenda. The May Day protest I attended in rural red WI was well attended and met with growing positive support- I heard only one “go Trump” shout-out from a passerby. There were many positive, happy honkers driving by. I continue to write postcards for GA Supreme Court.
Shout out to Veronica who posted this 20 minute graduation speech by James Talerico yesterday. It was deep in the chat, and has 3 likes, so I'm re-posting.
It is inspirational light in dark times. Feels like we could all use some of that. Light shines brightest in the darkness. Illuminates the darkness. No one needs a flashlight in daytime. James cut to the core of my being.
It’s such a thoughtful and inspiring talk. It’s what we need now, addressing so many levels of corruption that threaten to break our hearts. I have a friend who sent it out to everyone who knows a young person graduating from high school or college this year. It’s a wonderful graduation present. Thank you for posting it here Michael.
TX State Representative Talerico speaks to the love, and the soul, which is so lacking from liberalism and progressivism. Here, at an HBC, the great Black faith leaders come to life in their struggles toward a more just and loving America.
When some 70% of Americans follow a spiritual lifestyle, it behooves us to heed these words of Mr. Talerico. We will find the joy and love that underlies every breath, common to all creatures. We will see in the eye of "the other", the reflection of ourselves.
What is the truth behind the spate of Ken Martin/DNC articles lately? Is he really doing a bad job or is there a cadre of consultants out to get him for shaking things up among the consultant class? I would appreciate your perspective. His 50-state strategy seems sensible.
Ken Martin is doing a fine job for us, and we are partners with him. Simon's interviews with Ken Martin and discussions about the DNC in daily newsletters help set the tone for your answer.
BTW, I am a long-time member of NM Dem. Party State Central Committee that elects our representatives to the DNC. Here are additional ways to get informed, including contacting your state's representatives to the DNC.
—The Daily Blueprint is the Democratic Party's official morning news show—airing weekdays at 10AM Eastern on youtube. There is an online form that you can use to offer to help or submit your questions. https://democrats.org/contact-us/
—You can also contact members of the DNC from your state directly. That includes your State Party Chair and Vice Chair. There is a link for that too. https://democrats.org/state-parties/
Join us for a virtual briefing on the Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court decision with DNC Chair Ken Martin and Civic Engagement and Voter Protection Director Herly Rosemond at 7 p.m. E.T. on Monday, May 4, to learn what the ruling means for equal representation, redistricting laws nationwide, the Voting Rights Act, and what Democrats are doing to fight back. We will be joined by: DNC Vice Chair Reyna Walters-Morgan; Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02); Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-07); Davante E. Lewis, Public Service Commissioner (LA - District 3); Cliff Albright, Co-founder, Black Voters Matter Fund; and Charles V. Taylor, Jr., Executive Director, Mississippi State Conference NAACP.
Paid for by the Democratic National Committee, democrats.org.
Might not be just the consultants. The oligarchy-controlled corporate media is shaking at the prospect of November, rife with rumors that even more red state Senate seats may be at risk than the ones we've all been talking about...
Biggest issue is he is not releasing the autopsy, and he is not raising as much money as the Republicans. Those are both issues but I support the 50 state strategy.
So appreciate the analyses of Ukraine/Russia, and Philips O'Brien's take on offense vs. defense and winning the war vs. winning one battle. If only we had such educated, strategic thinkers left in our government. Look forward to the more extended conversation with him--and Stuart Stevens--who has been so instrumental in helping us understand what's happening on the ground in Ukraine.
Yes, thanks for that, Simon, so brilliant, rings so true, and not just for battlefield wars either, eg "letting the other guy lead with his chin," "negotiation by silence," etc.
and another day of two humanitarian leaders of the Freedom Flotilla being tortured in an
Israeli prison. They were kidnapped from their boats in the Mediterranean Sea 1,000 miles from the shores of Israel as they were sailing to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. This is an international scandal, the US is in compliance. All politicians that are taking donations from AIPAC are in compliance - it's a long list.
Have been in touch w friends in GA, folks are mobilizing for GA Supreme Ct race! Also heartened to see State Rep. Justin J. Pearson (candidate for US House) organizing neighborhood walks & visibility actions in TN-09 to fight the potential loss of the state's only minority-dominated house district.
Called my state electeds and thanked them for co-sponsoring same day voter reg here in the Garden State, and pleased w Sen. Booker speaking out on War Powers. Keep going!
If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: “Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.” Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness, MAKE YOUR WAY BY UNEXPECTED ROUTES, AND ATTACK UNGUARDED SPOTS [emphasis is mine, and remember the value of visiting Republican districts]. – Sun Tzu
No leader should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no leader should fight a battle simply out of pique… But a kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life. Hence the enlightened leader is heedful, and the good leader full of caution. This is the way to keep a country at peace and an army intact. – Sun Tzu
Remember: EPSTEIN, EPSTEIN, EPSTEIN!!
Folks:
URGENT: DEMOCRATS DO A FACT-FINDING “CODEL” TO THE PERSIAN/ARABIAN GULF AND EXAMINE THE BASES THAT HAVE BEEN DAMAGED/DESTROYED: https://thehill.com/policy/international/5849646-iran-damage-us-military-bases/ . This is your job (e.g. the six veterans who did the "Don't Give Up The Ship" video). Dolos and his acolytes melt before truth and facts. Unfortunately, the Iranians understand this psychological reality for Dolos; so, they produce the LEGO video propaganda - again and again. Please take the INTERNATIONAL press with you: .
On your return from the Gulf, please stop by the military hospitals in Europe to commiserate with the wounded from the Iranian attacks. Have you noticed that the injured have been hidden from the media? Expending billions of dollars on an unpopular war can quickly becomes an abstraction, but giving WITNESS to the wounded (i.e. the true cost of any war) is a different matter. Just ask the amazing Senator Tammy Duckworth.
CARTHAGO DELENDA EST (via nonviolence).
P.S.: Do the following now! FIRST, TEACH CIVICS. Second, register voters. THIRD, TEACH CIVICS. Rinse. Repeat.
Minnesota's DFL 8th congressional district held their endorsing convention on Saturday. As a delegate I was there all day and listened to all candidates vying for the endorsement. Two out of nine candidates did not attend. After speeches were made each candidate was asked a yes or no question. If you do not receive the endorsement, will you suspend your campaign? Three candidates said yes, four said no. Super frustrating to hear that, however we are moving forward with a very qualified candidate in Trina Swanson with 76% of the first ballot vote. (need 60% for endorsement) Next closest was 22% and he was one of the good ones to say he would drop out. Trina is a former federal worker who was pushed out by DOGE. She is an immigration lawyer, grew up in the same community where Pete Stauber lived. She is an excellent candidate so if there are MN Congressional 8 people is this chat, please check her out. trinaforcongress.com Thanks
Ukraine just flew drones into Moscow overnight, evading the layers of protection encircling this city. (See Professor Gerdes Explains YouTube channel for details). So, I expect Ukraine will not need to fly drones into Moscow on May 9th. They've already proven their point. They can hit anywhere at anytime in Moscow AND evade their air defenses. I will not be surprised if the whole May 9th parade is cancelled by Putin as a result of this.
I can definitely understand the anger and frustration, but also remember that what he posted is not actually a 'thing' and therefore can't happen, just like a lot of the BS he posts daily.
I know it’s very frustrating, but I urge you to look deeper. ICE funding has been blocked, war powers resolutions are put to a vote by Democrats frequently. I’m sure you know that until we have majorities in the House and hopefully the Senate, we’re not going see a whole lot of change, but I see many Democrats working as hard as they can in this adverse environments. And if you want to see what might be possible in the future, take a look at all the creative things Mamdani doing in New York. Getting people who feel uninspired to vote seems like one of the most important things we can do now, we need to give people enough faith to vote…look to Mamdani. Look to Talerico. Look to Ossoff. They are the future … we’re building that future with them with everything we do here.
What bothers me is that he is allowed to stay in his appointed position no matter what he does!! I can understand the corruption in the Supreme Court. I don’t accept it, but it seems there is nothing that can be done about it, although I hear the Justices can be impeached. It’s the lack of action from the Congress that angers me!!! Anyone can force a vote to impeach Trump!!! We cannot wait for the midterms!!!!
Sheila need you to tone it down here a bit. Thank you. Impeachment is a waste of time. We have to keep our head down and keep working as hard as we can.
Well Simon, we shall see what happens. I stand with the MANY who want Trump gone now!!! Who don’t want to wait for the midterms. Who see the danger for our country and the world. Trump is ticking time bomb. So far, he and his enablers are doing everything possible for him to stay in power. He is not going to leave without a fight. Also, even if Dems gain the house we still don’t know what will happen. We shall see!!
Understand the frustration. It's difficult to read or watch each day's developments. But it's not accurate to say, "anyone can force a vote to impeach Trump." And even if there were enough support to force such a vote (pretty impossible with Rs in control of the House), an impeachment resolution would not pass (yet) nor would the Senate vote to convict. So, while those efforts might make us all feel better, they wouldn't accomplish anything. And they would distract from other things Ds are doing that have a better chance of being successful.
It does appear the man continues to be determined to foment violence in our country, which will likely be the result (in my opinion) if red state governors heed his call to rerun their primaries (though I don't see why they would--he's not just a lame duck, he's politically mortally wounded--but...).
As usual, the Supreme Court has created a mess, something they've been doing on a regular basis since 1857 when the Dred Scott decision precipitated the Civil War. Which should have told our country, once and for all, that governing should be left up to elected officials, as the Founders intended, but here we are, waiting to take over Congress and neuter the Supremes.
For the record, the Court's decision didn't *demand* or say *anything* about the *necessity* for any state anywhere to redistrict *anything.* It "merely" opened the door for them to do so if they so choose. But in fairness, it's easy to see why he'd fail to see that, since I doubt the decision was filled with pictures, and almost certainly failed to include his name, in ALL CAPS, in every sentence.
Sheila I've taken this post down for its implies that political violence may in some cases be justified. I am sure that was not your intention and feel free to report something in this thread that better reflects your sentiment.
Simon, thank you for the good information.
I called Congressman Raskin and Senators Alsobrooks and Van Hollen to say Trump needs to leave DC's public golf courses alone and that he is seriously out of touch with reality and needs to be removed from office as soon as possible.
If I were a Republican, I wouldn't want Trump out there repeating all the time that the party in the WH usually loses the midterms. It's going to make it more difficult for them to claim that the elections are stolen when Dems win. After all, Trump's been predicting the Dems would win for months.
I'm writing postcards to Ohio voters today and looking forward to your discussion with Stuart Stevens.
Daily calls are in to WI elected members of Congress regarding our Hopium agenda. The May Day protest I attended in rural red WI was well attended and met with growing positive support- I heard only one “go Trump” shout-out from a passerby. There were many positive, happy honkers driving by. I continue to write postcards for GA Supreme Court.
Shout out to Veronica who posted this 20 minute graduation speech by James Talerico yesterday. It was deep in the chat, and has 3 likes, so I'm re-posting.
It is inspirational light in dark times. Feels like we could all use some of that. Light shines brightest in the darkness. Illuminates the darkness. No one needs a flashlight in daytime. James cut to the core of my being.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEgjjBPFzNA
Keep pushing
It’s such a thoughtful and inspiring talk. It’s what we need now, addressing so many levels of corruption that threaten to break our hearts. I have a friend who sent it out to everyone who knows a young person graduating from high school or college this year. It’s a wonderful graduation present. Thank you for posting it here Michael.
TX State Representative Talerico speaks to the love, and the soul, which is so lacking from liberalism and progressivism. Here, at an HBC, the great Black faith leaders come to life in their struggles toward a more just and loving America.
When some 70% of Americans follow a spiritual lifestyle, it behooves us to heed these words of Mr. Talerico. We will find the joy and love that underlies every breath, common to all creatures. We will see in the eye of "the other", the reflection of ourselves.
Wow. Thanks so much for sharing that, Michael. We are 90% water and salt, and cutting to our core sure releases some of it, doesn't it ..
What is the truth behind the spate of Ken Martin/DNC articles lately? Is he really doing a bad job or is there a cadre of consultants out to get him for shaking things up among the consultant class? I would appreciate your perspective. His 50-state strategy seems sensible.
Ken Martin is doing a fine job for us, and we are partners with him. Simon's interviews with Ken Martin and discussions about the DNC in daily newsletters help set the tone for your answer.
https://www.hopiumchronicles.com/p/trump-the-brand-is-failing-new-interview
https://www.hopiumchronicles.com/p/my-interview-with-dnc-chair-candidate-b82
https://www.hopiumchronicles.com/p/congratulations-to-ken-martin-the
and Hopium four days ago https://www.hopiumchronicles.com/p/callais-2026-senate-2032-democrats?utm_medium=email&action=share
BTW, I am a long-time member of NM Dem. Party State Central Committee that elects our representatives to the DNC. Here are additional ways to get informed, including contacting your state's representatives to the DNC.
—You can get connected and read about what the DNC is doing here. https://democrats.org/ and committee info is here https://democrats.org/who-we-are/about-the-democratic-party/
—You can subscribe to their youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDemocrats
—The Daily Blueprint is the Democratic Party's official morning news show—airing weekdays at 10AM Eastern on youtube. There is an online form that you can use to offer to help or submit your questions. https://democrats.org/contact-us/
—You can also contact members of the DNC from your state directly. That includes your State Party Chair and Vice Chair. There is a link for that too. https://democrats.org/state-parties/
—The DNC platform is here https://democrats.org/where-we-stand/party-platform/
There is an online form that you can use to offer to help or submit your questions. https://democrats.org/contact-us/
thank you, Deborah
I’m happy to hear this. I wish he hadn’t done that podcast but support him. I don’t listen to podcasts.
Can't answer your question but you can hear from Martin at 7 pm tonight:
https://platform.winnable.app/events/redistricting-in-the-south-b1szriti?source=web&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Join us for a virtual briefing on the Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court decision with DNC Chair Ken Martin and Civic Engagement and Voter Protection Director Herly Rosemond at 7 p.m. E.T. on Monday, May 4, to learn what the ruling means for equal representation, redistricting laws nationwide, the Voting Rights Act, and what Democrats are doing to fight back. We will be joined by: DNC Vice Chair Reyna Walters-Morgan; Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02); Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-07); Davante E. Lewis, Public Service Commissioner (LA - District 3); Cliff Albright, Co-founder, Black Voters Matter Fund; and Charles V. Taylor, Jr., Executive Director, Mississippi State Conference NAACP.
Paid for by the Democratic National Committee, democrats.org.
ooh, thanks - was not aware of this event!!
Might not be just the consultants. The oligarchy-controlled corporate media is shaking at the prospect of November, rife with rumors that even more red state Senate seats may be at risk than the ones we've all been talking about...
Biggest issue is he is not releasing the autopsy, and he is not raising as much money as the Republicans. Those are both issues but I support the 50 state strategy.
So appreciate the analyses of Ukraine/Russia, and Philips O'Brien's take on offense vs. defense and winning the war vs. winning one battle. If only we had such educated, strategic thinkers left in our government. Look forward to the more extended conversation with him--and Stuart Stevens--who has been so instrumental in helping us understand what's happening on the ground in Ukraine.
Yes, thanks for that, Simon, so brilliant, rings so true, and not just for battlefield wars either, eg "letting the other guy lead with his chin," "negotiation by silence," etc.
Maybe trump can loan Putin his squeaky tank
If you're interested in Ukraine's strategy for the war, this (very long but worthwhile) post from March 2022 explains it using the context of the Chinese Civil War. https://acoup.blog/2022/03/03/collections-how-the-weak-can-win-a-primer-on-protracted-war/
I'd say most of what was written in that post has been borne out by reality in the past four years.
and another day of two humanitarian leaders of the Freedom Flotilla being tortured in an
Israeli prison. They were kidnapped from their boats in the Mediterranean Sea 1,000 miles from the shores of Israel as they were sailing to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. This is an international scandal, the US is in compliance. All politicians that are taking donations from AIPAC are in compliance - it's a long list.
Our own Revolution fits the profile: The Continental Army kept from losing until it won.
Don't despair, if we get out the vote, we win.
That’s what I was thinking! They just kept on refusing to quit.
Have been in touch w friends in GA, folks are mobilizing for GA Supreme Ct race! Also heartened to see State Rep. Justin J. Pearson (candidate for US House) organizing neighborhood walks & visibility actions in TN-09 to fight the potential loss of the state's only minority-dominated house district.
Called my state electeds and thanked them for co-sponsoring same day voter reg here in the Garden State, and pleased w Sen. Booker speaking out on War Powers. Keep going!
If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: “Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.” Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness, MAKE YOUR WAY BY UNEXPECTED ROUTES, AND ATTACK UNGUARDED SPOTS [emphasis is mine, and remember the value of visiting Republican districts]. – Sun Tzu
No leader should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no leader should fight a battle simply out of pique… But a kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life. Hence the enlightened leader is heedful, and the good leader full of caution. This is the way to keep a country at peace and an army intact. – Sun Tzu
Remember: EPSTEIN, EPSTEIN, EPSTEIN!!
Folks:
URGENT: DEMOCRATS DO A FACT-FINDING “CODEL” TO THE PERSIAN/ARABIAN GULF AND EXAMINE THE BASES THAT HAVE BEEN DAMAGED/DESTROYED: https://thehill.com/policy/international/5849646-iran-damage-us-military-bases/ . This is your job (e.g. the six veterans who did the "Don't Give Up The Ship" video). Dolos and his acolytes melt before truth and facts. Unfortunately, the Iranians understand this psychological reality for Dolos; so, they produce the LEGO video propaganda - again and again. Please take the INTERNATIONAL press with you: .
On your return from the Gulf, please stop by the military hospitals in Europe to commiserate with the wounded from the Iranian attacks. Have you noticed that the injured have been hidden from the media? Expending billions of dollars on an unpopular war can quickly becomes an abstraction, but giving WITNESS to the wounded (i.e. the true cost of any war) is a different matter. Just ask the amazing Senator Tammy Duckworth.
CARTHAGO DELENDA EST (via nonviolence).
P.S.: Do the following now! FIRST, TEACH CIVICS. Second, register voters. THIRD, TEACH CIVICS. Rinse. Repeat.
Minnesota's DFL 8th congressional district held their endorsing convention on Saturday. As a delegate I was there all day and listened to all candidates vying for the endorsement. Two out of nine candidates did not attend. After speeches were made each candidate was asked a yes or no question. If you do not receive the endorsement, will you suspend your campaign? Three candidates said yes, four said no. Super frustrating to hear that, however we are moving forward with a very qualified candidate in Trina Swanson with 76% of the first ballot vote. (need 60% for endorsement) Next closest was 22% and he was one of the good ones to say he would drop out. Trina is a former federal worker who was pushed out by DOGE. She is an immigration lawyer, grew up in the same community where Pete Stauber lived. She is an excellent candidate so if there are MN Congressional 8 people is this chat, please check her out. trinaforcongress.com Thanks
Ukraine just flew drones into Moscow overnight, evading the layers of protection encircling this city. (See Professor Gerdes Explains YouTube channel for details). So, I expect Ukraine will not need to fly drones into Moscow on May 9th. They've already proven their point. They can hit anywhere at anytime in Moscow AND evade their air defenses. I will not be surprised if the whole May 9th parade is cancelled by Putin as a result of this.
I’m generally not a fan of Op-Ed pieces ever since the NYT (Frank Bruno, I believe) kept swooning over Marco Rubio’s debate performance in 2015.
Anyway, this linked article was shared with me and I’m now doing the same as I strongly agree with his take here:
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/04/opinion/platner-trump-democrats.html?unlocked_article_code=1.f1A.Cd0B.Qa2Bh8YM3xTy&smid=nytcore-ios-share
We can end Trump's reign by doing everything we can to gain control of the House and the Senate.
Putin will only go out feet first.