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Kimberly Beltran's avatar

First time calling my reps today ever in my life. Did it. Felt good. Thank you!!

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Jess Craven's avatar

Amazing Kimberly!! 🙌🙌

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Katharine Hesmer's avatar

Well done Kimberly!! Jess makes it so much less intimidating, and frankly it shouldn’t be intimidating at all because they work for US! Good job!! Keep it up!!

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Terry Nicholetti's avatar

Way to go, Kimberly!!!

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Natalie Burdick's avatar

GO GO Kimberly! Congrats...now invite a friend to do it with you... ;)

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Jonas Berglund's avatar

Great job Kimberly! There is power in using your voice. Doesn’t it feel great? 😌

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Chelsea K W's avatar

Great job!! The more you do it, the easier it gets. I encourage you to make a routine out of it. Personally it helps me feel like I'm giving a tiny bit of action each day.

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Marnee Walker's avatar

Awesome job!

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Marnee Walker's avatar

Awesome job!

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Dr. Steven Quest's avatar

Thanks! Call frequently. Remember, we still have representative democracy and they work for us. These calls truly matter.

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KeepGoing's avatar

Awesome work Kimberly!

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Bev Kummerling's avatar

Hi Kimberly! Way to go. I agree it is awesome to know we do have power and no one can stop us!

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Grace McEvoy's avatar

I just filed an abuse report with the office of inspector general in the treasury department against Elon Musk and his takeover of the treasury . This form can be found at OIG.treasury.gov

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Paula B.'s avatar

Thank you for this! The form is tricky to fill out so I hope people persist.

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Ginia B's avatar

Thank you! Do you have a direct link? This gets me to the site but I’m not finding forms for an abuse report.

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Linda Rey's avatar

what a great idea.

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Annrandom's avatar

I just visited there and kept trying to access the form and kept ending up back where I started.

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Nadine Hughey's avatar

I did my best with the form & also sending email to privacy@ofr.treasury.gov per this https://www.bookersquared.com/p/time-for-citizens-to-hit-elon-with

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Katie's avatar

I love this...did you use your actual address, or make one up?

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Grace McEvoy's avatar

Currently, I am relocating and don't have a permanent address. I don't recall. I may have used my most recent address.

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tina's avatar

I just called the Senate Finance Committee and someone answered! The staffer said they are getting a lot of calls, but didn't know what plans Oversight were doing yet. They said they are aware and concerned and thanked me for my call. I thanked them for taking it!

Thank you, Jess, for the script!

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Kate O'Shea's avatar

I just called the Senate finance committee and got a very glitchy voice message. I don’t know what’s wrong with their voicemail system but I wonder if the phone system is getting overloaded. I did leave a message and love hearing you actually got through!

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Ginia B's avatar

Same! One of my senators also had that crazy glitchy voicemail today.

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Annrandom's avatar

I got the same-garbled message on 3 different phone numbers and 3 different voicemails I called in Washington.

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Sharon B in ATL's avatar

Same thing happened to me! I was wondering if it was my phone or or what. I’m gonna keep trying.

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Tina's avatar

Same! And all voice mail boxes are full.

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Nancy Gray's avatar

Yup, both my Senators voicemail message were garbled.

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Bev Kummerling's avatar

Tina, I had the same experience. Wish they had more to say but I was glad to get through to them.

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Terry Nicholetti's avatar

Making calls, and I will be at Treasury tomorrow. Thank you, again, Jess, for being a beacon of light, love and hope during these dark times. Much love and many blessings to you and your dear family.

PS Miss Kitty says hi!

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KeepGoing's avatar

Also planning to show up in DC tomorrow night!

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Jen's avatar

I'm sorry everyone I need to vent. My boss is a wonderful man. He literally goes to me the other day hands me his phone and tells me to set up resistbot for him. This was Friday and he did the nominees patal, RFK and tulsi. We're in PA. I haven't heard from fetterman since he's been in office. My boss registered Republican just got a response from him. There is one line that has me in such a rage (aside from the fact that I'm being totally ignored) " they're going to have the votes they need to confirm most of their nominees, and there's no amount of panic or pearl clutching from Democrats that is going to change that math" excuse me Pearl clutching seriously! He does go on to say he will not vote for those truly unfit. But does not mention who he considers to be unfit.

Sorry for this venting post I just truly don't have anyone to talk to about this and I was feeling so very angry

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Jess Craven's avatar

Wow, Federman is an unbelievable disappointment. That is crazy.

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Jess Craven's avatar

*Fetterman.*

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Beth Kephart's avatar

I am writing to Fetterman frequently. His responses have been either non existence, irrelevant, or rude, it seemed to me (given that me asking about Hegseth does not equal him sending me his gun control position). Only recently did I get a generic "I care about my constituents" letter. Yeah. We are in trouble with him, but we keep trying.

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Paula B.'s avatar

Jen,

He should be recalled. He ran under false pretenses. Pennsylvania Democrats need to start collecting signatures.

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Linda Rey's avatar

exactly. JFC .... so many are going rogue, disappointing the people. ALL FOR MONEY, POWER, CONTROL....

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Jean Tesoriero's avatar

Hey, Paula. I hear you. I join others here who have called Fetterman's office, and written to him. And there are others in whose company he stands, and votes, and from my perspective, were untruthful with the American people. Jon Ossoff, Mark Kelly, and even Ruben Gallego, to name a few. Deeply disturbing.

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Paula B.'s avatar

This is so disappointing, Jean. I don't understand these people at all. Their behavior makes me feel like you can't trust anyone.

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Jean Tesoriero's avatar

Neither do I understand, Paula. So disappointing. I'm angry about what they're doing AND what they're not doing in the face of it all. And I understand how you feel. Many have broken our trust.

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Paula B.'s avatar

I'm not sure Fetterman is rational and can be persuaded, but maybe some of the others are. I don't know enough about their personalities.

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Jean Tesoriero's avatar

It's curious that I want to reach Fetterman more than the others, even though several are disappointing to me. Maybe it's because I felt so close to his campaign, working on his behalf. It may be my denial though maybe it's because I want to hold out hope that what he showed us was real.

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Kamila Novicki's avatar

Hello, Jen. I am a PA. resident also and received the same email. It was condescending, rude, and tone deaf. The difference is, unlike your boss, I'm a registered Democrat who supported Fetterman. I was infuriated by the email and let him know in no uncertain terms. Also, I unsubscribed from his fundraising emails with an explanation as to why. To think we lost Bob Casey and now are stuck with Fetterman and McCormick. Ugh.

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Jen's avatar

I have been saying how much I miss Casey for a month now. We may not have always agreed on stuff but he was always kind and always responded. As for mccormick I think we should add a reminder how tight that margin was that he won by when we call. But thank you for the response it almost makes me feel a little better that this was just a form letter that went out to some and not some extra gross play to a Republican (or a man) for a vote. Which in the moment is what it felt like to me.

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Annrandom's avatar

I cannot believe I ever donated to Fetterman (I'm in OH). It seems the stroke he had changed him into a MAGA.

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Feb 3Edited
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Paula B.'s avatar

Recall!

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Merrill's avatar

On Jan 19 2025, President Biden left his presidency with domestic achievements that helped all Americans regardless of party. He left a restored economy. He left America at peace with our allies and, with the exception of Russia, not in conflict with our enemies. An amazing record considering where Trump left us in 2020.

In just a little over two weeks, Trump, while picking up millions in bribes from a "pay-to-play" scheme for billionaires and large corporations, has inflamed a partisan war in the US, neutered Congress, chosen the most radical cabinet in US history, turned the administration of government and bill paying over to a mega billionaire bro-terrorist who is hell-bent on destroying out social safety net while making Nazi salutes. Trump claimed the worst air disaster in 20 years was caused by DEI policies. Why? It's common sense. He released millions of gallons of water into Central California which will be needed but gone this summer for growing crops for what? To fight the LA fires which the water is no where near. Why? because he could. Its common sense.

While Joe Biden, without fanfare, brought aid and support to a struggling America, Trump has brought chaos and fear to the country we love.

Why? because he could. It's common sense. And because the anti-government GOP coup members want this to happen.

Hide quoted text

We Americans must stop Trump and his coup.

I started my political life 60 years ago as an early member of SDS. We wanted to stop a government that was sending its young men to die in Vietnam for a war the country didn't believe in. It took a lot of protests and strikes for 7 years but we ended the war.

As bad as those times were, we never felt that democracy itself was threatened. This time is different. We are fighting to save our democratic system of tolerance and respect against forces who want a "freedom" system. A system where they are free to hate, punish and expel people with beliefs, skin colors and cultures different than theirs. It's what Trump loves...he lives to hate.

For my generation, we need a reborn SDS. This time it's "Seniors for a Democrats Society".

Protests and strikes are coming soon. The Consent of the Governed is rising. My children and grandchildren promise their generation will be there too.

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Jean Tesoriero's avatar

Inspiring that you started your political life 60 years ago, Merrill. And here you are still at it. Then, SDS (Students for a Democratic Society), which embarrassingly, I had to look up. And here you are still, and this time, a new meaning, same purpose; and rising, with promise from (and for) your children and grandchildren. My goodness! Now that's hope in action!!!

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Merrill's avatar

Hey Jean

Politically fighting against the intolerant and selfish right wing in the US is a life long chore and not an unpleasant one. I'm looking forward to being at it for another 20 or so years. This time around we're fighting to stop tech bro billionaires from seizing control of our representative democracy. Musk will learn that the Consent of the Governed is NOT an algorithm.

I'd like to see a tax strike. No one pays their federal taxes until Musk and DOGE are dismantled and gone from our government.

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Jean Tesoriero's avatar

My goodness, again, Merrill. I'm weary from 'the fight' and I've not been at it nearly as long though we might be close in age. In my younger years, I stood on street corners with clipboards and petitions to be signed for Congressional action, and some other things too. Though seems I fell asleep for a number of years, and only over the last decade or so started to become more aware, and take on small endeavors in activism. You truly are an inspiration, for what you say, for how you say it, and for what you do. 🕯️

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Marilyn N's avatar

Sign me up!

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Dianne Chrestopoulos's avatar

OK I have already called 6 people and some must have voice mail boxes which are totally full as the call will not go through. I have also emailed and called Ken Paxton's office AG of TX (what good it will do is a big ZERO) but I did it anyway. This is exactly what we need, a CALL TO ACTION as early in the day as possible. Call your Senators and Rep's in Washington and your AG's and write on their websites as well. We must not be silent. It's easy to do - if you feel nervous just read the scripts provided! It only takes 2 mins or less to call each one. DO IT!

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Natalie Burdick's avatar

Same...that means others are calling too!!!

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Katharine Hesmer's avatar

I love and appreciate this encouragement!!

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Katharine Hesmer's avatar

Jess, I just wanted to say that I was very moved by your video about your child, and I think you’re doing an AMAZING job. Their uncertainties are understandable in the hateful and cruel climate we currently find ourselves in, but none of those uncertainties stem from the love and support they’ve found at home and in their community. How wonderful is that? I know too many families where it might not have worked out this way. I have a trans kid too, and they’re feeling these external threats but know that their mom and dad have their backs, no matter what. That’s the best POSSIBLE thing we can do for each other is offer support and love, and unwavering commitment to their well being. You are not alone, and you’re doing a STELLAR job, both as a mom AND as an inspirational activist and mentor to us all!! Heartfelt thanks to you!! Always! 🙌🏼❤️🫶🏼

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Jess Craven's avatar

Thank you so much. I so appreciate that.

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Katharine Hesmer's avatar

You’re always so strong for all of us. If you ever need someone to lean on, please lean on me - I’ve got your back

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Patricia Federle's avatar

Hey everyone, the Nebraska legislature held a hearing about removing Nebraska’s Blue Dot electoral vote and making us a winner take all state. Would you please ask all Nebraskans to call their reps and put some pressure on them to make sure everyone’s vote counts and we aren’t weighted to the maga rural electoral college vote steal. Need lots of noise, especially from Omaha and Lincoln areas!!! PLEASE CALL!!!!

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Paula B.'s avatar

I wish I could restack this. Can you put it in your newsletter?

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Lauren Wagner's avatar

What about the 50 States 50 Capitol protest on Weds Feb 5th? At noon in Sacramento.

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Jess Craven's avatar

I want to publicize it, but I can’t even find a website. Do you have one?

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Theodora's avatar

Jess, it took me awhile to find it. They are on Bluesky, IG, Reddit, and I'm not on any of those platforms. Seems it has been poorly publicized, and critics say it is poorly organized.

After a lot of searching, I found this: https://50protests.com/

Hope it helps! ;)

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Linda's avatar

This is all really helpful, BUT MOST IMPORTANT THING WE CAN DO RIGHT NOW IS FOCUS ON THE THREE SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS COMING UP! Two of them are on April 1st! We can make a tremendous impact by either: WINNING and changing the balance of congress or COMING CLOSE and helping both Republicans and Democrats grow a little backbone in opposing Trump.

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Anne Paris's avatar

For anyone making calls, I just looked up how to pronounce Russell Vought’s last name. Believe it or not, it sounds like “vote.”

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Juli killgore's avatar

oozes with irony

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Heather's avatar

Same issue. The voicemails were garbled and full, and the websites would freeze or I'd get redirected to the first step on the contact page. I was able to leave a voicemail for my House rep at her home office... but we'll see. I'm going to start calling every day

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Juli killgore's avatar

at this point we need to focus on slamming our members of Congress, and on planning to do what they apparently will not! everything else is secondary if we can't defend ourselves - this is the No. 1 priority

cabinet picks, Tariff battles, Greenland, Musk taking over our financial information, all the blatant conflicts of interest, Trump's attack on the media, the steps to erase the history of, and any references to, DEI - the list goes on - none of this matters if we do not get our shit together within and outside of Congress and call a STOP to everything - we are becoming very good at building an informed citizenship, but we need to decide whether we are going to do something - it will only get worse -

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Natalie Burdick's avatar

FYI...reposting to you hear from The Status Kuo:

"The most common question I saw across social media and in the comments was understandable: Is somebody doing something about this?

The short and important answer is yes. And we need to understand a few things to help bring things into focus."

Read more here about the Personal and Political responses within government, as well as the law suits, and finally, the grassroots response (THAT'S US!!!)...

https://statuskuo.substack.com/p/is-somebody-doing-something

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Jess Craven's avatar

I love Jay Kuo so much. Newsletter is one of my favorites.

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Trina's avatar

Thank you so much for linking this!

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Terry Nicholetti's avatar

thank you! IT was very helpful to read this! I don't know if I can manage yet another substack, but I appreciate this one!

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Annrandom's avatar

Thank you, Natalie, for posting this.

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Theodora's avatar

Excellent article. He explains the whole situation so clearly!

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Juli killgore's avatar

thanks Natalie, I will do that...

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Suzanne Crockett's avatar

Thank you, Jess, for the inspiration! I live in bloody-red Florida, and I’m emailing this to my ELECTED representatives daily until something changes:

I’m furious that Elon Musk, an unelected person with no government experience, has taken over the Treasury Department system. He’s also given a bunch of college kids access to our most sensitive financial information. This is an illegal takeover of the federal government, and it’s got to be stopped. The Treasury is responsible for trillions of dollars in U.S. government payments for things like Social Security and Medicare. Millions of us depend on that money. It’s ours. I have several bills on my desk now that I will not be able to pay without Social Security. I want you, as my ELECTED representative, to do whatever it takes to get Musk out of there, including halting all Congressional activity until he is removed. Protect our taxpayer dollars—and our constitution—at all costs.

One more thing: Russell Vought can’t be allowed anywhere near our government. Americans don’t want Project 2025. Vote no. Thanks.

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Juli killgore's avatar

thank you! I like to see how others are expressing themselves to our reps - am doing the same...

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Nancy Cuffman's avatar

I cannot get through to CA senators. Local calls, the phone is so garbled that you can’t understand what they’re saying. The Capitol, the vm is full and can’t leave a message

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Val B.'s avatar

Nancy, I had the same experience as you (also in California). The only way to reach them was to send an email through their official websites. It is disappointing to not be able to leave a phone message. I feel our Senators actually owe us the obligation of listening to us.

However, I was able to get through to my Congressperson Sara Jacobs. Not only was the line clear and not garbled, an actual human answered and spoke with me. (It was a staff member, not Ms. Jacobs.) She listened to me and on the subject of Musk having access to the U.S. Treasury, she said they were on it and lawsuits were being filed.

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cathy cmongeauart.com's avatar

Same! It’s a mad dash to call these folks!

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Trina's avatar

Schiff's mailbox has been full for days. Very frustrating. Sent emails.

Padilla's recorded greeting was usually garbled, but my call still went through ok - once to voice mail, but twice to a live staffer, and the call quality was fine.

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Annrandom's avatar

Same for Ohio Senators and Senate Finance Committee.

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Kim's avatar

Same issue with NJ senators. I got through to my Rep

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Darci's avatar

I had the same issue with trying to leave a voice mail.

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Bonnie Beckett's avatar

Jessica—Did you see Trump’s noon news conference and EO creating the Sovereign Wealth Fund to take US Treasury funds to better invest them in businesses he likes (Musk?????). Please will someone get on the danger here of this illegal plan? I’m worried for Social Security, Medicare, and all other federal funds appropriated by Congress.

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Darci's avatar

That EO is unconstitutional, hang in there. I’m afraid as well but that’s what they want.

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Juli killgore's avatar

\TRO, TRO, TRO

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Juli killgore's avatar

this is so crazy - Congress has the power of the purse - are being treated as they no longer exist - if allowed, will destroy Checks and Balances

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