I am fed up with lack of input from our former leaders.
So off I went to the Obama's website, barackobama.com...and wrote him. You can also write her there too.
Dear President Obama,
Where did you go? America is going through a coup. Over the weekend the group 18F in the government was summarily destroyed. It's importance cannot be described regarding their achievements after only 11 years They live on on BlueSky. Also on Saturday 20,000 people came out at over 120 National Parks/Forests, led by the Resistance Rangers (about 650 former federal employees) rallies, to call for a reversal of those mass firings.
And so forth. Although the only person that I can identify with regularity is Pete Buttiegeg, among a handful. Yes Harris gave a nice speech at the NAACP Awards, but it was in generalities. Where are all the former Presidents, Vice-presidents, and their spouses?
I plead with you to become far more public and vocal (as you were last year) in supporting American democracy!
I want to share something very frightening/disturbing to me.
This morning when I was making my calls to Reps in congress (they know me by name now)
I had a thought to call my Oregon State Representatives to see what the temperature was with the republicans, are they in lockstep with the president.
Well, one answered a I got an older woman that was answering the phone (secretary maybe) she said that the government is separate. I said this is not what I voted for and that I think the president siding with Russia means he has left the Americans swinging in the wind. I said what doge is doing with everything especially social security and Medicare is obscene! She said that every thing is fine, nothing is going to affect seniors, they have to cut out the Waste! Like, for instance; people receiving social security that are 150years old. 🤷♂️
Then she was acting like I was overreacting and said this time next year this will all be a blip on the screen and Jesus has everything…🤔
I’m in Oregon too. Which rep were you calling? Are you in a rural area? Senators Wyden and Merkley are ALL OVER this. They have been holding town halls, introducing legislation to fight back, Sen Wyden is the ranking member of finance. Wyden plans on holding a town hall rather than attending Trump’s state lies to the dis-union.
Obvious maga moron answering the phone. Kinda like Covid would just go away. Some of the people answering the phones are getting snippy with people now, tell them you’d like it in writing that nothing will happen. Swing right back at em.
Here’s my letter to President Zelensky. Anyone is free to use this and edit it to your liking.
March 3, 2025
The Honorable Volodymyr Zelenskyy
President of Ukraine
3350 M Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
Dear President Zelenskyy,
As Americans, we feel compelled to write to you directly to express our deepest apologies and to clarify that the actions and statements of our President do not reflect the will or sentiments of the American people. We wholeheartedly disagree with the recent decisions and rhetoric that have cast doubt on our nation’s commitment to Ukraine. Please know that these actions in no way speak for us, the American public.
For generations, the United States has been a steadfast ally to those fighting for freedom and sovereignty. Through NATO, we have stood as a pillar of collective security in Europe, defending against aggression and upholding democratic values. This legacy is one we hold dear, and it is one we will continue to honor.
We share your grave concerns about Russian aggression and the long-standing threat posed by Vladimir Putin’s regime. From its invasion of Crimea in 2014 to the full-scale war launched against your country in 2022, Russia has consistently violated international law and undermined global stability. The American people recognize these dangers and stand firmly with Ukraine in its fight for survival and independence.
Let there be no doubt: as a nation, we will stand with Ukraine for as long as we are able to draw breath. Your courage inspires us, and your fight is our fight—for democracy, for sovereignty, and for the principles that define a free world.
While our government may falter at times in reflecting these values, the American people remain resolute. We are committed to supporting Ukraine through every means available—whether through humanitarian aid, military assistance, or unwavering moral support. Your struggle is not just for Ukraine but for all who cherish liberty and justice.
Please accept this letter as an expression of our solidarity with you and your people. We deeply respect your leadership during these trying times and reaffirm our enduring partnership with Ukraine. Together, we will prevail against tyranny and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
As a person whose only income is Social Security, this is extremely frightening. I only get $1068 a month, but it's all I have. Were it not for SS, Medicare, and housing assistance, I, as a senior with medical issues, would be living in my car. Can you please make sure that reporters like Rachel Maddow, Jim Acosta et al., plus folks like Bernie Sanders, AOC, and Jasmine Crocket get this Google Doc., if they don't have it already? Thank you for keeping us informed!
I have already written a letter to the Ukrainian Embassy, and I plan to donate a little bit to Ukraine through: https://u24.gov.ua/
Obama, Clinton, Gore, Harris, Governors, Dem former senators (Brown, Tester, Casey among others). The silence is stunning and telling. To campaign all fall warning Americans of the danger and then just disappear sends a message that they were not serious and that the threat, which is now coming to pass, was not all that serious. I give Biden a pass given the way he was treated by his own party. We will have to provide the leadership with our new voices like AOC, Crockett, Murphy, Pritzker and a few others.
My Mom and I are visiting Tucson and joined in the Tesla takedown protest on Saturday and were pleased to join 1500 other folks on a highly trafficked intersection. There were lots and lots of supportive honks from Tusconans!
As a Canadian that has never been involved in politics besides voting, what can Canadians do to help? Does anyone know of any Canadian substacks that outline what we can do in this time?
Keep up the boycotts on American products(especially those from red states or companies with trumpist billionaire CEOs), support your liberal party, tell your elected officials you want to see them stand up strongly to Trump/musk… that should all be helpful. Thanks for your support, neighbor!
I want to see all the democrats at the address tomorrow nite standing with their backs turned to the criminal. hopefully some repugnants will be emboldened to follow suit.
I will NOT watch the address - I will be watching the MediasMighty on you tube - lets all tune into them to have a HUGE and much HIGHER viewing than the felon in chief. I would be sick to my stomach if I had to listen or watch him.
What a generous question. Hmmm. You could write Kamala Harris or perhaps better, President Obama asking why you and other Canadians haven’t heard much from them at all about this new administration’s destruction of a famous Democracy next door.
I’m sure others smarter than me have ideas you might like better!
via Dworkin newsletter: "As we begin another week of Musk and Trump’s unhinged madness, I’m happy to deliver this round of positive news for you today. I hope it gives you at least some relief—and shows you there are truly great people fighting this tyranny. Tomorrow is expected to be the biggest day of anti-Trump protests so far this year, with peaceful rallies planned outside all 50 state capitals, and other major cities.
And over the weekend, all across the country, folks were standing up and speaking out against Musk and Trump. Anti-DOGE protests continued at Tesla locations in NYC, Boston, DC, and elsewhere—as part of a growing global backlash to Elon Musk. At least 50 other “Tesla Takedown” events were held in locations all over the world. National disgrace JD Vance was moved to an undisclosed location in Vermont, after peaceful protesters lined the streets, and gathered outside of the resort where he was planning to stay.
Folks brought lots of creative homemade signs, with one reading: “Go ski in Russia, traitor.” In Ohio, hundreds gathered for a large “Stand with Ukraine” rally. State Rep. Sean Brennan told the standing-room-only crowd: “Supporting Ukraine is not charity; it’s an investment in a safer world.”
In Tennessee, GOP Rep. Diana Harshbarger held a “Coffee with your Congresswoman,” event that quickly grew heated. When Harshbarger tried to lie and say Trump had a “mandate,” the crowd screamed “no!”
Over in Texas, GOP Rep. Keith Self held a town hall in his deep-red district. Self was welcomed with chants of “do your job,” and loud boos, whenever he tried to defend DOGE.
In New York, hundreds protested against Republican cuts to Medicaid, outside one of GOP Rep. Mike Lawler’s district offices. There was a much different vibe at NY Dem Rep. Tom Suozzi’s event—where he received a standing ovation for slamming Trump’s unhinged Oval Office
meeting with Zelensky." Etc etc et al--Never Give Up)
The Guardian has been encouraging government employees to use the Signal app to message them with actions like these that are being done quietly. They've been great about media coverage this year.
I am a low-tech 70-year-old who does NOT have a smartphone. There are many of us, and it is AGE DISCRIMINATION not to provide the option of email or voicemail to those of us who wish to stay involved and take action as we did in the past! Think about it: this is true AGEISM, and the elderly in this country are considered of no account! A terrible prejudice!
Hi Joie! Thanks for bringing up an important aspect of inclusivity here. I have my congressmen in my phone contacts with all their office numbers. I include Politician as last name so it makes them easy to find in case I forget their names. Then when I get the Chop Wood Carry Water call instructions, it makes it easy to call. Thanks so much for joining the effort.
Hi Joie, I'm sorry that you feel the way you do. I would like to suggest that you visit your local library and talk to a reference librarian for their recommendations. They have a lot of free resources available to the public. I bounce back and forth between my computer and my phone ... you can figure it out. I started reading Alexei Navalny, A Memoir. Good insight into who Putin really is, and can not be trusted. We are in the fight for our democracy. It's going to take all of our fight against Trump/Vance/Muskrat/Republicans to rid ourselves of these horrible White Male Privileged Men. Let's have a wonderful day and enjoy the people we love. Hugs, Char
A smartphone isn't always necessary - just more portable. I use a laptop or tablet.
Do you have a land line or a plain cell phone? Is it difficult to navigate the automated phone trees with your phone? Some people make calls after hours and leave voicemails.
Do you have access to internet? a laptop or computer? You can still use the call script or the Resistbot script Jess provides to leave messages on your Senators' and Rep's websites via computer.
Not sure if these suggestions are helpful to your situation?
I am a little older too, and due to financial constraints have an old used I- phone which doesn’t have access to all the features.
What has been working for me is calling my senators’ and rep’s offices, or leaving written messages on their websites, which is pretty easy to do (at least for mine).
This could work for you, but you may already have been doing it.
Can’t do the Resist bot until I am able to upgrade.
I often leave the Resistbot message on my Senators' and Rep's website, too. The first 100 emails through Resistbot are free. It's $7.00 per month (if I recall correctly) to subscribe to the premium plan. Written messages on the "Congress critters'" websites is a great way to communicate in addition to phone calls.
Emailed President Zelenskyy and it felt so good to send it!
This is what I sent. I had to mention the suit as I am even more ashamed every time I think of that dumb comment. No one cares he doesn't wear a suit. The only people who care are the ones that do not understand that his country is in the middle of a war.
Dear President Zelenskyy,
I want to personally apologize for the disgraceful actions of President Trump and Vice President Vance on February 28. Their ambush was not just embarrassing but completely unworthy of the offices they hold. It was a stark contrast to the courage, strength, and integrity you show every day.
As an American, I’m deeply ashamed of their behavior, but please know that so many of us stand with Ukraine and admire your leadership. And for the record—no one here cares that you don’t wear a suit. If anything, your choice to wear military gear is a powerful reminder of the reality your country is facing and the fact that you stand alongside your people, not above them.
Today I called all my reps, as I do every day, and I wanted to share some encouragement to remember to call about the things that they did that we’re in favor of, even (or especially) our Republican congressmembers. I don’t generally get a chance to do that - I don’t think any of my representatives have so much as said anything I agreed with in years, let alone voted in ways I appreciate - but today I called and thanked them for stating publicly that Russia is the one who invaded Ukraine, rather than the other way around. It’s such a tiny thing in the scheme of everything, sure, but there’s so much pressure on Republican congressmembers not to step a single toe out of line that I feel like it’s worth cheering when they do. So take a look, see if your reps have done or said anything that you can be positive about. The office workers who I talked to sounded genuinely pleased to hear an appreciative word, and it felt good to me to be able to do that for them after weeks of calling only to demand they change things. I still added other things I want done differently, and I don’t expect I’ll get another chance to thank them for anything for a while. But it felt positive in a way I think we all need sometimes. Can recommend.
Yes! I’ve started checking my rep’s newsletters and press releases and sending thank-you emails, or referencing good actions she’s taken on whatever issue I’m emailing about and asking for more of the same. I’ve got a Dem rep, so there’s more good to work with, but I agree that we need to be telling them what they’re doing right as well as what they’re doing wrong.
HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON, Louisiana, in commenting on that press conference w Zelensky, actually said Russia started the war, but then he veered off into Trumpism:
“The death and destruction of the RUSSIAN-PROVOKED WAR needs to stop immediately, and only our American President can put these two countries on a path to lasting peace. President Zelensky needed to acknowledge that, and accept the extraordinary mineral rights partnership proposal that President Trump put on the table."
I am fed up with lack of input from our former leaders.
So off I went to the Obama's website, barackobama.com...and wrote him. You can also write her there too.
Dear President Obama,
Where did you go? America is going through a coup. Over the weekend the group 18F in the government was summarily destroyed. It's importance cannot be described regarding their achievements after only 11 years They live on on BlueSky. Also on Saturday 20,000 people came out at over 120 National Parks/Forests, led by the Resistance Rangers (about 650 former federal employees) rallies, to call for a reversal of those mass firings.
And so forth. Although the only person that I can identify with regularity is Pete Buttiegeg, among a handful. Yes Harris gave a nice speech at the NAACP Awards, but it was in generalities. Where are all the former Presidents, Vice-presidents, and their spouses?
I plead with you to become far more public and vocal (as you were last year) in supporting American democracy!
Thank you.
Joseph English
I agree his silence has been really disappointing.
Jess,
I want to share something very frightening/disturbing to me.
This morning when I was making my calls to Reps in congress (they know me by name now)
I had a thought to call my Oregon State Representatives to see what the temperature was with the republicans, are they in lockstep with the president.
Well, one answered a I got an older woman that was answering the phone (secretary maybe) she said that the government is separate. I said this is not what I voted for and that I think the president siding with Russia means he has left the Americans swinging in the wind. I said what doge is doing with everything especially social security and Medicare is obscene! She said that every thing is fine, nothing is going to affect seniors, they have to cut out the Waste! Like, for instance; people receiving social security that are 150years old. 🤷♂️
Then she was acting like I was overreacting and said this time next year this will all be a blip on the screen and Jesus has everything…🤔
Thank you, Jess for all that you do for us! ❤️
I’m in Oregon too. Which rep were you calling? Are you in a rural area? Senators Wyden and Merkley are ALL OVER this. They have been holding town halls, introducing legislation to fight back, Sen Wyden is the ranking member of finance. Wyden plans on holding a town hall rather than attending Trump’s state lies to the dis-union.
My rep is Andrea Salinas, I’m near wilsonville.
Obvious maga moron answering the phone. Kinda like Covid would just go away. Some of the people answering the phones are getting snippy with people now, tell them you’d like it in writing that nothing will happen. Swing right back at em.
OMG if Jesus had everything we would not have that clown in office.
Yes I have been asking for someone to make a list of ways to contact former leaders. Well this is a first.
I also am fed up with my Governor Stein. He was a strident AG. Now crickets. But he will be contacted tomorrow...as well as Lt Gov Hunt, etc.
I can see a couple typos now. Oh well.
Thank you Joe.
My pleasure!
He’s not made of the stuff that’s needed in this moment. He never has been.
Hi Angie. Fair enough. But you would also write to him and challenge to give him the chance.
We need everyone rising up to these moments.
Please send the social security details to Rachel Maddow. This needs much wider attention.
Also to Meidas Touch and Jim Acosta.
Jessica,
Here’s my letter to President Zelensky. Anyone is free to use this and edit it to your liking.
March 3, 2025
The Honorable Volodymyr Zelenskyy
President of Ukraine
3350 M Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
Dear President Zelenskyy,
As Americans, we feel compelled to write to you directly to express our deepest apologies and to clarify that the actions and statements of our President do not reflect the will or sentiments of the American people. We wholeheartedly disagree with the recent decisions and rhetoric that have cast doubt on our nation’s commitment to Ukraine. Please know that these actions in no way speak for us, the American public.
For generations, the United States has been a steadfast ally to those fighting for freedom and sovereignty. Through NATO, we have stood as a pillar of collective security in Europe, defending against aggression and upholding democratic values. This legacy is one we hold dear, and it is one we will continue to honor.
We share your grave concerns about Russian aggression and the long-standing threat posed by Vladimir Putin’s regime. From its invasion of Crimea in 2014 to the full-scale war launched against your country in 2022, Russia has consistently violated international law and undermined global stability. The American people recognize these dangers and stand firmly with Ukraine in its fight for survival and independence.
Let there be no doubt: as a nation, we will stand with Ukraine for as long as we are able to draw breath. Your courage inspires us, and your fight is our fight—for democracy, for sovereignty, and for the principles that define a free world.
While our government may falter at times in reflecting these values, the American people remain resolute. We are committed to supporting Ukraine through every means available—whether through humanitarian aid, military assistance, or unwavering moral support. Your struggle is not just for Ukraine but for all who cherish liberty and justice.
Please accept this letter as an expression of our solidarity with you and your people. We deeply respect your leadership during these trying times and reaffirm our enduring partnership with Ukraine. Together, we will prevail against tyranny and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
With utmost respect and unwavering support,
David Glaser
Beautiful letter!
As a person whose only income is Social Security, this is extremely frightening. I only get $1068 a month, but it's all I have. Were it not for SS, Medicare, and housing assistance, I, as a senior with medical issues, would be living in my car. Can you please make sure that reporters like Rachel Maddow, Jim Acosta et al., plus folks like Bernie Sanders, AOC, and Jasmine Crocket get this Google Doc., if they don't have it already? Thank you for keeping us informed!
I have already written a letter to the Ukrainian Embassy, and I plan to donate a little bit to Ukraine through: https://u24.gov.ua/
Obama, Clinton, Gore, Harris, Governors, Dem former senators (Brown, Tester, Casey among others). The silence is stunning and telling. To campaign all fall warning Americans of the danger and then just disappear sends a message that they were not serious and that the threat, which is now coming to pass, was not all that serious. I give Biden a pass given the way he was treated by his own party. We will have to provide the leadership with our new voices like AOC, Crockett, Murphy, Pritzker and a few others.
Regarding one reader's suggestion to write to President Zelensky, I did so this morning. Thank you!
Trump and Musk are about to push one too many PTSD-afflicted vets off their well-earned assistance.
I agree.
My Mom and I are visiting Tucson and joined in the Tesla takedown protest on Saturday and were pleased to join 1500 other folks on a highly trafficked intersection. There were lots and lots of supportive honks from Tusconans!
As a Canadian that has never been involved in politics besides voting, what can Canadians do to help? Does anyone know of any Canadian substacks that outline what we can do in this time?
Keep up the boycotts on American products(especially those from red states or companies with trumpist billionaire CEOs), support your liberal party, tell your elected officials you want to see them stand up strongly to Trump/musk… that should all be helpful. Thanks for your support, neighbor!
I want to see all the democrats at the address tomorrow nite standing with their backs turned to the criminal. hopefully some repugnants will be emboldened to follow suit.
I will NOT watch the address - I will be watching the MediasMighty on you tube - lets all tune into them to have a HUGE and much HIGHER viewing than the felon in chief. I would be sick to my stomach if I had to listen or watch him.
Subscribe to Meidas Touch.They are now the #1 independent news network with many Canadian followers!
https://open.substack.com/pub/meidastouch/p/elbows-up-canada-is-done-taking-trumps?
What a generous question. Hmmm. You could write Kamala Harris or perhaps better, President Obama asking why you and other Canadians haven’t heard much from them at all about this new administration’s destruction of a famous Democracy next door.
I’m sure others smarter than me have ideas you might like better!
Jess, Several SSA staff members who were let go committed suicide????? Why aren't we hearing about this??!!!!!
This is just awful.
Yes!
FYI
via Dworkin newsletter: "As we begin another week of Musk and Trump’s unhinged madness, I’m happy to deliver this round of positive news for you today. I hope it gives you at least some relief—and shows you there are truly great people fighting this tyranny. Tomorrow is expected to be the biggest day of anti-Trump protests so far this year, with peaceful rallies planned outside all 50 state capitals, and other major cities.
And over the weekend, all across the country, folks were standing up and speaking out against Musk and Trump. Anti-DOGE protests continued at Tesla locations in NYC, Boston, DC, and elsewhere—as part of a growing global backlash to Elon Musk. At least 50 other “Tesla Takedown” events were held in locations all over the world. National disgrace JD Vance was moved to an undisclosed location in Vermont, after peaceful protesters lined the streets, and gathered outside of the resort where he was planning to stay.
Folks brought lots of creative homemade signs, with one reading: “Go ski in Russia, traitor.” In Ohio, hundreds gathered for a large “Stand with Ukraine” rally. State Rep. Sean Brennan told the standing-room-only crowd: “Supporting Ukraine is not charity; it’s an investment in a safer world.”
In Tennessee, GOP Rep. Diana Harshbarger held a “Coffee with your Congresswoman,” event that quickly grew heated. When Harshbarger tried to lie and say Trump had a “mandate,” the crowd screamed “no!”
Over in Texas, GOP Rep. Keith Self held a town hall in his deep-red district. Self was welcomed with chants of “do your job,” and loud boos, whenever he tried to defend DOGE.
In New York, hundreds protested against Republican cuts to Medicaid, outside one of GOP Rep. Mike Lawler’s district offices. There was a much different vibe at NY Dem Rep. Tom Suozzi’s event—where he received a standing ovation for slamming Trump’s unhinged Oval Office
meeting with Zelensky." Etc etc et al--Never Give Up)
The Guardian has been encouraging government employees to use the Signal app to message them with actions like these that are being done quietly. They've been great about media coverage this year.
👍👍💪💪
I am a low-tech 70-year-old who does NOT have a smartphone. There are many of us, and it is AGE DISCRIMINATION not to provide the option of email or voicemail to those of us who wish to stay involved and take action as we did in the past! Think about it: this is true AGEISM, and the elderly in this country are considered of no account! A terrible prejudice!
Hi Joie! Thanks for bringing up an important aspect of inclusivity here. I have my congressmen in my phone contacts with all their office numbers. I include Politician as last name so it makes them easy to find in case I forget their names. Then when I get the Chop Wood Carry Water call instructions, it makes it easy to call. Thanks so much for joining the effort.
Hi Joie, I'm sorry that you feel the way you do. I would like to suggest that you visit your local library and talk to a reference librarian for their recommendations. They have a lot of free resources available to the public. I bounce back and forth between my computer and my phone ... you can figure it out. I started reading Alexei Navalny, A Memoir. Good insight into who Putin really is, and can not be trusted. We are in the fight for our democracy. It's going to take all of our fight against Trump/Vance/Muskrat/Republicans to rid ourselves of these horrible White Male Privileged Men. Let's have a wonderful day and enjoy the people we love. Hugs, Char
Hi Joie!
A smartphone isn't always necessary - just more portable. I use a laptop or tablet.
Do you have a land line or a plain cell phone? Is it difficult to navigate the automated phone trees with your phone? Some people make calls after hours and leave voicemails.
Do you have access to internet? a laptop or computer? You can still use the call script or the Resistbot script Jess provides to leave messages on your Senators' and Rep's websites via computer.
Not sure if these suggestions are helpful to your situation?
I am a little older too, and due to financial constraints have an old used I- phone which doesn’t have access to all the features.
What has been working for me is calling my senators’ and rep’s offices, or leaving written messages on their websites, which is pretty easy to do (at least for mine).
This could work for you, but you may already have been doing it.
Can’t do the Resist bot until I am able to upgrade.
5-calls works from a computer; you don’t need an app. It gives you phone numbers and talking points. https://5calls.org/
Thank you.
I often leave the Resistbot message on my Senators' and Rep's website, too. The first 100 emails through Resistbot are free. It's $7.00 per month (if I recall correctly) to subscribe to the premium plan. Written messages on the "Congress critters'" websites is a great way to communicate in addition to phone calls.
Yes, you are correct, $7 a month for unlimited emails via Resistbot with a few taps on the screen. I've been using their service since 2017.
Thank you.
Yes, I often use the Resistbot message on my Senators' and Rep's websites too, or in phone calls to their offices.
Emailed President Zelenskyy and it felt so good to send it!
This is what I sent. I had to mention the suit as I am even more ashamed every time I think of that dumb comment. No one cares he doesn't wear a suit. The only people who care are the ones that do not understand that his country is in the middle of a war.
Dear President Zelenskyy,
I want to personally apologize for the disgraceful actions of President Trump and Vice President Vance on February 28. Their ambush was not just embarrassing but completely unworthy of the offices they hold. It was a stark contrast to the courage, strength, and integrity you show every day.
As an American, I’m deeply ashamed of their behavior, but please know that so many of us stand with Ukraine and admire your leadership. And for the record—no one here cares that you don’t wear a suit. If anything, your choice to wear military gear is a powerful reminder of the reality your country is facing and the fact that you stand alongside your people, not above them.
Your resilience is truly inspiring.
With respect and support,
Today I called all my reps, as I do every day, and I wanted to share some encouragement to remember to call about the things that they did that we’re in favor of, even (or especially) our Republican congressmembers. I don’t generally get a chance to do that - I don’t think any of my representatives have so much as said anything I agreed with in years, let alone voted in ways I appreciate - but today I called and thanked them for stating publicly that Russia is the one who invaded Ukraine, rather than the other way around. It’s such a tiny thing in the scheme of everything, sure, but there’s so much pressure on Republican congressmembers not to step a single toe out of line that I feel like it’s worth cheering when they do. So take a look, see if your reps have done or said anything that you can be positive about. The office workers who I talked to sounded genuinely pleased to hear an appreciative word, and it felt good to me to be able to do that for them after weeks of calling only to demand they change things. I still added other things I want done differently, and I don’t expect I’ll get another chance to thank them for anything for a while. But it felt positive in a way I think we all need sometimes. Can recommend.
Yes! I’ve started checking my rep’s newsletters and press releases and sending thank-you emails, or referencing good actions she’s taken on whatever issue I’m emailing about and asking for more of the same. I’ve got a Dem rep, so there’s more good to work with, but I agree that we need to be telling them what they’re doing right as well as what they’re doing wrong.
HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON, Louisiana, in commenting on that press conference w Zelensky, actually said Russia started the war, but then he veered off into Trumpism:
“The death and destruction of the RUSSIAN-PROVOKED WAR needs to stop immediately, and only our American President can put these two countries on a path to lasting peace. President Zelensky needed to acknowledge that, and accept the extraordinary mineral rights partnership proposal that President Trump put on the table."