Affordability and accountability top priorities if Democrats take House, Jeffries says
By: Geoff Bennett, Kyle Midura, Leila Jackson (PBS News)
Democratic leadership is promising a return to the status quo: globalization, financialized healthcare, and empty outrage over the excesses of the tech-bro monetization of society. Why is this a viable alternative?
S E E D E D C O N T E N T
The latest polling shows Democrats with a solid shot of regaining control of the House of Representatives in the midterm elections. If they do, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries could become Speaker of the House, with debates over the economy, government spending, and President Trump's agenda all unfolding. Jeffries joined Geoff Bennett to discuss those issues.
Notice: Transcripts are machine and human generated and lightly edited for accuracy. They may contain errors.
Geoff Bennett:
The latest national polling shows Democrats with a solid shot of regaining control of the House of Representatives in the midterm elections.
If they do, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries could go from minority leader to speaker of the House, with debates over the economy, government funding, and President Trump's agenda all unfolding.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries joins us now.
Thanks for being with us.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY):
Great to be with you.
Geoff Bennett:
I want to start with AI, what with President Trump meeting with those tech leaders at the White House today.
You have said that Congress needs to lean in on AI safety. What does that mean in practice? What guardrails should Congress put in place?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, our fundamental responsibility as members of Congress is to protect the general welfare, the health, the safety, and the well-being of the American people.
And you have industry stakeholders raising alarms that the pace of AI development is going so fast that the ability to make sure we ensure the safety of the American people is in question. And that, of course, in our view, means that congressional action that is decisive, working with all of the relevant parties involved, is important.
Unfortunately, Donald Trump has come to the conclusion that self-policing is appropriate. It is not. This is a nation of laws. And Congress is here for a reason, to ensure, yes, of course, that science and innovation and technology can continue to develop at a pace that exceeds what's going on in China with the Chinese Communist Party.
At the same period of time, we also want to make sure we protect the American people from bad actors and harms that could befall them.
Geoff Bennett:
Let's shift our focus to the economy, because Democrats are making affordability central to the midterm argument. What would Democrats actually do with control of the House that would make life less expensive for the American public?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, life is far too expensive for the American people, and everyday Americans need us to decisively act in order to make life more affordable.
There are too many people, they're working hard, they're playing by the rules, they can't thrive and can barely survive. People are drowning in this failed Trump economy and have had enough.
There are a variety of different things that need to happen. One, we need to end the Trump tariffs, which have cost everyday Americans thousands of dollars per year in additional expenses, particularly as it relates to groceries and goods.
We need to stop this reckless war of choice in Iran, which has skyrocketed gas prices on the American people and also had an impact on increasing food prices because of the increase in fertilizer expenses, as well as the increase in diesel prices.
And, certainly, we need to reverse the Medicaid cuts, which have ripped health care away from more than 10 million Americans or is threatening to do so. And at the same period of time, we certainly need to restore the Affordable Care Act tax credits, so we can reverse the increases in health insurance premiums that tens of millions of Americans are experiencing.
Geoff Bennett:
Another fight playing out in Washington right now is over Congress' power of the purse. And I raise this because, for the second year in a row, President Trump is trying to cancel money that Congress has already approved, this time more than $800 million.
If this money expires before Congress or the courts can act, hasn't the White House found a way around Congress' power to appropriate funds?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, it has been incredibly unfortunate that my Republican colleagues have become nothing more than a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump's extreme agenda.
And as opposed to behaving like separate and coequal parts of a branch of the federal government that is not subservient to Donald Trump, but is coequal to the executive branch, they continue to allow the president to try to get away with anything he wants to do, including changing the allocation of funds that Congress previously appropriated in a bipartisan way.
And so, in connection with the upcoming spending debate and agreement that we will need to reach by December 11, certainly, I think it's important for the American people that Congress reasserts its authority.
Geoff Bennett:
If the White House can simply refuse to spend parts of a bipartisan funding agreement, I'm sure people will ask the question, why should Democrats ever make another deal, another spending deal with Republicans?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, it certainly is the case that we cannot proceed in entering into an agreement when it's clear that the other side of the aisle is not going to, in good faith, adhere to that agreement.
It's going to be one of the things that certainly will be part of the discussion as we move forward, because when decisions are made to allocate taxpayer dollars in ways that are designed to uplift the health and the safety and the economic well-being of the American people, that money should be spent in a manner consistent with what the law says should happen.
And when that doesn't occur, of course, Congress is going to have to respond, in our view, and certainly the courts are going to have to respond, as they have previously done in other instances.
Geoff Bennett:
If Democrats retake control of the House come November, what's the first bill a Democratic House under your leadership would pass?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, we will have that discussion at the appropriate time.
Right now, we are running through the finish line, but we're going to make sure that dealing with the affordability crisis is a top priority. And we have established working groups in five different areas where we believe action needs to be taken on affordability. That's housing, that's health care, that's gas and utilities and energy affordability, it's groceries and goods, and it's caregiving.
And we believe that decisive action needs to be taken, at minimum, in all five of these areas, and that certainly will be our intention.
Geoff Bennett:
On accountability, there are some Democrats who are already talking about impeachment. Of course, as you well know, you were a former House impeachment manager. The president was impeached twice, acquitted twice in the Senate. How are you thinking about an impeachment or more broadly accountability if Democrats take control of the House?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, we certainly haven't ruled anything in, and we haven't ruled anything out, because our focus is going to be delivering accountability in areas where you have individuals who have stolen from the American people, are shortchanging the American people, or have been screwing over the American people.
And when you have people in high office who are so focused on enriching themselves, their family members, their friends, or their donors, then what it means is that they're not actually doing the job to make life more affordable, more comfortable, and more livable for everyday Americans.
And so we have promised on the accountability front, beginning on day one, to make sure that we're holding the crooks accountable. We will follow the facts, apply the law, be guided by the Constitution, and then, of course, let the chips fall where they may, in the best interests of the American people.
Geoff Bennett:
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thanks again for joining us this evening.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Thank you.
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Democrats running a string of Congressional investigations will only create chaos. How is that different than Trump's chaos?
How will Democrats overturning all of Trump's domestic and foreign policies improve the prosperity and security of the United States? That kneejerk response will not be a viable alternative.
Joe Biden's administration was the last gasp of Third Way politics. Trying to bring that back while promising different results is not really a viable alternative.
SHOULD DONALD TRUMP SKATE ?
What will a Democratic controlled Congress do about it? Bring back Liz Cheney?
That just kicks the can down the road. It's more of the same that accomplishes less and less.
Not to mention, unless the Democrats also gain 61 seats in the Senate it's very possible that any impeachment effort would end up the same as the past two.
But I've long given up any hope that either party would work in the interests of the public without putting their own parties' interests first.
But spending all their energy on Trump would cover up the fact they don't have a clue how to make things better for the American people. Oppps, I mean American citizens.
And the GOP does? Are you fucking kidding me? LMFAO!!!
Did you not just read the above article you are commenting on >? Due to pussy footing around last time, allowed this abomination to somehow get reelected....somehow after such obvious violations of so much and so many, and now he's increased all of that aplenty, and irregardless of what Charlie says, it ain't Good, just a Plenty!
How much crying did we hear about Hunter Biden making what, $20 million, as Trump and family are estimated to have increased their wealth by 2.5 to 4 BILLION DOLLARS in his first year of second term. He started a war of choice with Iran, when campaigning to never do such, bring down prices om day one, stop Russia Ukraine War in 24 hours, so how do you come to the conclusion it is a waste of time >? F there are not consequences, future pols will piull the same shit, and this CANNOT HAPPEN AGAIN, Should have never been elected again, as he should be in PRISON, and that's
Trump is the most corrupt president in US history. He has to answer for it.
Again, as with #1 above. . .a snuck supposition is used: "all their energy. . ." has not been implied or recommended by the congress. For example, Mr. Jeffries has listed his priorities:
This is what Mr. Jeffries stated in the article, so your. . . assumption. . . is superfluous. . . although, I am sure none of us (including Mr. Jeffries) can know how successful Mr. Jeffries' party in congress will be in accomplishing its "intentions."
Anyone can name them. He has no solutions
Again you refuse to deal with the key problem —Trump— and instead criticize his opponents.
What does this lunatic have to do before you recognize that he is problem number 1? This nation cannot hope to fix our other woes while this corrupt, incompetent clown has control of the US government and military.
We have a two-party system. Since the GOP TRUMP refuses to do their constitutional duty and operate as a coequal branch, we (voters) need to remove them from power. That means we need to elect Ds (and Is where possible). At least we know they will stand up to Trump.
How would you know (you thought you knew MAGA had solutions. . . and that turned out poorly. So let the see-saw 'pivot' yet again.)
You have no defense for giving Trump a pass and instead criticize his critics or deflect.
The article is about Democrat plan (hint: there is none)
That is what I indicated: ("Let the 'see-saw' pivot yet again.") Surely a non-partisan voter like yourself can agree to this under present circumstances when taken into totality! Even the GOP is suffering from self-afflictions!
It seems both sides are doing all they can to have the other side win. "The lesser of two evils" has never been more evident than in the last dozen or so years.
I am not sure of that. . . and so whatever. You keep trying to demonize democrats, even when the GOP is stuck in 'Trump" - mode forever. Well, I guess democrats will have to flow back (more and more) to the middle to suit non-partisans like yourself, eh?
Yes, I believe that is what the majority of independents and thinking Democrats would like to see.
And yet, the GOP need not flow back to the middle to get your approval? It would be as though congress is operating with one of its 'arms' tied behind its back. How can that be fair?
Incorrect
Surely, you are aware that is not enough answer to be meaningful. Why not be candid in furtherance of discussion?
Democrats investigations prove otherwise.
MAGA: A cause that has lost its way. . . .
You made a comment and I said it was not correct. I want the GOP to flow back to the middle to give them my approval. What else need be said?
Who do you claim is the most corrupt PotUS? Show us why with an authoritative link.
That is clear(er). However, the spirit of your commenting leaves room for interpretation (and misunderstanding). . . may I suggest you consider taking position/s when it is practical to do so.
Only by those that desire to misinterpret and misunderstand. I am happy to clarify for those I believe are not prone to doing that.
I simply seek (strive for) clarity in communication, and to that end when I am asked by another to be clear. . . I accept the challenge.
Note: We are 'communicating' across great distances vial 'wire'. . . we do not have the benefit of seeing or hearing each other, therefore, curt comments sometimes leave out vital (to the spirit and tenor) informational sharing that could alleviate a lot of confusion. I suggest we (all) take more consideration when responding as to who/what we are trying to convey (across). Brevity, is not always the friend of informational sharing.
For the most part I am happy to. As long as I believe the person is actually interested, not just trolling and don't think it is a waste of time. If that is the case ignoring, brevity and curtness is all that can be expected from me.
What do you mean by "third way politics"? And, you have a snuck supposition in your your opening comment above: You assume chaos comes from investigation/s. . . that is not the proper role of investigations are we, as a nation, would have to rule out investigations at the local, state, and federal levels as 'chaos makers.' That would practically make so sense. Additionally, your qualifier ("all") is overblown. Good policy preservation need not be erased with bad policy removal. (You overstated your 'case.')
Third Way politics is no longer centrist. Extremist economic and social factions now hold the country hostage to achieve compromise that is certainly not centrist.
When Congressional investigations are used solely to sway public opinion, create media buzz, and achieve partisan goals then chaos can be the result. That's what Trump does with attacks on the press and political opponents.
Preserving 'good' policy requires legislation, not investigation. That is the primary role of Congress. Congress becoming bogged down in investigations steals time and attention away from legislating. That's what happened with the Benghazi investigations. That's what happened with the J6 investigations. Those investigations achieved nothing; no one was held accountable and there weren't any significant changes made.
Is that is so, then why do you interject "third way" into this? Who cares about it if it is not properly invoked?
How do you prove this to be the case for democrats (using a 'crystal ball')? We should strive to not be guilty of this :
Credit: Public image.
An assertion. Legislation is enhanced by investigation/s. In order to " not put the cart before the horse!" Furthermore, "Given a piece of work to do, one must have the knowledge to to the work in a wise, systematic and organized way. . . . "
Additionally, primary roles do not mean secondary and third roles are not applicable to construct legislature. Again, you overstate your 'argument.'
Hakeem Jefferies is trying to put forward the same 'third way' playbook advocating globalization and financialized healthcare that Democrats have used since the Clinton era. Bill Clinton ushered in the tech-bro monetization of society by shaping the digital economy through policy support and deregulation. Today neither the Democratic or Republican parties have a large centrist contingent in Congress so 'third way' politics has become a means of coercing acceptance of excesses.
Unfortunately today's political priorities use investigations to save dead horses after the barn has burned. If either party actually used investigation to fix something, the issue would be dead and couldn't be used next election cycle.
Neither party needs investigations to sweep an embarrassment under the rug. Modern politics cannot function without scapegoats riding on dead horses.
This is a spouting of protectionism (tariffs, quotas) and as you can see we PAY COSTLY for that protectionism. And we have not even gotten to the literal war/s we strap ourselves with still.
I feel it. . . helpful to make you aware that such points of discussion sometime (often) register as suppressing it . Since you hold this. . . perspective. . . then I suggest you do not project it onto others here and in congress. . . just maybe something can get out of the barn before smoke inhalation and fire destroy everything!
Oh boy. So you have no actual ideas but you plan on having 5 working groups to work on it.
So you need to get elected to start.
The bullshit is being spread.
And what is the current GOP idea for making things more affordable?
*crickets*
Um, the GOP is currently running the US Government are they not?
The article is about an interview with Hakeem Jeffries and what the democrats will do, right?
I don’t recall any concern from biden supporters back when his policies were pushing inflation up to 40 year highs. “It’s all good, it’s only temporary, the economy is doing great, blahblahblah.” Now it’s a major concern.
It's only temporary was one of my all time favorite lines out of biden's minions mouths
BDS
Well that's original. S/
Did you not recognize that the rate of inflation was ~3.0% when Biden left office? So the ~9% rate peak during his term was indeed temporary. Not to excuse the serious problems of Biden's inflation, but to note the facts.
The economy was doing well except for inflation and interest rates. Again, the facts.
Now, are you going to recognize the facts about Trump? Or are you going to just complain about Biden and pretend everything is wonderful with Trump?
Do you believe this crap? If not, how on Earth can you be here criticizing Biden instead of the pathological lying moron at the helm?
Heck! No mention of ill-gotten gains by a sitting president who gives one (for you) and takes upwards of ten (for himself)?! A bit of hyperbole, but still in the realm of probability.
If I recall he also, hilariously, tried to blame Putin for that inflation.
"Geoff Bennett:
If Democrats retake control of the House come November, what's the first bill a Democratic House under your leadership would pass?
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries:
Well, we will have that discussion at the appropriate time."
In other words, they have zero clue and absolutely nothing to run on but "Trump bad".
To most democrats/liberals/socialists/communists, it's all about getting power. Nothing else
So it is 'shocking' to you that Representative Jeffries would not give you a list (to demonize and campaign against like "debbie downers" are sure to do)?
Bugsy, this is getting 'old.'
Just insane commentary when the current PotUS is all about personal power, wealth, and vanity. How is it possible for anyone not to see this??
They sing "Lah, Lah, Lah! Everything is well!" and it magically makes everything good and happy for them.
I wish that worked for myself.
Bugsy, I cannot see what you said to draw such a comment because I have long ago deemed your comments to have no value and so put you on ignore, but I am sure from your history of totally worthless comments that this one is not far from the same.
Have a great day.
Yep. We have no plan to accomplish anything, but elect us and maybe we'll come up with something.
That comment is a digression and personal aspiration thought that adds little or nothing to this discussion! That said, you can believe it for all the good it does (and does not).
If the Ds did nothing but stop Trump, that would greatly benefit the USA.
Just stop Trump from further damaging this nation as best as can be done. Then, when the tyrant is out of office, hold him accountable for his many crimes. This nation must not tolerate such corruption and lawlessness.
That is just it. . . those that say the D's have no plan-lie. The plan should be (essentially) to UNDO the BS (and keep undoing it for two more years when necessary) Trump is establishing. And more precisely to put a 'worm' in his plans for two more years of democracy dismantling and world "dominion."
Of course, we all wish the D.s' will use great discretion (for the good of 'all' that want good and not evil) in their decision-makings!
Can you not see the machinations? Trump since day one has moved to neuter the mechanisms of the government to police itself. He has set Hegseth on a march to remove the officers and the enlisted who are not "loyal" to the cause. Trump is not planning on leaving office, no matter what the ineffectual present congress or the as yet to be chosen congress says. He is not planning on leaving, period. IMO, he will do anything that he must to remain in power, no matter the constitutionality of the actions. He tried to steal the presidency once. He will try to do so again. Whether he succeeds or not is the question, but he will try to remain in a position of power.
These past several months have given me hope that the country will not take such an affront lightly. Here is to hope. (I am not shitting in my other hand, though.
)
Stopping Trump would seem be be the primary objective. His policies and procedures are deleterious to the countries functioning as a constitutional democracy.
On second thought though, I don't think the deleterious is the proper word. "Bad" simply suits the word choice much better.
If Trump had done nothing but continue with Bidens' and the Dems policies and agendas, we would be leading the world still, still have solid trusting trading partners, with an intact NATO that would have continued to help US help Zelensky and Russia would have exited Ukraine. We would be leading the world away from Fossil Fool Fuel, and into solar and wind alternative renewable fuel systems, along with reducing carbon footprints and our detriments to our climate.
Trumps' 'agenda' of lawfare, tariffs, WAR by choice, pathetic praise and action, and or inactions on Russia and China, disrespectfully stated (all as they help Iran attack US Bases and our military personnel in the ME). And all this as he and his grifting family and oligarch Billionaire Pedophile protecting pussy grabbin back stabbin treasonous traitors, Constitution violaters and rule of law haters, continue to be servicing themselves as they all tend to be caterers, of corruption as BILLIONS are made with each illegal trade, and our countries policies determined by what Trump can best extort , from other nations who buy and own, by buillions invested in crypto that ain't exactly legit loans, cause from his golden throne he needs thrown like momma, from the train of thought that has sought to wipe US All away that some refuse to ever admit or say, cause being wrong and able to admit it, is just not going to happen today, or maybe ever, asz they do their best to appear clever, however, this appearance is a dissed disappearing act with peep holes that see only watt they hear, can't admit they were WRONG due to 'right' fear, and asz sum slowly realize, all the Real LIES,(Are knowld) they just can't be Jamie Lee, Courteous enuff, to accept what they did give pass on asz they deSpies Like Us, for Raising an Arizona Fuss that leaves them feel like in a Cage, not knowin Jack, more likely Nick a less
than admitting watt they;ve swallowed from watt Trump/Republicans' have been spittin, cause on their asses they keep spinnin while leaving many to be Will Smitten asz slapped off their base jumpin up and down screamin in a fit of Rage in Bullshit, yes sir E Bobby, asz De Nearer their far fetched pseudo reality get Stretched, the lesser their ArmStrong,
best go back to hittin the water bong
Exactly. Orange man bad is all they have. That is hardly a plan for the country.
It isn't ALL they have, but it is their central theme and polling suggests it's working.
It's better than letting the bad orange man continue unconstrained.
Stopping vile rightwing conservative fascist pigs from destroying our constitutional Republic isn't enough of an agenda? It's the only agenda of rational patriotic Americans with more than half a brain.
Polling for midterms saying the party not in power takes seats hardly mean its about Trump. It happens almost every time. A party running on the other guy (who is not up for election) bad is just sad IMO.
Have you read the DSA (and updated) plan?
Oh brother.
No, that is NOT the issue.
The issue is that Trump continues to damage this nation. That he is the worst PotUS in our lifetimes (by far) and very likely near the bottom of all history. He is corrupt, incompetent, irresponsible, unlawful and harms our nation every day he is in office.
You cannot logically and factually defend this psychopath, yet you continue to criticize opposition to him.
Are you among the 13% who approve of this lunatic?
When Trump's polling numbers hit historical lows it does.
Yes. Have you?
Yes, I have. You don't care that a growing number of people in the "big tent" want us to move in that direction?
The Ds are not going to be able to make much progress in their agenda no matter what it is. Trump will veto everything.
So set aside the irrational fear of 'socialism' or whatever you have in your mind and focus on the real problem. Trump as PotUS continues to damage this nation. He is irrational, irresponsible and lawless.
The Ds in control of Congress are the absolute best mechanism that we have to apply some level of control over this rogue PotUS.
Trump is problem number 1, and he shows no signs of improving.
I would rather not wait until it becomes a problem. Many were afraid we would lose democracy if Trump became president. The DSA is making no secret that is what they want to do. The dems not kicking them out of their tent is a major concern for some.
Do you NOT see what Trump and his minions are doing right now?? Good grief man, you are worried about what the Ds 'might' do while ignoring the real damage Trump is doing to our nation right now.
You would rather ignore the current, major problems of Trump rather than support the Ds controlling Congress and mitigating his damage because of fear of a potential problem from the Ds? And how irrational is it to think that the Ds would cause the USA to lose its democratic system.
Trump and his populist sycophants on the right are a problem right now.
The DSA is a fraction of the number of MAGA populists. Trump and his lemmings are now learning lessons the DSA will learn too if they try the same shit.
One of the things the Dems say they want to do is limit Presidential power. I think that's a worthy goal in light of what we are currently seeing.
One thing that Trump has done that is good for this nation is to lay bare just how much damage a rogue PotUS can do. We cannot rely upon the character of the elected PotUS to self-moderate. We need to reverse the unconstitutional immunity granted by the SCotUS, and tighten up the consequences of a PotUS taking rogue action such as the degree to which Trump has tried to replace government positions with sycophants, fire inspectors general, abuse the power of the federal government to coerce private industry to do his bidding, engage in lawfare, insider trading, exploiting the presidency to sell merchandise, award favorable contracts to friends, and family. On and on. Trump is indirectly revealing many of the major cracks in our system.
It seems that irrationalism has replaced reason in some to the point of situational blindness.
They ignore the existential crises at hand by pretending that another, far less likely crisis in the future is the real problem at hand. I wonder how it feels to be so brainwashed by the propaganda of the current administration?
I expect a lukewarm response to most of Trump's shenanigans. Not any real meaningful reform. I hope I'm wrong.
For now yes. And look at what happened when they were left unchecked. We didn't learn anything from that?
Until they are in power.
Then it behooves Republicans to stop putting up candidates that make Democrats look like a good option to middle class voters.
Exactly. Indeed, I will go 'on record' to say that the first two years of the second Trump administration can be filed under the heading: "You ain't seen nothing yet." Let a self interested and indulgent president get away with the sh-it it has been putting us through for two years already and a self-interested and indulgent president will take it as AFFIRMATION that whatsoever is in that so-called leader's heart should be NEXT.
We can not afford the attitudes of "right down the center" voters. . . the costs and UNKNOWNS are simply too high to imagine!
Case in point: Trump has not changed one damn thing about his 'wishlist' (of horrors) for this country. I venture he and his team of 'wizards' have worst plans that have not been voiced and will only appear when he (if he) secures the midterms through throwing the 'kitchen sink full of lies' out of his mouth.
Afterall, words can be empty rhetoric (hollow promises) and yet once uttered-votes secured-congress kept 'red'-it is back to doing what he has always done. . . people will get hurt. Special mention: Latinos and legal immigrants best not believe the hype of lies coming out of Donald, because he is not done yet stepping on their necks (and those of their family members 'caught up' in DHS's nets. . . and violence.
Agree. As I have stated it sometimes looks like both sides are trying to give the other side a win.
One of the 'beauties' of our federal government was how we had an 'open' federal system that allowed presidents (leaders) to think creatively. It was intended to be so by the founders, in my opinion. In order not to stifle productivity. Thus, the risk was always known and reasoned acceptable.
A 'dog' like man could come in and upset the proverbial cart. . . only if the check and balance system played along. . . and so this is where we are presently.
Yes, congress can learn the lesson from Trump's reign of terror over us. . . and make some necessary restrictions. . . still the result will be questionable and (horrible word coming)—REGULATED.
Two things: 1. The executive office needs 'regulating.' 2. Regulation will cause a 'chilling' effect on the 'energetic' presidents of the future - resulting in good and lethargic leadership because of it.
(We 'had' a beautiful system for our Executive. . . and as we can see all it take is a determined 'dick' of a man (or woman) to f-k the system to 'pieces.')
I will go you one farther. These people (on NT) who read our comments telling them factual truths and positive opinions. . .are not stupid people. (They may be bots?) The evidence condemns them as part of the problem. Trump is acting like he has always acted (in his private business world), he is simply the FACE AND HANDS of people who have always been of the same mind as himself - that have come to power.
These folks are just as guilty for us having tariffs, trade problems, inflation running amok, and damn near insurrection/s as the man who leads them. MAGA IS TRUMP AND ITS SUPPORTERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR TRUMP!
You should not vote this midterm as you have no viable position or set of candidates to choose. How about that?
How about lesser of two evils and letting me decide who I believe that is and I will not try to change your mind or call you names as you decide for yourself whom that is. How about that?
That comment is unmoored from reality given what Trump has done. We are way past the point of comparing the lesser of two evils. Trump is demonstrably toxic for our nation. Compared to any other PotUS in our lifetimes, he fails on almost every point of comparison.
How is it possible that anyone could believe it is worse for this nation to have the Ds control Congress and thus (finally) have Congress operate as a co-equal branch and push back on a rogue, irresponsible, irrational, corrupt, lawless PotUS and administration?
This level of irrational fear and hatred of the Ds is fabricated and misguided. For all their woes, the Ds as the majority in Congress right now are far better for this nation than the spineless rubber-stamping GoPTRUMP that is letting this tyrant enrich, self-aggrandize, and entertain himself at the great expense of our nation.
That you suggest you do not already know the lesser of two evils ... that you do not already see what is blatantly obvious will cause comments. If that is a problem, then the solution is to not make such comments. You cannot prevent people with opposing views from opining. Deal with it.
YES, it IS!
No, we are not
DSA
6 years down and 2 to go. We will be just fine
I am entitled to criticize your opinion.
And that is exactly what I am doing.
Same here.
I am entitled to criticize Trump hysteria and that is exactly what I am doing.
One-liners, vague quips, and platitudes but not a hint of an actual argument.
If you are going to hint that keeping Trump in power with a rubber-stamping Congress is better than having the Ds take control, then let's hear an actual argument.
Got one?
Seems to me (and I bet everyone else reading this) that you have no argument to make.
Of course it does.
Emphasizing my point. You deem criticism of Trump to be hysterical — even now, with all that he has done and is doing. (Do you even realize that he is promising to use taxpayer dollars to bribe voters? Do you know how blatantly illegal that is?) Do you not recognize the blatant and over-the-top corruption, lawlessness, coercion, constitutional violations, etc.? You refuse to recognize how bad this lunatic is for our nation. That suggests that you are indeed among the 13% of people supporting this psychopath.
Not all, just alot
Of course it does. S/
You're the one wearing an "Independent" flag, while clearly leaning GOP.
Such commenters are engaging in smoke and mirrors theatrics. And DEFLECTION is the only goal. Meant to frustrate and undermine others' comments. May I suggest in the future, we humor such commenters.... They are not serious. Heck, I will go so far as to state their 'opening' comment is just a starter for the 'game' to come.
At the present time you are correct
That being said, I have no issue with the democrats taking control of the house. With the current situation, I have not wanted one party to control all three branches for a long time. What I don't want is the democrats to win so many seats that they call this a mandate to go far far left.
Interesting view. I feel the same way about some that seem to like to play games.
Agreed, I also never wanted any single party to control the House, the Senate and the Oval Office at the same time. It starts them to thinking they have an official mandate to go to their extremes.
Exactly. And unfortunately both parties play fast and loose with what a mandate actually is.
Do you recognize that GOPTRUMP is currently (not hypothetically) operating at an extreme, and they have been making bad material changes that are damaging our nation? (And this is really just an unchecked Trump enabled by a spineless GOPTRUMP congress.)
Do you seriously think that the Ds are going to eliminate capitalism, force transgender operations, nationalize corporations, start WWIII, etc. as Trump has claimed? Do you think Trump and company have been and will be fiscally responsible?
To wit, what is the great fear you have of the Ds that is worse than what we are experiencing with Trump and his minions?
This is the kind of comment that makes me believe you either don't read my whole comment or choose to ignore it to make a misguided point.
Try reading the first two sentences in the paragraph of the sentence you responded to.
Focus on the context that I provided. That is why we provide quotes: to show the portion of the comment we are dealing with.
You fear that the Ds would, if they could, go "far, far left".
The Ds going "far, far left" is a hypothetical and one that is unhinged from history. It is a fear that would come from those who actually buy the bullshit that Trump is peddling.
In contrast ...
{on extremes}: Do you recognize that GOPTRUMP is currently (not hypothetically) operating at an extreme, and they have been making bad material changes that are damaging our nation? (And this is really just an unchecked Trump enabled by a spineless GOPTRUMP congress.)
{per "far, far left"}: Do you seriously think that the Ds are going to eliminate capitalism, force transgender operations, nationalize corporations, start WWIII, etc. as Trump has claimed? Do you think Trump and company have been and will be fiscally responsible?
To wit, what is the great fear you have of the Ds that is worse than what we are experiencing with Trump and his minions?
As usual, you deflect.
As usual you play games and misrepresent my meaning and promoting your opinions as fact.
No surprise.
Not interested in wasting my time playing your game today.
Such bullshit. You make vague comments trying to give yourself as much wiggle room as possible. And then, when challenged, do exactly what you are doing here ... make up accusations and then run away without dealing with the challenge.
You refuse to answer the questions (yet again):
Avoided question 1: Do you recognize that GOPTRUMP is currently (not hypothetically) operating at an extreme, and they have been making bad material changes that are damaging our nation? (And this is really just an unchecked Trump enabled by a spineless GOPTRUMP congress.)
You cannot bring yourself to admit that GOPTRUMP is worse for this nation than the Ds.
Avoided question 2: Do you seriously think that the Ds are going to eliminate capitalism, force transgender operations, nationalize corporations, start WWIII, etc. as Trump has claimed? Do you think Trump and company have been and will be fiscally responsible?
You cannot provide any argument as to why the Ds would be worse than GOPTRUMP.
Avoided question 3: To wit, what is the great fear you have of the Ds that is worse than what we are experiencing with Trump and his minions?
You avoid the comparison of the Ds with GOPTRUMP. entirely. You offer no argument, no insight, just platitudes and complaints.
I do not wish for extreme shenanigans by any congressional party either. That said, what MAGA conservatives are doing (and it is easy to see occurring presently) is dismantling a working federal system that supports and uplifts all Americans. . . not simply the 'capable' and the 'mighty.' There is pure and utter devastation occurring in our federal system during this second Trump administration. . . and we have evidence from these activities that our foundational democracy is at serious risk of damage. . . and even loss!
There are things the administration is doing that I do not agree with but I think your assessment is more than just a little exaggeration IMO. Losing the house will help alleviate your concern I would think, at least until 2028.
It also seems the democrats have lost their way and continue to head down a path that concerns me. The DSA has made their intentions clear and for the main part the party has remained silent at best. If there is a blue tsunami it will only strengthen their position(especially if their candidate win) and that could lead to disaster. Remember no one thought the nazi party would be in control until they were.
Trump will be gone in 2 years, it will be interesting to see where the Republican party goes at that point.
IMO some democrats are worth voting for but that number has decreased in the past several years
Well, I guess we will have to see. These parties can be so frustrating with their similar/inverse 'states of politics' and policies.
In my opinion, independents ought to be happy they are on the 'fringes' of the party system. . . there they do not have to catch the flak the two major parties wear around like crowns ("heavy is the head/s).
I will caution you. . . Trump is not done with this country yet. . . the billionaire/trillionaire class is making a move to "Sovereign Individualism" and the concept while hard to input will be aided by this billionaire president who (highly probably after the midterms) will act in his office to increase the power of the executive, while working determinedly to off-shore (for elites like and more wealthy than himself) the power of wealthy elites wishing to be stateless. (Powers unto themselves. States power waning.)
Sovereign Individual by William Reese Mogg and James Dale Davidson
(Hint: Elon Musk is an embodiment of a sovereign individual as he operates across borders and effectively 'stateless' all over the world. Affecting, building, and "DOGE-ing" countries - at will.)
Cryptocurrency is another 'feature' used by sovereign individuals to move money statelessly. (Hint: Trump family cryptocurrency company: World Liberty Financial (created 2024))
I think there is alot of frustration with independents that the two parties seem off the rails. It makes voting very difficult.
I hope you are wrong but we will find out soon enough.
Really, the wet dream of the Billionaire class, and aspirants thereto, is to divide the world up per whomever has the most money/gravitas. IMO, that is what they decided when they all got together in MaraLago before the election of 2024. Trump got them all in one place and made them a deal: "Get me elected, and this democracy shit can stop. You CAN have it all." Just look at the pictures of the people in the rows behind Trump at his second inauguration: All the extremely wealthy individuals who went to that gathering.
They are sovereign alright. But they are not "Sovereign Citizens" ...They are just sovereigns. You know, like the boss of all people and no one tells them what they can and can't do.
It is incumbent upon all people, all voting age citizens of the United States, to deny this assumption of might at the outset. If they do not, then the classless society of which you were taught as a child will get harder and harder to bring to realization.
The two parties have been the 'onlies' for so long. Seriously, both parties are overwrought (overdone). Though, their 'stock' is refreshed. . . time has used their best capabilities to hold themselves together as they fracture along ideological fault lines. . .there is not 'rest' for them, nevertheless. They must go on and develop non-stop.
See, 3.3.60 (above). Trump is head of a cryptocurrency company: World Liberty Financial* this class of people are shifting more than money around and away from the United States.
Now then, do you see why we can trust democrats to keep the country whole. . . even as the republicans are pulling it apart?
* Emphasis on "liberty" and how it coincides with "freedom" (from government control).
Speaking of aspiration. . . consider this: Freedom SHIP
Freedom Ship: The $16 Billion Floating City That Never Stops Moving
and this:
June 6, 2026 interview with 'representatives' of the renewed interest in building "Freedom Ship."
(Note the word " freedom " as in free from government/s control and 'voice.)
Of course, in the videos and interview above what is not shown is important, for instance: 1. Vehicles. Modes of transportation. 2. Jail/court system. I am confident they will incorporate some version of these and more practical 'services' out of necessity.