A Republican's Misguided Attempt to Hold the Disgraced exPOTUS Accountable

Saturday, July 13, 2024 things changed for America

Blog written at 11:30AM Sunday, July 14, 2024. To be clear in case you read this blog and are unsure, I am NOT a proponent of violence UNLESS it is a response to actual violence perpetrated against you. Not pretend, not perceived, real and actual.

JD Vance apparently selected by Trump as his VPOTUS? 

Good call, one of our lowest lowlife MaGA Republicans.

Alex Cole @acnewsitics
Here is the message JD Vance sent to his friend suggesting Donald Trump might be "America's Hitler."

I'm so glad I'm not in politics. I'd hate to be the kind of person who has to sacrifice all I believe in because someone more powerful than me says it's so, all to save my political career. But then, I wouldn't run as a Republican.

What we know is a registered Republican with no signs of mental illness so far who tried to "retire" exPOTUS Donald Trump, who has "murdered" his Republican Party, the once "GOP", not longer "Grand", replacing it with authoritarianism and a cult of personality as supported by such as JD Vance (see lower down). The shooter's having donated a paltry $15 to a left-leaning effort merely further supports his having seen the damage Trump has done to his party. As the world has witnessed.

A Republican Tried to "Retire" the Murderer of His GOP

As long as Trump is kept from fair & speedy trials some Americans will feel a need to take matters into their own hands. Dismissing his trials, no trials BEFORE an election AFTER he was Fired as POTUS, is not our government working FOR us but against US.

Donald Trump has never been as dangerous to America and democracy, to our democratic Constitutional Republic, as he is now.

Ron Filipkowski @RonFilipkowski: "He shot and killed a Trump supporter."

As soon as the shooting happened, reviewing the video, I posted online that it was not staged and the shooter was a disgruntled Republican. I seem to be correct.

Political assassinations are BAD. Murder is bad. Political violence is bad, stupid, and asinine which says much about the right wing's propensity for violence. So, that being said, a summary of my posts over the past two days...

Just to be clear...

I learned in 5th grade when I started Karate that 1) war and killing is about peace and protection and 2) death is at times necessary. 

The times Trump has advocated for violence

Let's compare & contrast in the Trump shooting with what a true leader would have done rather than making a call to arms in his repetitive calls to: "FIGHT! FIGHT!" What a jerk.
Perhaps better...
"I'm OK, it's OK, calm, be calm!"
But nope.
"Attack other American citizens..." was Trump's subtext.
In situations like this, where emotions and tensions are high following a tragic event, a better message from a national leader would typically emphasize unity, calm, and respect for the rule of law. Here are some elements that a more appropriate response might include:
Call for Unity: Emphasize that violence is never the answer and that the nation must come together in peace and solidarity.
Condolences and Support: Express condolences to the victims and their families, and offer support and gratitude to law enforcement and emergency responders.
Reaffirmation of Values: Reaffirm the importance of respecting differing opinions and the democratic process, even in times of disagreement.
Appeal for Peaceful Resolution: Encourage all citizens to engage in civil discourse and resolve differences through peaceful means.
Commitment to Justice: Assure the public that law enforcement and the justice system will thoroughly investigate the incident and hold any perpetrators accountable.
Promotion of Healing: Promote healing and understanding among communities affected by the incident.
Leadership responses in such situations play a crucial role in calming tensions and guiding the nation towards unity and healing.

Let me get this straight! After YEARS of Donald Trump politically targeting his enemies (who most of us would call opponents) Trump in NOW being the target of what he has pushed out on others (like Nancy Pelosi's husband, FBI offices, not naming names but just putting it out there for his MaGA to attack at will and whim) NOW Trump wants to stop political targeting?!!! Noted.

Already we're hearing Trump's people building his new mythology. Saved by God? Sure. Invincible? Why not. Are you all prepared for what's coming?

When a national leader who is also a pathological narcissist escapes an assassination attempt, several psychological reactions can occur:

1. Exaggerated Sense of Importance: The leader may experience an increased sense of grandiosity, feeling even more invincible and destined for greatness. They might interpret the escape as a sign of their exceptional nature or divine protection.

2. Paranoia and Suspicion: Escaping an assassination attempt can heighten the leader's paranoia. They may become increasingly distrustful of those around them, fearing further plots against their life. This suspicion can lead to a tightening of control and purging of perceived enemies.

3. Increased Need for Control: To manage their heightened anxiety and fear, the leader might exert more control over their environment and subordinates, leading to more authoritarian behavior. They may intensify surveillance and security measures, both for themselves and to maintain their grip on power.

4. Seeking Validation and Adulation: A narcissistic leader might seek additional validation and adulation from their followers, emphasizing their survival as proof of their extraordinary leadership. They might use the assassination attempt to rally support and strengthen their image as a strong, resilient leader.

5. Exploiting the Event for Political Gain: The leader may exploit the assassination attempt to justify repressive measures or to gain sympathy and political capital. They might present themselves as a martyr-like figure who is willing to face danger for the sake of the nation.

6. Emotional Volatility: The trauma of an assassination attempt can lead to increased emotional volatility, with potential outbursts of anger, anxiety, or even depressive episodes. While narcissists often maintain a facade of strength, the underlying stress could manifest in unpredictable ways.

7. Projection of Invulnerability: Despite any underlying fear or anxiety, the leader may project an image of invulnerability and strength to the public, using the escape as a narrative of triumph and resilience.

8. Reinforced Narcissistic Traits: The experience may further reinforce their narcissistic traits, making them even more self-centered, entitled, and dismissive of others' needs or opinions. They might believe that their survival is further proof of their superiority and right to lead.

These psychological reactions can have significant implications for the leader's behavior and decision-making, potentially leading to increased instability and repression within their regime.

Donald Trump has earned death by Capital Punishment, it's just not (yet) provable. And, AND...we do not have laws for things Donald Trump has done. Part of the authoritarian playbook is to use democracy against itself, to do things that cannot be countered. That's what makes authoritarianism coming into its own in a country so dangerous and hard to counter. 

It uses SOP and people's got nature and good intentions and good MANNERS in a way that weaponized themselves against themselves and their fellow citizens. It convinces those it can, who feel grievances to turn those against their own country. Denigrating all that protects the country against itself (other citizens, the media, journalists, democracy itself) and weaponizing things like religion and conservatism (something that should only be used in times of dire need, not convincing people that times are always in dire need).

Anyway, that is the kind of thing to be carried out by the State under a legal process. Citizens do not kill other citizens and all my life (since my first college class in philosophy) I've believed that the State should not kill its citizens. Seems to me to be a no-brainer. 

In general, Capital Punishment is bad. Except, in the very serious, singular, and few-and-far-between instances. I also do not believe states should be carrying them out. Only at the federal level. Again, that being said, there are a few individuals who have earned death by the State. A POTUS such as Trump, I would argue, is one of those people. Earned through his actions in the Oval Office, deserved through his efforts to divide America and make himself an autocrat for life. The man has pathologies (narcissism and others) that should have disallowed him forever into public office.

But again, assassination by citizens, regardless how right it seems or may be, leads to chaos and further damages. SCOTUS saying POTUS can kill political opponents using say, SEAL Team 6 is offensive to them, the office of POTUS, SCOTUS and the American citizen and ideal behind America. Unbelievable. Truly.

By the way, now would be the perfect time during the RNC convention for Trump to recreate himself in a far more effective and scarier character. Reborn as the GOP Patron Saint of the New American Authoritarianism.

The addiction of MaGA as enflamed by Donald Trump, to their form of Grevience Porn... just entered a new level.

With the initial news of Trump's attempted assassination, the entire world breathed a momentary sigh of relief.
Then, were horrified.

NOTHING about who & what Donald Trump is has changed. Just his platform got a boost.

Remember. Trump is not a hero. He is not a victim. He is a victim of an incident. That's the extent of his victimhood. He is a criminal. He has the world and world leaders worried he might be POTUS again. To the point of people discussing the "Hitler as a baby" scenario, or even more current as we saw this weekend.

Wouldn't it be ironic if every Trump rally going forward ends up having a Republican sniper involved?

The more MaGA gets to see who & what they've supported, the more that may happen.
There IS no hate like that of turning on someone who has conned you.

Donald Trump had his ear nicked by who I said immediately after the shooting would turn out to be a registered Republican. Regardless of his proclivities in so far as it being reported his having given ONCE to a left-leaning effort...$15. As I've said, a disgruntled Trump supporter.

I've been saying that Trump's violent rhetoric for years would come back to bite him. In this case, in his right ear.

I do not think Trump staged this for many reasons.

RNC convention starts tomorrow. Gun laws there are such that you can't tell anybody you can't carry a gun. This may be interesting in how they work that out.

As someone said, "So a dude who doesn't listen to anyone, was shot in the ear." Karma?

Look. World leaders know Trump is an existential threat to America, to democracy, to the world. This isn't just partisan banter. This isn't to be laid a the feet of the Democrats by a Republican Party infected for authoritarianism.

We have now seen Republicans laying blame for Trump's rhetoric on Democrats, again pointing the finger for their behaviors on others.

Petty wannabe Trump-like-criminal JD Vance stirring the shit, pushing for war.

My post to Vance about this yesterday: "TRUMP fomented the origin of all this. It's not on Biden or his supporters. It was only a matter of time & taking this long is a testament to our fortitude. I'd be interested to know... WAS this a MaGA who felt Trump let them down?"

Turns out the shooter WAS a registered Republican.

 Misha Saul @misha_saul: I always thought Trump was a vapid showman Impressive to see the dog in him Changes everything 

My reply to him: "Trump IS a vapid failed TV actor. He went down. H had a moment to think: "YES! This is BRILLIANT! I have them! Let's play it up! Let's go! ACTING! Be angry! Pump your fist! Go Donald! You're a GOD" That's....Trump."

Pres. Biden: "Biden: There is no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick. It is one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this."

I agree, long have. We always have, on the left. But see sicken of the double standard. The right is "ready for war!" Always. The left really doesn't understand that. We have a country, politics, government and elections for a PEACEFUL transfer of power.

Leader of the Heritage Foundation said their revolution will be bloodless, "IF the left will allow it." That is a call to arms. That is a rapist speaking to their victim they won't get hurt IF they will just lie there and enjoy it.

Trauma + time = humor

Remember, 100 years from now they will be making jokes about what happened. Or, history will point to it as a moment that could have altered history and perhaps saved millions of lives in the near future. That's how history works.

Using Trump MaGA logic, you get this...

Face it. Trump did this to himself. Once MaGA (I don't capitalize the "A" in MaGA as they don't respect America regardless their contentions), His rhetoric for YEARS has been calling for violence. Once they see Trump for the "Emperor with no clothes" that he is, they will be angry. When you cultivate violence, when they turn on YOU, it's ugly. It will be far uglier than what they do to the left, to Democrats whom they believe they hate so much. But it's all manufactured. 

Reports of the Secret Service under protecting ex-POTUS Trump are disinformation. No "hearing" is needed, but have fun. Secret Service over-protected a "FORMER" Not Current, POTUS. They got the shooter. They saved the primary. They did their job. Sloppy? Yeah. A bit.

Apparently with 4 counter sniper units, this was a high degree of protection for a FPOTUS. Apparently, they were alerted to the potential problem person, & were searching for him & had they not been, he would have gotten off more shots and probably killed Trump. x.com/jzmurdock/stat…

Putin? Of course, Putin has stuck his ugly into this: 

Russia accuses Biden administration of creating atmosphere for attack on Trump

TRUMP built this atmosphere. TRUMP. Good grief.

MaGA Sen. Tom Cotton: "I've seen that he's [shooter] given to left-wing causes." Stop conflating. We know about 1 left-wing cause. ONE. Once. $15. Again, a disgruntled REPUBLICAN. WTFU. Dems need not act. As MaGA wakes to what/who Trump REALLY is? They'll send violence to HIM.

After the poorly executed Trump shooting, MaGA will be absolutely SURE that NOW they HAVE to win in November. Inevitable, right? When they lose it won't be pretty, just like Trump. They will scream & gnash their teeth & throw yet another tantrum. Because that's simply who & what they are.

Dairy farmers: We NEED immigration. PLEASE! 

Donald Trump (MaGA): Mass exportations when I'm elected!

How's this going to go wrong? My bet? Trump's furious, incapable of responding appropriately to this situation, so his social media has been taken over by subordinates. This has not been Trump's writing style. Or rationale. Give it time. He'll return.

This below, is not just stupid but offensive disinformation.

OK So now the GOP is Antifa? Shooter was a Registered Republican. Wow, twisted. While MaGA has been starting on a path of disconnecting with autocrat Trump, yesterday cemented their mental illness (see above) in all the wrong directions. Again.

Now Republicans are calling toe pardon Trump for all his crimes (Sen. Mike Lee, why is this guy in Congress?). Seriously? What country do you think you live in?

An older female Trump supporter near to Trump & the attendee who was killed: "We need to come together as humanity. How can this happen here?" Good God, Trump has been the one evoking the division, hate & abuse, FOR YEARS. HOW do you not know that?

Reality break about Trump:

About that...

There is little else to say about this. More will be coming out. Trump's camp will be utilizing this, weaponizing it, disinformation as they do. Queue the Russian bots.

Just remember who has made things the way they are. Donald J Trump. Convicted Felon. Sex abuser. Career Criminal. Failed TV actor. Failed POTUS. We fired him for a reason And it was not to return to the Whtie House.

Much more to come...

Cheers! Slainte! Be well.

(not)Walkabout Thoughts #97e - Creativity / Politics

Still on the strength training. 93 degrees here today. A couple of days not in the 90s or near that previously so a while not with it too warm to do extended walks. 

First, The founding fathers’ purposes were clear. They had no intention to found the country according to Christian doctrines.

For this first part on creativity, Massive Attacks' song, Safe From Harm

On a positive note, I'd like to start with this bit about creativity, and then dive into something political, mostly in a broader sense.

I earned my university degree in psychology concentrating in phenomenology. Near the end, I did a study of creativity. What I found was creatives, create. 

The more knowledge you have of art/creative history the more you have to draw upon.

If you have a skill in art, you can possibly do more.

If you do not, but through desire or brute force you create, then you create out of your experience and environment, and when you find you cannot go further (cannot sing as some great singer or can't sculpt or paint or write as some can), you can take a step into another form or level. When you lack the precision in a discipline, you can turn to "concept", or something else. I have long said when you hit an impasse, look directly behind you, or in an opposite direction. The answer often lies there.

What I came away with in my studies was that we do not have to be born an artist with inherent "genius". Anyone can do it. Anyone can "create". You simply act, produce.

Some can simply do it better, or different in such a way as to be praised or rewarded for it. While many never will be. While some true geniuses or great artists will never find "success" or profit in their works. For many, success or profit is by their own definitions, allowing them their own form of satisfaction or catharsis in their efforts.

It's been said for instance, that the greatest musicians are never reproduced and may be playing on a street you pass through. Or only at home.

So do not be so dismissive of all street "artists". 

Do not think because you have a collection of the "greatest musicians" or composers, you have the very best humanity has to offer.

You have that which has been recognized, capable of being contained and produced for public consumption.

We should have more respect for those we'd never believe to be artists. That can include the seemingly crazy person who creates, perhaps something you do not or can not (or yet) understand. 

Or it can even be, yourself.

Now...

For the rest of the blog, Portishead's album, Dummy.

Have you seen this meme?

While there are historical accounts of psychological warfare and propaganda techniques used by the KGB, the specific claim in the image seems to be more of a popular anecdote rather than a documented experiment. A notable related figure is Yuri Bezmenov, a former KGB agent who defected to the West and spoke about the KGB’s use of psychological tactics to influence public opinion and destabilize societies.

The concept of brainwashing and psychological manipulation has been explored in various contexts, including during the Cold War, where both the KGB and the CIA conducted experiments and operations aimed at influencing and controlling human behavior. However, the extreme claim of complete brainwashing through fear messages alone is not widely supported by concrete evidence.

Really?

There has been research on how continuous exposure to fear messages can alter behaviors. Here are some key findings:

Fear-Based Appeals: A comprehensive review by the American Psychological Association found that fear-based appeals are effective at changing attitudes, intentions, and behaviors. This review analyzed over 50 years of research and concluded that fear appeals are particularly effective when they include recommendations for avoiding the threat and are targeted at specific groups, such as women.

Health Communication: Research published in PLOS ONE examined how shifts in emotional valence during exposure to fear appeals can influence message processing and behavioral intentions. The study found that inducing positive valence shifts in health messages can improve their effectiveness, especially for relevant target groups.

COVID-19 Context: During the COVID-19 pandemic, fear-based messages significantly influenced public behavior. Studies indicated that continuous exposure to fear-inducing media could lead to heightened anxiety and biased conclusions, especially in the absence of reliable information.

General Impact of Fear Arousal: According to the Oxford Research Encyclopedia, fear arousal in messages can motivate attitude and behavior change. This effect is seen not only in health messaging but also in news accounts, social media posts, and interpersonal conversations.

These studies suggest that while fear-based messages can be effective in altering behaviors, their impact can vary based on the context, the audience, and the way the message is framed.

And?

There have been several societal experiments and studies on the impact of continuous exposure to fear messages on behavior. Here are a few notable examples:

Substance Misuse Prevention: Research on scare tactics and fear-based messages in substance misuse prevention has shown mixed results. While some studies indicate that fear-based messages can deter substance use, others suggest that these messages may not be effective and could even increase rates of misuse in some cases.

Political Campaigns: Fear-based messaging is also commonly used in political campaigns to influence voter behavior. Research has shown that fear appeals can be effective in mobilizing voters and shaping public opinion, particularly when they highlight potential threats and offer solutions.

While these examples illustrate how fear-based messaging can be a powerful tool for influencing behavior, its effectiveness can depend on various factors, including the message content, the target audience, and the context in which it is delivered. 

And Russian?

There are indeed examples of Soviet research and experimentation related to psychological manipulation and fear messaging:

Yuri Bezmenov’s Testimony: Yuri Bezmenov, a former KGB agent who defected to the West, described the KGB’s use of psychological warfare and ideological subversion. He explained that a significant portion of the KGB’s efforts was dedicated to demoralizing and destabilizing societies through continuous exposure to fear and misinformation1.

Psychological Warfare: The Soviet Union engaged in psychological warfare during the Cold War, using threats of nuclear destruction and other forms of intimidation to instill fear and influence the behavior of other nations. This strategy aimed to create doubts about the wisdom of aligning with the United States and accepting American military bases2.

The Science of Thought Control

Brainwashing and Propaganda: The concept of brainwashing gained prominence during the Cold War, with both the Soviet Union and the United States conducting experiments and operations to influence and control human behavior. The term “brainwashing” itself became widely known through reports of Communist tactics used on prisoners of war3.

These examples highlight the Soviet Union’s interest in and use of psychological tactics to manipulate and control behavior. 

We have seen over these past few decades the Republican Party ascribing to old Soviet/Russian techniques of social manipulation that is contrary to our democratic constitutional republic.

Which we are.

We've heard a lot from the right about how we're NOT a democracy, but a constitutional republic. Nonsense. That's selective ignorance at its worst.

There are various kinds of republics.

While all democratic constitutional republics are constitutional republics, not all constitutional republics are necessarily democratic. The adjective "democratic" specifies that the republic operates with a strong commitment to democratic principles.

Something Republicans, esp., repugnant MAGA seem to be allergic to in their anti-American desires toward minority rule. Their usage of old Soviet KGB tactics since the 90s I found back then and today disgusting, to use against our own, all for their wont of control, power, and wealth. 

In essence, the United States embodies the principles of a democratic constitutional republic by ensuring that its government is based on democratic participation, operates under a constitutional framework, and maintains a republican form of governance.
MAGA Republicans are essentially seditionists, pushing a crime against the State. 

Though sedition may have the same ultimate effect as treason, it is generally limited to the offense of organizing or encouraging opposition to government in a manner (such as in speech or writing) that falls short of the more dangerous offenses constituting treason.

Well, there it is.

Be well, be brilliant, be productive!

Cheers1 Sláinte!

(not)Walkabout Thoughts #97d - A Teen's College Tales from 1973

Still on the strength training. 91 degrees here today.

Yesterday, I kind of went down a rabbit hole that took up most of my day. I found a blog I wrote in 2010 about my experience at the UW in 1973, in trying to get in there, taking my SATs, and time I spent the night before at the Zeta Psi frat over Christmas holiday vacation, with the frat's president and treasurer. I'll never forget it.

One night in 1973 at a UW Frat house

Zeta Psi Fraternity, University of Washington, Seattle

I jist thought I'd read it to see if I had forgotten things. I'd forgotten a few things. This is why after all, we write, film, or document our lives so we can remember what really happened. 

So I thought I'd edit that 2010 blog, add some things, and repost it.

I knew I had taken photos back then and thought I'd update the blog and add those photos. So I went through my old photos today and found them. I scanned them in, they have always been pretty foggy or not great due to bad lighting. I enhanced the photos as we now have the capability to enhance them in ways we did not have in the 70s.

I put them in the blog. When I looked at them, I was quite pleased.

I had been wondering when I had gone to the UW to take my SATs. Something I had never planned on, never studied for. In looking at the photos, however, I solved the case. Christmas decorations were up at the frat house. I was leaning toward thinking it was the Thanksgiving holiday, but apparently not. Case solved. 

I find little things like this very rewarding. 

I've never been a "tech bro" or a "frat boy" type. I'd never have considered joining a frat. It wasn't my idea as the blog attests to. But once I got involved, and checked it out, it seemed to my 18 year old self a pretty interesting idea. An adventure. 

I've always been into adventures. It's how I got into Civil Air Patrol Search and Rescue in junior high. I think all the sci fi books I read when I was young. Those my grandmother used to read to me before I could read. I was just into the adventure. Into an alternative to my boring life in 1960s Tacoma, Washington. I could do more in life, I wanted to do more.

Actual friends from the screenplay  ©1973 me

In my true crime/drama screenplay, "The Teenage Bodyguard" people (the producer & interviewed directors) who kept misunderstanding the main character's orientation that: "He just wants the girl," or "it's about sex", or "it's a teen romp", were the typical orientations. However, it was actually just about, boredom. Seeking adventure. Escape from a boring life that kills a person's life. The photo above has the protagonist on the right (the "teenage bodyguard"), and his friend on the left. 

The problems as I've experienced it in life weren't the adventures or even the dangers, but the misadventures. 

But that's part of the charm. Escaping the boredom into adventures, even "adventures" many perhaps wouldn't label as such, escaping from the dangers, or misadventures the adventure can turn into. Often because of ignorance, Selective Ignorance (there is good SI and very bad SI: MAGA), ill will, or simply the stupidity of others. Much as we see in politics today. 

And that's the issue. 

Anyway...it's an interesting blog on an late teen's adventures into the university and fraternity system.

Cheers1 Sláinte!

One night in 1973 at a UW Frat house

Walkabout Thoughts #97c

Got on Facebook the other day and saw a meme posted by someone about taxation that I thought was typical of a far-right misinterpretation of things as they are today. 

OK so a couple of posts on the creative stuff, today on politics. Sorry for being so graphics-heavy this time.

First, give America our motto back. In God We Trust has diluted (and deluded) who and what we are as America. "Out of Many, One" is important, actually far more important to all of us as a collective whole than "In God We Trust", which has played into a sick Christian Nationalism, White Authoritarianism.

So tired of these alt- and sub-culture delusions I've heard about since I was a kid, that has now evolved into insanity from Tea Party to MAGA and Donald Trump, and the whole mess we're now in because the GOP won't stand up to their nonsense and now it's evolved into, authoritarianism and criminals. 

The GOP did this to us, to themselves. This goes back to the early 1990s, the early 1980s and they, the two disruptions converged to make their "grounds" fertiel for a criminal and autocrat to overtake us.

It's now up to use to correct this. Thanks GOP. all because you were tired of being a minority, you supported a minority with bad ideas. We have to stop this delusion, these bad feelings, this division, this hatred, especially from the right.

We are America, the greatest nation in history and we've got to stop trying to tear ourselves apart, for our enemies, surely not for ourselves. Why would we? Unless we've been indoctrinated to do our enemies work for them. Which is brilliant, but, let's not do that.

This Pod Save America podcast episode is different. 

Why No One’s Winning Young Voters (Ep. 5)

I found this episode enlightening about our situation with Gen X, Gen Z & Millenials on voting, orientation, politics, etc. They have some good direct info and insight. Definitely worth a listen, especially if you're confused about some of the political orientations today. I know a bit about all this but I still found this episode enlightening. Description:

"Jon is joined by youth polling experts John Della Volpe and Kristen Soltis Anderson to talk about apathy among young voters this election cycle. Why are they so disengaged? Are some truly defecting to Trump? And what message, if any, can get them out for the polls? Jon, John, and Kristen dive into the focus group tape to unpack Gen Z’s opinions of our octogenarian presidential candidates, their top economic issues, and the war in Gaza. And Anderson Clayton, the 26-year-old Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, joins to talk about Gen Z’s faith in their own ability to improve democracy."

OK then. Democrats have good ideas they're poor at selling, Republicans have bad ideas they're good at selling...like con artists. And here we are. A criminal exPOTUS running again, the GOP, the MAGA GOP incapable of seeing what they are doing to us anymore. 

Marco Rubio on STOU Sunday delusionally claimed things about Trump that were utter nonsense. Actually saying, "I know NOTHING." 

Yeah, anyway, I had to say...something to that post on Facebook. I did my best to put it here and it was a problem. Finally went with cleaned-up screenshots.

Anyway here's what was said. 

In fact, these aren't the brightest bulbs in the pack. But then, neither am I. I have no illusions about that. So I'm taking the entire thread and posting it here so you can make up your own mind. At least to be familiarized with this kind of thinking.

It's not like I whipped them, or I "won" them, or triggered them. Or them me. I thought they were pretty rational and decent. Just a bit lost. It's hard to maintain and not just let the annoyance shine through, I did my best. I think they did too.

When you take decades of that kind of indoctrination, generations of it, and do little or nothing to stop, or correct it, you end up with the mess we have today in politics and America fantasizing about tearing either into "the Other" or simply, apart. I see some of this starting with the additions we once thought good, maybe were for a while. But have led us into weirdness.

We can start with the "Pledge of Allegiance". Subverting...yes, subverting our national motto from "E Pluribus Unum" ("Out of Many, One") to "In God We Trust". Which, while it may seem harmless and I wish it was, it's been weaponized against non-Christian-nationalist-Christians, our other religions and our non-theists.

It's ended us up with an authoritarian who follows the playbook of autocrats. Want to know more? Look up, Timothy Snyder.

Timothy Snyder's Key Tactics of Autocrats should seem familiar in what Trump and his people have been doing to US:

1. Control the Press: Undermine independent media to limit critical reporting.
2. Rewrite History: Manipulate or fabricate historical narratives to legitimize the regime and discredit opponents.
3. Undermine Institutions: Attack and weaken democratic institutions to reduce checks and balances.
4. Establish a Cult of Personality: Promote the leader as an indispensable and almost divine figure.
5. Target Minorities: Use scapegoating and discrimination to unify the majority and distract from real issues.
6. Undermine Truth: Spread misinformation and discredit factual reporting to create confusion and distrust.
7. Manipulate Elections: Rig electoral processes to ensure the regime remains in power.
8. Rule by Emergency: Declare states of emergency to bypass legal constraints and consolidate power.
9. Foster Corruption: Use patronage and corruption to ensure loyalty from key figures and institutions.
10. Suppress Dissent: Use intimidation, imprisonment, and violence to silence opposition.

These tactics create an environment where democratic norms erode, and the autocrat's power becomes increasingly unchallengeable.

So here's how that Facebook thread went. The following is for educational purposes. 

First the meme:

Late addition:

B: Jean Z Murdock your whole premise ignores the fact that people will and do pay for things they want and need that government isn't providing. Any necessary services that can be provided by government can be provided by market means without extortion as the business model. Taxes are what allow the people running the system to spend other people's money the way they want since their revenue chattel have no means to divorce themselves from unsatisfactory services that are monopolized by government rackets that just use them as a front for recurring extortion payments.
They don't want people to be able to "vote" with their money tho because that would expose the true lack of support these "representatives" and their ideas truly have.
That's it. Did I make any headway? Did anyone on that thread, or reading it, reconsider things? Or just dig in deeper.

JZ Murdock:

This argument is a typical libertarian perspective on taxation and government services, emphasizing the belief that market-based solutions can replace government-provided services without the coercion implied by taxation. Better known as pipe dreams.

As a political philosophy advocating for minimal government intervention and maximum individual freedom, can sometimes be seen as an immature orientation for several reasons. These reasons are not universally accepted, but they are often cited by critics of libertarianism:

1. Idealistic Simplification: Libertarianism can be perceived as overly idealistic and simplistic in its assumptions about human nature and society. Critics argue that it assumes people will always act rationally and ethically in a free market, which may not account for complexities such as greed, inequality, and the potential for exploitation.

2. Overreliance on Market Solutions: Libertarians often advocate for market solutions to social problems, assuming that markets will efficiently allocate resources and services. Critics contend that this ignores market failures, such as monopolies, externalities, and the underprovision of public goods, which require government intervention to correct.

3. Neglect of Social Responsibilities: Libertarianism emphasizes individual rights and freedoms, sometimes at the expense of collective responsibilities and social welfare. Critics argue that this perspective can lead to a lack of support for social safety nets and public services, which are essential for addressing inequality and protecting vulnerable populations.

4. Historical Oversights: Critics argue that libertarianism can ignore historical and systemic inequalities that require proactive measures to address. For example, simply removing government intervention without addressing past injustices may not lead to a fair and equitable society.

5. Practical Challenges: Implementing libertarian principles can be challenging in practice, as it requires dismantling established institutions and regulatory frameworks. Critics claim that this can lead to chaos and instability, as well as unintended consequences that may worsen social problems.

6. Conflict with Collective Action Needs: Libertarianism often underestimates the importance of collective action for addressing large-scale problems such as climate change, pandemics, and national defense. Critics argue that these issues require coordinated efforts that individual actions and market mechanisms alone cannot effectively manage.

7. Perceived Selfishness: Libertarianism's strong emphasis on individualism can be seen as promoting selfishness and a lack of concern for community and societal well-being. Critics argue that this focus on personal freedom can undermine social cohesion and collective efforts to improve public welfare.

It's important to note that these criticisms are not definitive judgments but rather perspectives that highlight potential weaknesses in libertarian thought. Proponents of libertarianism offer counterarguments emphasizing personal responsibility, the dangers of government overreach, and the moral imperative of individual freedom. 

What this perspective might be overlooking:

Public Goods and Externalities: Certain goods and services, known as public goods (like national defense, clean air, and public parks), are not easily provided by the market because they are non-excludable and non-rivalrous. This means that once provided, it's difficult to exclude anyone from using them, and one person's use does not reduce availability to others. Markets tend to underprovide these goods because they can't easily charge users directly.

Free Rider Problem: Related to public goods, the free rider problem occurs when individuals have an incentive to avoid paying for a good because they can still benefit without paying. This leads to underfunding and underprovision of essential services like public infrastructure, education, and emergency services.

Inequality and Access: Market solutions often fail to address the needs of the poor and vulnerable, as they might not be able to afford essential services like healthcare, education, or housing. Government intervention through taxation and public spending aims to ensure a minimum standard of living and equal access to necessary services.

Regulation and Standards: Government regulation is often necessary to ensure safety, fairness, and environmental protection. Without government oversight, market-driven solutions might prioritize profit over public welfare, leading to issues like exploitation, pollution, and unsafe products.

Collective Action: Some challenges, such as pandemics, climate change, and natural disasters, require coordinated efforts that are difficult to achieve through decentralized market mechanisms. Government plays a crucial role in organizing and funding these collective actions.

Monopoly and Market Failures: The argument assumes that markets always function efficiently and fairly. However, markets can fail, and monopolies or oligopolies can emerge, leading to higher prices and reduced choices for consumers. Government intervention is often necessary to correct these market failures and promote competition.

Democratic Accountability: While the argument claims that taxes are a form of extortion, it overlooks the democratic processes through which tax policies and public spending are decided. Citizens can vote for representatives who align with their views on taxation and government services, ensuring a degree of accountability and representation.

The argument raises valid concerns about efficiency, accountability, and the role of government, but it might underestimate the complexity of providing public goods, addressing market failures, and ensuring equitable access to essential services.

The debate between libertarianism and other political philosophies often hinges on differing views about the role of government, the nature of freedom, and the best ways to achieve a just and prosperous society.

That's it and this is a problem. 

This is a tip of an "iceberg" where the bulk of it is Donald Trump at titular head of a moronic movement of authoritarianism steeped in a generations long simmering of delusion and misinterpretations of our US Constitution and how government works, how it's relationship to citizens is, a monitor that is victim morning themselves into a fever.

We can do better. We must do better. ASAP.

And we have to protect ourselves from unforeseen groups, at times vastly disinformed...

Rachel Maddow's Podcast Ultra Spectacle.
Been saying this before Rachel's Ultra podcast. 

If you're supporting Repugnant MAGA Trump might as well've supported McCarthy. Sen. Joe McCarthy's "red scare" of the 1950s started in the 40s trying to get Nazis off for their crimes. GOP? Gone unAmerican.

Much of the lies and propaganda of Joe McCarthy we're seeing again, today with Trump's MAGA disinformation, which has infected (easily as usual) Lindsey Graham, Marco Rubio even who I thought years ago, many now, might be an okay guy but now, he's decided how you do politics. Like Trump. Ends justify the means, damn the country, full speed ahead with your career, no matter how later on history, or justice will view you.

Wising us all the very best. Certainly better than this nonsense. 

Cheers! Sláinte! 

Walkabout Thoughts #97b - Screenplays

 Nope, didn't walk again today. Feeling better after the air cleared yesterday. 

The third day of adding to my walks with strength training, some weights, and sit-ups, and I'm a bit sore but less than yesterday, and feeling pretty great from it. Looking forward to more.

First off I'd just like to mention something. I've been watching Orlando Bloom: To The Edge show. 

"Synopsis: Actor and adventure enthusiast Orlando Bloom embarks on a physical, mental and spiritual journey of self-discovery as he undertakes three extreme sports -- wingsuiting, free diving and rock climbing -- to push himself to the edge of what is possible. With family, friends and his spiritual Buddhist practice guiding the way, Orlando is trained by experts who help him overcome obstacles, face his fears, and discover valuable lessons about himself."

I lean Buddhist. I've been a skydiver, & parachute rigger in the USAF, I've done rope work and climbed cliffs, more tactical than technical but some technical was involved in search & rescue. He takes a week to learn and achieve more than is reasonable in skydiving, free diving, and technical climbing. It's an interesting show and experience and reminds me of how it was doing those things for the first time and the difficulties mental and physical. And to see him really struggling but never giving up. You don't quit. 

You do more than you know you can, and then you do it. You may know you can't do it, but you keep pushing and then..you've done it. Life is good. Unless you die, or worse, don't and are just broken. I've been lucky, with good reflexes, and learned from the best. So does Orlando. He's been lucky, with good reflexes and a normal for him, intense workout. But here he's pushing himself beyond his limits (and mine from my past) and in his final episode with climbing, it makes for a good final episode. It's pretty impressive and somehow cathartic. 

And nostalgic...

Moving on. I received a win today for my screenplay, "The Teenage Bodyguard", a True Crime/Drama. My 13th international award for this screenplay.

That led me to update this award on my IMDb page (they suggested that, so nice of the thought I would look into it if it's an award IMDb allows). Looking at three of my hosts on my screenplays and updating all the loglines and synopses on all of them. Took me all day. Kind of (boring and long) fun and cathartic. Why cathartic?

This all turned into an interesting situation.

See, IMDb is basically, the "Internet Movie Database". Movie. Not screenplays.

When I won my first few awards for a screenplay, which I think was THIS one, I didn't realize I could put it on IMDb. When I realized that I tried to add it to my profile there.

They refused. I was confused.

The festival said, "We're IMDb Award certified (or whatever) and you can add your award there."

But they would never let me add a screenplay. I tried until frustrated some years ago, I gave up.

But today was different. It said on IMDb when I was adding the award (and tried to add a screenplay that didn't exist), that I should add it using the add reform. I've used that many times for my films. Frustrating, and miserable the first few times but a breeze once you're used to it. Just not for screenplays. Apparently.

Anyway, I pushed through today and went around and around and kept trying until finally, it clicked...and went through. Which only means I got it into the queue until they could examine it and, deny it, or accept it. This has taken weeks before. In recent years it's been faster though.

Within about an hour it was approved!

Cool. 

But that got me to thinking. I updated my logline and synopsis for it. But then I had to do it elsewhere too for compatibility Then I should probably update my other scripts and screenplays.

That took all day. I had to update the new IMDb page to add all the awards that IDMb would accept. I had to update the synopsis on IMDb. I needed to update that on Script Revolution and Film Freeway (and a counterpart of theirs, WFCN), and I just got a notification from MovieBytes' WinningScripts to update or lose the screenplay's accessibility. Probably should do the BlackList, too.

WinningScript may not seem like much, or much now, but that little free site has led me to some very interesting connections and networking. From that site, I got a job to do an adaptation of an author's novel to screenplay format. Then a second author. Also to the publisher of my first two books. 

You never know where your efforts will pay off and it certainly hasn't been to the efforts that charged the most or cost me the most money. Not that all of those are a waste of time. But you have to be smart and manage your money, time, resources, and efforts.

On that note, I’ll bid you adieu...and leave you with that.
It’s nowhere near noon time or lunch. It's 8:20PM Saturday night.

Cheers! Sláinte!