The sheer size of the protests, the online commentary of regular opposing the regime, the victories at the ballot box shows that there is a blue wave coming.
We just need to hold strong for a little bit longer and we can start ending this madness.
The Democratic party needs new leadership that keeps this "Blue Wave' of energy going.
Chuckles and Jeffries are NOT the leaders for this time. Leaderst that put America first and not second too doners and foreign influence. are what this NOKINGS movement deserves. Even today.....their voices are just crickets.
Agree with you 100 percent. And it pisses me off to say so a New Yorker.being selfish here but would be nice to have leadership to help benefit us. But neither of these two have the ability to fight.
They have not been loud and clear. I am in New York as well. Did either of them go to a rally? I know where I was the election chair and the Senator for New York walked the streets with us.
AIPAC Shikiur should be giving press confrences every fucking day on the Capital steps............instead he is counting his AIPAC $$$$$ and waiting for then next million dollare cheque to be deposited.
Chuckles and AIPAC Shikur = USA fascist Putin collaboration party
Still missing a very necessary plank - sustained mass strategic economic withdrawal (that's the only language they understand). And I don't know if we will be able to force a somewhat free fair election without that.
May 1st. That's when we stop buying. Whoever can do it (ethically) will leave work and school. Then keep doing it. That's sustained mass strategic economic withdrawal. Yep, it's gonna be uncomfortable. Let's do it anyway.
Yes. Even extended periods of mass resistance and walk outs, is , IMO becoming necessary. They did it for COVID. No warning. If we plan it. It would be game changing.
A big part of the problem. They lie all the time. We fight back. They still push on. Thats not winning. It's not normal. I don't have all the answers but I have done EVERYTHING since 2015 to stop this. I'm very tired.
Glenda, I've been tooting that horn for quite some time. General Strike until SCOTUS rescinds the Get Out of Jail Free Card (Trump v. United States) for the occupier. I don't see any other way, except to jam things up and hit their wallets. I've done some reading on past general strikes; they're very hard on those involved, but harder than this? No. The May 1st "stop work day" won't have enough oomph behind it to work. But to let them know we're willing to strike with no end in sight until they rescind that stupid-ass ruling? That will take some cajones for sure. We're up to it though.
I am new to this but wouldn't hesitate. There are too many afraid to do anything. It will never work. Too many scared. I am not so sure we get thru much with so many afraid to truly fight back.
I actually was able to speak to a chair in our county for elections. I told him I want to make sure our elections are not tampered with and he said they are working behind the scenes to make sure that doesn't happen. Ooh rah!
I am not feeling your optimism. I don't think we can "wait" for an election. He will claim we are at war and there may be no election. MEGAs own over 60% of the voting machines, which run on programs and he has programmers. He will have Ice at the polls, curbing participation from minorities. He still had an unbelievable approval rating of about 36%. We need to stop his economy, by strikes or other means. What's it gonna take? He'' be putting soldier on the ground soon.
Speaking g of the numbers, I am sure there were people who couldn’t march, be it for health reasons, age, ability to be able to stand and walk long enough. I hope those people would share their numbers because it would even make it bigger! God Bless those who still stand for this country even if they couldn’t make the walk🙏🏻🥰
My wife and I are near St. Louis and wanted to go. She a bartender and I’m a chef and we have two little ones. We’re barely scraping by and just bought a house before the regime took power so it’s impossible for us to miss work on the weekend. We cheer for everyone that can make it out, they’re our heroes
Your young family is the reason so many of us boomers were in the streets yesterday. When my husband and I were raising our young family we had a tight budget but were still able to buy a home and pay our bills, and I stayed home with the kids until they were both in school. We, and many of our friends, vote, volunteer and do what we learned on college campuses in the late 60s and into the 70s - speak truth to power. And I, for one, will continue to organize, march, meet with my representatives, write letters, and encourage everyone to take a few minutes each day to tune into Meidas. Truth, inspiration and action. It's the only way things will get better.
I protest for those who cannot. Yet at some point we will have to feel comfort in being the majority, support each other and walk out on the job in solidarity. We will have t organize better, deeper.
I marched in San Diego, and I've spoken to at least 20 people today who wanted to go but weren't able to. So yes, I think for every one person who showed up, there were probably 10 or more who wanted to.
I met several people who aren't physically able to do more, but maintain a presence elsewhere, post articles, share information.
What matters is - do what you are able to do!
They make phone calls, send postcards, send emails.
One woman still has a KAMALA HARRIS flag in front of her house.
I had an appointment with a EXPERT coming a long distance & had to leave early, but gathered as much information as I could.
The 'opposition' has to be the most entertaining! One woman waiting for the light to change to make a right turn looked like she had a MELT DOWN in her car - she was so stressed and agitated - she was screaming in her car! BODY LANGUAGE was OVERWROUGHT! Gotta be a CULT to get HYSTERICAL in car!
Anger is normal, _but_ unless and until a person learns
1. how to process it,
2. how to use it,
3. how to be ITS master,
4. how to not abuse (or be abused by) it,
5. how to put a bit of breathing space between it and you,
6. how NOT to lace it with a list of add-on hatreds and grievances,
7. how not to turn it into an attack on another person,
and thereby, hopefully, how to lessen its appearance one's life,
chances are it will take over and dominate your thinking and feeling.
The phrase 'control one's anger' can seem like suggesting to stifle or smother it, which is not healthy. It is needful to be mature, even when others don't see that as a path or a choice, and use moments of anger toward a healthy, positively-expressed outcome.
Some may disagree, as these are merely some thoughts on the topic.
I have done VOTER CANVASSING in REPUBLICAN VOTING areas and while your insight is appreciated by thoughtful people, it ignores a specific segment of the population that embraces the ANGER and disinformation spewed by TRUMPERS and this administration - promoted by FOX NEWS = FAKE NEWS LIARS.
FOX NEWS settled for their ELECTION LIES, but if you only view FAUX NEWS, you never saw the settlement or the email exchanges. RUPERT MURDOCH knew they were LYING for viewers.
Doing voter canvassing is enlightening! It highlights poverty, poor education and inability to FACT CHECK.
In 2017, JOHN DEAN posted this article that adequately defined TRUMP SUPPORTERS, worth reading in its entirely:
yeah several people I know had other obligations work kids events or birthday parties school two people had school projects or some combination.
I think a lot of people don't fully see or understand the value of the protests, even though they agree very strongly with the sentiment and they're extremely unhappy with everything that is happening under this horrible regime.
They don't see how it will do anything. they think it seems uncomfortable or sort of scary, ultimately kind of a chore.
anyway next time I got to do more in advance to get people involved have a sign making party or something.
I am one of the disabled, but I followed the protests, signs & coverage all day yesterday. I write & call my Republican senators & rep multiple times each week (the joy of living in deep, dark red Mississippi). And I read, read, read so many different commentators & news sites (but not corporate media!) & comment & engage with folks online. We are holding the line & I feel hopeful!
What you are doing is wonderful!!! I had seen some comments that basically said yeah it's great that all these folks are marching but what difference will it make, and what you said is exactly the difference it makes...it builds solidarity and invigorates folks to work harder doing other things (like run for office, call members of congress, email mainstream media, send post cards to voters). I'm like you and live in a deep red district and state (Missouri) and continue to call my MOCs despite an occasional feeling of uselessness. They don't care and I know they don't care and they know I know they don't care and that makes them happy but I still call. Without the support of others I don't know what I would do..would I still call? Would I donate when I can? Would I try to encourage others? I really don't know, so the support we give each other and the affirmation that we are not alone is vital to the movement. Thanks for all you do!
Elizabeth, I am in the same situation as you and I couldn’t have said it better! I too, do all the things you’re doing and I live in deep red state, Missouri. I’m in a rural city, 35 minutes south of St Louis, and see maga all around me. It doesn’t stop me from wearing my “You Are In A Safe Space” sweatshirt with DEI slogans on the back! I’m a proud American who believes in our Democracy and Constitution!
I am one because I’ve had an illness for 3 weeks now but I asked others to attend for me. And I was loudly cheering for everyone from my sick bed. Thank you so much.
Well said! And these less seen citizens are equally as important to the resistance as are the folks who can get out and march. I imagine there are thousands if not millions of persons of color who are too scared to leave their homes but support the cause and we must figure out a way to let them know how important they are to the movement. I have no idea except to donate to organizations that support them in their homes like some I've seen that deliver meals to folks who are too afraid to go out. I'd love some ideas on ways we can support these supporters.
If we were to organize a country wide shutdown of citizens, we could use the time to help them while showing this regime who really runs this country. It's WE THE PEOPLE. The protests would be even bigger.
I'm not sure what you mean by shut down, but I do know for my children, here in ultra red Missouri not showing up to work would mean losing their job/house and unbelievable damage to their children (maybe change schools, who knows how they would survive). The don't have leave they can take for even a one day shutdown and I feel we need to be understanding of the millions of Americans who are in the same situation. I do think sort of an economic shutdown would be beneficial Many of us are cutting way back on our spending out of necessity but there still are millions of Americans who still have lots of money, over 16 million new cars/trucks were sold last year and while there might have been very tempting discounts, they still cost a lot of money. What if no one bought a new car this year? Or built a new house (again, only only well off folks are building homes, and they may all be trump supporters) or bought new clothes. I do believe those things would matter, and while we will never convince everyone to do this what if we convinced a lot of folks to do this. I imagine there is someone out there that could tell us how many folks we need to convince to not buy anything new (unless absolutely necessary) it would take to make an impact. Sometimes you have to have something new like underwear or shoes or an oven and we should not make folks feel horrible for buying those things, but I do believe there are a lot of extras we could do without (just walking in the Walmart aisles and seeing the totally unnecessary Easter toys/stuffed animals tells me there are things folks are buying they don't really know). For the lower working classes this is going to happen as a natural consequence of trump's policies but again, I think there are many more who could have an impact if they choose.
I have not worked it out. I am in the same situation. My kids as well. But I've stopped the spending and am doing the boycotts. It isn't working We are all going to have nothing if this keeps rolling his way any how. Very drastic. Very disturbing . But it would be an alternative to civil war in the streets against a hostile government. Stay home . Hunker down. Protest. It would have to be an all in situation. Drastic times need drastic measures . If they do NOTHING . WE have to do something. Right now I see no plan. And this just gets worse everyday. Very scary.
It is very scary. I have read a few books where the authors talk about the joy that some folks have because of the relationships they have and their connectedness to their culture rather than things. I recently watched the interview Anderson Cooper did with Sara Bareilles and she sort of said, you know all the trappings, the songs, the concerts, whatever don't really matter and all that matters really is our relationships to each other. Well, trump and the GOP can and might take away all the trappings, but those of us who are lucky will have those relationships left. I often think that much of America has no real shared culture except persons of color and that out only culture is consumerism and getting more and more stuff. When I heard the Lt. Gov of Minn, Peggy Flannigan speak at the No Kings Protest and she said her family/clan's role it so be sure that no one is left behind. By and large white Americans don't have a clan like that. Much of our culture seems to be striving for bigger houses, fancier cars, designer clothes you can get on some internet site for real cheap. Well I do believe those many of those folks are going to be very unhappy. I also watched the interview Stephen Colbert did with Edward Norton after my daughter recommended it, and he sort of said the same thing. Folks with that culture/philosophy/outlook on life are going to be ok no matter what. They will always find a way to help and that is what brings them joy. As we sink into third world nationism it will be very hard except of course for all those who can leave but I hope that there will be many many who retain joy in the face of hardship. And it may be when we are on the third world doorstep a huge majority of citizens will rise up and say hey, the GOP did this to us, there IS a better way (it may be that they will have to say our parents told us about it!). And as I say so often this is one of the most valuable things about MTN..the sense of community that we all share.
Thanks for saying that. I can't stand or walk for long but I've thoroughly supported all my friends who marched. We need to keep the pressure on as long and as hard as possible.
I just saw on Sunday that there is a way on the No Kings website that you can support and be counted for the march when you’re unable to attend for health reasons, work, etc. For the next march that needs to be made known if it really does exist. I recently had foot surgery and in a walking boot and would loved to have been counted.
Thanks Ben for working tirelessly on growing MeidasTouch and keeping us informed with facts that are supported with receipts. I found your podcast after the November 2024 election and listen faithfully and read Substacks as a subscribed member to both. You deserve time off with your family and make all the memories that you can with your beautiful daughter. The time goes by so quickly and quality time is key. Be in the moment and watch all the wonder and curiosity as well as firsts.
I’m going to be 68 in two days and disabled but, I followed NO KINGS protests all day into the evening and made my voice loud and clear by posting on all journalistic platforms! I very much felt a part of the movement and am very grateful to be part of this growing community. I engage for the future of this great democracy and will defend it until my last breath!
I'm 77, my partner is 82. We were out there, cold and old. It meant a lot to hear the horns toot as they drove by. But there are still Trumpsters out there. MEGA is alive and well. Who are these supporting a 36% approval rating?!
East Texans I believe have a higher approval rate than 36%, of Trump. In 2015, out of 2500 households where I live in east Texas, there were 3 democratic households: per the leader of the County's democratic party. I hear bitching about the price of gas and groceries, but they blame democrats for it, and they can see no other answer. And boy do they become mad when I disagree or say a fact rather than an opinion.
One neighbor had a huge 2028 Trump/Vance banner up on his fence...but there must have been some flack, because it's now just a Trump/Vance sign with no date. :( (I'm hoping it was because it would be illegal for him to run again - but it probably wasn't.)
Hooray for the zoo and your reporting. The Republicans know they are facing a doomed November, and the cracks are big and numerous. We are going to save democracy and work on equality. It's a big load, but we can do it. No Kings was amazing.
Thank you for putting your heart and soul into your work. You and your brothers are making a difference as we as a nation stand up against hate. We stand up for our democracy and got decency. Thank you Meidas Touch!
I was struck by the energy and enthusiasm at both of the No Kings events I attended. But more than that, the joy that folks exhibited with each other, with the energy, with the conversation and with the camaraderie, pure joy! They will not take our community spirit. They will not take our spirit. It was overwhelmingly peaceful and positive and joyful being with like-minded souls intent on saving our republic.
Yes family and we have to grow tighter, stronger & more determined - demand those questions answered, that this be resolved, removed/curtail/whatever it takes to the people causing this country to fall. We The People demand this!
Loved it, thought I somehow lost the morning message when I had to have my Sunday coffee alone! Glad you and your family enjoyed the zoo! Thanks for all you are doing. A fan from Cape Cod!
I spent 3 hours in 90 degree heat in Menifee CA for the rally. It was well worth it. My 70 year old body then spent an hour in the swimming pool doing nothing. Like you Ben, my family is everything. My 4 daughter's are why I do this. Daniela is 28. Sarah, Holly, and Megan are 25. This world must get better for them. Right now, we are no better than a banana republic.
90degrees already! That might be usual for where you are at in CA. I’m in NW Ark & March usually roars back like a lion w/ lots of cold. We already had one week of mud to late 80’s. Very unusual here. It’s like we went from Winter to Summer! I hope we get some Spring!
I was so glad to hear that you got away from the crazy stuff and was able to enjoy family time! Its so important to not lose touch with the ones you love! Thank you again for all that you guys do! Stay safe!
I’m glad you went to the zoo with your daughter you needed that and I’m sure your daughter loved it. Thank you for your relentless coverage I appreciate you and all of the.MTN.
Thank you for everything you do 💙💜
The sheer size of the protests, the online commentary of regular opposing the regime, the victories at the ballot box shows that there is a blue wave coming.
We just need to hold strong for a little bit longer and we can start ending this madness.
Almost 7 months to D day .
The Democratic party needs new leadership that keeps this "Blue Wave' of energy going.
Chuckles and Jeffries are NOT the leaders for this time. Leaderst that put America first and not second too doners and foreign influence. are what this NOKINGS movement deserves. Even today.....their voices are just crickets.
Agree with you 100 percent. And it pisses me off to say so a New Yorker.being selfish here but would be nice to have leadership to help benefit us. But neither of these two have the ability to fight.
They have not been loud and clear. I am in New York as well. Did either of them go to a rally? I know where I was the election chair and the Senator for New York walked the streets with us.
A dead goldfish has more fight in it than Chucky and Jefferies.
HAKEEM JEFFRIES - PLEASE REVIEW OPEN SECRETS, a non-partisan group that reviews sources of CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
HAKEEM JEFFRIES has accepted TOO MUCH $$$ from the ANTI-DEMOCRACY AIPAC.
Do we want a DEMOCRAT who can't condemn GAZA GENOCIDE?
https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/hakeem-jeffries/summary?cid=N00033640&cycle=Career
(Consider contributing $5 to keep OPEN SECRETS reporting.)
AIPAC Shikiur should be giving press confrences every fucking day on the Capital steps............instead he is counting his AIPAC $$$$$ and waiting for then next million dollare cheque to be deposited.
Chuckles and AIPAC Shikur = USA fascist Putin collaboration party
So true. The party leadership should heed this advice or risk again snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.
They are doing their trumps bidding. They aid him more than dare speak of him.
CHUCK SCHUMER OPEN SECRETS
https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/charles-e-schumer/summary?cid=N00001093&cycle=2024
Chuckles and Jeffries and out in the new democracy party. They are owned by Trump , and are doing trumps bidding.
Still missing a very necessary plank - sustained mass strategic economic withdrawal (that's the only language they understand). And I don't know if we will be able to force a somewhat free fair election without that.
May 1st. That's when we stop buying. Whoever can do it (ethically) will leave work and school. Then keep doing it. That's sustained mass strategic economic withdrawal. Yep, it's gonna be uncomfortable. Let's do it anyway.
Yes. Even extended periods of mass resistance and walk outs, is , IMO becoming necessary. They did it for COVID. No warning. If we plan it. It would be game changing.
Yes, absolutely. If not, perceived "comfort and convenience" will be the death knell of all.
Who is organizing and spreading the word? Is there a coalition saying MAY 1st? This here is the first date I have read.
Janet, Indivisible said it. Probably 50501 and others will also sponsor. This is from Indivisible: "May Day: a day of no work, shopping, or business as usual." I hope this link will get you started: https://indivisible.actionkit.com/mailings/view/125060?t=36&akid=125060%2E124611%2E-FxyR6
A big part of the problem. They lie all the time. We fight back. They still push on. Thats not winning. It's not normal. I don't have all the answers but I have done EVERYTHING since 2015 to stop this. I'm very tired.
Glenda, I've been tooting that horn for quite some time. General Strike until SCOTUS rescinds the Get Out of Jail Free Card (Trump v. United States) for the occupier. I don't see any other way, except to jam things up and hit their wallets. I've done some reading on past general strikes; they're very hard on those involved, but harder than this? No. The May 1st "stop work day" won't have enough oomph behind it to work. But to let them know we're willing to strike with no end in sight until they rescind that stupid-ass ruling? That will take some cajones for sure. We're up to it though.
I am new to this but wouldn't hesitate. There are too many afraid to do anything. It will never work. Too many scared. I am not so sure we get thru much with so many afraid to truly fight back.
I agree, Ramona. 🫤
Well said .
I actually was able to speak to a chair in our county for elections. I told him I want to make sure our elections are not tampered with and he said they are working behind the scenes to make sure that doesn't happen. Ooh rah!
What are they doing to combat ICE at the polls?
I am not feeling your optimism. I don't think we can "wait" for an election. He will claim we are at war and there may be no election. MEGAs own over 60% of the voting machines, which run on programs and he has programmers. He will have Ice at the polls, curbing participation from minorities. He still had an unbelievable approval rating of about 36%. We need to stop his economy, by strikes or other means. What's it gonna take? He'' be putting soldier on the ground soon.
I was not feeling very positive at the turn out I saw in PA Saturday. Very red still. Discouraging at best. We need a plan.
Speaking g of the numbers, I am sure there were people who couldn’t march, be it for health reasons, age, ability to be able to stand and walk long enough. I hope those people would share their numbers because it would even make it bigger! God Bless those who still stand for this country even if they couldn’t make the walk🙏🏻🥰
My wife and I are near St. Louis and wanted to go. She a bartender and I’m a chef and we have two little ones. We’re barely scraping by and just bought a house before the regime took power so it’s impossible for us to miss work on the weekend. We cheer for everyone that can make it out, they’re our heroes
Your young family is the reason so many of us boomers were in the streets yesterday. When my husband and I were raising our young family we had a tight budget but were still able to buy a home and pay our bills, and I stayed home with the kids until they were both in school. We, and many of our friends, vote, volunteer and do what we learned on college campuses in the late 60s and into the 70s - speak truth to power. And I, for one, will continue to organize, march, meet with my representatives, write letters, and encourage everyone to take a few minutes each day to tune into Meidas. Truth, inspiration and action. It's the only way things will get better.
A wonderful reply to give him and his family the boost they need to keep their spirits high!
I protest for those who cannot. Yet at some point we will have to feel comfort in being the majority, support each other and walk out on the job in solidarity. We will have t organize better, deeper.
I marched in San Diego, and I've spoken to at least 20 people today who wanted to go but weren't able to. So yes, I think for every one person who showed up, there were probably 10 or more who wanted to.
I met several people who aren't physically able to do more, but maintain a presence elsewhere, post articles, share information.
What matters is - do what you are able to do!
They make phone calls, send postcards, send emails.
One woman still has a KAMALA HARRIS flag in front of her house.
I had an appointment with a EXPERT coming a long distance & had to leave early, but gathered as much information as I could.
The 'opposition' has to be the most entertaining! One woman waiting for the light to change to make a right turn looked like she had a MELT DOWN in her car - she was so stressed and agitated - she was screaming in her car! BODY LANGUAGE was OVERWROUGHT! Gotta be a CULT to get HYSTERICAL in car!
The vast majority HONKED & WAVED!
Our Kamal signs were taken away!
That defines the ignorance and pettiness of MAGA MAGGOTS!
Just anger.
Or MENTAL ILLNESS!
Anger is normal, _but_ unless and until a person learns
1. how to process it,
2. how to use it,
3. how to be ITS master,
4. how to not abuse (or be abused by) it,
5. how to put a bit of breathing space between it and you,
6. how NOT to lace it with a list of add-on hatreds and grievances,
7. how not to turn it into an attack on another person,
and thereby, hopefully, how to lessen its appearance one's life,
chances are it will take over and dominate your thinking and feeling.
The phrase 'control one's anger' can seem like suggesting to stifle or smother it, which is not healthy. It is needful to be mature, even when others don't see that as a path or a choice, and use moments of anger toward a healthy, positively-expressed outcome.
Some may disagree, as these are merely some thoughts on the topic.
I have done VOTER CANVASSING in REPUBLICAN VOTING areas and while your insight is appreciated by thoughtful people, it ignores a specific segment of the population that embraces the ANGER and disinformation spewed by TRUMPERS and this administration - promoted by FOX NEWS = FAKE NEWS LIARS.
FOX NEWS settled for their ELECTION LIES, but if you only view FAUX NEWS, you never saw the settlement or the email exchanges. RUPERT MURDOCH knew they were LYING for viewers.
Doing voter canvassing is enlightening! It highlights poverty, poor education and inability to FACT CHECK.
In 2017, JOHN DEAN posted this article that adequately defined TRUMP SUPPORTERS, worth reading in its entirely:
Altemeyer on Trump’s Supporters
https://verdict.justia.com/2017/07/07/altemeyer-trumps-supporters
yeah several people I know had other obligations work kids events or birthday parties school two people had school projects or some combination.
I think a lot of people don't fully see or understand the value of the protests, even though they agree very strongly with the sentiment and they're extremely unhappy with everything that is happening under this horrible regime.
They don't see how it will do anything. they think it seems uncomfortable or sort of scary, ultimately kind of a chore.
anyway next time I got to do more in advance to get people involved have a sign making party or something.
I am one of the disabled, but I followed the protests, signs & coverage all day yesterday. I write & call my Republican senators & rep multiple times each week (the joy of living in deep, dark red Mississippi). And I read, read, read so many different commentators & news sites (but not corporate media!) & comment & engage with folks online. We are holding the line & I feel hopeful!
What you are doing is wonderful!!! I had seen some comments that basically said yeah it's great that all these folks are marching but what difference will it make, and what you said is exactly the difference it makes...it builds solidarity and invigorates folks to work harder doing other things (like run for office, call members of congress, email mainstream media, send post cards to voters). I'm like you and live in a deep red district and state (Missouri) and continue to call my MOCs despite an occasional feeling of uselessness. They don't care and I know they don't care and they know I know they don't care and that makes them happy but I still call. Without the support of others I don't know what I would do..would I still call? Would I donate when I can? Would I try to encourage others? I really don't know, so the support we give each other and the affirmation that we are not alone is vital to the movement. Thanks for all you do!
You’re doing a great job. And a dedicated one too! It It’s I amazing to see all those who can match us. While we man the phones.
Fantastic! That’s a perfect way to contribute🙏🏻🥰
Elizabeth, I am in the same situation as you and I couldn’t have said it better! I too, do all the things you’re doing and I live in deep red state, Missouri. I’m in a rural city, 35 minutes south of St Louis, and see maga all around me. It doesn’t stop me from wearing my “You Are In A Safe Space” sweatshirt with DEI slogans on the back! I’m a proud American who believes in our Democracy and Constitution!
I am one because I’ve had an illness for 3 weeks now but I asked others to attend for me. And I was loudly cheering for everyone from my sick bed. Thank you so much.
Great ! Hope you’re getting better!
Yes, thank you. My dr said it's some weird, crazy flu going around. Ended up in the hospital for a day. Be careful out there!
Well said! And these less seen citizens are equally as important to the resistance as are the folks who can get out and march. I imagine there are thousands if not millions of persons of color who are too scared to leave their homes but support the cause and we must figure out a way to let them know how important they are to the movement. I have no idea except to donate to organizations that support them in their homes like some I've seen that deliver meals to folks who are too afraid to go out. I'd love some ideas on ways we can support these supporters.
If we were to organize a country wide shutdown of citizens, we could use the time to help them while showing this regime who really runs this country. It's WE THE PEOPLE. The protests would be even bigger.
I'm not sure what you mean by shut down, but I do know for my children, here in ultra red Missouri not showing up to work would mean losing their job/house and unbelievable damage to their children (maybe change schools, who knows how they would survive). The don't have leave they can take for even a one day shutdown and I feel we need to be understanding of the millions of Americans who are in the same situation. I do think sort of an economic shutdown would be beneficial Many of us are cutting way back on our spending out of necessity but there still are millions of Americans who still have lots of money, over 16 million new cars/trucks were sold last year and while there might have been very tempting discounts, they still cost a lot of money. What if no one bought a new car this year? Or built a new house (again, only only well off folks are building homes, and they may all be trump supporters) or bought new clothes. I do believe those things would matter, and while we will never convince everyone to do this what if we convinced a lot of folks to do this. I imagine there is someone out there that could tell us how many folks we need to convince to not buy anything new (unless absolutely necessary) it would take to make an impact. Sometimes you have to have something new like underwear or shoes or an oven and we should not make folks feel horrible for buying those things, but I do believe there are a lot of extras we could do without (just walking in the Walmart aisles and seeing the totally unnecessary Easter toys/stuffed animals tells me there are things folks are buying they don't really know). For the lower working classes this is going to happen as a natural consequence of trump's policies but again, I think there are many more who could have an impact if they choose.
I have not worked it out. I am in the same situation. My kids as well. But I've stopped the spending and am doing the boycotts. It isn't working We are all going to have nothing if this keeps rolling his way any how. Very drastic. Very disturbing . But it would be an alternative to civil war in the streets against a hostile government. Stay home . Hunker down. Protest. It would have to be an all in situation. Drastic times need drastic measures . If they do NOTHING . WE have to do something. Right now I see no plan. And this just gets worse everyday. Very scary.
It is very scary. I have read a few books where the authors talk about the joy that some folks have because of the relationships they have and their connectedness to their culture rather than things. I recently watched the interview Anderson Cooper did with Sara Bareilles and she sort of said, you know all the trappings, the songs, the concerts, whatever don't really matter and all that matters really is our relationships to each other. Well, trump and the GOP can and might take away all the trappings, but those of us who are lucky will have those relationships left. I often think that much of America has no real shared culture except persons of color and that out only culture is consumerism and getting more and more stuff. When I heard the Lt. Gov of Minn, Peggy Flannigan speak at the No Kings Protest and she said her family/clan's role it so be sure that no one is left behind. By and large white Americans don't have a clan like that. Much of our culture seems to be striving for bigger houses, fancier cars, designer clothes you can get on some internet site for real cheap. Well I do believe those many of those folks are going to be very unhappy. I also watched the interview Stephen Colbert did with Edward Norton after my daughter recommended it, and he sort of said the same thing. Folks with that culture/philosophy/outlook on life are going to be ok no matter what. They will always find a way to help and that is what brings them joy. As we sink into third world nationism it will be very hard except of course for all those who can leave but I hope that there will be many many who retain joy in the face of hardship. And it may be when we are on the third world doorstep a huge majority of citizens will rise up and say hey, the GOP did this to us, there IS a better way (it may be that they will have to say our parents told us about it!). And as I say so often this is one of the most valuable things about MTN..the sense of community that we all share.
That was beautiful. I am in full agreement. I hope, everyday that this is a bad dream we are living. I hate it all. Want it to stop.
I always fear the what if. Girl scout I guess. I wanna be prepared .it keeps me up. Hopefully . This too shall pass.✌️
Well said🙏🏻🥰
Thanks for saying that. I can't stand or walk for long but I've thoroughly supported all my friends who marched. We need to keep the pressure on as long and as hard as possible.
I just saw on Sunday that there is a way on the No Kings website that you can support and be counted for the march when you’re unable to attend for health reasons, work, etc. For the next march that needs to be made known if it really does exist. I recently had foot surgery and in a walking boot and would loved to have been counted.
Thanks Ben for working tirelessly on growing MeidasTouch and keeping us informed with facts that are supported with receipts. I found your podcast after the November 2024 election and listen faithfully and read Substacks as a subscribed member to both. You deserve time off with your family and make all the memories that you can with your beautiful daughter. The time goes by so quickly and quality time is key. Be in the moment and watch all the wonder and curiosity as well as firsts.
Thanks for the great info!
Yes, my husband was unable to for health reasons. Great suggestion.
My body is plenty cranky, but I was determined to go, and am so glad I did! It was so uplifting.
Im still freezing and feel awful. But I did it . It's infuriating to see them minimize the No Kings protests.
I’m going to be 68 in two days and disabled but, I followed NO KINGS protests all day into the evening and made my voice loud and clear by posting on all journalistic platforms! I very much felt a part of the movement and am very grateful to be part of this growing community. I engage for the future of this great democracy and will defend it until my last breath!
I'm 77, my partner is 82. We were out there, cold and old. It meant a lot to hear the horns toot as they drove by. But there are still Trumpsters out there. MEGA is alive and well. Who are these supporting a 36% approval rating?!
East Texans I believe have a higher approval rate than 36%, of Trump. In 2015, out of 2500 households where I live in east Texas, there were 3 democratic households: per the leader of the County's democratic party. I hear bitching about the price of gas and groceries, but they blame democrats for it, and they can see no other answer. And boy do they become mad when I disagree or say a fact rather than an opinion.
One neighbor had a huge 2028 Trump/Vance banner up on his fence...but there must have been some flack, because it's now just a Trump/Vance sign with no date. :( (I'm hoping it was because it would be illegal for him to run again - but it probably wasn't.)
Hooray for the zoo and your reporting. The Republicans know they are facing a doomed November, and the cracks are big and numerous. We are going to save democracy and work on equality. It's a big load, but we can do it. No Kings was amazing.
Reps beginning to realize they're wrong! It takes a big person to swallow a big mistake! But we're all together on this and will remain together! ❤️
Thanks to all of Meidas for dedicated hard work keeping us all apprised of the daily truths!
Thank you for putting your heart and soul into your work. You and your brothers are making a difference as we as a nation stand up against hate. We stand up for our democracy and got decency. Thank you Meidas Touch!
Ben&Meidas are our voices too!
I was struck by the energy and enthusiasm at both of the No Kings events I attended. But more than that, the joy that folks exhibited with each other, with the energy, with the conversation and with the camaraderie, pure joy! They will not take our community spirit. They will not take our spirit. It was overwhelmingly peaceful and positive and joyful being with like-minded souls intent on saving our republic.
Same here! No Kings!
Lots of younger people out in Seattle yesterday... quite heartening -- and so many folks watching and cheering.
Agree! I saw many more younger folks than at the previous No Kings protests. Very heartening.
Yes family and we have to grow tighter, stronger & more determined - demand those questions answered, that this be resolved, removed/curtail/whatever it takes to the people causing this country to fall. We The People demand this!
Family is everything. Both home and here.
Loved it, thought I somehow lost the morning message when I had to have my Sunday coffee alone! Glad you and your family enjoyed the zoo! Thanks for all you are doing. A fan from Cape Cod!
Thanks for honest reporting😃
I spent 3 hours in 90 degree heat in Menifee CA for the rally. It was well worth it. My 70 year old body then spent an hour in the swimming pool doing nothing. Like you Ben, my family is everything. My 4 daughter's are why I do this. Daniela is 28. Sarah, Holly, and Megan are 25. This world must get better for them. Right now, we are no better than a banana republic.
Randy Freeman
90degrees already! That might be usual for where you are at in CA. I’m in NW Ark & March usually roars back like a lion w/ lots of cold. We already had one week of mud to late 80’s. Very unusual here. It’s like we went from Winter to Summer! I hope we get some Spring!
I was so glad to hear that you got away from the crazy stuff and was able to enjoy family time! Its so important to not lose touch with the ones you love! Thank you again for all that you guys do! Stay safe!
I’m glad you went to the zoo with your daughter you needed that and I’m sure your daughter loved it. Thank you for your relentless coverage I appreciate you and all of the.MTN.
A wonderful, personal message. Thanks Ben.