Posts made in August 2024

USAID Report: Gaza “Humanitarian Pier” A Costly and Ineffective Venture

BY JOSH PAUL

Former Director, U.S. Department of State / Senior Advisor at DAWN / DAWN; Founded by Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, DAWN promotes democracy & human rights in the Middle East and North Africa. 

We all remember the fiasco that was the “humanitarian pier” (and the airdrops – what happened to those, by the way?).

Yesterday, the USAID Inspector General released their review of the pier, finding that this $230 million exercise “allowed for the delivery of aid in Gaza at a time when land routes were restricted, it operated for about 20 days and allowed delivery of enough assistance to feed only 450,000 people in Gaza.”

This is notable for several reasons, primary among which is the line that “and routes were restricted” – of course without adding “by Israel.” Under U.S. law (Section 620I of the Foreign Assistance Act) we are not permitted to provide any form of assistance, including military assistance, to a country that is restricting the delivery of US-funded humanitarian assistance. As if it had not been obvious for, frankly, many years (let alone the past 10+ months) that this was the case in Gaza, the USAID OIG report is further evidence from the lips of the U.S. Government that these restrictions exist. Every single day and every single dollar that funds the IDF’s capabilities is a violation of our laws.

You can read the entire OIG report HERE, including the finding that “multiple USAID staff expressed concerns that the focus on using JLOTS [the pier] would detract from the Agency’s advocacy to open land crossings in Israel and Egypt, which were seen as more efficient and proven avenues for delivering aid to Gaza.”

Understanding the Candidates: Foreign Policy in the 2024 U.S. Election

As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, foreign policy takes center stage. The Council on Foreign Relations provides comprehensive resources to track candidates’ policies, monitor critical global issues, and understand the evolving role of the United States in the world.

Vice President Kamala Harris seeks the presidency amidst ongoing foreign policy challenges, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. Former President Donald Trump aims to return to his “America First” policies, a significant departure from traditional Democratic approaches. Jill Stein, the Green Party’s candidate, advocates for a non-interventionist stance, criticizing U.S. military involvement overseas and supporting maintaining current levels of international aid.

The upcoming 2024 US presidential election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in foreign policy. The candidates vying for the presidency bring starkly different visions of America’s role in the world.

For a list of the remaining 2024 Presidential Candidates, click HERE.

Incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris, representing the Democratic Party, seeks to build upon the Biden-Harris administration’s foreign policy agenda while navigating complex geopolitical challenges.

Former President Donald Trump, the Republican frontrunner, is campaigning on a platform of “America First” policies. His approach emphasizes a departure from traditional alliances and a focus on prioritizing American interests above all else.

Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate, offers a non-interventionist perspective. She has been a vocal critic of American military involvement overseas and advocates for a more restrained foreign policy. And Cornell West, an intellectual running for president as an independent, states his foreign policy position as, “Cease all war funding and weapons to Ukraine and invest in peacemaking.” 

Libertarian, Chase Oliver states his policy position on foreign aid and relations as, “End aid being directed to nation-states currently at war. This includes Israel and Ukraine. While we offer moral support to our friends currently engaged with the enemy, we should not be contributing to extending the fight.” Randall Terry, under the banner of the Constitution Party, focused his campaign on pro-life policies. His website states, “Our campaign has 3 Goals to Defend Children, Defeat the Democrat nominee and Destroy the Democrat Party.”

With such contrasting viewpoints, the 2024 election promises to be a defining moment for the future direction of US foreign policy. Voters will have a crucial decision to make, as the outcome will undoubtedly shape America’s engagement with the world for years to come.

California’s AB1840 Bill: Expanding Homeownership or Misusing Taxpayer Funds?

California’s controversial AB 1840 bill has ignited a fierce debate surrounding the state’s housing policies. The bill, which has already passed in the Assembly and is now headed for a floor vote in the Democrat-run Senate, proposes to extend the California Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan program to undocumented migrants.

This program, launched in 2023, provides interest-free loans to first-time homebuyers for down payments or closing costs. The loans are repaid when the property is sold or refinanced, along with 20% of the increase in the home’s value. While the program aims to make homeownership more accessible, its expansion to undocumented migrants has drawn both support and criticism.

Arguments in Favor

Proponents of AB1840 argue that homeownership is a fundamental right that should be available to all Californians, regardless of their immigration status. They contend that the bill promotes economic stability and social equity by allowing undocumented migrants to build generational wealth and contribute to their communities.

Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula, a Fresno Democrat and the bill’s sponsor, emphasizes the historical significance of homeownership in the United States as a means of accumulating wealth. He believes that extending the program to undocumented migrants is a step towards achieving a more inclusive and equitable society.

Arguments Against

Critics of AB1840, including San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, view the bill as a misuse of taxpayer funds. They argue that California, which is already grappling with a budget deficit, should prioritize the needs of its citizens, including homeless veterans, before extending benefits to undocumented migrants.

Opponents also express concerns about the potential strain on the program’s resources and the possibility of increased wait times for eligible applicants. They question the fairness of providing financial assistance to individuals who have not entered the country legally.

Public Reaction

The bill has sparked strong reactions from Californians, with many taking to social media to voice their opinions. While some applaud the bill as a progressive measure, others denounce it as “insane,” “nonsense,” and “evil.” Some critics have even called for a “taxpayer revolt.”

Joaquin Arambula, author; Home Purchase Assistance Program: eligibility

The Road Ahead

The fate of AB1840 now rests in the hands of the California Senate. If the bill passes, it will be sent to Governor Gavin Newsom for final approval. The outcome of this legislative process will have significant implications for California’s housing policies and the ongoing debate over immigration reform.

DOJ Takes Action Against RealPage

The Department of Justice has filed a suit against RealPage for alleged price fixing and antitrust violations.

The Department of Justice (DOJ), along with several state Attorneys General, has filed a lawsuit against RealPage Inc., accusing the company of employing an unlawful scheme to reduce competition among landlords and monopolize the rental pricing software market. RealPage’s actions have allegedly harmed millions of American renters by raising rental prices.

The lawsuit contends that RealPage’s software uses algorithms that encourage landlords to share sensitive pricing information, which then influences rental rates. This practice effectively eliminates competition among landlords, leading to higher prices for renters. The DOJ argues that RealPage’s conduct violates the Sherman Act, which prohibits anticompetitive behavior.

The complaint highlights RealPage’s intention to maximize profits for landlords, citing internal documents that refer to the software’s ability to “drive every possible opportunity to increase price.” The DOJ also emphasizes RealPage’s market dominance in revenue management software, which further solidifies its ability to manipulate rental prices.

The lawsuit seeks to end RealPage’s alleged illegal practices and restore competition in the rental market for the benefit of renters nationwide. If successful, the DOJ’s action could have significant implications for the rental industry and potentially lead to more affordable housing options for millions of Americans.

DNC “Joy”: Democratic Elites Shamelessly Rejoiced in the Face of Immense Domestic and Global Suffering

The irony and cynical nature of our American history, political culture and troublesome patriotism.

Full Speech of Vice President, Kamala Harris.

“For the People”

The DNC convention in Chicago has come to a close after four days of “Joybilee” and self adulation. Attendees, cloaked in the spirit of all the promises of The Declaration of Independence, fanned their happiness, prosperity and all the virtues America espouses. Have you ever seen a more enthusiastic crowd outside of a Beyonce or Taylor Swift concert? Probably not. And it’s strange because for the life of me I can’t understand what their cartoon-like expressions of joy are based upon. What do these people know that the rest of us don’t? 

They ignored the mass protests miles outside their comfort zone, thanks to the “democratic” barriers erected around the DNC “Joy” festival to keep up the appearance of their own version of democracy in action. Huh, what fire?! The gaslighting and perception changing strategy was so profound and on-point, the DNC, Israel and mainstream media deserve an award for their effort to corral a weary American public away from cold hard truths.  

Accepting her nomination for president, Vice President Kamala Harris spoke of how her childhood friend help shape her passion for law because, she said, “… I believe everyone has a right: To safety. To dignity. And to justice.” We must ask, however, safety for who? Who is deserving of dignity? And if elected, how and to whom will this passion for justice be delivered?

Harris also spoke of her late mother, saying, “She taught us to never complain about injustice. But…do something about it.” If this is truly her belief, why did the DNC circle their carnival wagons with barricades to silence protesters doing something about what’s happening in Gaza and across the country? What do her words mean outside of political posturing and proving, once again, that our elected officials have only perfected the art of lying and gaslighting us. Mind you, since Ronald Reagan not much has “trickled down” to the working class of America. As a matter of fact, the gap between rich and poor is greater and the American people, with so-called inalienable rights, are slowly and meticulously losing them, including their grip on the American Dream long ago promised. And Black folks can’t even mention reparations without indignation, including a loud and clear Harris response when the question of reparations was posed to her, “I’m not gonna to sit here and say that I’m gonna do something that’s only gonna benefit Black people. No.”   

“A Bold Vision for America’s Future”

Our nation is in peril and these empty vessels full of arrogance, hypocrisy and self delusion brought The People a perfectly organized circus disguised as the second coming of the Obama era, as if hope and change are real options today. Compounding our serious domestic woes, including an out of control immigration problem, is the ongoing genocide being carried out in Palestine with American weapons of mass destruction by our “staunchest ally” and financial benefactor, Israel. Unfortunately, the truth of the state of America would put a real damper on all that Joybilee we witnessed at the convention. I’m surprised Truman Burbank from The Truman Show didn’t make an appearance to solidify the shit cake the DNC served in Chicago as an appetizer before the main course is delivered to We, the People after November. 

Corporate media’s insidious censorship of independent journalism and pay-to-play tactic – forcing blatant lies, hypocrisy and double-standards down our wide-open conscientiousness – must also be noted and seen for what it is; an attack from a bona-fide enemy of The People. Man’s basic understanding of truth is no longer reliable by their measure and posturing. This, in spite of what our eyes are seeing, our empty wallets are experiencing, the loosening grip on that so-called “American Dream” is feeling like … our elected officials, compromised by AIPAC dollars and influence, demand We, The People believe that the fires raging across the country and the globe are just a figment of our imagination. And although Kamala Harris is serving America as a historic Vice President, she isn’t responsible for the trouble we are in, not just domestically, but globally. And Israel isn’t really slaughtering children by the thousands and actively carpet bombing Palestinians, piece by piece, safe zone by safe zone, school by school. First, it’s all Hamas’s fault because of October 7, and the atrocities most of the world is condemning is a mirage of what could be going on if you vote for Trump. And the public can be reassured of the DNC “truths” by simply turning on their TVs to listen to Joy Reed and all the other sycophants discuss what’s really happening from their prop news desks. 

“I will always stand up for Israel’s right to defend itself. And I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself, because the people of Israel must never again face the horror that a terrorist organization called Hamas caused on October 7, including unspeakable sexual violence and the massacre of young people at a music festival.” – Harris

America’s dependable corporate media was naturally happy to oblige our government by turning all these elected, once grassroots people, into the “stars” (not leaders) they truly are meant to be for us. The message is clear. Public service and identity politics is your golden ticket to stardom when Hollywood fails to discover you. Accepting the nomination the vice president reminded us of the five words she spoke in front of a judge during her days as a prosecutor, “Kamala Harris, for the People.” The American people need clarity on who “The People” are that she’s referring to because from any logical standpoint, it’s not We, The People. 

“A Fight for our Freedoms”

As expected, Democratic voters have lined up as usual to fawn and worship at the feet of the people they elected to serve them in a government supposedly for The People, and by The People. What we witnessed in Chicago was akin to the imagery of Sodom and Gomoriah. And these fawning people were worshiping hard, too. So hard, they forgot about the state of our economy. The state of housing all across America with the backdrop of the DOJ filing suit against a software company accused of colluding with landlords to price gouge Americans out of their money and homes. They forgot about all the wars our politicians are signing us up for. They seem to also have no recollection or interest in the fact that a foreign government, Israel, is deciding the outcomes of our elections. 

And women’s right to an abortion and basic health care is still being debated and barbarically managed, as if Donald Trump didn’t spell out his own vision for his America First dream many, many moons ago. Even as he packed the courts to fulfill his Aryanism dreams, Democratic leaders and their “elites” only cared about themselves and all the money they were making while Trump was planning. 

They counted on strong rhetoric to fool Americans into believing that they were working overtime to protect us from the boogeyman… until the boogeyman overturned Roe v. Wade on their watch. THAT’S how good Democratic pockets were getting lined to turn a blind eye to the political scheming taking place in Congress, including with their own AIPAC dollars to curry favor. All while illegal immigration is crippling large cities, and pitting poor people against each other. 

Local lawmakers high on virtue didn’t just break their oaths to The People, they also broke their budgets to help the tired, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to breathe free, streaming across our borders like a scene from The Walking Dead. This, while their own residents go hungry, become homeless and jobless in a country built from their labor and sacrifice. Lawmakers in New York even wrote bills to give illegal immigrants a right to vote. Still, the DNC wants us to focus on what our former First Lady Michelle Obama said, “We don’t get to change the rules so we always win” … it’s true. Sad, said Trump. And California lawmakers, turning a blind eye to their homeless problem, are also working hard to ensure undocumented individuals benefit from the American dream of homeownership with AB1840 … a dream yet to be realized by most Americans who have waited generations for a bite of the apple from the trees they planted. We truly must be dreaming because the reality of America is unreal. 

“I fought against cartels who traffic in guns, drugs, and human beings. Who threaten the security of our border and the safety of our communities. Those fights were not easy. And neither were the elections that put me in those offices. We were underestimated at every turn. But we never gave up. Because the future is always worth fighting for. And that’s the fight we are in right now. A fight for America’s future.”  Harris

Across the horizon of these empty words, the same cartel Harris fought against is granted asylum today and put up in hotel rooms where they can adequately plan their American dream while the rest of us pay for endless wars and Israeli socialism. 

 

 “For our Future”

As tension in the Middle East escalates, Americans are duty bound to ask our leaders where they are leading us. More than three years in office, and the Biden-Harris administration has not adequately lifted our tremendous burden, or keen on stopping the genocide being carried out by Israel. We live in a country that makes living, hell. And the Democratic Party is so indignant and cynical of the needs of the working class, they choose instead to fight culture wars. The management of American statecraft was laid bare in front of the American people in Chicago. We can no longer afford categorization as the future of our democracy, including humanity, is at stake. 

Whether you’re on the right or the left, a progressive or an independent voter, we are at the precipice of change in the course of our nation and the world. Political categorization has cut us short. Democrats and Republicans are fighting against each other for control of the country, not for We, The People. And truth tellers are called to transcend partisan affiliation to heal our country and revive hope for a better world. Americans are at a crucial juncture in our unique history and culture where only truth can lead us from the grips of partisanship, stop the theft of our wealth by our government and military industrial complex wreaking havoc across the globe, and face the uncomfortable dilemmas of our nation. 

Truth is uncomfortable because they outline our failures. Americans may believe they’re exceptional in the world, but it’s time we appreciate that there are limits to our power. We, The People are propagandized to believe many untruths, including that we only have two choices this November: Identity Politics or the racist Boogeyman. It’s time to face the irony of our own sins in the face of national and global crises and make a new beginning in a corrupt world.    

An op-ed by ePa editor.

DHS Launches New Program For Undocumented Individuals

The Biden administration has launched a new Parole in Place program aimed at providing immigration relief for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. This program allows eligible individuals to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country, thus avoiding potential reentry bans.

Understanding Parole in Place

Parole in Place, as defined by immigration law, is a mechanism that allows a noncitizen to temporarily enter, live, and sometimes work in the U.S. This status is crucial as it can enable someone to meet the criteria for adjusting their status under immigration law. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has discretionary power to grant parole on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Parole in Place, an undocumented person must meet specific criteria, including:

  • Continuous presence in the U.S. for at least 10 years
  • Legal marriage to a U.S. citizen before June 17, 2024
  • No criminal convictions
  • No threat to national security or public safety

Applicants must also complete a detailed application, pay associated fees, and if approved, will have three years to apply for permanent residency. During this period, they can remain in the U.S. with their family and are eligible for work authorization.

Fact Sheet.

Benefits for Undocumented Spouses

The traditional path to obtaining an immigrant visa for spouses of U.S. citizens who entered the country without authorization is complex and risky. It often necessitates leaving the U.S. to attend an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, which can trigger lengthy reentry bans.

The Parole in Place program offers a more streamlined approach, allowing eligible individuals to adjust their immigration status without leaving the country. This provision is particularly beneficial given the lengthy processing times for waiver requests under current legislation.

Criticism and Legal Standing

While the program aims to provide relief for many families, it has faced criticism from some Republican lawmakers who argue that it contravenes existing laws and could exacerbate the ongoing border crisis. However, Biden administration officials express confidence in the program’s legal standing.

Conclusion

The Parole in Place program signifies a shift in immigration policy, offering a potential lifeline for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. While its implementation and long-term impact remain to be seen, it represents a notable effort to address the complexities and challenges faced by this particular group of immigrants.

A Mid-August Dreaming: Things To Do In The DC Area

The DC area is brimming with exciting events and activities this week. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

  • History and Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich history of the nation’s capital by visiting iconic landmarks and museums. Explore the many cultural and epicurean festivals and fairs, in addition to the National Mall.
  • Food and Drink: Indulge in DC’s diverse culinary scene at the Around The World Cultural Food Festival. And you can also sample flavors at the WOW! Indonesian Festival.
  • Arts and Entertainment: Catch a live performance at the Kennedy Center, explore the latest exhibitions at the National Gallery of Art, or enjoy a night of laughter at one of the city’s comedy clubs.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the pleasant weather and explore the great outdoors. Go for a hike in Rock Creek Park, rent a paddleboat on the Tidal Basin, or simply relax and soak in the sun at one of the city’s many parks.

The Washingtonian’s, 36 Things to Do in the DC Area This Week and Weekend  is an extensive resource for those looking to make their plans. Don’t miss out on these exciting events and activities!

For food and drink enthusiasts, here are some must-try historic restaurants and market to explore:

  • Ben’s Chili Bowl: A DC institution since 1958, famous for its chili half-smokes and milkshakes.
  • Old Ebbitt Grill: A historic restaurant near the White House, serving classic American fare with a lively atmosphere.
  • Le Diplomate: A popular French brasserie with a bustling sidewalk café and delicious steak frites.
  • Eastern Market: A vibrant indoor/outdoor market with a wide variety of food vendors, perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
  • Rose’s Luxury: A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative American cuisine and intimate setting. Also, every meal eaten at Rose’s, a donation to the WFP-USA is made to help feed hungry children around the world. 

    Keith Lee, Viral Food Critic, Heads to DMV

    Keith Lee, the popular food critic known for his viral TikTok reviews, recently announced he’s visited the DMV area.

    Lee, who has amassed a large following for his honest and insightful reviews, sharing his culinary adventures from around the country, is asking for suggestions of places to visit and support. 

    Known for his willingness to try diverse cuisines and his support for small businesses, Lee’s visit will no doubt generate significant buzz among local food enthusiasts. His reviews often highlight hidden gems and lesser-known establishments, providing them with valuable exposure. While the specific details of Lee’s DMV itinerary remain undisclosed, his presence will undoubtedly leave a mark on the local food scene. Restaurants fortunate enough to be featured in his reviews will likely experienced a surge in popularity. Lee’s visit will serve as a testament to the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of the DMV area. As a prominent influencer in the food industry, his reviews carry significant weight and have the power to shape the success of local businesses, as well as capture the food culture in America.

    Phil Donahue, Pioneering American Talk Show Host, Dies at 88

    Phil Donahue, the iconic talk show host who revolutionized daytime television, has passed away at the age of 88. Donahue, known for his groundbreaking approach to interviewing and audience engagement, leaves behind a legacy that spans nearly three decades.

    Donahue’s show, which aired for 29 years, was a pioneer in the talk show format. He was one of the first hosts to welcome audience participation, often allowing guests to ask questions directly to his interviewees. This interactive approach, combined with Donahue’s willingness to tackle controversial topics, made his show a must-watch for millions of viewers.

    Throughout his career, Donahue interviewed a wide range of guests, from celebrities and politicians to everyday people with extraordinary stories. He was known for his ability to connect with his audience and create a space for open and honest dialogue.

    Donahue’s impact on television cannot be overstated. He paved the way for future generations of talk show hosts and helped to shape the medium into what it is today. His death is a loss for the entertainment industry, American culture and for all those who were touched by his work.

    Democratic National Convention Kicks Off With Anti-War Protests

    The 2024 Democratic National Convention is starting today, August 19, in Chicago. The convention will feature speeches from prominent Democrats, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz.

    The DNC is expected to focus on highlighting the Biden administration’s accomplishments and outlining the Democratic Party’s vision for the future. It will also serve as a platform to rally support for Vice President Harris and her running mate Tim Walz as they seek their own term to lead a deeply divided nation. 

    Stay tuned for more coverage of the DNC as it unfolds this week.

    The DNC will focus on highlighting the Biden-Harris administration’s accomplishments and outlining the Democratic Party’s vision for the future. Key issues will include:

    • Economy: The Biden administration’s economic policies, job growth, and inflation.
    • Healthcare:  Affordable Care Act, prescription drug costs, reproductive rights.
    • Climate Change: Environmental policies, clean energy initiatives.
    • Gun Violence: Gun control measures, safety reforms.
    • Education: Student loan debt, college affordability, K-12 education.
    • Foreign Policy:  Relationships with allies, handling of global conflicts.

    These are areas based on common Democratic priorities and current political discourse. The specific issues emphasized will likely become clearer as the convention progresses on the heels of planned pro-Palestinian protests focused on ending the on-going genocide being carried out by Israel against the Palestinian people. According to officials, the death toll since the start of the recent Oct. 7 conflict has surpassed 40,000 people, mostly civilians; children, women and the elderly.  

    Protests Disrupt DNC Delegate Party

    As the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, it’s not just party delegates and politicians making their voices heard. Anti-Israel protesters disrupted a delegate party on the eve of the convention, highlighting the range of views and concerns that will likely be present throughout the week.

    While the DNC is expected to focus on the Biden-Harris administration’s accomplishments and the Democratic Party’s vision, external demonstrations like these underscore the diverse political landscape and the challenges Democrats face in unifying their base. It remains to be seen how these protests and other demonstrations might influence the convention’s proceedings and messaging.