Posts tagged with "donald j. trump"

Trump’s Policies: Reshaping American Culture, Society and Tribal Nations

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Tracking Trump’s Second Term Executive Orders

President Donald Trump’s second term has begun with a wave of executive orders, signaling a significant shift in policy direction. This post breaks down the key orders, their implications, and what they mean for the future.

Need to Know: Trump’s Executive Orders

  • Volume: As of Feb. 20, President Trump has signed over 70 executive orders, marking the most within the first 100 days of a presidential term in over 40 years.
  • Scope: These orders span various sectors, including culture, immigration, energy, crime, and government operations, indicating a broad effort to reshape American policy and culture.
  • Controversy: Many of these orders have sparked debate, with critics questioning their constitutionality and potential impact on various groups within society.

Key Takeaways: A Summary of Major Executive Orders

  • Culture:
    • Several orders address gender identity, with policies defining “sex,” restricting gender-affirming care, and affecting sports participation.
    • Initiatives to investigate and eliminate perceived “anti-Christian bias” and “anti-Semitism.”
    • Changes to national symbols and names.
  • Immigration:
    • Orders focused on border security, including building a wall, increased detention and removal, and ending certain immigration programs.
    • Changes to asylum policies and refugee resettlement.
    • Task forces to address immigration issues at both the northern and southern borders.
  • Energy:
    • Emphasis on maximizing energy production, including in Alaska, and deregulation of the energy sector.
    • Reversal of some environmental regulations.
  • Government:shame of trump
    • Orders aimed at increasing government efficiency, reforming the hiring process, and ensuring accountability.
    • Creation of new government bodies and the elimination of others.
    • Investigations into past government actions and potential censorship.
  • Foreign Affairs:
    • Withdrawal from international agreements and organizations, including the Paris Agreement and the World Health Organization.
    • Changes to foreign aid distribution.
    • Sanctions on the International Criminal Court.
  • Defense:
    • Reversal of policies regarding transgender individuals serving in the military.
    • Emphasis on military readiness and the development of new defense systems.
  • Trade:
    • Imposition of tariffs on goods from Canada, China, and Mexico, though some of these were later paused.
  • Education:
    • Focus on school choice and “patriotic education.”
    • Efforts to eliminate federal funds from certain educational programs.

Implications for American Culture and Society

These executive orders have the potential to significantly reshape American culture and society. Here are some key implications:

  • Divisiveness: Several orders, particularly those related to culture and immigration, could exacerbate existing social divisions.
  • Legal Challenges: Many of these orders are likely to face legal challenges, which could lead to lengthy court battles and uncertainty.
  • International Relations: Changes to foreign policy and withdrawal from international agreements could strain relationships with other countries.
  • Economic Impact: Trade policies and changes to energy regulations could have significant economic consequences.
  • Social Change: Policies related to gender identity, abortion, and education could lead to substantial social change and impact the lives of many Americans.

Trump Order to Designate English as Official Language: A Shift in U.S. Policy

President Trump is expected to sign an executive order designating English as the official language of the United States. The order would allow government agencies and organizations that receive federal funding to choose whether to offer documents and services in languages other than English, and it would rescind a mandate from former President Bill Clinton that required such agencies to provide language assistance to non-English speakers. More than 30 states have already passed laws designating English as their official language, and lawmakers in Congress have introduced similar legislation for decades, though without success. Within hours of Trump’s inauguration last month, the new administration took down the Spanish language version of the official White House website, which has not been restored. The Trump administration also shut down the Spanish version of the website during his first term, and it was restored when President Joe Biden was inaugurated.

Implications for American Culture:

  • Debate over National Identity: The move reignites the ongoing debate about American identity and what it means to be an American. It emphasizes assimilation and a singular national language, potentially marginalizing other linguistic and cultural identities.
  • Impact on Immigrant Communities: This could create challenges for immigrant communities who may not yet be proficient in English, affecting their access to government services and resources. It might also affect the acceptance and inclusion of these communities in broader American society.
  • Changes in Government Services: The executive order would potentially reduce the availability of multilingual government services, impacting access for non-English speakers. This could create disparities in areas like healthcare, education, and social services.
  • Reinforcement of Cultural Divides: This policy could deepen existing cultural and political divides, with some viewing it as essential for national unity and others seeing it as discriminatory and exclusionary.

Symbolic Message: Designating English as the official language sends a symbolic message about the value placed on different languages and cultures within the U.S., potentially affecting how different linguistic groups are perceived and treated, especially Indian Nations that speak many different languages.

Trump’s Policies and Their Impact on Tribal Entities

Trump’s policies have had a mixed impact on tribal entities. Proposed rules clarifying the tax status of tribal corporations and the Tribal General Welfare Exclusion Act could be rejected by the Trump administration due to its opposition to preferential treatment based on race or ethnicity. However, Trump’s support for states’ rights and local sovereignty, and his advocacy for the official recognition of the Lumbee Tribe, suggest that his administration may be supportive of these rules.

Trump’s energy policies have had a limited impact on tribal entities. While his executive orders encourage energy exploration and production on federal lands, tribal lands are unlikely to be considered federal lands for this purpose. Additionally, energy companies have shown little interest in drilling in Alaska, and the administration’s withdrawal from wind energy leasing off America’s Outer Continental Shelf does not appear to have impacted any tribal entities.

The Trump administration’s freeze on certain federal grants and loans has created uncertainty for tribal programs that rely on federal funding. While the freeze has faced legal challenges, its long-term implications remain unclear. Tribal governments and enterprises may need to explore alternative funding sources or contingency plans to sustain essential services. Trump’s reversal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives could affect individual members of tribal groups as they apply for employment, as well as tribal businesses that seek federal contracting opportunities. The potential economic effects of this order on tribal corporations engaged in government contracting could be significant.

Trump also rescinded several executive orders from the prior administration relating to strengthening marginalized communities, including tribal nations. The impact of these reversals on tribal communities is unclear.

It is important to stay informed and engaged in these evolving policy changes under Trump 2.0.

ePa spoke with Larry Wright, Jr., Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) on Trump’s impact in Tribal Nations:

Trump Sworn In as 47th President, Promises “Golden Age”

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Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th US president. His inauguration can be watched live on the page or followed on BBC Sounds. 

In his address, he stated that “the golden age of America begins right now,” promising that the country will “flourish and be respected” under his leadership as a “peacemaker and a unifier.” 

He also criticized the Biden administration and its handling of the migrant crisis, alleging a crisis of “trust” in the government. The ceremony, held in the US Capitol rotunda, was attended by tech billionaires, cabinet nominees, and former presidents.  Just before Trump took the oath, Joe Biden issued pardons for members of his family. 

Trump is expected to declare a “national emergency” at the US-Mexico border, designate drug cartels as terrorists, and eliminate government diversity programs through a series of executive orders. However, officials have stated that he will not announce tariffs on trade partners today. An analysis by the BBC’s North America correspondent, Anthony Zurcher, describes Trump’s speech as fiery, involving both jabs and promises.

Donald Trump’s full speech on Inauguration Day 2025

MLK Day & Inauguration 2025: A Historic Confluence

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Today, we observe the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights and racial justice in America. Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech is more than a node in history; it’s a celebration of a defining moment in American and a testament to the enduring power of Dr. King’s dream. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work that still needs to be done to build a more just and equitable society.

A Day of Remembrance and Reflection:

MLK Day commemorates Dr. King’s birth on January 15, 1929, though the holiday falls on the third Monday of January due to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This year, that’s January 20th. This timing often places the holiday close to his birthday, serving as a poignant moment to reflect on his contributions.

Dr. King’s tireless work to end segregation and racism through nonviolent resistance earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. He organized marches, boycotts, and sit-ins, challenging discriminatory laws and practices that plagued American society. From the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 to the historic March on Washington in 1963, King’s leadership galvanized a movement that ultimately led to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Why MLK Day Matters to American Culture:

  • A Symbol of the Civil Rights Movement: MLK Day is a potent symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, a period of profound social change that challenged the very fabric of American democracy. It reminds us of the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for equality, and the progress that has been made.
  • A Call to Action: MLK Day is not just a day for reflection, but a call to action. It encourages us to continue the fight for social justice, equality, and opportunity for all. It prompts us to confront systemic inequalities and work towards a more just and equitable society.
  • A Celebration of Nonviolent Resistance: Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance remains a powerful example for social movements around the world. MLK Day celebrates this philosophy and promotes peaceful solutions to social problems.
  • A Reminder of Ongoing Challenges: While significant progress has been made, the struggle for racial justice and equality is far from over. MLK Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges we face and the work that still needs to be done.

Key Takeaways and Need-to-Knows for 2025:

  • Date: MLK Day 2025 falls on Monday, January 20th.
  • Federal Holiday: It’s a federal holiday, meaning government offices are typically closed.
  • Day of Service: Many people use MLK Day as a day of service, volunteering in their communities to honor Dr. King’s legacy of helping others.
  • Coincidence: In 2025, MLK Day also coincides with the Presidential Inauguration. Such coincidences are rare, adding another layer of historical significance to the day.

How MLK Shaped American Culture and Society:

Dr. King’s impact on American culture and society is immeasurable:

  • The Civil Rights Movement: He was the central figure in the Civil Rights Movement, advocating for nonviolent resistance to racial segregation and discrimination. His leadership and powerful oratory directly led to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
  • Shifting Cultural Values: King’s message of equality and justice challenged deeply ingrained prejudices and helped reshape American attitudes towards race. His dream of a nation where people are judged by the content of their character continues to inspire generations.
  • A Global Icon: His advocacy for nonviolent social change has resonated far beyond America’s borders, influencing movements for human rights and social justice around the world.
  • A Lasting Legacy: The annual observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day ensures his legacy lives on, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of standing up for what is right.

The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement with immense significance:

  • Amplified the Call for Civil Rights: It brought over 250,000 people to the nation’s capital, demonstrating the widespread support for civil rights legislation and putting immense pressure on the government to act. The sheer scale of the march made it impossible to ignore the demands for racial equality.
  • A National Platform for Civil Rights Leaders: The march provided a national platform for civil rights leaders, most notably Martin Luther King Jr., whose “I Have a Dream” speech became an instant classic and a defining moment of the movement. The televised broadcast of the march exposed the nation to the movement’s message in a powerful and unprecedented way.
  • Momentum for Legislation: The march directly contributed to the passage of landmark legislation. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which guaranteed the right to vote for all citizens, were both passed in the years following the march.
  • Showcased Nonviolent Resistance: The march was a testament to the power of nonviolent protest. Despite the massive crowd, the event remained largely peaceful, demonstrating the discipline and commitment of the civil rights movement. This helped to sway public opinion and build support for their cause.
  • A Turning Point in American History: The March on Washington is considered a turning point in American history, marking a significant step towards racial equality and social justice. It remains a powerful symbol of the power of collective action and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.

MLK Day is more than just a holiday; it’s a vital part of American culture. It’s a day to reflect on the past, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and recommit to the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. By understanding the significance of this day, we can honor Dr. King’s legacy and work towards building a more just and equitable future for all.

CBS News Editing Sparks Debate: Erosion of Trust and Media’s Role in Shaping American Culture

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In a recent turn of events, CBS News has found itself in hot water after admitting to editing an interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. The network removed a portion of Harris’ response to a question about the Middle East conflict, replacing it with a different segment from her answer. This move has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with accusations of bias and a lack of transparency.

The Importance of Trust in Journalism

This incident underscores the critical importance of trust in journalism. In an era of rampant misinformation and partisan divides, the public relies on journalists to provide accurate and unbiased information. When news organizations are caught manipulating content, it erodes this trust and fuels skepticism about the media’s motives.

Journalistic Code of Conduct

Ethical journalism adheres to a strict code of conduct, which includes principles like accuracy, fairness, and transparency. Editing interviews in a way that alters the meaning or context of a statement violates these principles. It is essential for news outlets to maintain the integrity of their reporting to preserve public trust.

Lack of Trust in Media

Unfortunately, trust in the media has been declining in recent years. This incident only serves to exacerbate this problem. When the public perceives bias or a lack of transparency, it leads to a further erosion of trust. This is a dangerous trend that can have serious implications for our democracy.

Trust in journalism is crucial because:

  • Accurate and unbiased information: The public relies on journalists to provide factual and objective reporting, especially in an era of widespread misinformation.
  • Foundation of democracy: A well-informed citizenry is essential for a functioning democracy. Trustworthy journalism ensures people have the information they need to make informed decisions.
  • Holding power accountable: Journalism acts as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable for their actions. This is only possible if the public trusts the media to report fairly and without bias.
  • Social cohesion: Trust in journalism helps to foster social cohesion by providing a shared understanding of events and issues.

Overall, trust in journalism is fundamental for a healthy society and a functioning democracy.

Media and American Culture

The media plays a vital role in shaping American culture and political discourse. It is crucial that news organizations uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics to ensure that the public receives accurate and unbiased information. This is essential for a healthy democracy.

Editing interviews in a way that alters the meaning or context of a statement has several ethical implications:

  • Misrepresentation: It can misrepresent the interviewee’s views, leading to a distorted public perception.
  • Loss of Trust: It erodes public trust in the media, as it raises questions about the accuracy and objectivity of reporting.
  • Manipulation: It can be seen as a form of manipulation, where the media outlet is trying to shape the narrative to fit its own agenda.
  • Undermining Democracy: By distorting information, it undermines the democratic process, as citizens may make decisions based on inaccurate or incomplete information.

Overall, such editing practices violate the core principles of ethical journalism, which include accuracy, fairness, and transparency.

To avoid altering the meaning or context of interviews, journalists should adhere to these specific ethical guidelines:

  • Accuracy: Ensure that all quotes and information presented are accurate and faithfully represent the interviewee’s statements.
  • Transparency: Be open about any edits made, especially those that involve condensing or rearranging content.
  • Impartiality: Avoid bias in the selection and presentation of interview material.
  • Context: Provide sufficient context for viewers or readers to understand the full meaning of the interviewee’s statements.
  • Consent: Obtain consent from the interviewee before making significant changes to their words or the order in which they are presented.
  • Corrections: Promptly correct any errors or misrepresentations that may occur.

By following these guidelines, journalists can maintain the integrity of their reporting and uphold the public’s trust in their work.

Potential consequences for news organizations that engage in such editing practices include:

  • Loss of credibility and public trust: This is the most significant consequence, as it undermines the organization’s ability to function effectively as a source of reliable information.
  • Legal repercussions: In some cases, particularly if the editing is deemed malicious or defamatory, the organization could face lawsuits.
  • Damage to reputation: The organization’s reputation may suffer, leading to a decline in viewership, readership, or advertising revenue.
  • Backlash from the public and stakeholders: This could manifest as public criticism, boycotts, or pressure from advertisers and investors.
  • Internal conflict: Such practices can lead to internal dissent and ethical dilemmas among journalists within the organization.

Overall, the potential consequences are severe and highlight the importance of upholding ethical standards in journalism.

CBS continues to face accusations of deceitful editing in its interview with Vice President Kamala Harris, particularly regarding her responses on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Former President Trump criticized CBS and called for the network to lose its license, prompting CBS to issue a statement defending its editing practices. While CBS claims the edits were for clarity and accuracy, Trump’s campaign demands the release of the full transcript for transparency. An FCC complaint has been filed, but it’s unlikely to be investigated under the current Democratic leadership. However, the situation could change if Trump is re-elected and appoints a Republican FCC chair.

Takeaways from the 60 Minutes Interview

The 60 Minutes incident offers valuable lessons for improving trust in the media:

  • Transparency: News organizations should be transparent about their editing practices and any changes made to interviews.
  • Accountability: When mistakes are made, news organizations should be held accountable.
  • Ethical Guidelines: Journalists should adhere to a strict code of ethics that prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and transparency.

By following these principles, news organizations can work to rebuild public trust and fulfill their crucial role in a democratic society.

Trump: 1st U.S. President Convicted on Criminal Charges

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The 45th U.S. president, Donald J. Trump, has become the first former president to be convicted on criminal charges.

The presumptive Republican 2024 presidential nominee was found guilty on all 34 counts by a jury in the unprecedented criminal prosecution of a former president.

Trump was accused of illegally trying to cover up a $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, with whom he had a sexual encounter with and that threatened to derail his 2016 campaign. The bombshell verdict ends a dramatic seven-week trial in Manhattan Supreme Court where jurors heard testimony from Daniels and Trump’s former protector and enabler, Michael Cohen.

Trump, 77, was found guilty of falsifying business records throughout 2017 by lying that he was paying his then-lawyer, Cohen, for legal services when he was actually reimbursing him for the hush money he paid Daniels about having sex with Trump inside a Lake Tahoe hotel room in 2006. Officials say, each of the counts the 45th president faces comes with a maximum penalty of four years imprisonment.

Could Trump go to prison?
Legal minds say it is highly unlikely. Nevertheless, Trump is facing 136 years behind bars if given consecutive sentences. Officials say it’s more likely that he would be given concurrent sentences for each of the 34 counts. In reality, Trump is facing four years behind bars. But, the judge could also not sentence him to time behind bars.

Trump Makes History as First Former President to be Criminally Indicted

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The first-ever criminal trial of a former U.S. president kicked-off with jury selection in NYC.

According to official reports, “Trump has been indicted on 91 charges across four separate criminal cases. However, some of those charges have since been dismissed, bringing the current total to 88. In the Georgia case accusing him of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election in the Peach State, the former president faces 10 felony counts.” USA Today reports that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee “faces 34 felony counts that each carry a maximum sentence of four years, although New York law caps such sentences at 20 years.”

The first-ever criminal trial of Donald J. Trump, a former U.S. president, is a historic event in American history. The former president’s first trial was held in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia on Jan. 16, 2023. Trump was accused of incitement of insurrection in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the United States Capitol.

The prosecution presented evidence that the former president had made numerous public statements in the weeks leading up to the January 6 attack in which he falsely claimed that the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from him. The prosecution also presented evidence that the former president had summoned his supporters to Washington, D.C., on January 6 and told them to “fight like hell” to overturn the election results.

The defense argued that the former president’s statements were protected by the First Amendment and that he did not incite the violence that occurred on January 6. The defense also argued that the former president was not responsible for the actions of his supporters.

The trial lasted for two weeks and ended with the former president being acquitted on all charges. The acquittal was a controversial decision and was met with mixed reactions from the public. Some people believed that the former president should have been held accountable for his actions, while others believed that the First Amendment protected his right to free speech.

Donald Trump appeared inside Manhattan Criminal Court on Monday as the first criminal trial against him began with jury selection. No jurors were selected from the dozens screened.

It marked the first time a former president has gone to trial over criminal charges — which stem from six-figure hush-money payments the ex-president allegedly made to former porn star Stormy Daniels and Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal ahead of the 2016 election.

According to official reports, Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in an effort to cover up the payments to keep Daniels and McDougal quiet about alleged affairs the women say they had with him. The trial is expected to last about two months, and if convicted, Trump faces up to four years in prison.

Because it’s a criminal trial, the former commander-in-chief must show up at court every day that it’s in session.

 

Speaking to reporters inside Manhattan Criminal Court the former president said, “This is an assault on America. Nothing like this has ever happened before. There’s never been anything like it. Every legal scholar said this case is nonsense, it should never have been brought. It doesn’t deserve anything like this. There is no case and they’ve said it, people that don’t necessarily follow or like Donald Trump said this is an outrage that this case was brought. This is political persecution … it is an assault of America.”

January 6 Attack: Trump’s Former Chief of Staff Epiphany and Turnabout

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Mick Mulvaney Changes His Mind
You should, too, says President Trump’s former chief of staff.

On the morning of January 6, 2021, Mick Mulvaney met with new members of Congress in the Capitol. Mulvaney had served in the Trump administration since February 2017, first as director of the Office of Management and Budget, then as acting White House chief of staff from January 2019 to March 2020, and finally as special envoy to Northern Ireland. As the President’s rally against the election outcome devolved and whispers of a citywide lockdown spread, he flew home to South Carolina. There, his daughters asked him, “What are you going to do?” That evening, Mulvaney resigned.

“I didn’t quit at the time because I thought the President did anything illegal,” said Mulvaney Tuesday evening at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Institute of Politics. “I quit because he failed to meet my expectations as a boss…. That was a time when we needed the President to be the President, and he wasn’t.”

Three years later, Mulvaney says that listening to his former colleagues’ testimonies to the House January 6 committee “makes me change my opinion about the President’s conduct on January 6.” He now wonders “whether or not [Trump] did anything illegal on that particular day,” such as conspiring with paramilitary groups. Before, Mulvaney thought Trump acted legally, but when presented with new information, he questioned his original beliefs. But Mulvaney fears that most Americans are unwilling to reconsider their political positions when faced with contradicting facts.

Following four years in the South Carolina General Assembly, six years in the House of Representatives, and four years in Donald Trump’s administration, Mulvaney has left the public sector. Now, he wants to promote civil discourse—to help people disagree respectfully and forge fact-informed opinions. So far, that mission has failed. He said that Harvard is one of very few American colleges that have invited him to speak, multiple universities turned down his idea to start an institute for civil discourse (with $10 million of pledged donations), and CBS News fired him from his on-air contributor role (there, he “tried to restore integrity” to the media).

Describing his political career, Mulvaney highlighted the times when he convened groups that would debate, disagree, and compromise. During his 15 months as Trump’s acting chief of staff, Mulvaney said he was less focused on political outcomes than on ensuring that the President was well informed. His focus was, “Who is there? And are these sane people?” When someone that Mulvaney considered unreliable, like Peter Navarro (director of trade and manufacturing policy), briefed Trump, Mulvaney “made sure that somebody else was there to balance out what I consider to be his craziness.” Bringing together experts from different perspectives, Mulvaney hoped, helped the President understand the wide range of options and come to a decision.

Mulvaney learned about convening and debating while serving in the House of Representatives. In 2015, he cofounded the House Freedom Caucus. To determine who could enter the caucus, the cofounders devised “a sort of a litmus test”: members had to have voted both with and against the GOP leadership. “I’m interested in dealing with the people who can be swayed,” he said, “You could negotiate with them.” That membership method (initially) excluded far-right House members like Steve King and Louie Gohmert, Mulvaney said.

Now, his feelings toward the caucus have shifted. During the Trump administration, the most ideologically conservative House caucus figured out that “there was a lot of money to be made in outrage,” he said. The caucus, in his opinion, is now “a machine for outrage” and no longer looks like the group he helped found: “I hate to see something that I helped start turn into something it’s not.”

In his introductory remarks, cochair of the IOP Conservative Coalition Michael Oved ’25 said, “The electorate and our politicians seem more divided than ever.” Although many people argue that politicians and their desire to stoke outrage are responsible for the gap, Mulvaney blamed the populace. “Government is always a trailing indicator, not a leading indicator,” he said. “The reason Washington looks like it does is [because] the country looks like it does.” Some factors responsible for the divide, he said, include the separation of rich and poor Americans and the loss of shared culture.

Above all, Mulvaney argued, America is being torn apart because people refuse to consider new perspectives. News networks are now “for entertainment, not for education,” he continued, and Americans “watch news for the purpose of having our own pre-existing beliefs affirmed.”

Such self-sorting into silos is not confined to the airwaves. In a discussion with University of California Los Angeles students, Mulvaney related, one student expressed her surprise that he was friends with ABC White House correspondent Jonathan Karl. After the Trump administration ended, despite their differing politics, the pair traveled together and spoke to groups. The center-left student asked Mulvaney how he could be friends with Karl if “you disagree with him on a lot of things,” and remarked that she would “never be seen…in public” with a conservative classmate. Mulvaney told the IOP audience, “We are living in a world where it seems like no one wants to change their mind about anything, and that frightens me because we won’t be able to deal with all the other stuff that does keep me up at night: the debt, Social Security, foreign policy.”

Reflecting on his government service, Mulvaney thinks back to January 6, 2021, and wonders how the day would have played out had he still been chief of staff. “After I left, apparently the sane people didn’t get in the room anymore,” he said. If President Trump had heard from a wide range of people, would he have instead condemned the rioters? “I’d like to think that it would have been different if I was in the building,” Mulvaney said. “I was proud to work for the guy, and at the same time, I was proud that I quit on January 6.”

Authored by Max J. Krupnick, Harvard Magazine

Brad Kane: A Post Election, Post Trump America

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BY JEANETTE LENOIR

My conversation with author and veteran political analyst, Bradford R. Kane on a post election, post Donald J. Trump era.

Who is Brad Kane?

Bradford R. Kane has developed policy, legislation, and initiatives in Congress, California state government, and the nonprofit and private sectors. He was a speech writer and researcher for Congresswoman Maxine Waters, counsel to Congresswoman Cardiss Collins and counsel to the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce & Consumer Protection.

Kane was a member of President Clinton’s Task Force on Health Care Reform. He was Deputy Controller for Legislation, and Deputy Secretary of Information Technology for the state of California. As a member of the Nielsen Media Research Task Force on Television Measurement, he created the Bipartisan Bridge and developed environmental, economic and racial equity initiatives. He was also a member of the United Nations Global Alliance on ICT & Development, CEO of the International Commission on Workforce Development, and Director of Strategic Initiatives and International Development at TechSoup Global.

His book, Pitchfork Populism: Ten Political Forces That Shaped an Election and Continue to Change America, is an examination of the political forces that led to the current form of faux populism in America. The book also evaluates the evolution of demographics and racial dynamics, the media’s role and impact, increased activism, bipartisanship and globalization.

     Click HERE to purchase Brad Kane’s book.

10 Ways Trump Is Inadvertently Making America Be Best

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By JEANETTE LENOIR

It’s true; America can’t escape the shame of Donald J. Trump. Like an unruly toddler, the 45th president of the United States is marking up the entire planet with a sharpie, as mother nature and most of her inhabitants tightly cross their fingers hoping he’s not using the permanent kind. Nonetheless, it befits us to see the silver lining in our current affairs at the mercy of our Emperor. So, here are ten ways Trump has inadvertently made us a better country:

  1. A Collective Rejection. Even before taking office, Trump forced Americans from all walks of life to reject him and his brand of politics. His birtherism rhetoric targeting former President Barack Obama, his unapologetic prejudice during his testimony in congress concerning Native Americans and his casinos, accusing a Judge for being unable to be impartial because he’s “Mexican,” discriminating against black renters, the Central Park Five case, mocking people with disabilities, boasting of getting away with murder on 5th Ave and grabbing women by the genitals will forever stain the path toward our nations ideals. Nonetheless, Trump forced Americans to stop and look in the mirror to bear witness to what he inadvertently exposed of us. And that is: our freedom is an allusion, economic and otherwise, and racism is still an institutionalized and structural anomaly.The Klu Klux Klan, today with gnashed gums, have risen from our cultural graveyard where they’ve existed as our haunting ghosts, and exposed their secret operation within our entire system of governance and social structure. Nazi’s and emboldened white supremacists, and other hate groups have taken comfort among us. And Russia’s involvement in our political system was not just telling of our vulnerabilities, but also the problem with career politicians and the pay to play operation of congress. The silver lining, you ask. Thanks to Trump being “Trumpy,” he unintentionally helped usher in movements like The Resistance, Women’s March, March For Our Lives, No Muslim Ban Ever, Stop Trump Movement, Need To Impeach, Impeach Donald Trump Now, Organize Against Trump, Indivisible, The New Civil Rights Movement … the list goes on and on. Trump has galvanized and empowered average Americans to rise in defense of the ideals and promise of this country. And that makes America better. 
  2. Exposing Democratic Vulnerabilities. Another important change 45 ushered in takes direct aim at the Democratic Party. Trump exposed a painful truth about the Party, and that is its ineffectiveness, and disregard of the overall sentiments on issues concerning immigration, healthcare and education. Also, the DNC’s lack of accountability for a flawed system fashioned by Clinton Democrats that created the effect that led to Trump. And taking African Americans and other people of color for granted through their use of transactional politics verses relationship politics. The lack of investment in organizing and investing in communities across the country, and not building on the success of Obama’s presidency after more than twenty years of a Republican majority in congress is evident in the ROI outcome; President Trump. Trump, riding his horse to the old white house, weakened the Democratic Party on the way and forced liberal and middle of the road Americans, high on Obama’s legacy, to see our democracy as it really was; flawed and ill-prepared to stop Trump, the GOP and Russia. The three allies are still swinging to the tune of Old Town Road, as they ride to systematically dismantle Obama’s legacy. Trump killed our Barry buzz, man! But he also woke the Democratic Party up, galvanizing leadership to refocus, listen to and invest in the American people and work to resuscitate our collective humanity. After all, raising our collective conscientiousness and civility can only make America better. 
  3. The Era of Social Media Governing. It’s no secret that our president is always plugged in, leading our nation with tweets, hashtags and emoji’s, and even using his social media platform to antagonize everyone he disagrees with. This includes his flippant involvement in highly sensitive foreign relations matters. The world is changing at a rapid pace thanks to the internet and technology. And Trump has jumped on this band wagon, disregarding long standing practices by applying his own brand of boorish engagement. Trump uses social media to mock and threaten hostile nations like North Korea, Venezuela, and Iran, while FLOTUS Melania Trump struggles to make sense of her Be Best campaign to stop cyber bullying. There’s no telling if Trump will abuse the FCC emergency alert system to mass text the U.S. like an unwanted booty call. And it’s arguably only a matter of time before he starts using AI to project himself across our skies in hologram form as Trumpzilla to boost his bloated ego. The silver lining here is a folklore befitting of an Anansi tale. If one is unwise, they will use social media like Trump does, if one is wise, they will not. Thus, canceling Trump makes America better. 
  4. A Renewed Civil Rights Movement. Despite the many movements that have brought us out of our shameful past into the 21st century, Trump, in his relatively short time as President Twitter Fingers, has forced us to take a harder look at the progress of human rights in America. As a nation, Trump reminds us of how comfortable we’ve become at accepting bits of progress to pull African Americans out of the pit they were shoved in after emancipation and expected to climb out of by sheer will and some magical bootstraps. Even though they were dumped into this metaphorical pit without boots after creating massive wealth for a country that enjoys world superpower status today. Trump’s brand of politics has forced our nation’s leaders to seriously address, not only the current state of racism and discrimination in America, but its influence embedded in workplaces, schools, our government, law enforcement, the justice system and other institutions in the country. Indifference of racism was becoming the norm, especially after the election of Obama. In some circles, the mere mention of racism, pointing it out or boldly expecting equality, was met with flippancy and an attitude of disdain and even disgust. Those who turned a blind eye to the reality of racism in America readily used phrases like, “pulling the race card” or “race baiting” to delegitimize or downplay the truth of discrimination and racism. This moment is a significant turning point in the struggle for equality and justice. The deep pain of racism is being acknowledged by more people because of Trump’s character. It is steadily paving a way for a renewed and emboldened civil rights movement in the country. And for that, Trump is making America better. 
  5. Women and Minority Office Holders. Katie Hill may be exiting stage left after a sex scandal, but there are more women office holders in America today, especially in congress. Women make up 24.16 percent of the 116th Congress, an increase of 2.36 percent since the election of Donald Trump, and there’s also been an increase in racial and ethnic diversity among elected officials. It’s safe to say many ran for office to protect the country from Trump and his ilk; out of touch elites, and the heartless Grand Old Party, better known as RxNRA, I mean, the GOP. Gil Cisneros, a proud Latino and new Congressman from California was galvanized to serve in congress after his predecessor voted against Obamacare. Cisneros ran for office even after winning a $266 million lottery jackpot that could have easily afforded him anonymity. And for that, the country is better off. And not just at being more inclusive of the people that make up our identity, but to regard the lessons from our past. Never forget, ignoring red flags is what led to Bush ’41 being asleep at the wheel. 
  6. Noticing The Red Flags. Trump could easily be our second 9/11 moment if we don’t heed the deafening warning signs and see the man in the mirror for what he is; a bona fide threat. It’s hard to admit that the orange fat man is us, but he is. And Trump has no interest in learning how to land either. The president of the United States cancelled a meeting with the Taliban at Camp David three days before the anniversary of 9/11. Reread the last sentence. Welcome to the Twilight Zone. He’s using military dollars to build the wall he shamefully boasted Mexico would pay for and making appearances at rally’s threatening to stay in office longer than the Constitution allows. It’s simply unreal this is our current trajectory as a country. If the 45th G7 summit held in France didn’t give you a clue about our global economic standing, you’re either Diamond or Silk planning to attend the next G7 summit at Doral. Trump appointed all his key players, I mean his best people, to hold high office in his Administration; a handful of individuals worth billions in a country where over half the population is experiences some level of poverty. He’s leapfrogging us into the greedy hands of corporations only interested in their bottom line. The wheels are hard turning toward an inhumane direction the country hasn’t seen since the first American slave ship, the Desire, set sail from Marblehead. Trump gets credit for driving us into a ditch. Will it make America better? Yes. If we fire him, get out of the ditch and work toward a more just Republic. 
  7. The NFL Culture. Trump brought to the surface the ugly truth about the NFL and its longstanding colonial system, including its ever-successful divide and conquer strategy that snagged the voracious snakehead, Jay-Z. Hook, line and sinker. How many black NFL team owners do you know of? Me either. And, it wasn’t that long ago when the president was disparaging NFL athletes, calling a league of mostly black athletes “bastards” and condemning the peaceful and just police brutality protest started by Colin Kaepernick. The president and his supporters’ efforts to turn the aim of the protest into an attack on the flag and law enforcement is disturbingly telling of the harsh truth many don’t want to accept; America is overwhelmingly controlled by a government deeply invested in solidifying and advancing white dominance and white prosperity. The NFL is symbolic of this truth like Obama and Trump are symbolic of the reality of being black or white in America. But change is inevitable, and although the entire Trump family are representative of the sickness infecting our collective humanity, they’re also a reason to hope, because it’s not despair that make successful revolutions as the anti-Trump one seems to prove.  Hope makes America better. 
  8. The Chest Game. The NRA and wealthy corporations’ choke hold on congress is maddening to comprehend in a “Woke” world. Tragedy after tragedy and congress still can’t pry the tight grip of the gun lobby from its neck. It’s no secret they have a running tab that pays for numerous elected officials like Ted Cruz and Marsha Blackburn to occupy powerful Senate seats. In turn, those feeding at the trough are helping the powerful gun group maintain the status quo on gun laws, blaming the mentally ill for mass shootings all while making money selling their precious guns under the guise of shielding The Second Amendment. The winning move on the board should be sensible and modern gun laws that won’t infringe on a person’s right to bear arms. Trump’s lust for a more white dominant country, a romantic and nostalgic throwback of the past when elites lived comfortably above the laws they wrote, is perhaps why the president and the GOP have shamefully put Party over country by co-signing his behavior and the complete debauchery that his administration represents. Trump ushered in this unfortunate truth and for that, we’re certainly better off knowing the real devil this country is up against is structural racism and a corporate run government. 
  9. The Big Money Grab. Yes, it’s still shamelessly underway since this administration took root. From Ivanka’s Chinese trademarks, billionaire Betsy Devos’s disregard for realistic education standards and needs, to Mnuchin and his wife sycophantic gripping of an enlarged image of the all mighty dollar. This white house loves capitalism and wealth so much, they’ve become experts at spending our tax dollars to enrich themselves. During his last visit to congress Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, was grilled on his knowledge of some backroom dealings involving Senator Mitch McConnell and the second largest aluminum company in the world, RUSAL, owned by Russian tycoon, Oleg Deripaska. Mnuchin denied giving preferential treatment to the company after lifting sanctions 8 months after they were imposed. Coincidentally, and shortly after, RUSAL announced it was investing $200 million into a project in Kentucky. Deripaska is detailed in the Mueller report to have dealings with Paul Manafort who is now in jail. Shirley Graham Du Bois once said that if a country’s economy is controlled by outsiders, it cannot claim to be an independent state, no matter how many national anthems and flags it has. Trump exposed our delusion of economic freedom. From the threat of a recession to our trade war with China, the aftermath of which is still building up like a tsunami for American farmers, we can congratulate Trump’s recklessness for bringing attention to his Administrations’ handling of international trade, and their collusion with Putin to advance his interests in the U.S. Nonetheless, evidence of Trump’s crimes and collusion is half the battle, and impeachment makes clear that America is better than Trump. 
  10. Risking the Intelligence Community. Exposing our intelligence community’s paranoia and dysfunction, even amongst themselves, has dampened the mood in the country like a heavy, rain soaked medieval cloak. From the Clinton email scandal to the Mueller investigation, we’ve uncovered a trove of misconducts, overlooked outrageous and predatory practices from Trump, his brand, his family and now, his Administration. The president and his Attorney General, William Barr, are working to overturn Mueller’s investigation findings. Evidently, they’ve been on a world tour asking foreign governments for help investigating the FBI and CIA. Our intelligence service is under scrutiny from within, showcasing deep divisions and distrust amongst our highest ranked. These are ever changing times, indeed. Today, the world belongs to those who stand to lose it tomorrow. And like Jim Thorpe, we have to do something about it now, regardless of what stands in the way. Thorpe, the first Native American to win a U.S. gold medal despite the obstacles he faced, embodied the spirit of what truly makes America great. And although Trump is the antithesis of this holy Sa ki wa ki man, he serves as a reminder of what America can’t afford to see; a hateful orange fat man in the mirror. And that makes America … Be Best? Don’t try to blame that on the young. It’s time for all of us to be better and the Trump clan is mnemonic of that.  

The Arts And Humanities In Trumps World

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Editors Note: This piece was also featured in DCReport. 

 

BY JEANETTE LENOIR

 

When it comes to the state of the Arts and the Humanities under Donald Trump’s administration, not much has changed other than his lack of action, his proposals to eliminate all funding for the independent federal funding agencies and his refusal to attend major cultural events.

The four new board members Trump said he would appoint to the National Council on the Arts were finally announced earlier this month. They are; Charles Wickser Banta of New York, Michelle Itczak of Indiana, Barbara Coleen Long of Missouri and Carleton Varney of Massachusetts. If these nominees are in line with Trump’s personal palate for art, Americans for the arts and humanities should prepare for the Scott Pruitt’s and Betsy DeVos’s of the art world. Funding for the arts hasn’t changed by much, but that’s only because Congress voted to restore money for the programs in the 2018 spending bill.  Trump’s proposed budget would have phased out all arts and humanities funding.

Victoria Hutter, spokesperson for National Endowment for the Arts, said “all of the NEA’s major funding programs have remained the same or seen slight increases.”  That’s true for now for the NEA and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).

Trump shows no interest in arts and culture. He skipped the Kennedy Center Honors, hasn’t given out any NEA or NEH awards, and became the first American president to suggest eliminating NEA and NEH all together. Lady Bird Johnson probably said it best, “Art is the window to man’s soul…” never mind. That may not be the best quote to use when it comes to Trump and the arts considering his attempt to undermine its importance in American society. Lady Bird’s quote, though poignant, clearly doesn’t cover Trump’s “soul window” because his window is covered with gold colored tin foil.

Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) joined the National Council for the Arts earlier this year. In addition to set functions and advisory roles, members are tasked with recommending individuals and organizations to receive the National Medal of Arts, a prestigious Presidential award. She said, “It’s clear from his repeated proposals to eliminate funding for both agencies that President Trump doesn’t appreciate the important work of the NEA and NEH or understand the incredible value they bring to our communities. That’s disheartening to see, especially because funding for these two agencies is such a miniscule part of the federal budget. But the loss of funding would be felt hard throughout the country. That said, I think the Trump era has shown that the arts and humanities do have allies in Congress—Democrats as well as Republicans. Twice he has proposed eliminating funding and twice it has been denied. This year, Congress actually gave NEA and NEH funding a $3 million increase. And for next year, the House has approved an additional $2 million increase on top of that.”

Bipartisan Congressional support for continued arts and humanities spending was on display just last week in amendments to the Interior Appropriations bill, which funds both agencies. A member introduced an amendment to reduce the two budgets by 15 percent—or $23 million each. The proposed budget cuts failed by a vote of 297-114.

Trump’s lack of interest or value of the Arts and Humanities isn’t a surprise considering his character and boorish behavior. But his attempts to destroy the national endowments for the arts and humanities should be of concern to anyone who considers the arts and culture valuable parts of our American identity.