Democrats need to wake up and start a real anti Republican campaign. We better embrace the fresh young blood in our leadership. The old men in leadership need to step aside. Fight hard now or we will never recover.
And, we need to wake up the youngest generation to realize that their votes DO count and we, the real Americans, need their votes to oust this piece of crap!!
They will only wake up if the Democratic party changes. And, that requires a good platform, and strong leaders who can speak to people's needs. We can't pretend we support working class people if we don't. On June 15, 2025, Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, and Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, resigned from the DNC, because they said the DNC wasn't doing enough to "open the gates" and win back working-class voters.
We can't send alleged leaders like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries to speak to young people, when both men are backed by major corporations and rich individuals as well as money from the Israeli American PAC. I am Jewish, but I do not support genocide. And, the fact that in 2024, Jeffries received over $1M from AIPAC and Schumer received $1.7M is very damning.
Good point! Trump's efforts to conceal from the American public all relevant information about Epstein (and his enablers, accomplices and co-conspirators) is tantamount to Trump (and the purported public servants who are helping Trump conceal the relevant information) declaring that some Americans are just too young (or too feminine) to matter in America. It seems Trump thinks they, too, are mere "losers."
We have to fearlessly reject the 'Corporate Democrats'. We need plain-spoken fighters willing to call out the forces of evil trying to convert the US into The State in '1984'. We'll find new funding.
In a comment above, I mention that Schumer and Jeffries receive the majority of their donations from corporations, and rich individuals, and received huge donation from the American Israeli PAC in 2024. And, the only two union members on the DNC resigned in June because they didn't feel they were doing enough to win back working-class voters.
We need a big shake-up in leadership, and we need it now, before they lose the 2026 election for us.
I respectfully submit that Democrats need to wake up and start a real pro-Constitution campaign. The discussion here should not be about merely Democrats vs. Trump or Democrats vs. Republicans. It should be about how all the people must work together to ensure that all our public servants actually do what our Constitution and federal law require them to do. A vote for Trump or for anyone who helps enable Trump is a vote against our Constitution and all the people and principles it protects.
Article VI emphasized that all legislators and "all executive and judicial Officers" (including all judges and all attorneys) of the U.S. and any state must "support this Constitution." So a federal statute (5 U.S.C. Section 3331) emphasized that all federal employees (civil or military) must "support and defend" our "Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic" and "bear true faith and allegiance to" our Constitution.
The tactics Trump is using to silence people (and even silence our representatives in government re: Epstein) violate the most essential and fundamental principles of our Constitution (the sovereignty of the people, which means, in part, effective self-government). The most democratic part of our Constitution is the First Amendment, which secures (in part) the right and freedom of thought, expression, communication, assembly and association (of each of us and of all of us) about how our public servants do or should represent us.
As SCOTUS acknowledged in Citizens United, in our “republic” clearly “the people are sovereign” and “the ability” (the power) “of the citizenry to make informed choices” about public servants and public issues “is essential.” Citizens United v. FEC, 558 U.S. 310, 339 (2010). “Speech is an essential mechanism of democracy;” it is “the means to hold officials accountable to the people” in our “republic where the people are sovereign.” Id.
“The right of citizens to inquire, to hear, to speak, and to use information” is essential “to enlightened self-government and a necessary means to protect it.” Id. Accord id. at 339-341, 344-350. “Premised on mistrust of [all] governmental power, the First Amendment stands against attempts to disfavor” the “subjects or viewpoints” of any speech regarding public servants’ abuses or usurpations of power. Id. at 340.
“For these reasons,” our “political speech must prevail against” regulation “that would suppress it, whether by design or inadvertence,” so regulation “that burden[s] political speech” is “subject to strict scrutiny,” which “requires the Government to prove” how each of Trump's tactics “furthers" an "interest" of the people that is so powerful that it is "compelling" and how each such tactic "is narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.” Id.
Given the effective marketing by Xi/Putin/Trump to young men to persuade them to become Trump supporters, we need everyone fully engaged, and to effectively market democracy and human rights to everyone ourselves.
"Democrats need to wake up and start a real anti Republican campaign."
No. First, Democrats and their media supporters need to acknowledge why they lost in November. You haven't heard a word from Jen, Norm, or others on The Contrarian staff, and it's been what, over eight months?
Second, they need to establish what they are FOR, not simply being "anti-Trump/anti-Republican". It obviously didn't work this past election cycle. Until the party can figure that out, they will continue to lose.
After twp powerful leaders, Moses and Joshua, Israel peope were led by judges. After the first two, a woman Deborah became their leader. It's time for DEMs to identify a woman leader who could become their presidential candidate. A woman hitherto unknown might suddenly burst into a spotlight to lead the party. I am praying.
I can’t read this now as I have been in tears after skimming the news. I feel the blanket abuse of women and the poor and the lack of evolved men in this country, and the intolerably stupid women who think they can play with miscreants dooms us as Americans are 20 years behind the times.
An, I am with you. I read it, but a few days ago, I was balling so hard I could hardly pull myself together to go to work. It was the day of the relief food incineration.
I went to the Good Trouble protest last Thursday, held between 4:30 and 6 in Hyannis. There were a lot more young people there than at the other protests I attended, and we got more support from drivers going round the rotary than ever before. The only "insult" a trumper summoned was to call us hippies, which was vastly amusing. I feel there's a change in the air. Admittedly, I live in an all-blue state, but the trumpists are even more vocal and obnoxious here, where they're in the minority, and that trend seems to be waning.
Take those tears and wipe them away. You're sad? You're mad? Then do something!! I write postcards to states that are in the position to be flipped. Get involved by searching out activities that will not only distract you, but will have an effect on voters who are the only people who can make the changes we need. And, stop skimming the news. Stay hopeful and fight!
And, I am fucking tired of Democratic politicians telling us we must protest, and call our politicians (which we continue to do), and yet they continue asking for donations, when they take corporate money, and don't listen to us.
50501 said there were 11 million protestors on June 14. But, how many Democratic were going to town halls and talking to voters in red states who could have put pressure on the Republican politicians to vote "NO" on the budget? At the time, just Bernie Sanders, as far as I could tell.
They are motivated to keep the struggle going. It’s absurd they are desperately holding on to the life of perks and bonuses while the rest of us are choking with their proverbial cock in mouth, their reason for being in too many instances.
A good idea! When I feel demoralized, I take my dog for a walk. She's a seven-pound people magnet, who makes people smile. And, although I live in a blue neighborhood in a blue state, when I don't feel like talking, it still makes me happy that she makes people smile!
I totally relate, An. Some days I feel so betrayed and depressed it’s hard to have hope to keep fighting. But keep fighting we must. As long as we don’t give into despair and don’t give up, there is hope. I’m pretty sure things will get worse before they get better. But Americans are resilient, we’ve been through threats to our democracy before in our relatively short history, and your tears prove that you still care. So let yourself grieve, and don’t forget to do things you enjoy. And remember you’re not alone.
I think you are about 180 years off. Perhaps more, since there are so many in this country that apparently believe writing, "When in the course of human events..." was a mistake, because they want a king.
The Contrarian should not minimize nor overlook the probability that the midterm elections in 2026 will be subject to manipulation in areas where Republicans control election boards. We can't be certain that all those who would vote, will be able, or not afraid to, and if they do, that their votes will be counted.
That is why we need to work to support the work of organizations, such as Democracy Docket. You can find the videos on You Tube and sign up for free newsletters. You can also subscribe to support their litigation on behalf of voting rights. Other organizations, such as the ACLU and the NAACP are also active in defending voting rights. If you are able, consider working at polling places.
I think I'm going to sign up to work the elections. I have a great background and want to do something that matters - which is HELP PEOPLE VOTE. There are very few people that can intimidate me in this stage of my life (I have also served as a substitute teacher...) and it is important that we have strong and honest volunteers.
I fear that our efforts in doing what you suggest have become inadequate when faced with an administration that defies judicial decisions that attempt to curtail its actions, and one that employs thugs to crack down on those who protest. Yesterday's methods cannot solve today's problems. (And I now live in Italy, so couldn't work at a polling place as I did 60 years ago!)
YES! It is imperative that we all understand what P2025's "Election Reform" really means, on top of the SAVE Act (already passed in the House and currently winding its way through the Senate).... RIGHT NOW! What is happening in broad daylight, right now, in Texas, fiddling away with gerrymandering (mid-decade) in order to do more than just favor gop candidates... is going to happen in other red states as well. And, of course, there's the very real possibility that the DL, who may be feeling real pressure to save himself, may find a way to cancel the election altogether. I'm interested in learning what ALL state election officials have (or have not) been doing to protect the integrity of the voting process. And wondering how we lay people can help in its protection (help get people registered?? or Re-registered?? etc..)
Though Ms. Rubin tries to put an optimistic spin on the midterms (and heaven knows we could use optimism!), the reality is more troubling.
Picking up North Carolina and possibly Maine in the Senate isn't enough. At least two other seats must flip from red to blue to prevent Vance's tieibreaking, and I don't know which seats are that vulnerable in 2026.
As for the House, the rumblings from Texas about redistricting are frightening. What's more, if Texas redistricting works, it might embolden other states - which might lead to even more gerrymandering on BOTH sides, which does no one any good.
Though we may also get more Murkowskis and Collins's who regret their votes on the Billionaire Bonanza Bill.
Once the effects of that bill (and so many of the other chainsaw cuts) become apparent to constituents in red states, there may well be a reckoning for Trump toadies.
Unfortunately, much of the pain from this horrible bill will be inflicted upon voters after the midterm election is over. What is needed is an information campaign, primarily aimed at GOP voters as to how the various measures in the bill will affect them personally before we get to the midterm election. It will have to be a big and consistent campaign.
I read Lucas Kunce' substack sometimes, and had a long discussion with someone who lives in Missouri because he was so surprised I had researched Hawley. Anyway, Hawley kept on lying that he wouldn't support the budget, but he lies all the time.
The billionaire Mercers supported his first campaign. I don't know who does now. The guy I messaged with said Missouri has turned so red because there is a Midwest Brain Drain. After kids leave for college, they don't return, because there are lousy jobs there.
Now, it's going to be worse. Between 130,000 to 160,000 people will lose Medicaid, rural hospitals will close, and healthcare jobs will be lost. And, Hawley is still lying about this.
But Murkowsky got a special deal on Medicaid for Alaska. The rest of the country be damned. That's the end of the "United" States. These constituents are why all those Republicans voted yes. I am pessimistic.
The American people (collectively) seem to respond better to shock value, and this headline presents it. However, due to the diligence of The Contrarian's reporting, we are all already aware of our plight. It is the people who do not read this who haven't grasped the severity of the condition yet. There is hope that with increased indignities, some at least will.
A 77 year-old fuelled with caffeine and enough sleep, can, like a blind sow, occasionally come up with something coherent, or in the sow's case, an acorn.
Jennifer Rubin’s headline is terrifying but accurate. Democracy is on life support. We’ve all got to see it and deal with it. But yes, it is terrifying.
Jennifer ….thank you for this story though truly terrifying it is an urgent reminder for ALL OF US to get out into the streets and do peaceful protest asap and as often as possible 💔💪🇺🇸✊❌👑
Is anyone in the liberal universe working on a "Project 2026"? I can't locate it anywhere. We need our leaders to develop a platform and we can scream it from every rooftop.
I keep saying the same thing to my Democratic politicians. The answer is "no" as far as I can tell. But, there are a few major problems with the platform. Democratic leadership will be seeking and endorsing the wrong candidates. They still haven't endorsed Mamdani, even after a meeting with him. They believe "moderates" are the answer. But the truth is that its' not between moderates and progressives, it's between "fighters and cavers."
We're either going for the working class vote or not. And, we not going to get them with candidates who are bought by corporate interests.
And, the other problem is Israel. I'm Jewish, but I don't support genocide. An American Israeli PAC (AIPAC) spent more than $100 Million on the 2024 election, buying the votes of Democrats and Republicans. But Hakeem Jeffries got over $1M and Schumer got $1.7M. We have to change our policy and stop supporting Netanyahu.
And the party platform has to deal with getting big money out of politics. Look at where SCOTUS has gotten us with Citizens United. Term limits for them and age limits.
I agree. Even the Republicans set term limits for leadership positions on committees. But, Democrats also have this arcane system of seniority, which much be removed. Really qualified people can serve in the House forever, and they have to wait for someone to die, to get a Chair.
Recently, they changed it for the Oversight Committee, Jasmine Crockett was running, but they publicly humiliated her, despite the fact that she's a rising star in the party, raised tons of money for the caucus, and traveled throughout the country on behalf of candidates.
They said they didn't like her style. And, yet she has millions of people on social media. And she is widely loved and respected by Democrats throughout the country. It was a travesty. Personally, I don't like "their style" of doing and saying nothing memorable, and being polite to their Republican colleagues who are traitors.
I saw somewhere that a Democratic Party Project 2029 is in the works. Not sure who’s coordinating it but we need to speak with one voice. Every. Single. Day.
Strongly recommend, if you respect science: “An Elegant Defense”, by Matt Richtel -a fabulous and stunning synthesis of our new understanding of the immune system.
(You might be surprised to find it as pertinent to this political discussion as your comment is ‘on point’, and for similar reasons.)
I want to give special thanks to our wonderful Senator Chris Murphy-D (CT), who has been fighting like a tiger since Sandy Hook. His intelligence, knowledge and integrity should be the standard for public service. He articulates the unvarnished truth in a way that ordinary people can understand.
HCR reported this in her newsletter today: “Meidas Touch posted: “The crazy thing about Donald Trump posting an AI video of Obama getting arrested is that Trump once had someone organize a party for him and invite a bunch of ‘young women’ and it turned out Jeffrey Epstein was his only other guest.” Alan Feuer and Matthew Goldstein broke the story of that party in Saturday’s New York Times.” Would be nice to see something about this in this column and Hubbles also. And as lame as the NYT has been, this is interesting for them to have published.
Yes, the NYT certainly has changed its tune on the short-fingered vulgarian, since that article back in the 70s where some "reporter" gushed about his shiny white teeth, blond hair, and declared, "...he looks ever so much like Robert Redford."
I nodded my head “yes” with every word—but I must call out a big bravo to the gray-haired stalwarts like Elizabeth Warren, Patty Murray and Amy Klobuchar (her hair is almost gray) and never giving up Bernie Sanders. They fight every day to tirelessly highlight the cruelty of this regime. We need our elders —they inspire the next political generation.
One big factor out there for 2026 is the untrustworthy Ken Paxton* led effort in TX to gerrymander TX Congressional Districts even more aggressively than they are already. Some reports indicate as much as a net 5 seat gain for the GOP is on the table. Gerrymandering and Texas are old friends. But this would be real shame at this time on our country's political crisis.
* "Paxton’s record of aggressively suing the Biden administration is matched only by his penchant for scandal, culminating in his impeachment by the Texas House of Representatives in 2023. The Republican-controlled Senate acquitted him after a nearly two-week trial."
Paxton received a 'trial' just as Trump received from the U.S. Republican-led Senate at the time of his two impeachment proceedings! Both were theatrical performances with a known outcome.
Dems need to be pro-active NOW…while I agree Dems could reverse / halt the insanity , I have lost all faith in the Dems capabilities. The few strong voices aren’t enough without a clear strategy .. Jen is right in all counts but Dems have to do the work
"The midterms, then, will be make-or-break time for democracy."
Perhaps, but Republicans are hard at work on implementing their voting supression plans. On the both the federal and state level Republicans have a multi-prong approach to cling to power in Congress. I hope the the Contrarian focuses on this issue front and center and helps provide readers with tangible actions they can take to help ensure free and fair elections.
Democrats need to wake up and start a real anti Republican campaign. We better embrace the fresh young blood in our leadership. The old men in leadership need to step aside. Fight hard now or we will never recover.
And, we need to wake up the youngest generation to realize that their votes DO count and we, the real Americans, need their votes to oust this piece of crap!!
They will only wake up if the Democratic party changes. And, that requires a good platform, and strong leaders who can speak to people's needs. We can't pretend we support working class people if we don't. On June 15, 2025, Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, and Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, resigned from the DNC, because they said the DNC wasn't doing enough to "open the gates" and win back working-class voters.
We can't send alleged leaders like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries to speak to young people, when both men are backed by major corporations and rich individuals as well as money from the Israeli American PAC. I am Jewish, but I do not support genocide. And, the fact that in 2024, Jeffries received over $1M from AIPAC and Schumer received $1.7M is very damning.
Good point! Trump's efforts to conceal from the American public all relevant information about Epstein (and his enablers, accomplices and co-conspirators) is tantamount to Trump (and the purported public servants who are helping Trump conceal the relevant information) declaring that some Americans are just too young (or too feminine) to matter in America. It seems Trump thinks they, too, are mere "losers."
Not just their votes count, but their point of view their needs, young people need to feel empowered and respected.
Yes, our crapocracy.
We have to fearlessly reject the 'Corporate Democrats'. We need plain-spoken fighters willing to call out the forces of evil trying to convert the US into The State in '1984'. We'll find new funding.
In a comment above, I mention that Schumer and Jeffries receive the majority of their donations from corporations, and rich individuals, and received huge donation from the American Israeli PAC in 2024. And, the only two union members on the DNC resigned in June because they didn't feel they were doing enough to win back working-class voters.
We need a big shake-up in leadership, and we need it now, before they lose the 2026 election for us.
I couldn’t agree with you more. The DNC forced out David Hogg because he was advocating for real change. I believe the DNC is much of the problem.
I respectfully submit that Democrats need to wake up and start a real pro-Constitution campaign. The discussion here should not be about merely Democrats vs. Trump or Democrats vs. Republicans. It should be about how all the people must work together to ensure that all our public servants actually do what our Constitution and federal law require them to do. A vote for Trump or for anyone who helps enable Trump is a vote against our Constitution and all the people and principles it protects.
Article VI emphasized that all legislators and "all executive and judicial Officers" (including all judges and all attorneys) of the U.S. and any state must "support this Constitution." So a federal statute (5 U.S.C. Section 3331) emphasized that all federal employees (civil or military) must "support and defend" our "Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic" and "bear true faith and allegiance to" our Constitution.
The tactics Trump is using to silence people (and even silence our representatives in government re: Epstein) violate the most essential and fundamental principles of our Constitution (the sovereignty of the people, which means, in part, effective self-government). The most democratic part of our Constitution is the First Amendment, which secures (in part) the right and freedom of thought, expression, communication, assembly and association (of each of us and of all of us) about how our public servants do or should represent us.
As SCOTUS acknowledged in Citizens United, in our “republic” clearly “the people are sovereign” and “the ability” (the power) “of the citizenry to make informed choices” about public servants and public issues “is essential.” Citizens United v. FEC, 558 U.S. 310, 339 (2010). “Speech is an essential mechanism of democracy;” it is “the means to hold officials accountable to the people” in our “republic where the people are sovereign.” Id.
“The right of citizens to inquire, to hear, to speak, and to use information” is essential “to enlightened self-government and a necessary means to protect it.” Id. Accord id. at 339-341, 344-350. “Premised on mistrust of [all] governmental power, the First Amendment stands against attempts to disfavor” the “subjects or viewpoints” of any speech regarding public servants’ abuses or usurpations of power. Id. at 340.
“For these reasons,” our “political speech must prevail against” regulation “that would suppress it, whether by design or inadvertence,” so regulation “that burden[s] political speech” is “subject to strict scrutiny,” which “requires the Government to prove” how each of Trump's tactics “furthers" an "interest" of the people that is so powerful that it is "compelling" and how each such tactic "is narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.” Id.
I totally agree!
Yes, yes, yes!
Given the effective marketing by Xi/Putin/Trump to young men to persuade them to become Trump supporters, we need everyone fully engaged, and to effectively market democracy and human rights to everyone ourselves.
"Democrats need to wake up and start a real anti Republican campaign."
No. First, Democrats and their media supporters need to acknowledge why they lost in November. You haven't heard a word from Jen, Norm, or others on The Contrarian staff, and it's been what, over eight months?
Second, they need to establish what they are FOR, not simply being "anti-Trump/anti-Republican". It obviously didn't work this past election cycle. Until the party can figure that out, they will continue to lose.
After twp powerful leaders, Moses and Joshua, Israel peope were led by judges. After the first two, a woman Deborah became their leader. It's time for DEMs to identify a woman leader who could become their presidential candidate. A woman hitherto unknown might suddenly burst into a spotlight to lead the party. I am praying.
I can’t read this now as I have been in tears after skimming the news. I feel the blanket abuse of women and the poor and the lack of evolved men in this country, and the intolerably stupid women who think they can play with miscreants dooms us as Americans are 20 years behind the times.
An, I am with you. I read it, but a few days ago, I was balling so hard I could hardly pull myself together to go to work. It was the day of the relief food incineration.
I went to the Good Trouble protest last Thursday, held between 4:30 and 6 in Hyannis. There were a lot more young people there than at the other protests I attended, and we got more support from drivers going round the rotary than ever before. The only "insult" a trumper summoned was to call us hippies, which was vastly amusing. I feel there's a change in the air. Admittedly, I live in an all-blue state, but the trumpists are even more vocal and obnoxious here, where they're in the minority, and that trend seems to be waning.
The scent of MAGAt fear is thick in the air, Anca, and the opposition is still growing.
Take those tears and wipe them away. You're sad? You're mad? Then do something!! I write postcards to states that are in the position to be flipped. Get involved by searching out activities that will not only distract you, but will have an effect on voters who are the only people who can make the changes we need. And, stop skimming the news. Stay hopeful and fight!
10 years of my life has been poisoned and I have spoken out from the beginning. I am fucking tired of the RNC and the DNC distorting the constitution.
And, I am fucking tired of Democratic politicians telling us we must protest, and call our politicians (which we continue to do), and yet they continue asking for donations, when they take corporate money, and don't listen to us.
50501 said there were 11 million protestors on June 14. But, how many Democratic were going to town halls and talking to voters in red states who could have put pressure on the Republican politicians to vote "NO" on the budget? At the time, just Bernie Sanders, as far as I could tell.
They are motivated to keep the struggle going. It’s absurd they are desperately holding on to the life of perks and bonuses while the rest of us are choking with their proverbial cock in mouth, their reason for being in too many instances.
You bet Amy. We will overcome!
Not to mention we wuz robbed.
Did Trump admit that Musk stole Pennsylvania?
Are you following "She Won, Parts I to VII?" You will find the answer to your question there.
I’m going swimming.
A good idea! When I feel demoralized, I take my dog for a walk. She's a seven-pound people magnet, who makes people smile. And, although I live in a blue neighborhood in a blue state, when I don't feel like talking, it still makes me happy that she makes people smile!
Do not despair. That we recognize evil and speak out, means we can turn this nightmare around. We can and we will.
I totally relate, An. Some days I feel so betrayed and depressed it’s hard to have hope to keep fighting. But keep fighting we must. As long as we don’t give into despair and don’t give up, there is hope. I’m pretty sure things will get worse before they get better. But Americans are resilient, we’ve been through threats to our democracy before in our relatively short history, and your tears prove that you still care. So let yourself grieve, and don’t forget to do things you enjoy. And remember you’re not alone.
I think you are about 180 years off. Perhaps more, since there are so many in this country that apparently believe writing, "When in the course of human events..." was a mistake, because they want a king.
Oh yes, or at least 100 years. There were many who knew then. My favorite is EM Forster. Why don’t we all know him like we know Dickens!
Because of A Christmas Carol.
It's been a long time since I read Forster. Perhaps it's time again?
I think an attack on men as a class is counterproductive
The Contrarian should not minimize nor overlook the probability that the midterm elections in 2026 will be subject to manipulation in areas where Republicans control election boards. We can't be certain that all those who would vote, will be able, or not afraid to, and if they do, that their votes will be counted.
That is why we need to work to support the work of organizations, such as Democracy Docket. You can find the videos on You Tube and sign up for free newsletters. You can also subscribe to support their litigation on behalf of voting rights. Other organizations, such as the ACLU and the NAACP are also active in defending voting rights. If you are able, consider working at polling places.
I think I'm going to sign up to work the elections. I have a great background and want to do something that matters - which is HELP PEOPLE VOTE. There are very few people that can intimidate me in this stage of my life (I have also served as a substitute teacher...) and it is important that we have strong and honest volunteers.
Good for you! Thanks!
I fear that our efforts in doing what you suggest have become inadequate when faced with an administration that defies judicial decisions that attempt to curtail its actions, and one that employs thugs to crack down on those who protest. Yesterday's methods cannot solve today's problems. (And I now live in Italy, so couldn't work at a polling place as I did 60 years ago!)
They are only inadequate if we give up.
YES! It is imperative that we all understand what P2025's "Election Reform" really means, on top of the SAVE Act (already passed in the House and currently winding its way through the Senate).... RIGHT NOW! What is happening in broad daylight, right now, in Texas, fiddling away with gerrymandering (mid-decade) in order to do more than just favor gop candidates... is going to happen in other red states as well. And, of course, there's the very real possibility that the DL, who may be feeling real pressure to save himself, may find a way to cancel the election altogether. I'm interested in learning what ALL state election officials have (or have not) been doing to protect the integrity of the voting process. And wondering how we lay people can help in its protection (help get people registered?? or Re-registered?? etc..)
Though Ms. Rubin tries to put an optimistic spin on the midterms (and heaven knows we could use optimism!), the reality is more troubling.
Picking up North Carolina and possibly Maine in the Senate isn't enough. At least two other seats must flip from red to blue to prevent Vance's tieibreaking, and I don't know which seats are that vulnerable in 2026.
As for the House, the rumblings from Texas about redistricting are frightening. What's more, if Texas redistricting works, it might embolden other states - which might lead to even more gerrymandering on BOTH sides, which does no one any good.
Well, there is no point in conceding in advance. We will need to work hard and to plan for the long term.
Though we may also get more Murkowskis and Collins's who regret their votes on the Billionaire Bonanza Bill.
Once the effects of that bill (and so many of the other chainsaw cuts) become apparent to constituents in red states, there may well be a reckoning for Trump toadies.
Unfortunately, much of the pain from this horrible bill will be inflicted upon voters after the midterm election is over. What is needed is an information campaign, primarily aimed at GOP voters as to how the various measures in the bill will affect them personally before we get to the midterm election. It will have to be a big and consistent campaign.
Oh, Murkowski and Collins may "regret" the vote - but it always comes AFTER they cast that vote. We need people who don't do things they regret!
don't forget hawley
I wish I could forget Josh "Cardio" Hawley! But Missouri has turned pretty red. I fear it would take a miracle for him to lose his seat.
probably.......I continue to wonder how America got so stupid...too much TV or just too much ?
I read Lucas Kunce' substack sometimes, and had a long discussion with someone who lives in Missouri because he was so surprised I had researched Hawley. Anyway, Hawley kept on lying that he wouldn't support the budget, but he lies all the time.
The billionaire Mercers supported his first campaign. I don't know who does now. The guy I messaged with said Missouri has turned so red because there is a Midwest Brain Drain. After kids leave for college, they don't return, because there are lousy jobs there.
Now, it's going to be worse. Between 130,000 to 160,000 people will lose Medicaid, rural hospitals will close, and healthcare jobs will be lost. And, Hawley is still lying about this.
But Murkowsky got a special deal on Medicaid for Alaska. The rest of the country be damned. That's the end of the "United" States. These constituents are why all those Republicans voted yes. I am pessimistic.
Jennifer, For this to be the title of your post is truly terrifying.💔🇺🇸
The American people (collectively) seem to respond better to shock value, and this headline presents it. However, due to the diligence of The Contrarian's reporting, we are all already aware of our plight. It is the people who do not read this who haven't grasped the severity of the condition yet. There is hope that with increased indignities, some at least will.
Very true Steve and wise. Thanks♥️
A 77 year-old fuelled with caffeine and enough sleep, can, like a blind sow, occasionally come up with something coherent, or in the sow's case, an acorn.
lol♥️
Forward these informative pieces to everyone you know. And ask them to do the same. They may even subscribe!
Jennifer Rubin’s headline is terrifying but accurate. Democracy is on life support. We’ve all got to see it and deal with it. But yes, it is terrifying.
Absolutely Brian. I agree 💯%. ♥️
Jennifer ….thank you for this story though truly terrifying it is an urgent reminder for ALL OF US to get out into the streets and do peaceful protest asap and as often as possible 💔💪🇺🇸✊❌👑
Is anyone in the liberal universe working on a "Project 2026"? I can't locate it anywhere. We need our leaders to develop a platform and we can scream it from every rooftop.
I keep saying the same thing to my Democratic politicians. The answer is "no" as far as I can tell. But, there are a few major problems with the platform. Democratic leadership will be seeking and endorsing the wrong candidates. They still haven't endorsed Mamdani, even after a meeting with him. They believe "moderates" are the answer. But the truth is that its' not between moderates and progressives, it's between "fighters and cavers."
We're either going for the working class vote or not. And, we not going to get them with candidates who are bought by corporate interests.
And, the other problem is Israel. I'm Jewish, but I don't support genocide. An American Israeli PAC (AIPAC) spent more than $100 Million on the 2024 election, buying the votes of Democrats and Republicans. But Hakeem Jeffries got over $1M and Schumer got $1.7M. We have to change our policy and stop supporting Netanyahu.
And the party platform has to deal with getting big money out of politics. Look at where SCOTUS has gotten us with Citizens United. Term limits for them and age limits.
I agree. Even the Republicans set term limits for leadership positions on committees. But, Democrats also have this arcane system of seniority, which much be removed. Really qualified people can serve in the House forever, and they have to wait for someone to die, to get a Chair.
Recently, they changed it for the Oversight Committee, Jasmine Crockett was running, but they publicly humiliated her, despite the fact that she's a rising star in the party, raised tons of money for the caucus, and traveled throughout the country on behalf of candidates.
They said they didn't like her style. And, yet she has millions of people on social media. And she is widely loved and respected by Democrats throughout the country. It was a travesty. Personally, I don't like "their style" of doing and saying nothing memorable, and being polite to their Republican colleagues who are traitors.
they are shooting gazans as they line up for food for God's sake !
isrile is committing genocide in Gaza
I saw somewhere that a Democratic Party Project 2029 is in the works. Not sure who’s coordinating it but we need to speak with one voice. Every. Single. Day.
2029 is WAY TOO LATE. Democracy will be done by then.
this is a good idea
I'm one of the antibodies! How cool is that?
Strongly recommend, if you respect science: “An Elegant Defense”, by Matt Richtel -a fabulous and stunning synthesis of our new understanding of the immune system.
(You might be surprised to find it as pertinent to this political discussion as your comment is ‘on point’, and for similar reasons.)
I want to give special thanks to our wonderful Senator Chris Murphy-D (CT), who has been fighting like a tiger since Sandy Hook. His intelligence, knowledge and integrity should be the standard for public service. He articulates the unvarnished truth in a way that ordinary people can understand.
HCR reported this in her newsletter today: “Meidas Touch posted: “The crazy thing about Donald Trump posting an AI video of Obama getting arrested is that Trump once had someone organize a party for him and invite a bunch of ‘young women’ and it turned out Jeffrey Epstein was his only other guest.” Alan Feuer and Matthew Goldstein broke the story of that party in Saturday’s New York Times.” Would be nice to see something about this in this column and Hubbles also. And as lame as the NYT has been, this is interesting for them to have published.
Yes, the NYT certainly has changed its tune on the short-fingered vulgarian, since that article back in the 70s where some "reporter" gushed about his shiny white teeth, blond hair, and declared, "...he looks ever so much like Robert Redford."
robert redford should sue the nyt....
I think it's a bit late now. I will tell you, that when I first saw the vulgarian on television (1980), I did not think he resembled Robert Redford.
I nodded my head “yes” with every word—but I must call out a big bravo to the gray-haired stalwarts like Elizabeth Warren, Patty Murray and Amy Klobuchar (her hair is almost gray) and never giving up Bernie Sanders. They fight every day to tirelessly highlight the cruelty of this regime. We need our elders —they inspire the next political generation.
One big factor out there for 2026 is the untrustworthy Ken Paxton* led effort in TX to gerrymander TX Congressional Districts even more aggressively than they are already. Some reports indicate as much as a net 5 seat gain for the GOP is on the table. Gerrymandering and Texas are old friends. But this would be real shame at this time on our country's political crisis.
* "Paxton’s record of aggressively suing the Biden administration is matched only by his penchant for scandal, culminating in his impeachment by the Texas House of Representatives in 2023. The Republican-controlled Senate acquitted him after a nearly two-week trial."
https://www.texastribune.org/2025/07/10/angela-paxton-divorce-texas-attorney-general-ken/?utm_campaign=trib-social-buttons&utm_source=copy&utm_medium=social
Paxton received a 'trial' just as Trump received from the U.S. Republican-led Senate at the time of his two impeachment proceedings! Both were theatrical performances with a known outcome.
I'd think a lot of Texans are sick of all his BS
Apparently not enough of them to get him recalled or properly impeached, charged, and removed.
Dems need to be pro-active NOW…while I agree Dems could reverse / halt the insanity , I have lost all faith in the Dems capabilities. The few strong voices aren’t enough without a clear strategy .. Jen is right in all counts but Dems have to do the work
"The midterms, then, will be make-or-break time for democracy."
Perhaps, but Republicans are hard at work on implementing their voting supression plans. On the both the federal and state level Republicans have a multi-prong approach to cling to power in Congress. I hope the the Contrarian focuses on this issue front and center and helps provide readers with tangible actions they can take to help ensure free and fair elections.
Thank you, Jen. Thank you for doing your job so bravely and well, and for speaking both truth and hope.
I agree that Rubin's columns are great, but let's face it, she's preaching to the choir.
Yes, true. Grateful for the choir though, and hoping it grows.
I realize that we have been primed by the MSM to reject any discussion of the possibility of election interference.
But it seems that Republicans are acting as if they will hold on to power in perpetuity.
Why are they so smug?
https://substack.com/inbox/post/165658733