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Lisa Jean Walker's avatar

Thank you. The Chicago Sun-Times editorial board issued an urgent call to action on Friday in its first paragraph of an editorial:

“President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking aim at Social Security. The signs are there. Those who value a reliable public pension need to make their voices heard. Loudly, in huge numbers, and now.”

Can we stop indulging the language of “Department of Government Efficiency”? All signs are that it is not a legal part of the government and it is not about efficiency but rather slashing the government to benefit people like Musk. I like Department of Ineptitude and Corruption. The word “government” does not belong. Talking here about phrases we should use instead.

Edit addition: I’d go so far to say that by using the language of Department of Government Efficiency we are spreading their disinformation. It is not only not “government,” but it probably doesn’t meet the criteria for being a department, which is an organization that conforms to certain expectations that are formally documented and approved. What is the formal, approved documentation for Musk’s collection of agents/infiltrators? Other than personnel records that ensure they are getting paid with our tax dollars!

We have to be careful about obediently using their language when that language is false and misleading. Otherwise we’re aiding and abetting.

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Robert Lastick's avatar

President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are not only taking aim at Social Security, they are looking to take over the country and turn it into an autocratic Fascist state.

And, at this writing they are succeeding admirably. Last night 60 minutes lead story was the success they achieved getting rid of a number of watchdog agencies, watching over, yes you got it, the executive branch.

This country has little time left. No one is standing up for democracy!!

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