When will the responsible, sane Republicans realize that all they have to do is stay away for one vote. Jeffries has almost half already. The House could then act as a governing body with a loyal opposition and lead.
Or republican members of the democrat republican caucus of house members who are trying to work together. 28 republicans going for Jefferies would work.
I really hope that Kevin fails at counting heads (aka chickens before they hatch) and convinces some of the holdouts to vote present, which will lower the threshold for a win, and that enables the Democrat, Hakeem Jeffries, to snag the speaker's post with solid backing while McCarthy's votes are still less than Jefferies. Fingers crossed.
Fellow Dead Heads need to unite. I am actually shocked by the slash and burn antics I have witnessed by some house republicans and even more shocked by the sublimation by this majority of house republicans to placate attempts to destroy our republic. BTW Ari I have read your prologue twice and still feel terrified of how close the insurrectionists came to denying the votes of Americans. I am half way through the Jan 6 full report and how infectious Trump craziness can be. So many are cut from the same cloth and so few realized their ideological folly. To me it now feels less political and more an impaired mental state. My recollections of Dead concerts was feeling love all around and now the world has shifted into anti love.
You are so correct: tRump might be 'gone' but trumpiness has taken hold on the right.
I watched with some.level of horror as the likes of Gaetz, MTG, and Boebert treat the House like they are running for high school class president. Sickening! And, though I wasn't exposed to the Dead growing up, the message of love is clear in songs by artists like Bob Marley. One love. 💙😊
Hi Sandra, I thought of you and Sandra O when Ari announced his upcoming New York event. Hope you all can make it!!!
The suppose "Never Kevin's " was just a game the traitor caucus was playing to get more attention. Not looking forward to tonight's vote, but I'll be watching. Have a safe weekend!!!🙏
Yes agree frightening how we see who are in positions of power The emperor has no clothes we see it as they eroded democracy DOJ push ahead to make accountability to leaders including those in government Those do what their doing because of involvement in trying to prevent certification of election and by creating an atmosphere of disray they try to prevent accountability The foot soldiers held accountable but mò Brooks Jim Jordan Hawley raising his fist -all who continue accountability Steve Bannon pod cast outrageous To complete the circle I think that's why curtain up in the republican party in their assault on democracy because lacking of the DOJ Each time you see videos hear the words of trump and friends police murdered and assaulted powerless hunting for vice president and Nancy Pelosi your horrified as the first time No accountability after all this time what's the message as the beat goes on the plot continues DOJ save America your silence is deafening No limits Anybody have kids what happens when you establish limits or not How do you appear ? Do your words mean anything are you taken seriously Of course if you establish limits Of course not when you appear weak Adam kissenger on MSNBC less stressful for him and his input appreciated a hero with guts ñot a wimp like his other fellow Republicans like Mitt Susan Collins and the rest
Exactly. I am, perhaps naively, stunned that so many insurrectionists were elected or reelected.
They walk around, as evidenced during this past week, fearless and emboldened--- and in charge of the House.
DOJ knows what has to be done, otherwise it's complicit. I've heard one viewpoint that if the DOJ takes action against Trump or GOP members, it will destabilize our government. Really? We're there....Taking no action signals it's ok to overthrow the government with no ramifications. That's an unforgivable, unacceptable mindset that contributed to the humiliating circus this week. Kevin is not the new Speaker - MAGA extremists are.
Agree with all you expressed What condition is our democracy in now. We enable and endanger if there's no accountability. what are those thinking the house is stabilized??? Lol. Ramifications we are witnessing now because DOJ ARE so timid words so weak because no action So passing bills to give tax breaks to wealthy trim budgets by defunding of FBI internal revenue social security Medicare etc As we witness this erosion of democracy and our government which is all those covering their tracks and protecting themselves for involvement and supporting January 6th Attacking and trying to dismantle all departments that have or in process of investigating Trump and friends It’s astounding to me how individuals still think Trump was a great president and support someone like Hawley thumbs up cancun Ted Jim Jordan Matt gates latty da We were a model for democracy and strength in the world I must acknowledge the Liz Chaney Adam kissenger Adam schiff Clyburn and all democrats who lived with threats to uphold democracy and what it can be Some fault is how easily people can be manipulated by fear and intolerance vote the Republicans in not realizing no representation and those people they voted in have contempt for them used only to gain power They do nothing to enhance their lives I beg DOJ join reality lack of àccountability is the effect of destabilizing a government and its democracy and people Maga extremists must be halted People like Steve Bannon Roger stone know there's limitations that democracy justice will be uphold People will be represented in government their voices will echo and heard with values morality and true remberance for the people is democracy and not power self serving for that's an autocrat government
About power. Negotiations with who ?What did he give ? Where are the moderate Republicans?? The house is being compromised to being a threat to our democracy Ms Green Matt Gates. Jim Jordan extremists etc. People who don't acknowledge Jan 6th the horror of assault of police and murder No accountability free to continue and erode the functions of government Most of children families what is the future-goals The legacy lies lack of vaĺues and representation of Americans Unfortunately people voted them in. Chaos ahead. Kevin had a dream and sold out our country What lies ahead certainly not àny to to help Americans and move us ahead. Hearing to take away from the focus of their lacking and maybe agenda. Kevin is singing don't cry for me Americans through it all I have no promises I'm speaker weak and ineffective The most dysfunctional I'm in charge of???? Again moderate Republicans shame on you. silence is accepting no backbone
Hi Truda. It's so disturbing to see how the Republican party has become the party of division and hate. To think after a week of a circus show, tonight they will get together and vote McCarthy in as Speaker.
I'm not a Dead Head, but I have been asked several times if I'm related to Jerry Garcia.🤣Which made me laugh.😂 I have attended concerts and your right about feeling love all around the arena. ❤🎸🎶 Have a safe weekend !!!🙏
Thank you for this piece, especially on the eve of the Jan-6 anniversary! These are wild times, indeed. Cannot believe, as Michael Moore pointed out, that 100+ rep-elects seek control over a government they tried to overthrow 2 years ago. This is all cray cray.😡
Forgive me, but I feel zero pity for McCarthy. Lady Nancy worked with similar margins like a BOSS; Kevin would have been wise to get some expert tips from her! I. Sooooo proud of the Democrats right now, though. They are holding the line and showing - as is sung in Newsies - that "Brooklyn's here!" 🎶
Hi namesake, I am with you on the Democrats having a united front...already selected their leaders and waiting for the chaotic hot mess House GOP to get their act together.
I am definitely ok with Hakeem Jeffries being the Speaker of the House👍🏽
As for Kevin McCarthy, so much winning...bigly🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 Not😂🤣😂🤣😂
I loved Rep Clark's (I believe) speech to nominate Rep Jeffries as Speaker - 212 Democratic vote *every* time! 👏🏾 Dems like to complain about elected officials; hopefully, not this time.
(Cont'd) CONGRATS on the J-6 report results! #Beatniks are fierce lol. And, speaking of which, some of us are asking about (hoping for) a book tour. Ha! Hopefully, that's in the works⁉️ 😊🤓📘
Was reading about Kevin McCarthy on yesterday, trying to get an understanding of his “Whys?” Nothing to explain this level of incompetence. Was shocked to read that his parents and family members were Democrats! Couldn’t tell if they remain so today.
It has been popcorn worthy, but didn’t know these people are off the chart. And think about it, responsible for 750K folks!😳. Hope all is well, S.R.!❤️
Was watching, while talking to my sister. We were saying, Kevin’s constituents are just realizing who has been representing them, and that if he can’t take care of himself, he’s incapable of doing anything for them. I’m sure he’s done corporate favoritism, but little for the people. Sad as it is, this is still popcorn tv-riveting! So, I’m OK, S.R.😂❤️
No acknowledgment by Republicans as to January 6th a day that was violent and the messages clear by clothing wore flags held today we have videos so denial is an empty glass Members of government involved or supported the mob The police that saved elected members of government lost lives and believed in our country A noose for Mike Pence hunting for members of congress and yet silence from Republicans. Those involved or supporters are creating a smoke screen with investigations and hearings The selection of speaker shows how eroded the Republicans have become Hawley a thumbs up MO Brooks Bannon Jim Jordan and friends what is the agenda ? Defund internal revenue Investigate FBI who protect our national security which ties in with not supporting Ukraine leading to autocrat governments Inviting an autocrat to RNC and Trump stealing confidential top secret documents and lying about having them -how many times All this. is clearly a means to dismantle our government Eradicate laws and regulations and all that protect democracy The democratics have provided evidence videos The most damaging and damming evidence obstruction of justice May I be bold to suggest treason How can we charge a former president? How can we not The commander in chief and supporters committed these actions against our democracy and continue to do so as we watch whose in positions of power The selling of the speaker Mccarthy and the continued attempts to dismantle our democracy The democrats try to hold down the fort and save our fragile democracy our great country añd people If the DOJ doesn't move swiftly and with strength words are meaningless will we reach the point of no return I doubt Trump supporters will read this think about living in a country without protect for the citizens no voting rights no voice. An autocrat government that serves itself I agree its impact of lack of acknowledgment and what goes with it a reason for concern as their beat goes on And we have no accountability as the commander in chief ends January 6th you're good people and we love you after violence murder vandalism and the hunting for members in government to stop certification of the presidential election
Yes, Helen, it’s a lot! Now, we see Bannon coercing Brazilians to do the same, while we house Bolsonaro in America, and in one of our hospitals. Amazing how Bannon can remain free to go around the world to disrupt governments, after having been sentenced. Ari discussed Bannon’s freedoms (during his appeal), secondary to his race and financial status. I, too, am frustrated by these assigned categories for criminal privileges, but when it comes to Trump, I can see the other side. I’d rather wait! He’s done a lot, but I try to avoid conflating all his allegations/infractions/crimes. So, the two year wait, thus far, for a formal charge, I understand. Don’t like it, but I want his charges to hold! No wiggle room!
Did anyone see the children of one of the families who lost a loved one? They were so little they couldn't reach the mic. To lose someone at that very young age. "Kevin and company" no shows. Speaks volumes. So sad! Heartless! 😳😱
Karyn, they have backed themselves in a corner. This current group of Republican lawmakers are just dumb! All that pseudo anger and “Stop the Steal events,” placed them in a corner. They can’t be seen now, commemorating those events (Insurrection) they claimed never happened. What we saw last week is just the beginning. The only ones to stop this runaway train is the DOJ. It’s either eat or be eaten!
“Make you angry-“ with all that fluff?! I know, I just yell back at them, even cuss! We’ll see, in a couple of hours…Like this Lucas Kunce, running against Josh Hawley. Hope we have great candidates.
Hi V, where have you been? Was missing you! We’re back for votes 10pm EST! If he doesn’t make it on the 14th, then I don’t know. Missing my movies and docuseries, but I’m such a political junkie!❤️
I've been on the go the past 3 days. We're celebrating my daughter's birthday tomorrow.🥳 So I've been taking down Christmas decorations and preparing for the party. Plus trying to watch the Republican circus🤣🤣🤣
I was celebrating my son and granddaughter’s last month, so I know the routine. Was at my daughter’s house, WATCHING them do Christmas. Holidays are hard work! And yes, this is a circus. They have all these concessions, they’re breaking already for themselves. By the time he accepts the gavel, he’ll have to hold it in his mouth, having lost all limbs in these concessions!
🤣🤣🤣 McCarthy is going to be walking around a very empty shallow man. We will soon find out what more he gave away for that Speaker gavel. That was some crazy stuff on Friday night/Saturday morning. But was worth it, to listen to OUR Democratic leader Hakim Jeffries give a speech we will never forget. "The Alphabet Rap"
Well Diva, we shall see how things start off tomorrow. Enjoy your Sunday!!!🙏😊❤
😂😂😂”The Alphabet Rap!” He was about midway, before I realized he was going through the alphabets on them. They already screwed up. They were supposed to have a rules vote , prior to adjournment, Saturday morning. However, one of the rules for which they were voting, required members to have 72 hours for review, before bringing it to the floor. See how stupid they are? I don’t know if I should invent in corn, dairy (or plant based butter), or agriculture period! We’ll be eating a lot of popcorn 🍿🍿🧈🧈😂
There is a simple solution here. McCarthy needs to go to Jeffries. Democrats expect nothing from the GOP. But if McCarthy offers some stuff - maybe some better committee assignments or better rules - something in exchange for support, it's a win win win. McCarthy gets his Speakership and it is unfettered - no need to adhere to all the concessions he has made. Jeffries gets something for the Dems and comes out looking like the adult with total credibility in the party. AND, the loonies get nothing. They get outflanked and wind up without all these chairmanships, procedural rules, motion to vacate, and the rest. It's payback for McCarthy, and suddenly you have a House that instantly shows it can come together to accomplish something.
DJ, that makes sense to you, me, and many others, but not to this bunch. McCarthy (and MAGA politicians) get stuck between doing what is right for the country vs having free reign to right-wing tv, and having that post-congressional job, where they get paid for what they delivered, while in Congress. McCarthy is just a puppet; he stands for absolutely nothing! He doesn’t even have any power groups to intervene on his behalf, after being in leadership for 10-12 years. That tells you something!
Just a quick suggestion for another "theme" song for the H of Reps debacle: "Send in the Clowns" -- I believe the last line may be something like "No matter, they're here." And they are!
And while I'm at it - theme for trump: "The Man Who Sold the World" -David Bowie early one. Sometimes I think during that period he was psychic.
On a more serious note: Loved your forward to the 1/6 Report - now I'm plowing through the evidence. If DoJ doesn't nail everyone associated with 1/6 attempted coup d'état, there's something definitely wrong with the US.
Hi! Re a “ new face of the GOP, I don’t see it as the GOP any longer. It’s like there’s a party within a party. It’s really a Maga faction inside a declining intimated dying relic. If the 19-20 prevail the changes they will make will seriously shake the foundations of the house, pun intended. As to McCarthy moving in - isn’t possession 9/10ths of the law? I think he was sending a message. It may be the closest he comes to his dream- a fleeting occupancy.
What I’m wondering is, if McCarthy were to succeed, or another choice is elected, what would be left for the 200 Republicans that have supported him in terms of prime committee assignments and chairs, and with rule changes, would they be relegated to be only spectators in the Forum?
January 1, 2023 was just a date- not a New Year.
I love when Michael Moore is on your show, he is really astute, and a humble gentle soul. Thank you for pointing out a degree shouldn’t get in the way of an education.
Best thing that happened in the eleventh vote was that Trump came in last with one vote. This circus of a house leader is only another test of how much you bend before cracking or standing on your own two feet.
Sometimes, people do things because they think it will create some sort of reality - a self fulfilling prophecy, if you will. Sometimes, people do things because their ego demands it. Sometimes, people will do things because they are desperate. Sometimes, people will do thing because they truly believe it to be the right thing. Kevin McCarthy? Probably all of the above, except the last.
GOP has been moving in this direction for decades. Chaos and disruption is the theme of populism and Republican leadership is all in. Gets them elected. Pay is good. Solid benefits they do not want others to have and no accountability. At least not so far,
Hey Ari:) Yes. Indeed he did:) What a hot mess! Hard to believe and hard to watch. The Grateful Dead song that comes to mind when discussing Kevin McCarthy and all of his concessions is:
‘Friend Of The Devil’
“Set out runnin' but I take my time
A friend of the Devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
I just might get some sleep tonight”
McCarthy has clearly adopted the Trump mentality of, it’s all about him, and if he doesn’t win, the rest of us can’t move forward. The functionality of our government is on pause, and he doesn’t care as much about that as his own ego and position, as speaker. Even if it ends up being in name only, with no actual power, because he traded it all away. We’ve known for awhile that he has no integrity, but where’s the shame? This is a job of service, not of selfish, and his choice to continue and try to win at all costs, when, come on 11 losses? And what’s left to give? Why not get a clue, and a different path forward, for the good of the American people, if that is truly the intention of any of these folks to begin with. Mccrathy and the party have shown, they really don’t have any other plan. Which is crazy with over 200 people in the party, right? Get it together. This Groundhog Day voting does not come off as his negotiating momentum, or progress of any kind for McCarthy. It reads as desperation on his part to keep his fictitious ball in the air as long as possible, at the cost of us the people, because once again, like with Trump, we are watching a grown man who cannot except defeat, and is fixated only on, his own winning.
I think the 21 clowns are showing McCarthy they control everything and if they let him become speaker he’s going to do what they want or he will be replaced in a second he will be a powerless speaker in title only ! McCarthy has a spine made of jello nothing will be done for the American people for the next 2 years but chaos and ignorance from these pathetic parasites a waste of taxpayers dollars disgraceful!
Today is the second anniversary of the January 6th insurrection. Trump and his top government officials that planned and instigated the coup are still walking around scot free🤔
January 6th 2021 will forever be a day that we Americans will not forget
Kevin McCarthy shouldn’t have moved into the Speaker’s office. He is so desperate for the Speaker position that he had to move into the office without getting the required votes. He set himself for failure to be the Speaker. He didn’t think the insurrection was a big deal.
To me, he is not a true leader and just like the rest of the GOP, he just wants the power.
Question: once the House GOP knew in November 2022, that they would be the majority starting 2023, why didn’t they start to figure out who they were going to select as the Speaker of the House?
There’s no other way to say this: the GOP is a big hot mess 🙄
😂😂😂😂😂You can only call it, as you see it! Kevin has known for years, that he was lacking the votes for speaker. That’s why he kept letting Trump drag him all over the place. Once the “red wave” didn’t occur, he should have been conferring with Hakeem. At least, that’s what a real politician would have done. Previously, he was majority whip, so he knows what it takes to get across the finish line. I don’t get it!😳 Happy FRI-YAY to you and a great weekend ❤️
You gotta love The Dead.. great association Ari.
2 Joanies here!
When will the responsible, sane Republicans realize that all they have to do is stay away for one vote. Jeffries has almost half already. The House could then act as a governing body with a loyal opposition and lead.
Or republican members of the democrat republican caucus of house members who are trying to work together. 28 republicans going for Jefferies would work.
I really hope that Kevin fails at counting heads (aka chickens before they hatch) and convinces some of the holdouts to vote present, which will lower the threshold for a win, and that enables the Democrat, Hakeem Jeffries, to snag the speaker's post with solid backing while McCarthy's votes are still less than Jefferies. Fingers crossed.
Fellow Dead Heads need to unite. I am actually shocked by the slash and burn antics I have witnessed by some house republicans and even more shocked by the sublimation by this majority of house republicans to placate attempts to destroy our republic. BTW Ari I have read your prologue twice and still feel terrified of how close the insurrectionists came to denying the votes of Americans. I am half way through the Jan 6 full report and how infectious Trump craziness can be. So many are cut from the same cloth and so few realized their ideological folly. To me it now feels less political and more an impaired mental state. My recollections of Dead concerts was feeling love all around and now the world has shifted into anti love.
Hello Truda,
You are so correct: tRump might be 'gone' but trumpiness has taken hold on the right.
I watched with some.level of horror as the likes of Gaetz, MTG, and Boebert treat the House like they are running for high school class president. Sickening! And, though I wasn't exposed to the Dead growing up, the message of love is clear in songs by artists like Bob Marley. One love. 💙😊
Agree Come together right now Moderate Republicans bring us back and govern represent your supporters Right republican in name only
I've got something essential to share to you
Let's text +15754590814
I got this number it's invalid thought unusual puzzled
Hi Sandra, I thought of you and Sandra O when Ari announced his upcoming New York event. Hope you all can make it!!!
The suppose "Never Kevin's " was just a game the traitor caucus was playing to get more attention. Not looking forward to tonight's vote, but I'll be watching. Have a safe weekend!!!🙏
Hello V,
Good to hear from you!! Yes, hopefully I can get my book signed; realize there'll probably be a long line!!! Enjoy your weekend. ❤️🙏🏽📘
I'm so excited that you will get to meet Ari and get your book signed. Now we want to hear all about it.✌️
Good night. Have a blessed week.🙏🤗❤️
Yes agree frightening how we see who are in positions of power The emperor has no clothes we see it as they eroded democracy DOJ push ahead to make accountability to leaders including those in government Those do what their doing because of involvement in trying to prevent certification of election and by creating an atmosphere of disray they try to prevent accountability The foot soldiers held accountable but mò Brooks Jim Jordan Hawley raising his fist -all who continue accountability Steve Bannon pod cast outrageous To complete the circle I think that's why curtain up in the republican party in their assault on democracy because lacking of the DOJ Each time you see videos hear the words of trump and friends police murdered and assaulted powerless hunting for vice president and Nancy Pelosi your horrified as the first time No accountability after all this time what's the message as the beat goes on the plot continues DOJ save America your silence is deafening No limits Anybody have kids what happens when you establish limits or not How do you appear ? Do your words mean anything are you taken seriously Of course if you establish limits Of course not when you appear weak Adam kissenger on MSNBC less stressful for him and his input appreciated a hero with guts ñot a wimp like his other fellow Republicans like Mitt Susan Collins and the rest
Exactly. I am, perhaps naively, stunned that so many insurrectionists were elected or reelected.
They walk around, as evidenced during this past week, fearless and emboldened--- and in charge of the House.
DOJ knows what has to be done, otherwise it's complicit. I've heard one viewpoint that if the DOJ takes action against Trump or GOP members, it will destabilize our government. Really? We're there....Taking no action signals it's ok to overthrow the government with no ramifications. That's an unforgivable, unacceptable mindset that contributed to the humiliating circus this week. Kevin is not the new Speaker - MAGA extremists are.
Agree with all you expressed What condition is our democracy in now. We enable and endanger if there's no accountability. what are those thinking the house is stabilized??? Lol. Ramifications we are witnessing now because DOJ ARE so timid words so weak because no action So passing bills to give tax breaks to wealthy trim budgets by defunding of FBI internal revenue social security Medicare etc As we witness this erosion of democracy and our government which is all those covering their tracks and protecting themselves for involvement and supporting January 6th Attacking and trying to dismantle all departments that have or in process of investigating Trump and friends It’s astounding to me how individuals still think Trump was a great president and support someone like Hawley thumbs up cancun Ted Jim Jordan Matt gates latty da We were a model for democracy and strength in the world I must acknowledge the Liz Chaney Adam kissenger Adam schiff Clyburn and all democrats who lived with threats to uphold democracy and what it can be Some fault is how easily people can be manipulated by fear and intolerance vote the Republicans in not realizing no representation and those people they voted in have contempt for them used only to gain power They do nothing to enhance their lives I beg DOJ join reality lack of àccountability is the effect of destabilizing a government and its democracy and people Maga extremists must be halted People like Steve Bannon Roger stone know there's limitations that democracy justice will be uphold People will be represented in government their voices will echo and heard with values morality and true remberance for the people is democracy and not power self serving for that's an autocrat government
Very well said Helen!!! So many cowards are representing the Republican party, and they have no shame for it either.🙄
About power. Negotiations with who ?What did he give ? Where are the moderate Republicans?? The house is being compromised to being a threat to our democracy Ms Green Matt Gates. Jim Jordan extremists etc. People who don't acknowledge Jan 6th the horror of assault of police and murder No accountability free to continue and erode the functions of government Most of children families what is the future-goals The legacy lies lack of vaĺues and representation of Americans Unfortunately people voted them in. Chaos ahead. Kevin had a dream and sold out our country What lies ahead certainly not àny to to help Americans and move us ahead. Hearing to take away from the focus of their lacking and maybe agenda. Kevin is singing don't cry for me Americans through it all I have no promises I'm speaker weak and ineffective The most dysfunctional I'm in charge of???? Again moderate Republicans shame on you. silence is accepting no backbone
A lot of hearings and investigations to cloud the already muddy waters
I'm sure that their plan.
Hi Truda. It's so disturbing to see how the Republican party has become the party of division and hate. To think after a week of a circus show, tonight they will get together and vote McCarthy in as Speaker.
I'm not a Dead Head, but I have been asked several times if I'm related to Jerry Garcia.🤣Which made me laugh.😂 I have attended concerts and your right about feeling love all around the arena. ❤🎸🎶 Have a safe weekend !!!🙏
Hi V. Have a good weekend. Watching house republicans this week was like watching Beevis and Butthead or Dumb and Dumber
After Friday night /Saturday morning, it's a combination of both, plus maybe the Three Stooges.😂😂😂
We shall see how tomorrow goes. Good night. Have a blessed week.🙏🤗❤️
Hello Ari,
Thank you for this piece, especially on the eve of the Jan-6 anniversary! These are wild times, indeed. Cannot believe, as Michael Moore pointed out, that 100+ rep-elects seek control over a government they tried to overthrow 2 years ago. This is all cray cray.😡
Forgive me, but I feel zero pity for McCarthy. Lady Nancy worked with similar margins like a BOSS; Kevin would have been wise to get some expert tips from her! I. Sooooo proud of the Democrats right now, though. They are holding the line and showing - as is sung in Newsies - that "Brooklyn's here!" 🎶
Hi namesake, I am with you on the Democrats having a united front...already selected their leaders and waiting for the chaotic hot mess House GOP to get their act together.
I am definitely ok with Hakeem Jeffries being the Speaker of the House👍🏽
As for Kevin McCarthy, so much winning...bigly🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 Not😂🤣😂🤣😂
Ms O, I’m trying not to laugh, but your statement is funny!
Hello Lady namesake!
I loved Rep Clark's (I believe) speech to nominate Rep Jeffries as Speaker - 212 Democratic vote *every* time! 👏🏾 Dems like to complain about elected officials; hopefully, not this time.
Dems are at last united. Popcorn and all...🍿
It was time for a new, younger generation to lead the Democrats - congratulations, Mr. Jeffries!
Kevin wasn't elected- he was self-annointed. 🤴
It was painful watching him repeatedly lose because it was embarrassing.
Hi Sandra O, very funny!!🤣🤣🤣
I thought of our two Sandra's tonight when Ari announced his upcoming New York event, Hope you all will be able to make it!!!
Didn’t know SandraR was East Coast! Now, I’m rolling my eyes.🙄 Lucky her, too!❤️👍🏽😂😂😂
Haha, Olddiva! Must be the name!!! 😂🤣😂❤️
(Cont'd) CONGRATS on the J-6 report results! #Beatniks are fierce lol. And, speaking of which, some of us are asking about (hoping for) a book tour. Ha! Hopefully, that's in the works⁉️ 😊🤓📘
Was reading about Kevin McCarthy on yesterday, trying to get an understanding of his “Whys?” Nothing to explain this level of incompetence. Was shocked to read that his parents and family members were Democrats! Couldn’t tell if they remain so today.
It has been popcorn worthy, but didn’t know these people are off the chart. And think about it, responsible for 750K folks!😳. Hope all is well, S.R.!❤️
Hello Olddiva,
Just saw the Dems mark the Jan-6 anniversary with solemnity; so moving. Doing well over here; hope you are too!!! ❤️
We just saw statesmanship by James Clyburn!
Yaaaaaaas. Dems on 🔥
Was watching, while talking to my sister. We were saying, Kevin’s constituents are just realizing who has been representing them, and that if he can’t take care of himself, he’s incapable of doing anything for them. I’m sure he’s done corporate favoritism, but little for the people. Sad as it is, this is still popcorn tv-riveting! So, I’m OK, S.R.😂❤️
No acknowledgment by Republicans as to January 6th a day that was violent and the messages clear by clothing wore flags held today we have videos so denial is an empty glass Members of government involved or supported the mob The police that saved elected members of government lost lives and believed in our country A noose for Mike Pence hunting for members of congress and yet silence from Republicans. Those involved or supporters are creating a smoke screen with investigations and hearings The selection of speaker shows how eroded the Republicans have become Hawley a thumbs up MO Brooks Bannon Jim Jordan and friends what is the agenda ? Defund internal revenue Investigate FBI who protect our national security which ties in with not supporting Ukraine leading to autocrat governments Inviting an autocrat to RNC and Trump stealing confidential top secret documents and lying about having them -how many times All this. is clearly a means to dismantle our government Eradicate laws and regulations and all that protect democracy The democratics have provided evidence videos The most damaging and damming evidence obstruction of justice May I be bold to suggest treason How can we charge a former president? How can we not The commander in chief and supporters committed these actions against our democracy and continue to do so as we watch whose in positions of power The selling of the speaker Mccarthy and the continued attempts to dismantle our democracy The democrats try to hold down the fort and save our fragile democracy our great country añd people If the DOJ doesn't move swiftly and with strength words are meaningless will we reach the point of no return I doubt Trump supporters will read this think about living in a country without protect for the citizens no voting rights no voice. An autocrat government that serves itself I agree its impact of lack of acknowledgment and what goes with it a reason for concern as their beat goes on And we have no accountability as the commander in chief ends January 6th you're good people and we love you after violence murder vandalism and the hunting for members in government to stop certification of the presidential election
Yes, Helen, it’s a lot! Now, we see Bannon coercing Brazilians to do the same, while we house Bolsonaro in America, and in one of our hospitals. Amazing how Bannon can remain free to go around the world to disrupt governments, after having been sentenced. Ari discussed Bannon’s freedoms (during his appeal), secondary to his race and financial status. I, too, am frustrated by these assigned categories for criminal privileges, but when it comes to Trump, I can see the other side. I’d rather wait! He’s done a lot, but I try to avoid conflating all his allegations/infractions/crimes. So, the two year wait, thus far, for a formal charge, I understand. Don’t like it, but I want his charges to hold! No wiggle room!
🤣. Butter on the popcorn and a diet coke please. It was fascinating.
😂😂😂😂😂It was fascinating!
Did anyone see the children of one of the families who lost a loved one? They were so little they couldn't reach the mic. To lose someone at that very young age. "Kevin and company" no shows. Speaks volumes. So sad! Heartless! 😳😱
Karyn, they have backed themselves in a corner. This current group of Republican lawmakers are just dumb! All that pseudo anger and “Stop the Steal events,” placed them in a corner. They can’t be seen now, commemorating those events (Insurrection) they claimed never happened. What we saw last week is just the beginning. The only ones to stop this runaway train is the DOJ. It’s either eat or be eaten!
Hi Diva, I'm not looking forward to tonight's vote. They make me so angry.
“Make you angry-“ with all that fluff?! I know, I just yell back at them, even cuss! We’ll see, in a couple of hours…Like this Lucas Kunce, running against Josh Hawley. Hope we have great candidates.
Yay Newsies fan here!!!
Hi V, where have you been? Was missing you! We’re back for votes 10pm EST! If he doesn’t make it on the 14th, then I don’t know. Missing my movies and docuseries, but I’m such a political junkie!❤️
I've been on the go the past 3 days. We're celebrating my daughter's birthday tomorrow.🥳 So I've been taking down Christmas decorations and preparing for the party. Plus trying to watch the Republican circus🤣🤣🤣
I was celebrating my son and granddaughter’s last month, so I know the routine. Was at my daughter’s house, WATCHING them do Christmas. Holidays are hard work! And yes, this is a circus. They have all these concessions, they’re breaking already for themselves. By the time he accepts the gavel, he’ll have to hold it in his mouth, having lost all limbs in these concessions!
Love your sense of humor!!! 🤣😂🤣😅
🤣🤣🤣 McCarthy is going to be walking around a very empty shallow man. We will soon find out what more he gave away for that Speaker gavel. That was some crazy stuff on Friday night/Saturday morning. But was worth it, to listen to OUR Democratic leader Hakim Jeffries give a speech we will never forget. "The Alphabet Rap"
Well Diva, we shall see how things start off tomorrow. Enjoy your Sunday!!!🙏😊❤
😂😂😂”The Alphabet Rap!” He was about midway, before I realized he was going through the alphabets on them. They already screwed up. They were supposed to have a rules vote , prior to adjournment, Saturday morning. However, one of the rules for which they were voting, required members to have 72 hours for review, before bringing it to the floor. See how stupid they are? I don’t know if I should invent in corn, dairy (or plant based butter), or agriculture period! We’ll be eating a lot of popcorn 🍿🍿🧈🧈😂
Happy birthday to your daughter!!!!
Awwww..... Thank you Sandra!!!!🙏😊❤️
Enjoy your Sunday!!!🎶🎤🎵
There is a simple solution here. McCarthy needs to go to Jeffries. Democrats expect nothing from the GOP. But if McCarthy offers some stuff - maybe some better committee assignments or better rules - something in exchange for support, it's a win win win. McCarthy gets his Speakership and it is unfettered - no need to adhere to all the concessions he has made. Jeffries gets something for the Dems and comes out looking like the adult with total credibility in the party. AND, the loonies get nothing. They get outflanked and wind up without all these chairmanships, procedural rules, motion to vacate, and the rest. It's payback for McCarthy, and suddenly you have a House that instantly shows it can come together to accomplish something.
DJ, that makes sense to you, me, and many others, but not to this bunch. McCarthy (and MAGA politicians) get stuck between doing what is right for the country vs having free reign to right-wing tv, and having that post-congressional job, where they get paid for what they delivered, while in Congress. McCarthy is just a puppet; he stands for absolutely nothing! He doesn’t even have any power groups to intervene on his behalf, after being in leadership for 10-12 years. That tells you something!
One person can ask for a vote to oust him at any time and that's it.
Get more popcorn, Dems.
…Don’t forget the butter😂😂😂
Hi Ari:
Just a quick suggestion for another "theme" song for the H of Reps debacle: "Send in the Clowns" -- I believe the last line may be something like "No matter, they're here." And they are!
And while I'm at it - theme for trump: "The Man Who Sold the World" -David Bowie early one. Sometimes I think during that period he was psychic.
On a more serious note: Loved your forward to the 1/6 Report - now I'm plowing through the evidence. If DoJ doesn't nail everyone associated with 1/6 attempted coup d'état, there's something definitely wrong with the US.
Hi! Re a “ new face of the GOP, I don’t see it as the GOP any longer. It’s like there’s a party within a party. It’s really a Maga faction inside a declining intimated dying relic. If the 19-20 prevail the changes they will make will seriously shake the foundations of the house, pun intended. As to McCarthy moving in - isn’t possession 9/10ths of the law? I think he was sending a message. It may be the closest he comes to his dream- a fleeting occupancy.
What I’m wondering is, if McCarthy were to succeed, or another choice is elected, what would be left for the 200 Republicans that have supported him in terms of prime committee assignments and chairs, and with rule changes, would they be relegated to be only spectators in the Forum?
January 1, 2023 was just a date- not a New Year.
I love when Michael Moore is on your show, he is really astute, and a humble gentle soul. Thank you for pointing out a degree shouldn’t get in the way of an education.
Best thing that happened in the eleventh vote was that Trump came in last with one vote. This circus of a house leader is only another test of how much you bend before cracking or standing on your own two feet.
Sometimes, people do things because they think it will create some sort of reality - a self fulfilling prophecy, if you will. Sometimes, people do things because their ego demands it. Sometimes, people will do things because they are desperate. Sometimes, people will do thing because they truly believe it to be the right thing. Kevin McCarthy? Probably all of the above, except the last.
Stay united Democrats
GOP has been moving in this direction for decades. Chaos and disruption is the theme of populism and Republican leadership is all in. Gets them elected. Pay is good. Solid benefits they do not want others to have and no accountability. At least not so far,
Not only did he move in prematurely, I can’t believe he’s still in there. Dude might need to resign and just go home.
Hey Ari:) Yes. Indeed he did:) What a hot mess! Hard to believe and hard to watch. The Grateful Dead song that comes to mind when discussing Kevin McCarthy and all of his concessions is:
‘Friend Of The Devil’
“Set out runnin' but I take my time
A friend of the Devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
I just might get some sleep tonight”
McCarthy has clearly adopted the Trump mentality of, it’s all about him, and if he doesn’t win, the rest of us can’t move forward. The functionality of our government is on pause, and he doesn’t care as much about that as his own ego and position, as speaker. Even if it ends up being in name only, with no actual power, because he traded it all away. We’ve known for awhile that he has no integrity, but where’s the shame? This is a job of service, not of selfish, and his choice to continue and try to win at all costs, when, come on 11 losses? And what’s left to give? Why not get a clue, and a different path forward, for the good of the American people, if that is truly the intention of any of these folks to begin with. Mccrathy and the party have shown, they really don’t have any other plan. Which is crazy with over 200 people in the party, right? Get it together. This Groundhog Day voting does not come off as his negotiating momentum, or progress of any kind for McCarthy. It reads as desperation on his part to keep his fictitious ball in the air as long as possible, at the cost of us the people, because once again, like with Trump, we are watching a grown man who cannot except defeat, and is fixated only on, his own winning.
I think the 21 clowns are showing McCarthy they control everything and if they let him become speaker he’s going to do what they want or he will be replaced in a second he will be a powerless speaker in title only ! McCarthy has a spine made of jello nothing will be done for the American people for the next 2 years but chaos and ignorance from these pathetic parasites a waste of taxpayers dollars disgraceful!
Today is the second anniversary of the January 6th insurrection. Trump and his top government officials that planned and instigated the coup are still walking around scot free🤔
January 6th 2021 will forever be a day that we Americans will not forget
We will never forget, as much as the Republicans want us to do so.🙏😪
Hello Ari and Happy Fri-YAY😃
Thanks for your newsletter😃
Kevin McCarthy shouldn’t have moved into the Speaker’s office. He is so desperate for the Speaker position that he had to move into the office without getting the required votes. He set himself for failure to be the Speaker. He didn’t think the insurrection was a big deal.
To me, he is not a true leader and just like the rest of the GOP, he just wants the power.
Question: once the House GOP knew in November 2022, that they would be the majority starting 2023, why didn’t they start to figure out who they were going to select as the Speaker of the House?
There’s no other way to say this: the GOP is a big hot mess 🙄
😂😂😂😂😂You can only call it, as you see it! Kevin has known for years, that he was lacking the votes for speaker. That’s why he kept letting Trump drag him all over the place. Once the “red wave” didn’t occur, he should have been conferring with Hakeem. At least, that’s what a real politician would have done. Previously, he was majority whip, so he knows what it takes to get across the finish line. I don’t get it!😳 Happy FRI-YAY to you and a great weekend ❤️
You too have a great weekend Diva!!!🤗🙏❤
You lucky devil...Ain’t mad at you! Enjoy the signing!🙏🏽❤️😂
I just saw that...I guess that I should buy my ticket😃
You’d better! You asked and it was granted! It’s definitely a HAPPY FRI-YAY! I’m excited for you and others close enough to go. BLESSINGS!
I just bought my ticket so I will be in NYC next Thursday 😃 Yay!!!
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👍🏽
😂😂😂😂😂I just love you! Good for you! Have fun and bring back a report!❤️
YAY!!!!!🤗🤗🤗