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These are my blogs. Sometimes I do a lot of them, sometimes only a few. I am retired, which you would think would give me plenty of time, but sometimes life gets in the way. I hope you enjoy them, and please, feel free to shoot me an email with any comments, good or bad. I look forward to hearing from you.

2025 Blogs
Trump and Dementia
Trump and Dementia

August 16, 2025

Dementia is a devastating condition that takes away memory, judgment, and even personality. Families who have dealt with it know how it starts small, with things like forgetting names, repeating the same story, or losing track of the day. Then it gets worse. People forget where they are, say things that don’t make sense, get angry or paranoid, and eventually cannot live on their own. It is one of the hardest things to watch happen to someone you love.

I am not a doctor, but I do not need to be one to see how many of these same symptoms are showing up in Donald Trump. When most people show these warning signs, they get help or step back from responsibility. Trump is still running the country, and the results are on full display.

Let’s start with memory. Trump constantly mixes up names and events. He has said more than once that he beat Barack Obama in 2016, even though he actually ran against Hillary Clinton. He confused Nancy Pelosi with Nikki Haley. He has told...

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Burnout Won’t Save Democracy: The case for taking a breather.
Burnout Won’t Save Democracy: The case for taking a breather.


July 13, 2025

Let’s be honest:
it’s exhausting out there. The news is relentless, the stakes feel impossibly high, and every time you glance at your phone you’re bombarded with fresh horrors, hot takes, and the never-ending churn of political chaos. If you’re reading this, chances are you care... a lot. You care about democracy, human rights, justice, decency, and not letting fascists run the show. And that’s a good thing. But here’s something you might need to hear: it’s okay to step back for a minute. In fact, it’s necessary.

We can’t save the world if we’re too burned out to stand up.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like we have to be “on” all the time. Every headline demands outrage. Every social media post feels like a call to arms. Every new political development, whether it’s another rollback of rights, another Supreme Court disaster, or the latest dystopian nonsense from...

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Tearing Down American Democracy
Tearing Down American Democracy


July 5, 2025


America is at a dangerous turning point. For over two centuries, the U.S. has been held together by a shared belief in democracy, the Constitution, and the rule of law. But in recent years, especially under Donald Trump and the modern GOP, those values have been pushed aside in favor of raw power, lies, and authoritarian tactics. What we are seeing is not politics as usual. It’s the slow collapse of the system that’s supposed to protect our freedom.

Trump didn’t start this fire, but he’s throwing fuel on it every day. Since his first campaign, Trump has attacked the press, the courts, and anyone who doesn’t support him. He lies constantly. He threatens opponents. He encourages violence. And he has surrounded himself with people who want to turn the presidency into a dictatorship. Many of them don’t even bother to hide it anymore.

The Republican Party, once...

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No Kings vs. The Parade of Power
No Kings vs. The Parade of Power


June 17,2025

While Donald Trump’s military parade trudged forward in a swirl of heavy machinery, costumed might, and the sparse applause of the already convinced, another movement quietly swelled in contrast and defiance: the No Kings protests.

The contrast between the two could not be sharper, not only in tone and scale, but in spirit and purpose. Trump’s parade was a projection of power, not American power rooted in democratic ideals or civic pride, but a borrowed image of authoritarian spectacle, more in line with the strongman theatrics of Russia or North Korea than with anything traditionally American. It was staged patriotism, hollowed of humility and filled with self-congratulatory bombast. Rows of tanks, rigid salutes, and the whine of fighter jets overhead were meant to inspire awe, but ended up exposing insecurity, both personal and political...

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The Illusion of Leadership
The Illusion of Leadership


May 21, 2025

In recent months,
concerns have grown over President Donald Trump's cognitive health and the extent of his control over his administration. Observers point to signs of cognitive decline and the increasing influence of Project 2025, a comprehensive plan developed by conservative think tanks, to suggest that Trump may be serving more as a figurehead while others steer the country's direction. These developments have profound implications not only for the immediate governance of the country but also for the long-term health of American democracy.

Analysts, journalists, and political observers have noted significant changes in Trump’s speech patterns, memory recall, and behavior. From the campaign trail to public speeches, Trump increasingly relies on vague generalities, jumbled syntax, and repetitive catchphrases. His use of superlatives like "nobody's ever seen anything like it" or "many people are saying" has long been a feature of his rhetorical style, but lately, it has become more exaggerated and disconnected from coherent policy arguments...

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FASCISM IS HERE, BUT WE CAN WIN. UNITED
FASCISM IS HERE, BUT WE CAN WIN. UNITED

April 19,2025

The rise of Donald
Trump’s political movement represents one of the gravest threats to American democracy in modern history. From his first campaign to his current efforts to entrench power, Trump has demonstrated an open hostility to democratic norms, a disdain for the rule of law, and a willingness to use the machinery of government to punish enemies and reward loyalists. This isn’t just about partisan politics or ideological differences anymore. This is about the corrosion of democracy and the rise of fascism in America.

Fascism does not arrive all at once. It creeps in under the guise of patriotism, cloaked in slogans, legitimized by courts, and excused by politicians who fear political consequences more than moral failure. The threat grows when people look the other way. And that is what we’re seeing today, a widespread normalization of behavior that would have once been unthinkable...


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Trump Disappearances
Trump Disappearances

April 8, 2025

During Trump’s
first term, the word "deportation" lost its legal meaning. It stopped being a matter of due process and became an instrument of cruelty. Under the guise of immigration enforcement, ICE began pulling people from homes, schools, and hospitals with no warning, no hearing, and often no trace. This wasn’t deportation. It was disappearance.

Families were torn apart with no record of where loved ones were taken. Thousands of children were separated at the border, some permanently, because the government didn’t bother to track them. People disappeared into a vast and opaque detention network, often run by for-profit corporations, and emerged weeks or months later, traumatized or not at all. Legal residents and even U.S. citizens were mistakenly detained and held. And ICE agents operated with impunity, using intimidation and deception rather than legal warrants.

Agents were seen handcuffing third graders...


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THE GOP ARE FASCISTS
THE GOP ARE FASCISTS

3/27/25

The Republican Party
, once a party of conservative principles, has now transformed into a fascist movement, systematically eroding democracy, attacking the most vulnerable, and consolidating power through fear, propaganda, and oppression. What was once a party that at least paid lip service to democratic norms has now openly embraced authoritarianism. The proof is everywhere, from their attacks on free elections, their attempts to criminalize dissent, their vilification of marginalized communities, and their open admiration for strongmen and dictators. Nowhere is this more evident than in the way they have taken a page from history’s darkest chapters, aligning themselves with the same methods used by fascist regimes of the past. Perhaps one of the most chilling parallels is the direct correlation between the concentration camps of past genocides and the inhumane detention centers in El Salvador, where thousands are imprisoned under horrific conditions with no regard for human rights or due process.

Fascism is defined by its core principles: extreme nationalism, suppression of opposition, the use of state violence, and a propaganda machine that distorts reality to maintain power. The GOP has checked every box. Under Trump and his enablers, the party has made clear...

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The Fight Continues
The Fight Continues

3/8/2025

Donald Trump’s return
to power has already unleashed a wave of destruction, corruption, and chaos, proving once again that his only agenda is self-interest and the consolidation of power. In just a short time, he has attacked democratic institutions, undermined the rule of law, and further emboldened the worst elements of society (no surprise). His administration’s policies are already harming marginalized communities, rolling back fundamental rights, and positioning the United States on a dangerous trajectory toward authoritarianism and fascism.

Trump wasted no time in dismantling the safeguards that kept his corruption in check. From gutting federal oversight to placing loyalists in key positions, he has removed barriers to his power, ensuring no accountability for his actions. The firing of inspectors general and the purging of career officials who put country over party have set a clear precedent: loyalty to Trump outweighs competence, ethics, and even legality. His disregard for norms and...

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Krasnov?
Krasnov?

March 6, 2025

Donald Trump's second
term has removed any lingering doubt about where his loyalties lie, and it is not with the American people. His actions have repeatedly shown that he is more concerned with appeasing Vladimir Putin and furthering Russian interests than defending the United States or its allies. From his open hostility toward Ukraine to his renewed efforts to undermine NATO, Trump’s behavior is a glaring reminder that his allegiance lies with his Russian handlers, not the nation he swore to serve.

One of the most blatant examples of Trump's favoritism toward Russia is his escalating feud with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump has repeatedly attacked Zelensky, blaming Ukraine for Russia's aggression and pushing false narratives that paint Ukraine as the villain. This aggressive posture is not just rhetoric, it has translated into concrete actions that endanger Ukrainian sovereignty and empower Putin’s expansionist ambitions. By cutting off critical arms shipments to Ukraine, Trump has directly weakened their ability to defend themselves against Russian aggression. This decision...



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The Infighting Must Stop!
The Infighting Must Stop!

February 25, 2025

The infighting
between those who identify as "left" and those who consider themselves "liberal" is becoming a destructive force at the worst possible time. While there are real philosophical and policy differences between these groups, they pale in comparison to the threat posed by the rise of fascism and the MAGA movement. The stakes are too high to waste energy on internal divisions when democracy itself hangs by a thread. The differences between leftists and liberals can and should be debated, but later. Right now, there is an urgent battle to fight against those who want to dismantle the very foundations of democracy, and unity is essential if there is any hope of prevailing.

At the core of the conflict between the left and liberals are questions of strategy, priorities, and vision for the future. Leftists often push for transformative, systemic change such as abolishing systems they see as inherently oppressive, like capitalism and the police state. Liberals, by contrast, tend to favor incremental reform and working within existing institutions to expand civil rights and social welfare. These differences, while significant, should not obscure the fact that both groups ultimately seek a more just and equitable society. The disagreement lies in how to get there, not whether that goal...

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Self-care is Important!
Self-care is Important!

February 22, 2025

Resisting Trump's
fascist regime is not just a political struggle, it’s an emotional and mental one too. In a time when the stakes feel, and are, impossibly high, it can be easy to become overwhelmed, exhausted, and burned out. The constant onslaught of bad news and the seemingly endless attacks on democracy can drain even the most dedicated activists. But staying in the fight requires sustaining yourself. Avoiding burnout is not a luxury, it’s a necessity if we are to continue resisting effectively.

One of the most important steps to avoid burnout is recognizing your limits. Activism is a marathon, not a sprint, and no one can do everything. It’s easy to feel like you must be constantly engaged, reading every piece of news, responding to every crisis, but this approach is unsustainable...


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An anguished question from a Trump supporter:
An anguished question from a Trump supporter:

February 20, 2025

I usually don't copy and past things for my blog, but when I saw this I thought to myself, how could I improve on it? I of course realized I couldn't, so I am posting it as I saw it. Notice there is not one frivalious claim here. Everyone is backed up by a link for more info. Thanks to Mr. Castro for putting this together.
~~~~~~~~~~

"Why do liberals think Trump supporters are stupid?"
THE SERIOUS ANSWER: Here’s what the majority of anti-Trump voters honestly feel about Trump supporters en masse:
That when you saw a man who had owned a fraudulent University, intent on scamming poor people, you thought "Fine."...

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The Democratic Party Must Change Its Tactics
The Democratic Party Must Change Its Tactics

February 19, 2025

The Democratic Party
is at a crossroads. The traditional approach of measured debate, decorum, and procedural politeness is no longer sufficient. The GOP has abandoned these norms, using obstruction, disinformation, and outright defiance of democratic principles to push their agenda. If Democrats continue to play by outdated rules, they will keep losing ground. The party must fight back with the same intensity and relentlessness as the opposition. This is not a time for restraint; it is a time for bold, unapologetic action.

For too long, Democrats have relied on civility, assuming that reasoned argument and adherence to process would be enough to win battles. That is no longer the case. The Republican Party has shown that it will break any norm, ignore any ethical boundary, and weaponize any institution to maintain power. If Democrats do not adjust their approach, they will continue to be steamrolled. This means using every available platform...

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The Democratic Party Must Change Its Message
The Democratic Party Must Change Its Message

February 16, 2025

The Democratic Party
faces a critical challenge: how to reshape its message to reach a broader audience, unify its factions, and effectively combat the rising tide of authoritarianism. The current political climate demands a message that speaks to the everyday struggles of Americans in a way that resonates across ideological, geographical, and class divides. For too long, Democrats have allowed the opposition to define them, creating a distorted image that alienates potential allies. If the party wants to secure the future of democracy and build lasting political power, it must shift its focus to the economic issues that impact all Americans, reject divisive narratives, and create a coalition that transcends urban-rural, progressive-moderate, and cultural divides.

At the heart of this transformation must be an unrelenting emphasis on the real source of economic hardship: the unchecked power of the billionaire class and corporate greed. For decades, working people have been led to believe that their struggles stem from immigrants, minorities, LGBTQ+ people...

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10 Ways to Resist With Mobility Issues
10 Ways to Resist With Mobility Issues

February 11, 20205

Let’s face it.
Many of us are old. Others are sick. Still others are disabled. We aren’t all able to march as we once did. We want to be an active part of the resistance but have physical or emotional limitations that prevent some forms of resistance and civil disobedience. So it is reassuring to know that resisting the policies and authoritarian tendencies of Donald Trump’s government and the GOP does not require physical participation in marches or demonstrations. While public protests are powerful, there are many effective ways to resist that can be done from home, whether due to mobility issues, personal circumstances, or other constraints. Resistance is not just about being visible on the streets, it is about persistent action in any form. Every effort counts, and every voice matters. Here are ten impactful ways to make a difference, regardless of your physical, or emotional, limitations.

1.   Contact Elected Officials One of the most direct and effective ways to influence policy is by contacting your representatives. Politicians take note when their offices are flooded with calls, emails, letters, and faxes. If you are unable to call due to anxiety or disability, services like Resistbot allow you to send faxes and emails...

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The Battle for Democracy: Uniting Against Trump’s Tyranny
The Battle for Democracy: Uniting Against Trump’s Tyranny

February 8, 2025

Donald Trump’s
return to power has already unleashed a wave of destruction, corruption, and chaos, proving once again that his only agenda is self-interest and the consolidation of power. In just a short time, he has attacked democratic institutions, undermined the rule of law, and further emboldened the worst elements of society. His administration’s policies are already harming marginalized communities, rolling back fundamental rights, and positioning the United States on a dangerous trajectory toward authoritarianism.

Trump wasted no time in dismantling the safeguards that kept his corruption in check. From gutting federal oversight to placing loyalists in key positions, he has removed barriers to his power, ensuring no accountability for his actions. The firing of inspectors general and the purging of career officials who put country over party have set a clear precedent: loyalty to Trump outweighs competence, ethics, and even legality. His disregard for norms and the Constitution is no longer just a warning—it is our present reality.

Economically, his administration has already begun favoring the...

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The Stakes Couldn't Be Higher
The Stakes Couldn't Be Higher

January 16, 2025

The dawn
of a new presidential term often brings hope and renewal, but as Trump prepares to begin his second term on Monday, the air feels thick with foreboding rather than optimism. The next four years promise to test the resilience of the United States in ways we have never seen before. Trump’s leadership, marked by divisiveness, self-interest, and a dangerous disregard for democratic norms, is set to challenge the very foundations of our nation. The consequences of his second term could be catastrophic, both domestically and globally, unless we unite and resist with every ounce of determination we have.

Trump’s first term provided a grim preview of what is to come. His policies routinely prioritized the wealthy and powerful at the expense of everyday Americans. His administration gutted environmental protections, rolled back civil rights, and dismantled healthcare safeguards, leaving millions vulnerable. The erosion of trust in democratic institutions, fueled by his constant attacks on the media, judiciary, and electoral processes, created an environment where truth became malleable and lies reigned supreme. Now, with a second term secured, the damage is poised to escalate exponentially...


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Old Man Hippy's gifts and stuff for any old hippy.