Merrick Garland is a good man, but he was the wrong choice by Joe Biden to be attorney general. I believed this at this appointment and never changed my view.
The basic problem was that he was too much of a judge than a prosecutor. He wanted to be careful. He wanted to appear to be “judicial,” not political.
The result is that Trump and his gang have gotten away with virtually everything. Trump is a convicted felon, but his base turns a blind eye. This same crowd tried to run Clinton out of Dodge because stains on a blue dress. Is this a great country or what? Let’s Make America Great Again!
There is concern that Merrick Garland did not hold Donald Trump accountable for his actions related to January 6, despite having four years to do so. The reasons behind Garland's hesitation have potentially set a challenging precedent for accountability and governmental oversight. Whether his decisions were motivated by personal concerns or considerations for governmental stability remains unclear. Nevertheless, this situation conflicts with certain expectations of constitutional governance.
Historically, the Founding Fathers emphasized competence, civic duty, and an informed electorate as essential components of a successful and stable government. An example from South Korea, where their president was swiftly arrested after declaring martial law unnecessarily, underscores the importance of upholding democracy and the rule of law. Suspending the safeguards of the constitution should be reserved for extreme circumstances which do not contemplate a political objective or racial bias.
Some argue that Garland's approach to Trump's actions was less vigorous compared to his response to those private citizens who assaulted and battered cops and vandalized property and suggested a differential treatment. Moreover, it reinforces Trump’s notion that his wealth and fame can influence legal outcomes. While the president is granted immunity from criminal and civil prosecution in the lawful performance of the duties of office, actions must align with constitutional mandates. Trump’s attempt at maintaining political power is not within that scope and should have put him before a jury of his peers.
The key takeaway is that political strategies should be assertive and grounded in a deep understanding of the law and a sense of duty to constitutional principles. It is important to select individuals who exhibit these qualities to uphold democratic institutions effectively. Garland's tenure will be analyzed for its effectiveness in managing societal and legal challenges. History will judge him harshly.
Nailed it, Thomas. Many point of entry about which to comment. Others’ responses are straight. Do not think I can add much. Just a hope, regardless of political affiliation, that our citizenry can grasp the extreme moments defining right now. Or will “try” to wise up. What a mess.
The NC Democratic Party is hopelessly inept. The focus on analytics and voter turnout works only when the party has a message that attracts voters.
The constant stream of GOP propaganda should be met with a constant stream of outrage from Democrats in NC. And the Democrats don't need to lie.
There are at least 2 issues ripe for exploiting. One is the property tax inflation in NC since the GOP supermajority. Since there is less money flowing from Raleigh to our counties, counties have raised property taxes to cover the shortfall. The property tax inflation has been difficult for elderly especially.
This is a great opportunity for Democrats in NC. We need to raise hell about it and the NCGOP would paint itself into a corner.
I sent an email to NCDP 2 months ago and have yet to see a reply. I called a county party leader and actually heard her yawn!
The long strategy should be to discredit the NCGOP. It can be done! But not with the ideas of the past.
Bashing Democrats instead of the real villains-- Mitch McConnell stealing Obama's opportunity to put a Supreme Court Justice in place, Griffin and NC Republicans trying to disenfranchise thousands of voters who were voting legally for decades, NC supermajority undermining public education with private vouchers, Trump destroying the environment, Vance calling Democrats cat ladies and spreading deliberate lies about refugees-- there is more than enough fodder to last a lifetime with villainous Republican feed. Trump pushing an insurrection, committing crimes, lying endlessly, making up stories to sow discord, Trump pushing his proud boys to kill capitol policemen and Vance, etc provide plenty to criticize instead of us trying to find solutions to climate catastrophe, trying to provide daycare for working people, trying to protect women's right to privacy and health care.
I hear you Joy. The political landscape is complex and often frustrating. It is important to focus on constructive solutions and hold accountable those who undermine democratic principles and social progress. But the fact remains if you allow an institution like the justice dept to create a class of individuals who answer to nobody, that is a recipe for disaster. To vigorously prosecute those who lack the resources, snacks of elitism. Justice should be blind as to the social and financial status of wrong doers. But you are correct in saying we should channel that energy into discussing ways to address climate change, improve access to childcare, and protect, not just women’s but everybody’s rights. What are your thoughts on the most pressing issue we should tackle first?
If the Attorney General had done his job, Trump and his ridiculous attitude toward climate change would not be in the White House. Instead, he would be in a courtroom, making those obnoxious faces for his loyal followers.
Lincoln's view on politicians might hold true: you can't fool everyone forever. Trump, often his own worst enemy, shows poor judgment through business failures and imprudent remarks, resulting in civil actions. His loyal followers may soon lose faith, weakening his influence over Congress and the media. This decline could occur before the midterms.
You nailed it! When will the Democrats stand up and fight for our democracy? Where is Anderson Clayton now? "Make nice" doesn't work with would be fascist. Where is a strategy? Where is a call to action for those whose still believe in the values of the Declaration of Independence and are eager to fight democracy?
Brilliant analysis, Thomas. That ad concept comes from the mind of a talented strategist. You could start a PAC to raise money for it. I would help you however I can. Thanks for your great writing, Thomas.
I have made two contributions to the NC Democratic Party Federal Account to "Lawyer Up" on this Griffin suit. I strongly recommend others do the same. Party is sending funding requests on line.
Thomas, you are so right. Merrick Garland really failed the country. It's inexcusable that he waited so long because it waa obvious that Trump would cause continuous delays.
As far as Griffin goes, he should lose his seat on the Appeals Court for his behavior. Apparently, at least one of the NC Supreme Court Justices thinks he should shut up and give up, which shows how absolutely screwed up this grab to throw out 60,000 votes. It turns out that all are from early and mail in voting, and many from people who live out of the country. One of my friends is in that situation. She had no idea until I told her how to look herself up.
Democrats have been failing to meet the moment for decades. Your suggestions are exactly how NC voters should be called to action. So where’s the fundraising to make it happen. It needs an instigator. Any volunteers?
Perhaps this is Merrick's revenge for Dems sitting quietly on the sidelines as Mitch stole his SCOTUS seat. There are so many times since 2000 that Dems took the high road, waited for the process to play out, and stayed inside the norms only to get screwed.
I agree about the potential disenfranchisement of voters in NC. It is an affront and an outrage. We should all spread the searchable list of the 60,000+ voters who would be denied by Griffin. https://thegriffinlist.com/
As hard as the Trump non-verdicts are to accept, I suspect the U.S. would now be in civil war if 1) he was convicted, jailed, and barred by a court from running for re-election; 2) he won the election from jail anyway despite conviction(s). 3) A constitutional crisis erupted over whether he could serve. 4) 1.5% shifted and Harris won the presidency in the Electoral College but not necessarily the popular vote. Trump's supporters in the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt in July when they weren't certain he survived were talking seriously about civil war.
National Republicans may now engage in a circular firing squad as their coalition splits up over contradictory policies and irrational agendas.
Trump is certain to continue testing the limits of presidential power for the next four years. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Comey Barrett may join the three Democratic appointees and modify the presidential immunity decision.
Absolutely. Remember what Lyndon Johnson reportedly said to Bill Moyers after the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964 "There goes the South." Republicans and Democrats have switched sides in the War Between The States or as North Carolinians supposedly call it, The War of Northern Aggression
Well said. Garland was the wrong person for AG. We needed a Churchill and got a Chamberlain. You are also correct in that Dems need to FIGHT like it matters. For far too long Dems have been bringing pencils to knife fights. I did spot online that there are People's Protests going on around the country this Sat., Jan. 18th. There are gatherings in Raleigh and Burlington that I know of.
Merrick Garland is a good man, but he was the wrong choice by Joe Biden to be attorney general. I believed this at this appointment and never changed my view.
The basic problem was that he was too much of a judge than a prosecutor. He wanted to be careful. He wanted to appear to be “judicial,” not political.
The result is that Trump and his gang have gotten away with virtually everything. Trump is a convicted felon, but his base turns a blind eye. This same crowd tried to run Clinton out of Dodge because stains on a blue dress. Is this a great country or what? Let’s Make America Great Again!
There is concern that Merrick Garland did not hold Donald Trump accountable for his actions related to January 6, despite having four years to do so. The reasons behind Garland's hesitation have potentially set a challenging precedent for accountability and governmental oversight. Whether his decisions were motivated by personal concerns or considerations for governmental stability remains unclear. Nevertheless, this situation conflicts with certain expectations of constitutional governance.
Historically, the Founding Fathers emphasized competence, civic duty, and an informed electorate as essential components of a successful and stable government. An example from South Korea, where their president was swiftly arrested after declaring martial law unnecessarily, underscores the importance of upholding democracy and the rule of law. Suspending the safeguards of the constitution should be reserved for extreme circumstances which do not contemplate a political objective or racial bias.
Some argue that Garland's approach to Trump's actions was less vigorous compared to his response to those private citizens who assaulted and battered cops and vandalized property and suggested a differential treatment. Moreover, it reinforces Trump’s notion that his wealth and fame can influence legal outcomes. While the president is granted immunity from criminal and civil prosecution in the lawful performance of the duties of office, actions must align with constitutional mandates. Trump’s attempt at maintaining political power is not within that scope and should have put him before a jury of his peers.
The key takeaway is that political strategies should be assertive and grounded in a deep understanding of the law and a sense of duty to constitutional principles. It is important to select individuals who exhibit these qualities to uphold democratic institutions effectively. Garland's tenure will be analyzed for its effectiveness in managing societal and legal challenges. History will judge him harshly.
Nailed it, Thomas. Many point of entry about which to comment. Others’ responses are straight. Do not think I can add much. Just a hope, regardless of political affiliation, that our citizenry can grasp the extreme moments defining right now. Or will “try” to wise up. What a mess.
The NC Democratic Party is hopelessly inept. The focus on analytics and voter turnout works only when the party has a message that attracts voters.
The constant stream of GOP propaganda should be met with a constant stream of outrage from Democrats in NC. And the Democrats don't need to lie.
There are at least 2 issues ripe for exploiting. One is the property tax inflation in NC since the GOP supermajority. Since there is less money flowing from Raleigh to our counties, counties have raised property taxes to cover the shortfall. The property tax inflation has been difficult for elderly especially.
This is a great opportunity for Democrats in NC. We need to raise hell about it and the NCGOP would paint itself into a corner.
I sent an email to NCDP 2 months ago and have yet to see a reply. I called a county party leader and actually heard her yawn!
The long strategy should be to discredit the NCGOP. It can be done! But not with the ideas of the past.
Bashing Democrats instead of the real villains-- Mitch McConnell stealing Obama's opportunity to put a Supreme Court Justice in place, Griffin and NC Republicans trying to disenfranchise thousands of voters who were voting legally for decades, NC supermajority undermining public education with private vouchers, Trump destroying the environment, Vance calling Democrats cat ladies and spreading deliberate lies about refugees-- there is more than enough fodder to last a lifetime with villainous Republican feed. Trump pushing an insurrection, committing crimes, lying endlessly, making up stories to sow discord, Trump pushing his proud boys to kill capitol policemen and Vance, etc provide plenty to criticize instead of us trying to find solutions to climate catastrophe, trying to provide daycare for working people, trying to protect women's right to privacy and health care.
I hear you Joy. The political landscape is complex and often frustrating. It is important to focus on constructive solutions and hold accountable those who undermine democratic principles and social progress. But the fact remains if you allow an institution like the justice dept to create a class of individuals who answer to nobody, that is a recipe for disaster. To vigorously prosecute those who lack the resources, snacks of elitism. Justice should be blind as to the social and financial status of wrong doers. But you are correct in saying we should channel that energy into discussing ways to address climate change, improve access to childcare, and protect, not just women’s but everybody’s rights. What are your thoughts on the most pressing issue we should tackle first?
Climate change. Biggest threat to us all, the ecosystems world wide, and to the economy.
If the Attorney General had done his job, Trump and his ridiculous attitude toward climate change would not be in the White House. Instead, he would be in a courtroom, making those obnoxious faces for his loyal followers.
Lincoln's view on politicians might hold true: you can't fool everyone forever. Trump, often his own worst enemy, shows poor judgment through business failures and imprudent remarks, resulting in civil actions. His loyal followers may soon lose faith, weakening his influence over Congress and the media. This decline could occur before the midterms.
Amen!
You nailed it! When will the Democrats stand up and fight for our democracy? Where is Anderson Clayton now? "Make nice" doesn't work with would be fascist. Where is a strategy? Where is a call to action for those whose still believe in the values of the Declaration of Independence and are eager to fight democracy?
Brilliant analysis, Thomas. That ad concept comes from the mind of a talented strategist. You could start a PAC to raise money for it. I would help you however I can. Thanks for your great writing, Thomas.
I have made two contributions to the NC Democratic Party Federal Account to "Lawyer Up" on this Griffin suit. I strongly recommend others do the same. Party is sending funding requests on line.
Thomas, you are so right. Merrick Garland really failed the country. It's inexcusable that he waited so long because it waa obvious that Trump would cause continuous delays.
As far as Griffin goes, he should lose his seat on the Appeals Court for his behavior. Apparently, at least one of the NC Supreme Court Justices thinks he should shut up and give up, which shows how absolutely screwed up this grab to throw out 60,000 votes. It turns out that all are from early and mail in voting, and many from people who live out of the country. One of my friends is in that situation. She had no idea until I told her how to look herself up.
Democrats have been failing to meet the moment for decades. Your suggestions are exactly how NC voters should be called to action. So where’s the fundraising to make it happen. It needs an instigator. Any volunteers?
Perhaps this is Merrick's revenge for Dems sitting quietly on the sidelines as Mitch stole his SCOTUS seat. There are so many times since 2000 that Dems took the high road, waited for the process to play out, and stayed inside the norms only to get screwed.
I agree about the potential disenfranchisement of voters in NC. It is an affront and an outrage. We should all spread the searchable list of the 60,000+ voters who would be denied by Griffin. https://thegriffinlist.com/
As hard as the Trump non-verdicts are to accept, I suspect the U.S. would now be in civil war if 1) he was convicted, jailed, and barred by a court from running for re-election; 2) he won the election from jail anyway despite conviction(s). 3) A constitutional crisis erupted over whether he could serve. 4) 1.5% shifted and Harris won the presidency in the Electoral College but not necessarily the popular vote. Trump's supporters in the immediate aftermath of the assassination attempt in July when they weren't certain he survived were talking seriously about civil war.
National Republicans may now engage in a circular firing squad as their coalition splits up over contradictory policies and irrational agendas.
Trump is certain to continue testing the limits of presidential power for the next four years. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Comey Barrett may join the three Democratic appointees and modify the presidential immunity decision.
The GOP is no longer a party that believes in laws or democracy. It’s all about power by any and all means.
Absolutely. Remember what Lyndon Johnson reportedly said to Bill Moyers after the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964 "There goes the South." Republicans and Democrats have switched sides in the War Between The States or as North Carolinians supposedly call it, The War of Northern Aggression
YES, TRUMP AND THE GOP ARE BOTH BEING NORMALIZED. SADLY.
Well said. Garland was the wrong person for AG. We needed a Churchill and got a Chamberlain. You are also correct in that Dems need to FIGHT like it matters. For far too long Dems have been bringing pencils to knife fights. I did spot online that there are People's Protests going on around the country this Sat., Jan. 18th. There are gatherings in Raleigh and Burlington that I know of.