2021: A Year in Retrospective and a Look Forward

 I think most of us hoped for the best but expected the worse for 2021. We weren't disappointed. Starting the year with the continuing Covid Crisis, a looming withdrawal of U.S. troops in Afghanistan, an aggressive China, and a highly contested presidential election, 2021 was one for the history books.  

January 6th Protest: Trumping Justice?

2021 came in with a roar and we're still hearing its echo. It began as a protest in Washington on January 6th over the contested results of the presidential election. It devolved into an all out protest over a broken political system. Protestors stormed Capitol Hill, flags in hand, and entered the House and Senate Chambers where, as Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi said with her usual sarcastic seriousness, the "People's business" was conducted. If by "people" she meant corporations, she was right.

Windows were broken, laptops and other "mementos" were stolen as legislators fled rather than face the angry voters they were supposed to represent. Many officials hide under their desk behind lock doors to wait things out. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez claimed to have been there and terrified by what might happen next when in reality she was over a block away and in no danger.

Immediately members of the House and Senate blamed President Trump, who was as surprised by the magnitude of the protests as anyone, but bedeviled by his ill-advised texts of support for the protest. By the time it was all over, one unarmed protester, 35 year old Ashli Babbit, lay dead on the Speaker's lobby floor, having been shot and killed by a Washington police officer.  Four others died of natural causes. Two were heart attacks, one was an overdose, while the other, a police officer, had a stroke.

Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, deeply spiteful toward Trump and his supporters, has tried every way possible to impeach Trump a second time and bar him from ever holding office again. The Department of Justice has sought out anyone involved with the protest (which the corporate media terms as a "riot" and "insurrection" as opposed to Antifa's and BLM's "peaceful" looting, vandalism of public and private property, random assaults, and arson of the previous Summer).

Thus far, 727 protestors have been charged by the DOJ. 50 have been tried, convicted, and sentenced (one person, who stole a beer from Pelosi's office, got 20 days. Good thing he left the bourbon alone!).  Most of the 50 arrested were charged with misdemeanor crimes. Of those, 19 received jail time. Four were charged with felonies and sentenced from 8 months to 3 1/2 years in prison.

Democrats and Leftist activists are demanding lengthier sentences while those on the Right are outraged at any sentencing (especially in lieu of the Antifa and BLM protests and violent riots over the summer and faced little or no legal repercussions), calling the convicted "political prisoners".  

Meanwhile, at year's end, the DOJ and other federal agencies are still conducting investigations into whether President Trump or anyone in his administration were involved or had any prior knowledge of the protests. It's seems that the Democrats (and a few Republicans) are determined to insure that Trump doesn't ever run again for any office. Establishment Republicans want to be rid of any and all Trump supporters.

The protests of January 6th was an explosion of emotion by the Right who've, up to that point, had largely held back their anger and frustration at what they saw a stolen election by the Democrats and the further destruction of America; egged on by the media. It's an example of not just how divided we've become, but also how the Right wasn't going to set back and take it any longer.  

Biden's Year One

The protests of January 6th and its aftermath marked the beginning of Biden's Administration. Perhaps too, it should be seen as a warning of the depth of our divide and anger. The Biden Administration started off by quickly overturning many of Trump's policies, especially regarding illegal immigration along our southern border. One of his first order of business was stopping the construction of the border wall and removing what had already been erected. 

Meanwhile, the Biden administration reportedly had indicated the families "separated" under Trump's "Zero Tolerance" policy were to received $425,000 each according to a Wall Street Journal story. According to the story, the ACLU had filed a lawsuit on behalf of the families affected despite the fact that the actions of the immigrants being in violation of section 212 of the Immigration and Naturalization Act and section 275(a) making it a crime to enter the country illegally. The lawsuit would be like a burglar suing a homeowner for injuring them self while robbing their house. 

However, in a November 3rd press conference, Biden angrily denied there would be any payments when asked by a reporter. The executive director of the ACLU, Anthony Romero, quickly refuted Biden's statement and suggested that Biden might want to discuss the matter with his Justice Department regarding the settlement negotiations, which apparently Biden is unaware of. Meanwhile, the crisis on the southern border keeps growing as illegal immigrants pile up.

COVID and the Continuing Pandemic

By the end of 2020, most Americans had begun to breathe a sigh of relief...without the masks. After being assured of a short 14 day shutdown which turned in a nearly yearlong quarantine, shortages, and constant "doomsday" reporting by governors, the CDC, Dr. Fauci, and the media, Americans had reached a breaking point when, out of the blue, three vaccines appeared...just like magic.

Again, Americans were assured that the vaccines; these magical elixirs would save the day. All we had to do now was "take the jab", and many did. However, several things happened. First, we were told we could still get the virus, except the symptoms wouldn't be as bad (but people could still died). Second, we should continue wearing our masks, use sanitizers, and take all of the previous precautions. Third, we were to continue to "social distance" just like the previous (election) year. Just saying.

Then the other shoe dropped. Reports started emerging from highly reputable doctors, professional medical associations, and others that the vaccines, which were produced, approved, and released within four months (a process which normally can take years or decades) weren't a safe as promoted. Then we started hearing from those who "got the jab" and about their reactions to the vaccine, including development of other health issues, some of which were serious or potentially deadly.

The CDC, Biden Administration, and media immediately jumped in to delete the reports, discredit the doctors and testimonials, while social media overtly started censoring any content contrary to the Status Quo. As an aside, social media platforms had previously been censoring, labeling, or removing any content which it regarded as not in compliance with its "community guidelines" (ie: conservative).

A large segment of Americans, mostly conservative or independent, began opting out of the "jab", along with wearing a mask or social distancing. They also refused to censor their speech. This resulted in Biden issuing a "mandate" telling Americans to comply. Never a good idea. This "mandate" also directed all government employees and "encouraged" all businesses to require workers to get the jab and provide proof; reminiscent of the Nazi Era "Kennkarte" or identification cards. An even worse idea.

As the mandate took effect, companies quickly found themselves in serious trouble. No employees. This mushroomed into unstocked shelves .Trucks and ships not being unloaded. No one to operate checkout counters, take orders at restaurants, or staff offices. With shortages came higher demand for products, resulting in higher prices; inflation has now raised its ugly head, thus creating a new economic crisis on top of the 2020 quarantine which forced many small businesses to close for good.

War and Rumors of War

Another hallmark of 2020 was the "withdrawal" of U.S. and Allied forces from Afghanistan. President Trump had intended a slow withdrawal of troops while continuing to work with Afghan forces based on the advice of his generals. Biden, however, opted for a immediate and full pullout, leaving a unstable government under President Karzai in a precarious situation.

The Afghan Army and security forces was never that good. While its equipment (mainly American and British) were superb, it's training adequate, it's dedication and willingness to fight was pathetic. It reminded many of the South Vietnamese Army in the 70's as America withdrew from that war. 

Many called Biden's decision "ill advised" or "dangerous", which proved to be right. Within 30 days of U.S. exodus, Karzai and his regime were gone (along with billions of dollars). The Taliban was back in charge and now in possession of state of the art American and British equipment. Al Qaeda, the reason for our invasion in the first place, was back in business along with ISIS.  Our 20 year war was a failure. Thousands of Afghans, many unvetted, were evacuated mainly to Europe and the U.S.. Let's hope no terrorists were among them. Meanwhile, Biden was the Taliban's new "Man of the Year".

As if that wasn't enough, China has been flexing its economic and political muscle. The pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong vanished under the cloud of Covid; Taiwan has been increasingly threaten, as China has invaded the territorial fishing waters of its neighbors and staking claim over the South. China Sea while skirmishing with India over the disputed Sino-Indian border region known as "South Tibet".

Given America's perceived weakness by China and other nations, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia, India, and Australia  have begun to work together as a buffer against Chinese expansion and to safeguard Taiwan's sovereignty.  China has already issued stern warnings that any interference would result in serious consequences. Is that muscle or mouth? We may soon find out.

Meanwhile, Biden claims that according to his intelligence reports, Russia is preparing to invade the Ukraine, a claim which President Putin strongly denies. The Ukraine has petitioned to join NATO, which would allow NATO missiles, troops, and other military hardware to be stationed directly on Russia's border. Other former Warsaw Pact nations have joined NATO. Thus, a threatened Putin has stated that while no invasion is intended, NATO missiles and military in the Ukraine would not be tolerated.

Who's In Charge of This Circus?

Lastly, there's the matter of Biden's health. Ever since the presidential debates, there's been questions concerning Biden's health. He's already had two surgeries for brain aneurysms and appears to have memory trouble. He's shown repeated odd behavior, like getting lost, unable to properly read speeches on teleprompters, understand issues or questions, even with ear piece he tries to conceal.  

His latest physical (first since becoming president) was good for someone 79 years old, at least that's what we were told. However, a lot of people, both in and out of politics seriously question his ability to hold office. Foreign leaders seem to agree, and see America as weak and potentially vulnerable. His approval rating is in the low 30's, which is one of the worse of any president, while his Vice President, Kamala Harris, has the lowest approval ratings ever for a VP with 28%. 

All of this raises the question, who is actually in charge, and what does it mean for America? We all know America is in the decline as a world power. The ruling Oligarchy and the media has sought to divided us up ever way from Sunday. It makes us easier to control and manipulate, but as the "anti-vaxxers" and the January 6th protestors have shown, their grip is slipping.  Even those on the Left outside of the Establishment, know something is wrong. We feel it our souls. This is not our America.

As we've learned over the past several presidencies, neither intelligence, experience, or even character are essential to be president. It seems that only the right connections (especially money), and the ability to look good, sound good, and have some a medicorum of charisma are required. Everything else can be faked or manufactured. Of course, the one ironclad quality is to maintain the Status Quo, no matter what you tell or promise the people. The empire must be maintained.

Getting Out Alive: We're All Americans

We need to do more than "hope" 2022 is better. We must ensure that it is. We must acknowledge who the real enemy of our freedoms really are, and it's not each other. It's not black vs. white vs. brown, red, or yellow, nor is it pro gun vs. gun control. It's also not pro-choice vs. pro-life any more than it's straight vs. gay, or conservative vs. liberal. Party registration means nothing either.

When you get down to it, there's little difference between the two. They both serve the same corporate masters. Perhaps that's why the majority of Americans have chosen to become Independent.  We need to find ways of coming together, starting at the local level, and finding solutions with or (preferably) without government's "help" which always comes with strings, and take action. "Sheeple" need not apply. Labels and hyphens mean nothing. We are Americans first, now, and last. 

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The Omicron Variant: Where Will It Lead Us To?

Well, what do you know? A new "variant" of the COVID virus, dubbed "Omicron", has shown up. This time in South Africa and 18 other countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) says it's a "situation of concern" and one to be monitored. Thus far this new strain has caused scratchy throats and a on again off again cough. A few people have reported having a mild headache.  Meanwhile, in the U.S., Dr. Anthony Fauci, President's Biden's Chief Medical Advisor, made a statement where he cryptically said that Americans should "expect anything and everything".  Not exactly comforting words.

While I've never been one to embrace "conspiracy theories" per se, at least not without at least a medicorum of solid evidence and common sense, but there is something, in my humble opinion, going on here. There's been to many medical professionals come forth, with nothing to gain and everything to lose, disputing the official government narrative; to many medical and other professionals claiming this is bio-weapon which either was intentionally or somehow accidentally leaked by a level four military lab.  You pick. Also, why don't people keep getting infected by previous variants? It seems that people are just getting infected by the newest variant. 

In the beginning, about two years ago now, we were told that the virus, which had first shown up in Wuhan China, was being contained, but no. It reached the United States in a matter of  weeks (which says something about the travel habits of individuals flying to and from Mainland China), and spread quickly. We were also told it came from someone eating "bat soup" utilizing an infected bat which accidently escaped a Level 4 military lab, but that theory seems to have flown out the window too.

We were urged to self-quarantine, wear masks, and in a few weeks the worse of it would be over, but once again no. We were placed in a lockdown lasting months. News reports, along with daily "health updates" from government officials made it seem like some sort of apocalypse had befallen us (either that or that we're suddenly living out "The Andromeda Strain" in real life).  

Hospitals, or so we were told, were running out of space, with makeshift "triage centers", and even more morose, makeshift morgues (the news media was always keen to show some black bagged body being rolled out to a waiting freezer). Meanwhile, only "essential" businesses were open, and then only partly staffed.  We were told to avoid social gatherings, even with family, and to maintain "social distancing" of at least six feet. Elevator and public transit capacities were limited. Restaurants were either outdoor dining or drive thru (assuming they were even open).

We were made to feel like we were taking our lives in our own hands if we went for gas or milk. That is, assuming we could even find milk or anything else!  Most of us were shocked by the amount of mass hoarding going on. People were buying 20 multi rolls of toilet paper, paper towels, meats, cheese, bread, lunch meat, and damn near anything else at a time with no thought of anyone else.

Ammo and gun sales were out the roof in anticipation of the soon-to-be expected roving mobs, at least according to the media. Home security systems were installed while people stocked up on gas and batteries. And who knew that ordinary hand sanitizer could be a bartering commodity along with disposable paper masks?

After several months, the "ban" was gradually lifted, although in fact, most people had long ignored any such ban. The public increasingly demanded that things get back to some semblance of normality. Government officials kept promising us they would, but the goal line kept moving.

Finally, the long awaited "magic elixir", a vaccine, appeared in record time. Most vaccine testing take years, and yet shortly after summer here they were! We were assured that once we took the jab, everything would be fine...until it wasn't. A booster shot was introduced for older individuals and those with compromised immune systems.

The government and business went all out to push the vaccine. Not since WWII had there been so much cooperation and coordination between the two! But along with the vaccination, came the introduction of vaccination cards, along with talk of mandatory "health cards" that would have to be carried for entry to businesses, doctor's offices, grocery stores, pharmacies, mass transit, sporting events, and damn near everything else.

The response was deafening. Much of the public here in the United States, not to mention other parts of the world, not so politely told government officials what they could do with their pseudo "passports".  Government officials have for now backed down, but don't expect it go away. Given people's early compliance, you can bet that it will be introduced again in some to shiny pre-packaged way. 

One interesting side effect of the mass shutdowns was the "stimulus checks" mailed out to most Americans (and some illegal immigrants).  With the fear of COVID subsiding, businesses expected people to return to work, but that didn't happen. In fact, most workers decided to take a prolonged hiatus from their employer. For some, it was a matter of pay.

Workers in entry level jobs such at fast food restaurants, had been demanding higher pay pre-COVID. Now apparently was the time to drive the point home. As a result, employers have been forced to raise starting salaries, and offer what perks they can (which has hurt small "mom and pop" businesses), and still employees have largely stayed away.

 How they're able to stay away I can only surmise. I imagine some are living off what little savings they have (Americans have the lowest percentage of savings of any industrialized nation), and credit cards. Some, I suspect, returned to school, using grant and other money to make ends meet while others live off mom and dad. 

But many are staying away at any cost because employers are demanding proof of vaccination or a regular weekly Covid test and wearing a mask. Some employers are keeping unvaccinated employees away from customers, which is tough if you're someone dependent on tips.

No doubt a few are working under the table for cash only (which is one reason Biden proposed allowing the IRS to check bank accounts holding $600 or more).  But, at some point, regardless of how they're doing it, the bills will come do and they'll find themselves working two or three jobs to catch up. 

Of course, with employers raising wages and offering perks, someone has to pay for it, and you can bet it won't be them. As a result, prices have to increase, which means other businesses have to both raise wages and their prices. I should point out that it's not just businesses rising prices, so is the government. Be it property tax, income tax, water and heating rates, gas and road taxes, and so forth, triggering a round of dangerous inflation.

The group hurt the most are those on fixed incomes. Their incomes don't increase with inflation and rising prices. As a result, they have to cut back on their purchases. Often having to choose between food, utilities, gas, rent/mortgage, or medicine. In the end, with the rise in prices exceeding wages we end up with ever spiraling inflation. On top of all this, comes "Omicron", the latest in what will likely be a continuing string of variants, just in time for Christmas, winter, and the increasing threat of another shutdown.

So where does that leave us? In the past, people would turn to government to get us out of this mess but that's not likely to happen. The public's trust of government is hovering around 19%. President Biden is seen as either an old man with serious mental issues who's is incapable of doing much of anything, or just a incompetent old fool completely out of his depth. Personally, I think it's the former. 

Biden clearly is suffering from some sort of mental issue, likely dementia according to some reports. Nevertheless, his approval rating is a dismal 38%. His backup, Vice President Kamala Harris, is just as disliked according to polls with a 28% approval rating.

Americans have long stopped trusting the media--mainstream or social. In fact, our trust of practically all of our institutions, be it education, healthcare, law enforcement (particularly the FBI, CIA, DEA, and NSA), religious, Big Business, and others is virtually nil. We don't trust the electoral process, or the judicial system. Even the military, which was the lone institution which enjoyed any public trust, is losing face, especially as some military leadership has become more political.  

America, as most everyone knows, is a Corporatocracy, which is neo-fascist in nature since it acts as a merger or close partnership between government and Big Business, right down to a never stopping revolving door between public office to boardrooms and back again.

This Corporatocracy is managed by an Oligarchy of the super rich and powerful. Their lobbyists write the legislation and shepherd it through the maze of committees. They dictate domestic and foreign policy, using our military not for our protection, but for enforcing their goals and objectives which usually is all about gaining access to resources and assets.

What they fear, they demonize. What they can use is glorified. Don't believe me? Why are the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers (many of whom are former military and law enforcement) and other "patriot" groups reviled despite having committed no crimes or caused to destruction to property? Meanwhile, anti-Trumpsters, BLM and Antifa had, during the pandemic lockdown, protested and rioted.

They broke windows, randomly attacked people, destroyed public and private property, defaced buildings and cars, looted, caused arson, blocked traffic, and yet the media downplayed or ignored most of the incidents; even referring to them as "mostly peaceful" or "non-violent" with nothing said about the protesters being bused in or key members being paid to the point of being "professional" protestors.

Yet, when individuals ("anti-vaxxers") caution against the vaccine, refuse to wear masks or get injections, they are ridiculed by the media and other groups. They are accused of spreading the virus; of having a total disregard for human life.  What happened to personal decisions and our right to choose?

Those who own guns are seen as mass murderers in waiting. They are somehow contributing to the social violence instead of protecting themselves and others (not to mention providing a barrier against a tyrannical government), and yet ridiculed. Some want them to obtain mental health evaluations before even being able to own a gun, especially if they served in the military or are former law enforcement.

Ironically, the majority of those "protesters" are also demanding "socialism", and yet have little or no grasp as to what socialism actually is. Meanwhile, the ruling elite has, through the media, demonizes socialism. Equating it with Communism and even Nazism (which is a complete farce since it's on the opposite political spectrum and has little to do with socialism). But it isn't about presentation of facts. It's to produce a non-critical emotional reaction and a visceral mental connection like some Pavlov dog. Don't think. React.

These same groups have demanded the removal of certain individuals from universities as well as historical monuments in public settings; all of which were duly done. Invited speakers were shouted down or pushed off stage at public events.  Education curriculums are changed without public knowledge or consent. Much of new curriculum does nothing but create a new defacto scapegoat.

The malignant minds behind the Corporatocracy seek division in every way possible. It's the only way we can be controlled, cowed, or manipulated. What they seek is compliance. They fear actual "socialism" in any form because that requires social cooperation, and social cooperation defeats their ability to control. They fear free speech because it veers from their Orwellian "groupthink" which ensures obedience.

Free speech and independent thought means the ability to think for yourself. To do your own research and make your own decisions instead of regurgitating what you're told. It also implies independent critical thinking which is an anathema to any would be authoritarian system. It's why it's no longer taught in public schools and is increasingly rare in universities and colleges. 

Ultimately everyone will have to decide where they stand. Will it be for compliance to an increasing neo-fascist government seeking to control your life or for freedom of the individual? Will government serve us or will we be forced, however subtly at first that force is applied, to serve the state?  

Every authoritarian government starts off wearing a silk glove, but hidden in that glove is a mailed fist which is merciless in its application. They claim to represent what's good for the people but only represent themselves. Today it's a mask and social distancing. Today it's surveillance and monitoring for our protection. Today it's a "reappraisal" of our history and monuments. What will it be tomorrow I wonder?

If you want to know more, please take a look at the links below. If you enjoyed the article, please consider subscribing. It's free!

 

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Impeachment and Life After Trump: "To Whom It May Concern in Anywhere America"

 

Like him or hate him, you have to admit that Donald Trump was never boring. From his sold out speeches in stadiums throughout the country, to his press conferences and verbal jousts with so-called "journalists", to his tweets, we never knew what he was going to say.

However, it was mostly the later, his tweets, which were the most incendiary. Though they were typically directed to his supporters, he would use the platform to go after those who attacked him directly or indirectly. It became a way to express his opinions in a candid and often unfiltered way. 

On January 6th, massive numbers of pro-Trump and ordinary conservatives from around the country descended on Washington DC to express their anger at what they saw as a blatantly rigged election and failed government. But it was much more than that. They were tired of the condescending attitude of members of Congress (both parties) and open bias of the media.

They had endured eight years of mockery and ridicule under the Obama Administration and a full four years of barely concealed contempt and smugness from the Speaker of the House on down. It was just as bad in the Senate. It was all over the news and on social media nearly every minute of every day. It was integrated into magazines, books, music, TV shows, radio, and movies.

Now that the nation had a new (and some who believed an illegitimate) President suddenly calling for "unity" and "coming together" with that the Status Quo back in charge was too much.  So, they planned, organized, and came together in a open and highly visible expression of their own contempt for a system which failed them; which belittled them.

Anyone who bothered to look out their window could see what was happening. There was no doubt that the Establishment was peeing down its collective leg. They were terrified. Hiding in locked rooms, in closets, under tables. They couldn't imagine the American People were actually coming together and saying "enough!". It's the one thing they least expected. It was also the one thing they feared the most.

Trump tweeted out words of support and encouragement. This was what he had fought for over the last four years. Never did his tweets call on the protesters to vandalize, loot, or deface property the way Antifa or BLM had done the preceding year. Never did he urge the protestors to break windows or even enter House or Senate chambers. And, he never encouraged the violence which unfolded.

Yes, a number of the protestors were armed. It was no secret. It was out in the open for all to see. But not surprisingly, their message was lost on the elites. What could all those gun toting protestors carrying American flags and pro-Trump banners want except to tar and feather members of Congress? 

 But the message was clear to the most casual viewer. They were there to impress on Washington that the American People have a right to carry arms. It's called the Second Amendment. It's right up there with the First Amendment---the right to freedom of speech, expression, religion, and to assemble.

 It didn't mean they were there for violence. It was to remind Congress that the People have those rights and will protect them if need be. Of course, how do you explain this to those who sincerely believe they have a pre-ordained right to rule---not govern--- but rule? The concept was beyond their understanding.  But something went wrong. What? The answer is that there were multiple mistakes.

The first mistake was the media. The only ones there that day was the corporate media which has spent every moment over the last four years trying to divide this country, be it Left vs. Right vs.the Center; black vs. white vs. brown vs. yellow vs. everyone else; men vs. women; straights vs. gays, and so on. Division, as artificial as it may be, drives ratings and ratings equal advertising which is money. Divided we can be controlled and manipulated. Together we can't.

The corporate media is the eyes, ears, and mouthpiece of the Status Quo; the Establishment. If you watched any of the "reporting". They were stunned to find conservative blacks, Hispanics, Asians, and Native Americans in with the crowds. They were equally stymied to see gun totting women and yes, even gays there as part of the protest. It didn't fit the narrative they've been feeding us. The solution was, as always, to misdirect out attention, manipulate the image, and obscure the message.

What was missing was the eyes, ears, and voice of the protestors. Who was their media advocate? The answer was no body (you can't really include Fox News anymore). Image is perception. Perception becomes reality. It controls the narrative, and the organizers left it to the corporate media to dictate what that would be.

The second mistake was not knowing the crowd. I don't how the organizers set about getting the message out, but they did a good job in getting people there. But there was a large gathering of Antifa and BLM just a few blocks away for their own event, which could have easily spun out of control had the two groups clashed. 

Some allege that Antifa infiltrators were the ones breaking windows and spray painting walls,  but there's no hard proof of that (vandalism is a hallmark of Antifa as America and the world witnessed last year).  For those unaware, Antifa is a Far Left anarchist group. They are not directly associated with the Democrats per se. While the name is shorthand for "Anti-Fascist" they tend to behave similar to Nazi Brownshirts and Mussolini's Blackshirts, both  fascist organizations, and the Maoist Red Front.

Several members of the pro-Trump crowd tried to point out these interlopers and separate them from other protestors (they were mostly successful). However, the damage was done, both figuratively and literally. Without a supportive media there to record it as it happened, it created the image the radical Left wanted and the Status Quo hoped for.

The third mistake was Trump himself. The election was over, and whether the results were right or rigged, the corporate media was portraying the outcome as factual.  Trump resisted. He was upset and angry, and he struck out. Never let your emotions guide your actions. He should have known that as a businessman. But, unintentionally, it was his tweets which were his undoing.

President Trump had long used social media to bypass blatantly biased news outlets so much so that they spent as much time on his tweets and posts as they did on his actual statements. Following the election, his media bursts became sharper.

However, on January 6th, Trump tweeted messages like "stay strong" and "fight like hell" to his supporters . While his intent was to provide moral encouragement, the message was distorted. It was filtered through a corporate media seething with hatred for the President and his supporters. It was portrayed in a matter not intended. It was portrayed as to encourage violence and mayhem.

In all likelihood, I suspect that neither Trump or his staff were fully aware of what was actually happening outside. After all, they had been hurried into secure rooms, safe from any potential harm. Any information they received from outside was likely old, incomplete, or possibly inaccurate.

Given Trump's history, his cell phone should have been "secured". Without full knowledge of events, anything more than a "be safe" or "keep it peaceful" message was bound to do more harm than good, and, as we all know, it did. 

Ultimately, one protester, Ashli Babbitt, was shot dead by Capital Police. One police officer died while engaging protestors. Three others died from natural causes, and several were injured. Papers inside House and Senate chambers were strewn everywhere. Even Pelosi's podium was stolen! Windows were broken, laptops went missing, along with some general vandalism as mentioned previously.

The Establishment was pissed. It was time for revenge, and it came swift starting with social media suspending a setting President's accounts and cutting off any direct and unfiltered communication with the American public. There was also a crackdown on Conservative sites as well, including pressuring other social media sites to comply with their new guidelines or risk being deplatformed.

Speaker of House Nancy Pelosi was publically beside herself in anger that citizens had invaded the "People's House" while they were doing "the People's business" without permission. Ugh! We can't have the common rabble running around Congress. Who do these peasants think they are? It's not like Congress actually represents them or anything right?

So, Trump is gone. Biden is President, but that's not the end of the story. Trump is to be the first American President to be impeached twice, which could create a Constitutional crisis of sorts. Can someone be prosecuted for what happened while in office after they've left? We know they can be removed from office while still in office, but what if they're no longer in office?

It's likely the matter will eventually find its way before the Supreme Court, assuming the High Court will even hear the matter. After all, the point of impeachment is to censure the individual for "high crimes and misdemeanors" and, secondly, to remove them from office if necessary. In our history, only three presidents have been impeached, Andrew Jackson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump.  But what about Richard Nixon? Why could he be important?

President Nixon was never impeached for his role in the Watergate break-in and subsequent cover-up which included a kidnapping, wiretapping, destruction of evidence, and lying to Congress. However, the House was proceeding with impeachment hearings when Nixon resigned (had he not, he would have likely been impeached and possibly removed from office).

Nevertheless, Nixon was never tried although others were, and some went to jail for their roles. As far as ole "Tricky Dick" Nixon was concerned, the matter was dropped. Nixon didn't lose any of his perks of having been president either. Trump is accused of far less.

It seems to me Nixon comes the closest to Trump's current situation. Nixon avoided impeachment by resigning, nevertheless the stigma remained. As Trump is no longer President, there is no reason to impeach him. His removal from office came as a result of the election. Like Nixon (and even Clinton), the stigma of the first impeachment will itself likely keep him from ever seeking public office again.

But unlike Nixon or Clinton, this isn't about a break in or lying to Congress about getting blowjobs in the Oval Office. It's political, which means its personal. Donald Trump was an outsider who upset the plans of the Status Quo by defeating Hillary Clinton. He then set about exposing the corruption of Establishment, which included both parties, big business, and the media. That was unacceptable. This is about sending a message addressed "To Whom It May Concern in Anywhere America".

That message is a simple one. They will not ever allow another outsider. They will never again be publicly exposed for who they are. They are self-ordained to rule by virtue of their wealth and connections. They are not "one of us". They are our betters. They, and they alone know what's best for us. Our job is to keep quiet and do as we're told. Set back and enjoy the "bread and circuses".

The game is rigged. It's fixed. As George Carlin said, "It's a big club and you ain't in it".  Everything you or I suspected is likely not just true, but worse than we imagined. Once we accept this simple truth, regardless of which wing of the vulture we're under, the better we're going to be. Why? Because knowing the truth isn't the same as accepting it. Once it's accepted, you can act on it. You can start doing something about it.

 

 

These Are The 5 People Who Died in the Capital Riot

Watergate Scandal

George Carlin: It's a big club and you ain't in it

 

 

Culpability: The Protest on The Capital and Who Is Responsible

Mea Culpa. It's a legal term which means accepting responsibility for one's actions. Despite four years of creating a volatile---even hostile--- environment, not once has the corporate media, including social media platforms, newspapers, or the networks stepped up and accepted responsibility for their actions; for creating a climate of fear. For dividing Americans and America as they fan the flames of descension but ignore responsibility for the fire it creates.

Not once has the likes of Nancy Pelosi, AOC, Schumer, and others offered a sincere apology to the American People for fostering and inciting hatred of the President and their disdain for not just his supporters, but of anyone who disagrees with them. Remember the sarcasm of Pelosi throughout his State of the Union address? Remember her publically ripping his State of the Union speech in half and throwing it away? Whatever happened to simple common courtesy or at least respect for the office?

The feigned "shock" and "outrage" from Washington officials smacks of second rate Vaudevillian shtick. Despite professing ignorance of the American People's anger, they throw around empty words like "the People's House", "it's not us", or how protesting a corrupt Congress or a broken political system is somehow "Un-American".  How could they not have known? Perhaps they were too wrapped up in their own self-importance or insulated in the vacuum of their self-serving bubbles.

How is it they condemn ordinary the working or middle class or small business owners for wanting not just their lives backs, but for wanting a political system which works: one where, at the very least, their vote---their voice---still counts for something? These Americans were protesting what they believed to be a fixed election following four years of being told their President was a fraud; that his election wasn't the result of individuals tired of a broken system which serves the wants and whims of a wealthy class of elites, but the result of "Russian collusion".

Yet, these same hypocrites never condemned the riots and looting of this past Spring and Summer.  No, they never spoke out against the arson, the violence, the vandalism of public and private property or the destruction of historic monuments. Instead, they asked why there wasn't more protests in the streets? They encouraged the rioters. They egged on the looters.

Was President Trump to blame for what happened on January 6th? Yes he was, at least in part. Certainly the language he used in his Tweets and texts didn't help. Trump wanted to show support for those who stood by him these last four years. He encouraged his supporters and others who were fed up with Congress to come a show their support, not just for him, for an America which is passing away before their eyes.

Did Trump encourage violence or to act out? No. That, it seems, may have been the result of Antifa and BLM who, according to some witnesses, were bused in to disrupt and discredit the protestors. Sadly for all, it seems to have worked.  But we're not hearing that part of the story. Perhaps it just doesn't fit the narrative. Even if not, who, if not the media and certain members of Congress, are not responsible for creating the climate of anger and mistrust? There's plenty of blame to go around. It's not all President Trump.

So, now we are hearing about calls to impeach President Trump again. However, this would be under Article 25...for alleged sedition.  The goal is not to remove the President from office. There's not enough time for that. No, the goal is to ensure that Trump can never again run for a federal office...like for President in 2024. They want Trump not just discredited, but destroyed so that he will never be seen a symbol of resistance by the people. 

Senate Majority Leader...I mean...Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell seems pleased with the results of the election, though not necessarily his loss in position. He seems even more pleased with efforts to impeach President Trump. In fact, he's gone as far as to openly support the idea since, in his opinion, it will go a long way in purging Trump supporters and the like from the Republican Party. Long live the Establishment, be it Democrat or Republican I suppose.  

The ruling elites of the Corporatocracy also want to send a message that no outsider will again challenge their grip on power. Anyone who runs for office must be a loyal adherent to the Status Quo; their party affiliation matters not. Both serve the same moneyed interests, and that's the way it will remain.

The inauguration of Joe Biden will take place as scheduled. It was always intended to. But it will be much more than Biden taking the oath of office and becoming the 46th President of the United States. It will represent the restoration of the Status Quo. The Oligarchs will be back in power after four years in shadows. The neo-fascist Corporatocracy, which has replaced our Republic, will be open for business as usual.

Biden will offer an olive branch and a call for unity, but don't assume that its meant to represent some form of compromise. His speech will be full of colorful phrases designed to press all the right buttons along with some subtle warnings. He'll utter empty words "family" , "patriotic", and a plea for us to "come together" aimed at making us feel nostalgic. What he is really saying is that we're back in charge and we intend to remain in charge.

It's said the history rarely repeats, but it often rhymes. January 6, 2021 marked the day that America crossed its Rubicon. Except there was no Caesar to cross its shallow river and restore the Republic or remove a bloated and corrupt Senate. The dice were cast, but this time it was the Oligarchs who won.

Like those of his kind, Biden will seek to mend fences and build alliances to help him secure his power. Stability is always the primary requirement for the corporate state. He will offer appeasements to whatever group he thinks will provide him with that stability.

I expect he'll open the southern border to illegal immigrants and call for so-called "reparations" to those who claim the bitter wounds of 160 years ago is the reason for their failures and not the result of failing to take advantage of the opportunities available to all. Something tells me it won't be enough. He may offer an alternative to the National Anthem or make America officially a bilingual nation.

He may impose a tax on the 2nd Amendment while curtailing the First. He's already hinted at it.Then too, he's always supported tax breaks for those of his social class over the last 47 years, so there's no reason to think that won't change. Zebras, skunks, and politicians rarely ever change their stripes. 

Corporations too will benefit as they always do when the elites are in charge of the public pocketbook. Those who countries which continue to support the Status Quo will benefit nicely as they always do, though the masses seldom benefit.  

As for the rest of us, the unwashed masses, we may see some crumbs thrown our way to buy our acquiesce to the corporate fait accompli.  It seems that protesting in the Capital is now prohibited in the Capital lest our followerless "leaders" cower under tables and behind locked doors. Should we endeavor for a kinder and more gentle outrage?

You can count on distractions too. They will need "something" to divert our attention from their sleight of hand now that they're back in business.  Bread and circuses have worked well these past 2000 years. No reason to stop now.

Meanwhile, the insincere indignation which barely conceals a gleeful cackle from the corporate media and political establishment will continue, at least for now. But don't hold your breath expecting their admission of guilt for their part in what's played out so far.