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Monnina's avatar

I am not a paid subscriber but I would say yes to your headline.

The British ruling class and state have been deploying this ‘split the vote’ to control political outcomes for corporate interests for decades. Since the Thatcher revolution using the Liberal Democrats. Here in Northern Ireland where both the British Labour and Conservative parties were banned from running under their counterinsurgency Operation Banner (1968-2007) they used the Alliance party.

It stinks.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Thanks for reading and commenting Moninna! Agreed, there was quite a lot of Russian interference in UK elections, Brexit et al. It's ongoing.

P.S. I do not limit my posts to paid subscribers in any way. All are welcome to read and comment🙏🏻

Alicia Norman's avatar

"The good news is, FiveThirtyEight, and RFK Jr. himself, believe he would take more votes from Trump and DeSantis, than from Biden. RFK Jr. attracts votes from anti-vaxers and conspiracy theorists, appealing to the “Trump crazies” and the DeSantis anti-Ukraine voters.

Democrats are more united than ever, and we’re wise to Republican shenanigans, giving a whole new meaning to “woke.” Republicans on the other hand, are asleep at the wheel, and on a crash course to their own demise."

I am with you here, Lorraine! I think when the dust has cleared, Democrats will recoil in horror when they hear RFKs positions and Republicans are screwed HA! I think the RNC made a Frankenstein monster who is going to turn and rend them to shreds--good!

They are doing all kinds of damage control, but it is too late--ahahahahahahahaha!

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

I'm with you all the way, Alicia. Your piece was spot on too today. I just flew back home to LA from Idaho so I didn't have a chance to comment. Thank you as always for reading!

Ross Johnson's avatar

Joe Manchin is a 25+ year friend. I believe he’s doubtful to take the No Labels lead because he can’t see the pathway to 270 electoral votes. Then the risk is too high to let the House of Representatives select a POTUS if no one gets to 270.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Whoa. That's a very interesting and scary insight. Thanks Ross!

Gloria Horton-Young's avatar

Great points to ponder, Lorriane!

Looking at the Republican primary race, there's an undeniable reality that the party is grappling with an identity crisis. Where are the dynamic, next-generation leaders that could truly captivate the base and swing voters alike? Of course, we can't overlook the elephant in the room: the shadow of former President Donald Trump. His decision to steer clear of the debates might have left a void, but it could also be a blessing in disguise. If the GOP contenders seize this opportunity, we might see some genuinely innovative policy proposals and campaign strategies. At the end of the day, it's all about who can offer a compelling vision for America's future. Personally, I don’t think there is a future for the GOP but we can all just sit back and watch the soap opera that is the Republican Party. I don’t believe a spectacle at the Roman Colosseum could have topped the GOP House these days.

The backbone of our democracy is, undoubtedly, the integrity of our election process. We've seen instances of candidates pushing the envelope, trying to bend those constitutional rules to their advantage. But, these examples also underscore the rigorous checks and balances in place. It's a delicate dance, but one thing is clear: we need to continually refine and reinforce our election laws to ensure fairness and trust in the system. Saying that is easy but managing it in real life? Not so much.

The rise of No Labels? To me, it signals a possible fatigue with the usual political back-and-forth. There's an appetite for more nuanced, centrist perspectives. But, and it's a big but, any group that seeks to play a significant role must be transparent, especially regarding where their funding comes from. If you're going to be a player in the political arena, you've got to play by the rules.

Election interference isn't just a headline; it's a genuine threat to our democratic values. Strengthening campaign finance rules and amplifying transparency is a no-brainer. Additionally, as we've learned the hard way, cybersecurity cannot be an afterthought. And let's not forget the power of an informed public. Equip voters with the facts, and they'll make the right choices. But, not if they only watch Fox News. Therein lies the problem.

Observing the Democrats, there seems to be a newfound sense of purpose, perhaps born from the political challenges of recent years. Understanding the strategies of the opposition is half the battle, and they seem poised to navigate the complexities of the upcoming elections strategically. The 2024 race is shaping up to be a must-watch.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Interesting and thoughtful comments as always, Gloria.

You are very balanced and generous toward the GOP. I doubt this point you suggest will ever happen. They're literally all about tearing it all down than coming up with strategies or solutions -> "If the GOP contenders seize this opportunity, we might see some genuinely innovative policy proposals and campaign strategies. At the end of the day, it's all about who can offer a compelling vision for America's future."

Gloria Horton-Young's avatar

I deeply considered whether or not to suggest they might have one last shining moment of value. Sadly, we all recognize the reality.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Agreed. I only expect the absolute worst and a continued race to the bottom from Republicans.

Gloria Horton-Young's avatar

While I vehemently disagree with the GOP's actions, it's disheartening to see the state of our political system deteriorate.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

I admire your belief in them Gloria. They did this intentionally. It's heartbreaking.

Gloria Horton-Young's avatar

How I really feel:

The Republicans' claimed fervor for democracy is about as authentic as their supposed glee for a highway christened the "Martin Luther King Jr. Expressway." In both cases, skepticism naturally creeps in, leaving us wondering if their excitement is as genuine as a counterfeit Rolex.

Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Agreed. They never do anything out of generosity of spirit. It's always about what's in it for them!

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Oct 16, 2023
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