With Barbara Lee announcing her candidacy for mayor, the city faces the prospect of continuing its journey under progressive governance. Barbara Lee, a seasoned progressive politician , has announced her candidacy for mayor at a time when Oakland residents have shown a clear inclination towards change by ousting progressive leaders like the previous Mayor Sheng Thao and District Attorney Pamela Price in historic recall elections. The progressive Lee, who is originally from Texas, is deeply popular in Oakland and had been urged to run for mayor by her supporters.-The Guardian Barbara Lee is deeply entrenched in progressive politics and has been a familiar name in Oakland for decades. Her tenure in Congress was marked by her staunch advocacy for progressive causes, from her solitary vote against military force post-9/11 to her efforts in social equity and healthcare reform. Why more of the same progressive ideology might not serve Oakland One of the most pressing issues in Oakland is crime. The city has witnessed a significant uptick in property and violent crimes, leading to a palpable sense of insecurity among its citizens. Critics argue that progressive policies, which often advocate for police reform and reduced law enforcement budgets, have inadvertently weakened the city's response to crime. If elected, Lee might continue this trend, potentially exacerbating the situation unless a balanced approach is adopted. The city has experienced significant challenges under progressive leadership, particularly in terms of public safety and fiscal management. The recall of Mayor Sheng Thao and Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price, both of whom were elected on progressive platforms, highlights a public backlash against the policies they championed. These leaders were recalled with overwhelming margins, indicating a voter dissatisfaction with the direction the city was heading. The recalls were driven by concerns over rising crime rates and perceived mismanagement of city finances, which have led to budget deficits and the potential closure of public services like fire stations For Lee, there's an opportunity to redefine what progressive leadership means in Oakland by integrating practical solutions with her ideological commitments. She would need to address the criticisms levied against past progressive leaders by showing a willingness to adapt policies to the city's current needs. This context raises the question: does Oakland need another mayor with a progressive agenda?

Actor Denzel Washington was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden. This accolade, which is the United States' highest civilian honor, was presented to Washington for his profound contributions to American culture, his work in film, and his extensive philanthropy, particularly his long-standing commitment to youth through his role as National Spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Denzel Washington Honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom Denzel Washington's career in Hollywood spans over four decades, during which he has portrayed an array of iconic and diverse characters, securing him two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, a Tony Award, and the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award. His performances have not only captivated audiences but have also set a high standard for acting in cinema. From his Oscar-winning role in "Glory" to his intense portrayal in "Training Day," Washington's work has been both critically acclaimed and widely influential. His recent involvement in "Gladiator II" and his past accolades underscore his enduring impact on the film industry. His dedication to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, where he has served as National Spokesman for over 25 years, has been instrumental in providing mentorship and opportunities for young people across the nation. His advocacy for social justice and generous contributions to various other causes demonstrate his commitment to using his platform for the betterment of society. The ceremony took place in the East Room of the White House, where President Biden highlighted Washington's "exemplary contributions ." The Medal of Freedom's purpose is to recognize individuals who have made significant impacts in various fields.

Louisiana Representative Mike Johnson was re-elected as the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives on the first ballot of the new Congress This swift victory was not anticipated, given the internal frictions within the Republican Party, but it was significantly bolstered by an endorsement from President-elect Donald Trump. Speaker Mike Johnson Mike Johnson's re-election was marked by a rare unanimous support from the Republican caucus, ending a vote that many speculated could devolve into a contentious multi-ballot affair similar to the one that preceded his initial election in 2023. The vote showcased a unified front from the GOP, with Johnson securing the minimum required for a win in the narrowly controlled House. This outcome was particularly notable as it initially seemed Johnson might struggle, with dissent from conservative hardliners like Representative Thomas Massie openly opposing his candidacy before the vote. The pivotal moment that likely shifted the dynamics in Johnson's favor was Donald Trump's endorsement on December 30, 2024. Trump, who has maintained significant influence over the Republican Party, expressed his full backing for Johnson, labeling him a "good, hard-working, religious man" who would continue to lead the party to victories. This endorsement came at a critical time when Johnson was facing potential opposition within his ranks, particularly over his handling of government funding bills and a perceived lack of aggressive policy pushes favored by the party's right wing. With a Republican majority in both the House and the Senate, and Trump's presidency, there's a clear path for the GOP to push through its legislative priorities. Johnson's role will be crucial in navigating the complex dynamics of a unified government, especially with a slim majority that requires near-total party unity. Johnson has committed to advancing Trump's agenda, which includes sweeping reforms in areas like immigration, tax policy, and reducing the federal workforce. His speakership is expected to prioritize these issues, potentially using mechanisms like budget reconciliation to bypass filibuster in the Senate, ensuring that Trump’s policies can be enacted with a simple majority. Trump’s endorsement might also tighten party discipline, as few Republicans would risk opposing a speaker who has the full support of their party's leader. However, this could also mean that the more moderate or centrist Republicans might feel pressured to align more closely with Trump's vision, potentially alienating some of the electorate in swing districts. The quick election of a speaker prevents the kind of legislative paralysis seen in previous sessions without a clear leader, ensuring that the House can move forward with its agenda. This was particularly important as the new Congress is set to certify Trump's election on January 6, a task that requires a functioning House.

Joe Biden's legacy as the 46th President of the United States will likely be remembered as one of the worst presidencies in America's history. Photo Credit X Joe Biden's legacy might well be one of lost opportunities and mismanagement. His presidency, intended to be a return to normalcy and stability, instead became a period where the U.S. witnessed economic challenges, foreign policy missteps, and a deepening political divide. The historical narrative might not be kind to Biden, as his term is often cited in discussions about the worst presidencies in American history, characterized by both policy failures and personal controversies. Biden took office amid promises to restore economic stability following the global health crisis. However, his presidency has been marked by soaring inflation rates, which have hit levels not seen in decades. His administration's massive spending packages, like the American Rescue Plan, contributed to this inflation, disproportionately affecting the middle and working classes through increased costs of living. Public sentiment, as reflected in various polls, shows a significant portion of Americans believe Biden's economic policies worsened their financial situation. On the international stage, Biden's legacy is arguably tainted by perceived foreign policy blunders. The most glaring example was the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, which led to the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, leaving behind a power vacuum and a humanitarian crisis. This event not only damaged U.S. credibility on the global stage but also raised questions about strategic foresight and leadership. Afghan Witdrawl Additionally, his approach to the Ukraine-Russia conflict has been criticized for lacking a coherent strategy, leading to a prolonged conflict with significant geopolitical repercussions. One of the starkest failures of Joe Biden's administration has been its handling of the U.S.-Mexico border. Under Biden, there's been an unprecedented surge in migrant crossings, leading to an overwhelming of border resources and infrastructure. Biden Border Crisis Biden's reversal of many deterrent-focused policies from previous administrations, including stopping the construction of the border wall and ending the "Remain in Mexico" policy, signaled an open invitation to migrants. The situation not only strained local communities with resource demands but has also been linked to increased crime rates and the smuggling of drugs like fentanyl into the U.S. Joe Biden's mental decline significantly impacted both his presidency and public perception. Throughout his term, moments of confusion during public speeches, frequent gaffes, and visible struggles with memory and coherence have been hard to ignore. It was one such gaffe during a debate with Trump that ultimately ended his run for re-election, highlighting his struggles in real-time to a national audience. Biden's personal legacy is further complicated by ethical questions, particularly around the controversial pardon of his son , Hunter Biden. This action has fueled narratives of corruption, tarnishing his public image and contributing to a narrative that his presidency was one of the most ethically dubious in recent history. Biden's presidency has been characterized by an increase in political polarization. Joe Biden's approval rating hitting a low of 34% underscores the public's dissatisfaction with his presidency, reflecting one of the lowest points for an outgoing president in recent history. As time passes, it will be up to historians to decide his exact place, but current sentiment leans towards a presidency that many believe did more harm than good to America's standing both at home and abroad.

In documenting the presidency, I've personally covered numerous incidents where President Biden's cognitive abilities appeared to falter, his brain seeming to 'freeze' during public appearances, interviews, and the presidential debate. These episodes were not subtle; they were visibly clear and often unsettling to observe. However, rather than acknowledging these signs, both the media and Democratic leaders consistently urged the public to disregard what they were witnessing, often labeling such observations as misinformation or politically motivated attacks. This directive to "not believe our lying eyes" has significantly contributed to skepticism about the integrity of political discourse and corporate media reporting during Biden's term. The Wall Street Journal , detailed accounts from nearly 50 individuals familiar with the inner workings of the Biden administration paint a picture of a presidency marked by a quiet, yet significant, management of President Joe Biden's declining cognitive abilities. From the outset of his presidency, Biden's aides seemed to recognize the challenge his age and mental acuity posed. According to the Journal, as early as the first few months of his term, aides noticed Biden's fatigue during extended meetings and his propensity for making mistakes. This led to a strategy where interactions were kept short, and meetings were strategically scheduled around his "good days and bad days." A national security official was quoted saying, "He has good days and bad days, and today was a bad day so we’re going to address this tomorrow." The White House, under the stewardship of Biden's closest advisors, reportedly operated like a protective shell, managing his engagements and limiting access to him. This included rescheduling or canceling meetings based on his daily condition. The report suggests a system where even cabinet members and lawmakers felt disconnected from the President, with Representative Adam Smith of the House Armed Services Committee noting he had more personal interaction with former President Barack Obama despite being less senior at the time. Policy-making and decision processes might have been influenced or even controlled by a select group of advisors, raising questions about the true center of executive power. The Journal's piece has also cast a shadow over media credibility. For years, reports questioning Biden's fitness for office were met with aggressive rebuttals from the White House, often branded as partisan attacks or conspiracy theories. Critics argue that the media, particularly those with a left-leaning bias, might have shied away from aggressive reporting due to political fears or an unwillingness to acknowledge the situation, thus impacting public trust in media narratives. The initial reaction from the White House and Biden's allies was to dismiss the Journal's report as a political hit job, especially given that prominent Republicans like former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy were quoted. The handling of Biden's cognitive decline is a cautionary tale about the lengths to which political entities will go to maintain power.

A recent incident at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, was initially perceived as a hate crime turned out to be a fabricated race hoax. The incident involved vulgar and racist messages scrawled across the campus, specifically around the National Panhellenic Council Plaza, which honors historically Black fraternities and sororities. Over the Thanksgiving break in November 2024, messages containing racial slurs and profanity, including phrases like "F N-word, Trump Rules," were discovered on campus. The discovery led to widespread concern and condemnation from the student body and faculty, leading to an immediate investigation by both campus security and the Memphis Police Department. Initially, these messages were seen as acts of racial intimidation and bias, sparking an emotional response from the community. Thanks to diligent efforts by campus safety officers and the Memphis PD, the investigation concluded that the hate crime was fabricated . The individual responsible for the messages admitted to creating a hoax with the intent to blame others, specifically aiming to cast a negative light on supporters of Donald Trump. Rhodes College confirmed to Fox News that the perpetrator had taken responsibility for the act. The college expressed that this incident caused significant pain within the community and announced they would pursue all legal avenues to hold the individual accountable. Race hoaxes are not isolated incidents; they reflect broader societal issues regarding the politics of race and the weaponization of racial discourse. Such hoaxes can undermine legitimate grievances and create distrust, making it harder for real victims of hate crimes to be believed or supported. Furthermore, they can fuel political polarization, with each side using these incidents to validate their narratives about the state of race relations in the U.S.

The looming government shutdown is akin to a domestic budget gone haywire. Congress is teetering on the brink of doing just that to the federal government, risking a shutdown by the end of this week. The deadline for the current fiscal year, set for December 20, 2024, has Congress scrambling to agree on a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government operational. The negotiations are fraught with tension, reflecting not just fiscal disagreements but also ideological divides, much like a household debate over who can spend what. What's Being Negotiated? Funding Levels:  The primary contention is over the total spending amount. After passing a stopgap measure in September, Congress now faces the challenge of either extending funding at current levels or negotiating new budget caps. The negotiations include debates over whether to maintain or adjust the roughly $6.2 trillion federal budget. Disaster Aid:  There's a push for additional disaster relief funding, estimated at around $100 billion, which has found some bipartisan support but is still caught up in the larger budget wrangling. Agriculture and Health Programs:  Disputes continue over agriculture aid and the extension of health programs, with some lawmakers wanting to leverage these for broader budget concessions. Foreign Aid and National Security:  With ongoing global conflicts, there's significant pressure to allocate funds for international aid. Border Security and Immigration:  A recurring theme in these negotiations, border security remains a hot-button issue, with debates on funding and policy changes, including potential restrictions on U.S. investment abroad. The current scenario has been exacerbated by political infighting, especially within the House of Representatives. The influence of former President Donald Trump, who has publicly rejected a bipartisan plan, adds another layer of complexity to these talks, pushing for a renegotiation despite an earlier agreement that seemed to bridge party lines. What did trump say about the debt ceiling? Donald Trump has made several notable comments regarding the debt ceiling throughout his political career, reflecting a range of perspectives: Abolishment of the Debt Ceiling : In a recent statement, Trump suggested that getting rid of the debt ceiling entirely would be the "smartest thing [Congress] could do," indicating his support for eliminating it to avoid future negotiations and potential government shutdowns or defaults. Using it as Leverage : Historically, Trump has advocated for using the debt ceiling as leverage against Democrats. For instance, in January 2023, he urged Republicans to be tough in debt ceiling negotiations, suggesting they could regain concessions from Democrats by holding firm on the issue. Debt Ceiling and Government Shutdowns : Trump has also linked the debt ceiling with government shutdown threats, especially in the context of his administration's financial policies. In December 2024, he made comments suggesting that if there's going to be a government shutdown, it should happen under a Democratic presidency, thereby implying a strategic use of the debt ceiling in political negotiations. The situation is reminiscent of a household where one partner insists on renegotiating the terms of the budget just when an agreement seemed within reach, leading to inevitable tension and, in this case, a potential government shutdown. The stopgap measure proposed would fund the government until March 14, providing more time for a comprehensive budget deal, but with the clock ticking, the outcome remains uncertain. This political drama isn't just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it's a reflection of broader ideological battles where every dollar is a vote, every policy a statement of values. As with any family budget, compromise is key, but in the halls of Congress, the willingness to compromise is often as elusive as a balanced budget itself. As we watch this unfold, one can only hope that, unlike in many households, the government doesn't shut down over budget disagreements, because the repercussions would be felt far beyond the Capitol's walls. Update 12/19/24 1:40pm from Donald Trump SUCCESS in Washington!   Speaker Mike Johnson and the House have come to a very good Deal for the American People. The newly agreed to American Relief Act of 2024 will keep the Government open, fund our Great Farmers and others, and provide relief for those severely impacted by the devastating hurricanes.   A VERY important piece, VITAL to the America First Agenda, was added as well - The date of the very unnecessary Debt Ceiling will be pushed out two years, to January 30, 2027. Now we can Make America Great Again, very quickly, which is what the People gave us a mandate to accomplish.   All Republicans, and even the Democrats, should do what is best for our Country, and vote “YES” for this Bill, TONIGHT!

In 2015, Jordan Neely kidnapped a 7 year old girl. In 2019, Jordan Neely punched a 64 year old man in the face. In 2021, Jordan Neely slugged a 67 year old woman in the face as she exited the subway, breaking her nose and fracturing her orbital bone. Neely was arrested 44 times, but never faced real justice for terrorizing New Yorkers. After a trial that drew national attention, the jury acquitted Daniel Penny of criminally negligent homicide, though they had previously deadlocked on the more severe charge of second-degree manslaughter. This decision came after extensive deliberation, highlighting the complexity of the case, which wasn't just about the act of the chokehold but about the context, intent, and the immediate danger perceived by Penny and other passengers. On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely, a homeless man known for his Michael Jackson impersonations but also for his struggles with mental illness and drug issues, entered an F train in Manhattan, reportedly shouting about his desperation and making threats that someone was going to die. Daniel Penny, a former Marine and architecture student, responded to Neely's alarming behavior by placing him in a chokehold, an action that would ultimately lead to Neely's death. Jordan Neely boarded a subway car, and his behavior quickly escalated from being merely disruptive to threatening. Witnesses described Neely throwing his jacket down, yelling about his hunger and thirst, and expressing readiness to go to jail or even die. This behavior created an environment of fear among passengers, many of whom were trapped with no immediate escape route. Penny, seeing Neely's actions, decided to intervene by using a chokehold, a technique he learned during his Marine service. The medical examiner concluded that Neely died from compression of the neck, but the defense argued that Neely's death was influenced by multiple factors including his schizophrenia, use of synthetic marijuana, and a pre-existing blood condition, suggesting the chokehold alone was not solely responsible. While the death of Jordan Neely is a tragedy, when someone enters a confined space threatening harm, the logical and immediate response should be to neutralize that threat, even if it means putting oneself at risk. Daniel Penny acted under these circumstances, and the legal system has recognized this through the jury's verdict. It's a moment for society to reflect not just on individual actions but on broader issues like mental health support, public safety, and the right to defend oneself and others in dire circumstances. Following the acquittal of Daniel Penny on charges of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, Black Lives Matter (BLM) activists, particularly from the New York chapter, have vocally protested the verdict, viewing it as a miscarriage of justice. BLM leaders have described the outcome as a victory for white supremacy, with Hawk Newsome , co-founder of New York's BLM , suggesting that "racism is still alive and kicking in America." Protests outside the courthouse where the trial took place were marked by chants of "Justice for Jordan Neely" and slogans indicating a belief in systemic bias within the judicial process. The movement's response has included calls for "black vigilantes" as a form of community self-defense. Instead of protesting a specific verdict, some might argue for directing efforts towards broader societal improvements, like better mental health support, addressing homelessness, or reforming how public safety is managed in public transit systems.

Birthright citizenship refers to the legal principle by which anyone born within the territorial limits of a country automatically becomes a citizen of that country, regardless of the parents' nationality or legal status. In the United States, this right is enshrined in the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” This amendment was primarily aimed at ensuring citizenship for former slaves after the Civil War but has since been broadly interpreted to include children of immigrants, whether documented or not. Trump's Stance on Birthright Citizenship Former President Donald Trump, now the President-elect, has repeatedly vowed to end birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants. His plan involves issuing an executive order on his first day back in office to reinterpret the 14th Amendment's jurisdiction clause, arguing that children of undocumented immigrants are not "subject to the jurisdiction" of the U.S. in the same way as others. Trump has maintained that this change would deter illegal immigration by removing what he views as a significant incentive for people to enter the country unlawfully. Trump's proposal to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants is a significant policy shift that would challenge long-established constitutional norms. The legality of Trump's plan to end birthright citizenship via executive order is highly contested. Constitutional scholars overwhelmingly agree that this right cannot be altered by an executive order alone due to its constitutional foundation. While it aligns with his campaign promises on immigration, the practical implementation would face substantial legal, social, and political hurdles. While the proposal to end birthright citizenship is controversial, those in favor argue that it would serve national interests by strengthening immigration control, aligning with a more contemporary interpretation of the constitution, enhancing national sovereignty, promoting legal migration, and curbing practices like birth tourism .

Black women are no longer interested in saving democracy. The Democratic Party has traditionally relied on the unwavering support of Black women. Their high voter turnout and activism have been key to electoral victories. [U.S Politics] Traditionally known as the backbone of the Democratic Party, Black women's unwavering support and political organizing have been pivotal in numerous elections. However, following Donald Trump's victory over Kamala Harris, sentiments have evolved, with many Black women articulating a sense of exhaustion and disillusionment with their role as the presumed saviors of American democracy. Black women have long been recognized for their extraordinary voter turnout and political activism. For decades, they've organized communities, mobilized voters, and supported Democratic candidates, often at the forefront of campaigns for civil rights and social justice. Their influence was particularly noted in the 2020 election, where their votes were credited with flipping states like Georgia for Joe Biden. However, the narrative of Black women as the "saviors" of democracy has begun to wear thin. Kamala Harris’s historic but unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 2024, where she would have been the first Black and South Asian woman president, marked a turning point. Despite their significant support, with approximately 92% of Black women voters backing Harris according to AP VoteCast, the outcome led to a reevaluation of their political investment. The sentiment captured in social media and public discussions is one of frustration and fatigue. Many Black women feel that their efforts have not been reciprocated with policies or recognition that address their specific needs and concerns. Post-election, there's been a noticeable trend on social media where Black women are expressing intentions to prioritize themselves. This includes focusing on mental health, community, and personal well-being over national political battles. Statements like "America is going to have to save herself," from LaTosha Brown , co-founder of Black Voters Matter, echo a broader sentiment. Black women are now calling for a moment of rest, a reassessment of where their energies are best spent, and a more selective approach to political activism. This shift is not about political disengagement but rather a strategic reorientation towards self-care and community-focused efforts.   This movement among Black women isn't just about electoral politics; it's about demanding acknowledgment and action from all political entities. There's a growing conversation about the intersectionality of Black women's experiences, advocating for policies that directly impact their lives in areas like healthcare, education, and economic opportunity.   As Black women consider their next steps in political activism, they are not withdrawing from democracy but are instead seeking to redefine their role within it. This moment could lead to new forms of political expression, perhaps focusing more on local governance, grassroots movements, or independent voter initiatives that prioritize Black communities' direct needs. The Democratic Party and political leaders at large must heed this change, understanding that the support of Black women is not a given but something to be earned through genuine commitment to their issues.

Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) has taken a firm position against allowing transgender women to use women's bathrooms, locker rooms, and other gendered facilities in the U.S. Capitol. Mace introduced a resolution just weeks before Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, is set to take office. The Resolution Mace's proposal aims to prohibit House members, officers, and employees from using single-sex facilities that do not correspond to their biological sex at birth. Mace stated, "I’m not going to stand for a man, someone with a penis, in the women’s locker room. That’s not OK."   Nancy Mace identifies herself as a rape survivor, arguing her position is about protecting women's safety and privacy. Speaker Mike Johnson has adapted the rule regarding facilities at the U.S. Capitol. He announced that all single-sex facilities in the Capitol and House Office Buildings, such as restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms, are reserved for individuals of that biological sex. Mace intends to introduce a bill that will mandate transgenders use facilities based on their biological sex in all federal facilities.

In response to a recent Neo-Nazi demonstration in Columbus, Ohio, where masked individuals marched through the city's Short North neighborhood carrying Nazi flags and shouting racial slurs, Black community leaders organized a counterprotest. This unity march was held to demonstrate solidarity and to send a strong message against hate and bigotry. The countermarch was organized by figures like Brian Winston, president of 100 Black Men of Central Ohio , alongside other community leaders and local residents.