I like Jeff Merkley for his genial disposition, ideals, and mild-manner. It is something to sit and listen to him discuss this fascist, authoritarian regime's invasive ICE force with equanimity, and erudite composure. I'm not sure how he does it! But, in his studied, genial way, he is recognizing, and identifying what is happening in this country. Jen and so many guests, of course, have long realized this, but hearing a senator speak with such honesty, candor, and authority, analyzing Trump's use of ICE, and labeling it rationally for what it is, is really powerful. How utterly sobering to hear him say, despite this awareness, he doesn't think Republicans are ready take back their power, to preserve the democracy. We must ensure that our elections are free and fair. It is up to us to stop this takeover. Trump's fascist assault on us is now being directed outward toward foreign countries possessing resources (oil and minerals) he wants. It's sick.
Contrarians with R representatives should contact them and register their opinions and demands. They are required to track constituents' comments, whether they act on them or not. Please hit their .gov websites or call their local offices and leave a message regarding Congressional action on ICE funding this month.
I am so glad this is being given attention here. We continue to lose constitutional rights daily and are being basically attacked by the Trump administration on all fronts. Trump is openly operating as a dictator, daring Congress to do something about it and of course they are doing nothing at all. If we don't impeach Trump and put a stop to his fascist playbook, we are going to lose what democracy we have left. I feel like we are seeing the replay of Germany in the 30's and watching Hitler weld his destructive agenda on citizens who are in denial that any of this is happening. America needs to wake up now.
Just what Sen. Merkley said: "...we confront that playbook, which is citizen action and winning the next elections before they can be too much manipulated. That's the way we stop the entrenchment of authoritarian fascist power that's underway in America."
Senator Merkley speaks the truth ... and concisely lays it out about the authoritarian tactics and how best to stop it. In addition to the figurehead in DJT it sounds like a good idea to see how to bring pressure on Russell Vought as well.
Another interview where the outcome of the 2026 elections are mentioned. But again, no one discusses the very possible cheating by tje new owner of the former Dominion Voting Machine Corp. He is right wing Scott Leiendecker, who renamed the company "Liberty Vote."
Is ANYONE EVER going to address this potentially huge disaster coming down the pike?
Stacey Abrams’s Substack, Assembly Required, has been covering the “10 Steps to Autocracy and Authoritarianism” and the companion “10 Steps to Freedom and Power” for several months. It’s an excellent resource both for describing the nature of authoritarianism and for explaining how we can respond to it.
I like Jeff Merkley for his genial disposition, ideals, and mild-manner. It is something to sit and listen to him discuss this fascist, authoritarian regime's invasive ICE force with equanimity, and erudite composure. I'm not sure how he does it! But, in his studied, genial way, he is recognizing, and identifying what is happening in this country. Jen and so many guests, of course, have long realized this, but hearing a senator speak with such honesty, candor, and authority, analyzing Trump's use of ICE, and labeling it rationally for what it is, is really powerful. How utterly sobering to hear him say, despite this awareness, he doesn't think Republicans are ready take back their power, to preserve the democracy. We must ensure that our elections are free and fair. It is up to us to stop this takeover. Trump's fascist assault on us is now being directed outward toward foreign countries possessing resources (oil and minerals) he wants. It's sick.
Contrarians with R representatives should contact them and register their opinions and demands. They are required to track constituents' comments, whether they act on them or not. Please hit their .gov websites or call their local offices and leave a message regarding Congressional action on ICE funding this month.
Proud that Jeff is my senator. Keep up the good work.
I am so glad this is being given attention here. We continue to lose constitutional rights daily and are being basically attacked by the Trump administration on all fronts. Trump is openly operating as a dictator, daring Congress to do something about it and of course they are doing nothing at all. If we don't impeach Trump and put a stop to his fascist playbook, we are going to lose what democracy we have left. I feel like we are seeing the replay of Germany in the 30's and watching Hitler weld his destructive agenda on citizens who are in denial that any of this is happening. America needs to wake up now.
Proud that Sen. Merkley is my senator…I hope the rest of the Senate is listening.
Just what Sen. Merkley said: "...we confront that playbook, which is citizen action and winning the next elections before they can be too much manipulated. That's the way we stop the entrenchment of authoritarian fascist power that's underway in America."
If it’s already this bad now then how much worse can it really get? It’s time to derail the fascist train.
Three more years seems impossible. Couldn't do it without you folks.
Senator Merkley speaks the truth ... and concisely lays it out about the authoritarian tactics and how best to stop it. In addition to the figurehead in DJT it sounds like a good idea to see how to bring pressure on Russell Vought as well.
Yes, I’m very impressed by Senator Merkley. Like to hear him again.
Another interview where the outcome of the 2026 elections are mentioned. But again, no one discusses the very possible cheating by tje new owner of the former Dominion Voting Machine Corp. He is right wing Scott Leiendecker, who renamed the company "Liberty Vote."
Is ANYONE EVER going to address this potentially huge disaster coming down the pike?
So incredibly grateful Jeff Merkley is my senator. He tirelessly delves into the issues big and small. He’s priceless ♥️
I don't see the link Senator Merkley referred to???
It's linked to "On Monday" (first 2 words) of the article, but here it is: https://www.merkley.senate.gov/ring-the-alarm-bells-merkley-publishes-new-analysis-of-trumps-authoritarian-playbook/
Thank you!
Stacey Abrams’s Substack, Assembly Required, has been covering the “10 Steps to Autocracy and Authoritarianism” and the companion “10 Steps to Freedom and Power” for several months. It’s an excellent resource both for describing the nature of authoritarianism and for explaining how we can respond to it.
Great interview
Thank you Hal!!