(2019-07-25). "A Victory for the People of Puerto Rico": Gov. Ricardo Rosselló Resigns Following Mass Protests. democracynow.org 
Celebrations were held throughout the night in Puerto Rico after Governor Ricardo Rosselló announced he would resign, following 12 days of mass protests. This came two days after more than 500,000 Puerto Ricans took to the streets in one of the largest protests in Puerto Rico's history. The protests began after Puerto Rico's Center for Investigative Journalism published close to 900 pages of shocking text messages between Rosselló, staffers and advisers. The group chat messages were riddled with misogyny, homophobia, profanity and violence. Some of the messages mocked victims of Hurricane Maria and joked about sh…
(2019-07-25). Trump's DOJ Is Resuming the Death Penalty. Bernie Sanders Vows to Abolish It. truthout.org | | Sen. Bernie Sanders on Thursday vowed to abolish the death penalty at the federal level if elected president after news broke that Attorney General William Barr has directed the Bureau of Prisons to resume capital punishment for the first time in nearly two decades. | "There's enough violence in the world. The government shouldn't add to it," tweeted Sanders, the first 2020 Democratic presidential candidate to respond to the news. "When I am president, we will abolish the death penalty."
(2019-07-25). Ryan Grim: Tom Perez Was Elected Head of DNC Thanks to a "Silent Coup" in Puerto Rico in 2017. democracynow.org 
As Puerto Ricans celebrate the imminent departure of disgraced Governor Ricardo Rosselló, we speak with Intercept reporter Ryan Grim about how Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez benefited from what's been described as a "coup" within the Democratic Party in Puerto Rico. In his recent book, Grim revealed pro-statehood politicians—including some Republicans—quietly took over the Puerto Rico Democrats in 2017 and then offered full support for Perez in exchange for his support for statehood. This helped give Perez enough delegates to beat Keith Ellison in the race to head the DNC.
(2019-07-25). Progressives to Democrats: We Are Watching the Way You Mistreat "the Squad" counterpunch.org Strictly speaking, Nancy Pelosi is right. Led by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, the four Congressional freshmen known as the Squad are, by Beltway standards, relatively powerless—just four votes, as the speaker said. They chair no committees and head no broad coalitions that can be counted upon to cast yeas and nays at their command. Yet More
(2019-07-25). Puerto Rico's Governor Resigns in Face of Protests. truthdig.com 
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico—Anger turned to jubilation in the streets in a flash as Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló announced his resignation overnight, ceding power after nearly two weeks of furious protests and political upheaval touched off by a leak of insulting chat messages. | A crowd of thousands outside the governor's mansion in Old San Juan erupted in cheers and song over his announcement on Facebook, made just before midnight on Wednesday. | "Despite expecting to serve the term that the people democratically elected me to, today I feel that continuing in this position represents a threat to the succes…
(2019-07-25). Tulsi Gabbard, Ayanna Pressley Votes in Favor of Anti-BDS Bill. telesurenglish.net The 2020 U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard came under fire for voting in favor of condemning the pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. | RELATED: | Ilhan Omar Introduces Bill Backing Pro-Palestine BDS Movement | The U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday passed (398-17) a nonbinding resolution condemning the BDS…
(2019-07-25). Puerto Rico's Governor Resigns in Face of Protests. truthdig.com SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico—Anger turned to jubilation in the streets in a flash as Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló announced his resignation overnight, ceding power after nearly two weeks of furious protests and political upheaval touched off by a leak of insulting chat messages. | A crowd of thousands outside the governor's mansion in Old San Juan erupted in cheers and song over his announcement on Facebook, made just before midnight on Wednesday. | "Despite expecting to serve the term that the people democratically elected me to, today I feel that continuing in this position represents a threat to the succes…
(2019-07-25). Robert Mueller Testimony Disappoints Democrats Who Bet on Special Counsel to Help Sink Trump. democracynow.org 
Special counsel Robert Mueller gave his much-anticipated testimony on Capitol Hill Wednesday, where he spoke for the first time about his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential elections. Over the 7-hour hearing, Mueller stressed to the House Judiciary and Intelligence Committees that despite Donald Trump's claims, he had not exonerated the president of obstruction of justice. Mueller's report was handed in 124 days ago, but only a redacted version was made available to the public. Ahead of Mueller's testimony, the Justice Department warned Mueller in a letter to "remain within the bound…
(2019-07-25). Mueller's Congressional Testimony Lays an Egg. globalresearch.ca His 7-hour Wednesday Q & A spectacle was much ado about nothing. | Undemocratic Dems wanting grist for their rage to impeach Trump got nothing to make their case. | The charade was an embarrassment to the maestro of malign intent, unable …
(2019-07-25). Tunisia's Essebsi, Leading Post-Revolution Figure, Dies at 92. telesurenglish.net Tunisia's 92-year-old president, Beji Caid Essebsi, who helped guide the North African country's transition to democracy after a 2011 revolution, has died, the presidency said on Thursday. | A leading figure in the country's fortunes since 2011, Essebsi was hospitalized late last month for a week after suffering what authorities described as a severe health crisis. | "On Thursday morning, the President of the Republic died at the military hospital in Tunis…The burial ceremony will be announced later," a presidency statement said. | The speaker of parliament, Mohamed Ennaceur, said he would be the country's…
(2019-07-25). Trump's Tweets Are Not Just a Diversion, They're Part of a Fascist Agenda. truthout.org | | Of course, Donald Trump is a racist. His tweet attacks telling four Democratic congresswomen of color to "go back to their broken and crime infested" countries are only the latest ugly examples of a consistent, unbroken pattern. As Washington Post journalist Eugene Robinson rightly noted, Trump's co…
(2019-07-25). Bolivian Opposition Plan Protests to Destabilize Elections. telesurenglish.net A senior figure of Bolivia's right-wing opposition has announced plans for a 'national revolt' to destabilize the upcoming presidential elections, because they believe Evo Morales should not be on the ballot paper. Social movements have denounced the plans as 'undemocratic'. | RELATED: | Bolivian Opposition Will Privatize Gas Reserves, Minister Warns | Opposition lawmaker Rafael Quispe announced on Wednesday a fresh round of national mobilizations, starting on the 10th of Octo…
(2019-07-25). We Need a People's Globalization to Defeat Global Neoliberalism. truthout.org | | As Donald Trump negotiates his way through one trade deal to another, we must recognize that free trade agreements have always benefited the elite class at the expense of the world's workers. In this excerpt of "Privatized Planet: Free Trade as a Weapon Against Democracy, Healthcare and the Environment," author T.J. Coles offers some insight into how we can mobilize globally.U.S. governments have always put big business first. Despite Donald Trump's unique presidential style, including his shouting…
(2019-07-25). Nicaragua: Telling the Truth as a Revolutionary Act. globalresearch.ca "The (soft coup) effort (June 2018) to topple the democratically-elected government of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega was originally led by students trained by US-funded "democracy promotion" programs (USAID). US-funded nongovernmental organizations, the Sandinista Renovation Movement political party, the Catholic Church …
(2019-07-25). How to Get Children Out of Cages. progressive.org The evidence is consistent, and damning—children are being hurt. We don't have to agree on the outcome in order to do the right thing.
(2019-07-25). Time to forget the word Russiagate & look into FBI-gate instead — Ron Paul. rt.com 
The Democrats' dream of impeaching President Trump over the Russiagate scandal has "totally failed," its fate confirmed by special counsel Robert Mueller's disastrous showing in Congress, former congressman Ron Paul told RT.
(2019-07-25). Protests Erupt in London as Boris Johnson Is Sworn In as New Prime Minister, Promising Hard Brexit. democracynow.org 
Boris Johnson was sworn in as the new British prime minister Wednesday, pledging to deliver a swift Brexit and spending his first full day in office Thursday packing his Cabinet with hard-line Brexiteers. His election was the first time that a party's membership directly chose the prime minister. The membership of the Conservative Party who voted for Johnson represents less than 1% of the British population. Johnson, who previously served as mayor of London and foreign secretary, replaces outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May. Boris Johnson is a highly contentious figure in the United Kingdom who has built his care…
(2019-07-25). Headlines for July 25, 2019. democracynow.org Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló Resigns Amid Mass Protests, Trump Vetoes Pave Way for U.S. Weapons Sales to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Robert Mueller Tells Congress His Report Did Not Exonerate Trump, Federal Court Puts Trump's Asylum Ban on Hold, Federal Regulators Fine Facebook $5 Billion for Massive Privacy Breaches, New U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson Downplays Threat of Hard Brexit, Thousands Protest as Boris Johnson Begins Term as British Prime Minister, North Korea Test-Fires Missiles Ahead of U.S.-South Korea War Games, House Lawmakers Approve Resolution Opposing Boycotts of Israel, China's Military Warns It…
(2019-07-25). Day of Action: Shut Down 850 Bryant at SF City Hall. indybay.org Front Steps of City Hall | San Francisco…
(2019-07-25). New York Blackout Prompts Call for Publicly Owned Energy. therealnews.com 
Energy mismanagement in New York City and California has sparked questions about their ownership models. Democracy Collaborative's Johanna Bozuwa says making utilities public would help foster democracy and fight the climate crisis…
(2019-07-25). Puerto Ricans Are Fighting for the Democracy That They've Been Denied. thenation.com Puerto Ricans Are Fighting for the Democracy That They've Been Denied…
(2019-07-25). Protests Erupt in London as Boris Johnson Is Sworn In as New Prime Minister, Promising Swift Brexit. democracynow.org Boris Johnson was sworn in as the new British prime minister Wednesday, pledging to deliver a swift Brexit and spending his first full day in office Thursday packing his Cabinet with hard-line Brexiteers. His election was the first time that a party's membership directly chose the prime minister. The membership of the Conservative Party who voted for Johnson represents less than 1% of the British population. Johnson, who previously served as mayor of London and foreign secretary, replaces outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May. Boris Johnson is a highly contentious figure in the United Kingdom who has built his care…
(2019-07-25). Sounding the Alarm Against a Fascist Regime. indybay.org Sports Basement | 1590 Bryant Street, San Francisco | Elevator access…
(2019-07-25). Mueller testimony: Another debacle for the Democrats' anti-Russia campaign. wsws.org The Democrats staged two House committee hearings with the former FBI head and special counsel in an attempt to revive their discredited claim that Putin stole the 2016 election for Trump.
(2019-07-25). AIPAC's Anti-BDS Resolution Easily Wins Bipartisan Support. indybay.org Palestine remains the litmus test issue and once again, the Democrats showed their true colors on July 23, 2019 with 209 Democrats joining 189 Republicans in voting for pro Zionist Israel AIPAC's HRes 246, Roll Call 497 opposing the Boycott Divest Sanctions Movement of the Palestinian Liberation Struggle. See http: //clerk.house.gov/evs/2019/roll497.xml. The bill may be found at www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-resolution/246/all-actions?overview=closed&q=%7B%22roll-call-vote%22%3A%22all%22%7D…
(2019-07-25). Eric Garner's Killer Got a Raise—and de Blasio Did Nothing. thenation.com Eric Garner's Killer Got a Raise—and de Blasio Did Nothing…
(2019-07-25). Tulsi Gabbard sues Google for 'election meddling' over blocked campaign ads. rt.com 
Google is already interfering in the 2020 US presidential election, Democratic candidate Tulsi Gabbard claims — and she's suing the search behemoth for blocking her campaign ads from appearing after the first primary debate.
(2019-07-25). Tear Gas Company Owner Resigns From Whitney Museum Board. truthdig.com 
Artists, activists and museum staff launched protests after learning that chemicals made by Warren Kanders' company were used on migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.
(2019-07-24). Democrats to Seek More Russia Probe Information. truthdig.com 
WASHINGTON — The Latest on former special counsel Robert Mueller's congressional testimony on the Russia probe (all times local): | 6: 35 p.m. | House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler says his panel will file lawsuits this week to obtain more information about special counsel Robert Mueller's report and to enforce a subpoena against former White House counsel Donald McGahn. | Democrats have been preparing the lawsuits for weeks and were waiting until after Mueller's testimony on Wednesday. They will seek to obtain secret grand jury…
(2019-07-24). "One job should be enough"—Airline food workers take their struggle public. peoplesworld.org 
WASHINGTON—With political support from Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, and several Virginia state lawmakers, airline food preparation workers took their nationwide struggle against their bosses public with a July 23 protest that drew almost 1,000 people and virtually filled the old main hall at …
(2019-07-24). Media Can't Quit 'Trump Supporters Support Trump' Stories. fair.org 
As we hurtle into coverage of a presidential election that is still over a year away, media have returned to their timeworn tradition of going to rural, white communities to take the pulse of the nation (FAIR.org, 5/20/19). | Under the web headline "These Michigan Voters Show How Trump's 'Go Back' Attack May Help Him," the New York Times ( 7/22/19) ventured to a Trump stronghold in Michigan to bring readers the front-page…
(2019-07-24). The exploitation time bomb. mronline.org 
Worsening economic inequality in recent years is largely the result of policy choices that reflect the political influence and lobbying power of the rich. There is now a self-reinforcing pattern of high profits, low investment, and rising inequality—posing a threat not only to economic growth, but also to democracy. | Source
(2019-07-24). The Young Lords: Exploring the Legacy of the Radical Puerto Rican Activist Group 50 Years Later. democracynow.org 
Fifty years ago this week, a group of young radical Puerto Ricans took to the streets of New York City to announce the formation of the New York chapter of the Young Lords. Formed in the same radical tradition of the Black Panther Party, the activists soon became a force in the community that inspired people around the nation. The Young Lords occupied churches and hospitals to offer services to the community, and educated people about Puerto Rican culture and history. They called for self-determination for all Puerto Ricans, independence for the island of Puerto Rico, community control of institutions and land, f…
(2019-07-24). Climate Change Is Impacting Every Aspect of Modern Life, But the Press Fails to "Connect the Dots" democracynow.org 
July is slated to become the hottest month in recorded history, as extreme weather fueled by global warming wreaks havoc across the globe, from extreme heat waves in Europe and the U.S. to deadly monsoon flooding in South Asia. Severe rains have killed at least 660 people across India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan in a monsoon that is expected to continue throughout the week. A record heat wave is hitting Europe for the second time this summer, with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam all at risk of hitting all-time high temperatures, and Spain facing the threat of severe fires. We speak with climate scientist Michae…
(2019-07-24). What Do Black Voters Want? NYT's Edsall Says It's What 'Conservative' Democrats Want. fair.org "The Democratic Party," a new column by Thomas Edsall ( 7/24/19) declares, "Is Actually Three Parties." | Fascinating! Tell us more, New York Times columnist on "politics, demographics and inequality." | Well, based on data from a CBS poll of "battleground states," there are "three roughly equal groups": Democrats who call themselves "very liberal," Democrats who call themselves "somewhat liberal," and Democrats who call themselves "moderate" or "conservative." | That's it—those are the "three parties" that the Democr…
(2019-07-24). A fateful tug-of-war. mronline.org 
On June 2nd Christian Democrat Walter Làºbcke was shot dead in front of his home. Stimulated by fascist blogs, one of them that of a prominent adherent of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), the murderer, a dyed-in-the-wool fascist, had been plotting the attack ever since hearing Làºbcke's fierce reply to vicious anti-foreigner catcalls at a public event […] | Source
(2019-07-24). Puerto Rico Enters Uncharted Territory as Ricardo Rosselló Prepares to Resign as Governor. democracynow.org 
Facing mass civil unrest and a growing protest movement, Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosselló is expected to resign today. El Nuevo Día first reported the news late Tuesday night. Rosselló has faced nearly two weeks of demonstrations—each one larger than the last—demanding he step down, following a massive leak revealing sexist, homophobic and violent text messages exchanged between the governor and government officials, in which he mocked victims of Hurricane Maria and joked about shooting San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz. We speak with Democracy Now! co-host Juan González on the significance of Ros…
(2019-07-24). North Korea navigates economic reform in a sea of sanctions. peoplesworld.org 
PYONGYANG—In April, a Japanese newspaper revealed a policy document purportedly detailing the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's economic strategy for the 2016-2020 period. The text's authors stressed the need to step-up technological development, diversify the country's trade, chiefly toward Russia, and proceed with the "full introduction of a new economic management method." What "new management …
(2019-07-24). Noam Chomsky: To Make the US a Democracy, the Constitution Itself Must Change. truthout.org | | Why do so many people in the U.S. today find Trump's racist rants and authoritarian mindset appealing? What are the political checks and balances — or lack thereof — that can ward off the impact of the Republican leadership's disastrous policies? Is a constitutional crisis on its way? And how do we face the consequences of an administration that is essentially competing for the title of most dangerous organization in human history? In this exclusive Truthout interview, Emeri…
(2019-07-24). "Brand Boris": Britain's Clown Prince New Prime Minister. globalresearch.ca Boris Johnson succeeded Theresa May as new Tory prime minister — chosen by Britain's power elite, ordinary Brits having no say over their new leader. | UK democracy in action resembles America's — pure fantasy, not the real thing. | Johnson is …
(2019-07-24). Joe Biden's New Foreign Policy Adviser Supported Iraq War and Dubbed Edward Snowden a "Traitor" theintercept.com Nicholas Burns worked under presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush before leaving public service and becoming a lobbyist.
(2019-07-24). Losing Military Supremacy: The Myopia of American Strategic Planning. globalresearch.ca At a time when Russiaphobia is increasing in the United States, the thought that the US could be losing the arms race is far from what most Americans believe. Their dramatic game day fly pasts, hand over the heart anthems …
(2019-07-24). Israeli forces injure UK activists in 'sadistic' and 'violent' attack amid demolition of Palestinian homes. thecanary.co Israeli soldiers have injured a number of Palestinian and British activists in occupied East Jerusalem. According to the International Solidarity Movement ( ISM), the activists "were stamped on, dragged across the floor by the hair, strangled with a scarf and peppe…
(2019-07-24). Facebook to Pay US $5 Billion Fine Over Privacy Violations. telesurenglish.net The Chairman of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Joe Simons Wednesday announced that Facebook has agreed to pay US$5 billion as a penalty for its mismanagement of user privacy. | RELATED: | G7 Countries Take a Step Towards Taxing Big Internet Companies | While this is the largest U.S. fine ever imposed on a technology company, the Democratic members of the FTC complained that the sanction did not solve "Facebook's financial incentives to jeopardize personal privacy and n…
(2019-07-24). Trump Sues House Panel, NY, to Protect State Tax Returns. truthdig.com NEW YORK — Opening up another legal front against the Democrats investigating him, President Donald Trump on Tuesday sued the House Ways and Means Committee and New York state officials to prevent his state tax returns from being turned over to the congressional committee. | The lawsuit seeks an injunction to block the application of a new New York state law that could allow the Democratic-controlled House and Ways Means Committee to obtain the returns. The lawsuit, filed in Was…
(2019-07-24). Rep. Lieu's Recap During Mueller Testimony Makes Obstruction Case Against Trump. truthout.org | | Amid congressional testimony on Wednesday in which former special counsel Robert Mueller reiterated publicly that President Donald Trump "was not exculpated" of wrongdoing in his report, Democratic Congressman Ted Lieu of California also provided a succinct recap of why the only reason Mueller did not recommend charges against the president was because of an exis…
(2019-07-24). In Crisis of Democracy, We Must All Become Julian Assange. counterpunch.org The US government's indictment against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange marked the worst attack on press freedom in modern history. Assange has been charged with 18 counts, including 17 violations of the Espionage Act. James Goodale, former general counsel of The New York Times, who urged the paper to publish the Pentagon Papers during the Nixon More
(2019-07-24). Rep. Ted Lieu's Recap During Mueller Testimony Makes Obstruction of Justice Case Against Trump. commondreams.org Amid congressional testimony on Wednesday in which former special counsel Robert Mueller reiterated publicly that President Donald Trump "was not exculpated" of wrongdoing in his report, Democratic Congressman Ted Lieu of California also provided a succinct recap of why the only reason Mueller did not recommend charges against the president was because of an existing Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) memo stating that a sitting president could not be indicted. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/mueller_olc_ted_lieu.jpg …
(2019-07-24). 209 Democrats Join GOP to Pass Resolution Condemning Pro-Palestinian Boycott. truthout.org | | Just days after Israeli forces demolished dozens of Palestinian homes in what international observers said amounted to a war crime, the U.S. House of Representatives late Tuesday passed a resolution condemning the non-violent boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement that is working to put an end to Israel's brutal occupation. | The non-binding re…
(2019-07-24). Following Mueller Hearings, House Democrats Must Stop Slow-Walking Impeachment Inquiry. commondreams.org ______________________________…
(2019-07-24). Lawyers bankroll 2020 Democrats with millions in campaign cash. nationofchange.org Lawyers are powering Democratic presidential campaigns, continuing the legal industry's tradition of supporting liberal candidates and causes. Still, in the early stages of the presidential election cycle, lawyers and employees of law firms have already given $10 million to Democratic candidates, including $5.5 million between April and June. Only retirees — a much larger group …
(2019-07-24). In one made up story Jo Swinson shows the Lib Dems are still the same old power hungry chancers. thecanary.co It's only two days into Jo Swinson's Liberal Democrat leadership and she's already admitted telling a major porky on BBC Radio 4's Today Programme. | And the made-up story suggests the Lib Dems are still the same old power hungry chancers. | Nonsense: | Swinson said of Corbyn: Let's remember in the last referendum he went on holiday for two weeks in the middle…
(2019-07-24). Mueller Hearing: Trump Would be Indicted if He Weren't President. telesurenglish.net Former Special Counsel Robert Mueller Wednesday told a U.S. congressional hearing he had not exonerated President Donald Trump of obstruction of justice and indicated he would have sought his indictment were it not for a Justice Department policy against bringing charges against a sitting president. | RELATED: | Chomsky: Fixation on Russia May Have Handed Trump a 2020 Win | Democratic Representative Ted Lieu asked Mueller if the reason he did not bring a criminal indictment agains…
(2019-07-24). Earth's Climate Now, Warmest Period of the Past 2,000 Years. telesurenglish.net Climate around the world is warming at a faster rate than it has in 2,000 years, a pair of new studies from Switzerland's University of Bern revealed this week. | RELATED: | US Democratic Lawmakers Declare Climate Emergency | "We find that the warmest period of the past two millennia occurred during t…
(2019-07-24). Key Moments From Robert Mueller's Congressional Testimony. theintercept.com Robert Mueller, the former special counsel, testified on Wednesday morning to the House Judiciary Committee and on Wednesday afternoon to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence on his report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, and President Donald Trump's efforts to obstruct that inquiry. Updates on key moments in the hearings appear below. | Did Mueller's Replies to Rep. Adam Schiff Provide Enough Cover for Democrats to Impeach Trump?: | At the end…
(2019-07-24). Headlines for July 24, 2019. democracynow.org Robert Mueller Testifies Before Congress, Trump Rails Against Squad, Mueller Report in Speech to Teenagers, Disgraced Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosselló Expected to Step Down, ORR Says Unaccompanied Migrant Children Could Be Detained for Years, Immigration Agents Detain Texas Teen for 3+ Weeks Despite Being a U.S. Citizen, Tennessee Community Blocks ICE from Taking Neighbor by Forming Human Chain, Trump Threatens Guatemala with Tariffs and Other Penalties After Failure of Immigration Deal, DOJ Pursues Antitrust Probe into Big Tech, Reports: FTC to Accuse Facebook of Misleading Consumers on Personal Data Use, F…
(2019-07-24). Trump-Pelosi Deal Raises Debt Limit, But Protects War Machine, Hyde Amendment. truthout.org | | Let me get this straight. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Trump Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin have miraculously just come to a silky-smooth bipartisan budget agreement that rips the feathers right off the deficit hawks and kills the Obama-era Sequester and fake debt ceiling crises all in one swoop. | The catch is that the debt ceiling truce is only for two years. So if a Democrat wins the…
(2019-07-24). Successful elections and 'political dialogues' push democracy forward in West Africa and the Sahel. un.org Progress has been made in consolidating democracy in West Africa and the Sahel, according to the United Nation's Special Representative in the region on Wednesday, who cited successful elections and "political dialogues" as part of the advances made.
(2019-07-24). 'Deadly environment' plus 'political and social' obstacles hinder Ebola fight in DR Congo, Security Council hears. un.org The problems of eradicating Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are not only medical, but also linked "to a variety of political and social factors", the head of the UN mission in the country told the Security Council on Wednesday.
(2019-07-24). John McDonnell drops a truth bomb about Jo Swinson's refusal to work with Jeremy Corbyn. thecanary.co On 23 July, BBC Newsnight shared a clip from an interview with shadow chancellor John McDonnell. In it, he expertly highlighted the absurdity of new Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson's refusal to work with Jeremy Corbyn. | Responding to a question about Swinson's hostile stance, McDonnell said: Isn't it interesting? Jo Swinson was willing to work with the Tories, introduce some of the most savage austerity cuts that cost people their lives… But she won't work with a Labour leader who opposed all those austerity measures. | And he…
(2019-07-24). Defense Lobbyist Mark Esper Sworn in as Pentagon Chief. telesurenglish.net Army Secretary Mark Esper was sworn in as U.S. secretary of defense Tuesday, hours after the Senate cast a strong bipartisan vote, ending the longest period the Pentagon has been without a permanent top official. | RELATED: | From Boeing to Raytheon: A New Lobbyist to Run the Pentagon | Esper was sworn in by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito in a White House ceremony hosted by President Donald Trump and attended by a number of Republican lawmakers. He was confirmed by the U.S…
(2019-07-24). Can the Party of Lincoln Be Racist? Absolutely. commondreams.org The GOP's go-to deflection of racism—"We're the party of Lincoln"—doesn't hold up so well. (Photo: elycefeliz / Flickr / creative commons) | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/abraham-lincoln-gop-republican-party-1023×675.jpg …
(2019-07-24). "He Might've Stayed a Minute": Coal Miners With Black Lung Slam McConnell for Brushing Them Off in Healthcare Meeting. commondreams.org "It was a worthless trip, that's the way I feel," said one of the 120 coal miners who traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with the Republican leader | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/mcconnell_coal.jpg …
(2019-07-24). Mueller's sluggish testimony turns out to be 'disaster' for disappointed Democrats. rt.com 
Former special counsel Robert Mueller's testimony to congress was supposed to bring new clarity to the Russiagate drama — but Americans tuning in quickly realized the much-hyped event was turning into a "disaster" for Democrats.
(2019-07-24). Airline Caterers Authorize Strike Action, Supported by Presidential Candidates. therealnews.com 
Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, Sherrod Brown, and Mayor Bill DeBlasio, among others, all came out to the DC National Airport to express their support for airline food workers, who intend to strike for higher wages and health care…
(2019-07-24). 'You managed to violate every principle!' — Republican Rep. unloads on Mueller. rt.com 
Texas Rep. John Ratcliffe came out swinging at former special counsel Robert Mueller, using his entire five minutes' speaking time to attack Mueller for refusing to completely exonerate President Donald Trump for obstruction.
(2019-07-24). 'They are a mess': Trump unloads on Russiagate cultists' post-Mueller stress disorder. rt.com 
US President Donald Trump slammed former special counsel Robert Mueller's long-awaited House testimony, reserving his harshest words for the Democrats who "knew it was a hoax" — and the media who enabled them.
(2019-07-24). One hearing down, 'Shifty Schiff' to go: Trump mocks Democrat Intelligence Chairman. rt.com 
As former Special Counsel sat down to his second Congressional hearing of the day, President Donald Trump mocked House Intelligence Committee chairman Rep. Adam Schiff, calling him an "embarrassment to our country."
(2019-07-24). Mueller Report 'mostly just regurgitated press stories' — Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko. rt.com 
With Robert Mueller's report partly relying on media stories to paint a picture of alleged obstruction, Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko asked the special counsel why she couldn't have got a "$50 cable news subscription" instead.
(2019-07-24). Democrats reach deal with Trump on budget and debt ceiling. wsws.org The plan will boost military spending to record levels and reassure Wall Street.
(2019-07-24). Senator Warren warns of US economic "crash" wsws.org The bogus character of the agenda advanced by Warren, who has described herself as "capitalist to the bone," is underscored by the measures she advances to meet the signs of a deepening crisis.
(2019-07-24). Fusion who? Mueller doesn't seem to know the name of firm that compiled infamous 'Steele Dossier'. rt.com 
With Republicans questioning the origins of former special counsel Robert Mueller's 'Russiagate' investigation, Mueller claimed he was not familiar with one of the key players behind the whole affair: Fusion GPS.
(2019-07-24). Mueller hearing 'very big mistake' for anti-Trump #Resistance, but will they give up? rt.com 
President Donald Trump's Democratic opponents have shot themselves in the foot by forcing Robert Mueller to testify publicly, not realizing he already done his best to make the probe look credible, journalist Aaron Maté told RT.
(2019-07-24). What is the OLC opinion? The policy that forbade Mueller from charging Trump. rt.com 
With Democrats questioning Robert Mueller on whether he would have indicted President Trump for obstruction were he not elected to the White House, Mueller repeatedly deferred to the OLC opinion. But what does the opinion mean?
(2019-07-24). Mueller's testimony was a major anti-climax. Will Democrats finally realize he won't save them? rt.com 
Democrats expected Russiagate fireworks from former special counsel Robert Mueller's long-awaited testimony on Capitol Hill, but were once again disappointed, witnessing only the last fizzles of a dying conspiracy theory.
(2019-07-23). Trump vs. the Squad, or the Fascist Use of Zionism. dissidentvoice.org 
The strategy is clear. Whether Trump confronts Sleepy Joe, Crazy Bernie, Pocahontas or some other Democratic opponent in the presidential race, he will target the "Squad" of newly elected freshman congresswomen Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib and Ayanna Pressley. Trump has decided to (1) depict them as the real face of the Democratic Party; …
(2019-07-23). How "Ricky Leaks" Exposed Puerto Rico's Governor and Sparked a Movement to Oust Him. democracynow.org 
Half a million people took to the streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Monday in a historic protest, more than a week after the Center for Investigative Journalism in Puerto Rico published 889 pages that included violently misogynistic and homophobic online chats between Puerto Rican Governor Ricardo Rosselló and other government officials. The leaked documents revealed Rosselló had mocked victims of Hurricane Maria and joked about shooting San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz. It also exposed rampant corruption within the Puerto Rican government. Governor Rosselló and the 11 others implicated in the message scandal…
(2019-07-23). "Sharpening the Knives": iLe of Calle 13 on Recording the Anthem of the Puerto Rico Protests. democracynow.org 
Many of Puerto Rico's most famous performers have been out in the streets in full force this week to show support for the growing movement calling for the immediate resignation of Governor Ricardo Rosselló. Singers Ricky Martin and Bad Bunny were in the streets of San Juan Monday, along with Grammy-winning artists Residente and iLe of the band Calle 13. They've also joined the protest through song. Last week, Residente, iLe and Bad Bunny released the song "Afilando Los Cuchillos," or "Sharpening the Knives." It quickly became the anthem of the movement. We speak with iLe, who says, "I've been waiting all my life…
(2019-07-23). "Ricky Renuncia": Half a Million Puerto Ricans Flood San Juan Demanding Resignation of Gov. Rosselló. democracynow.org 
An estimated half a million Puerto Ricans took to the streets of San Juan Monday to demand the resignation of Governor Ricardo Rosselló. It was the largest demonstration yet since the massive leak of nearly 900 text messages—many of them graphic and offensive—between Rosselló and some of his closest advisers broke 11 days ago. Protesters blocked a major Puerto Rican highway for hours, chanting "Ricky renuncia!"—"Ricky resign!"—banging on drums and waving Puerto Rican flags. Several businesses and banks closed in solidarity with the national mobilization, with many taking the day off work t…
(2019-07-23). Headlines for July 23, 2019. democracynow.org Half a Million Puerto Ricans Take Over San Juan Streets to Call for Gov. Rosselló to Resign, Boris Johnson Becomes New British Prime Minister, Trump Admin Expands Deportation Powers, Putting 100,000s of Undocumented Immigrants at Risk, ICE Now Using DNA Testing on Asylum-Seeking Families, DOJ Tells Mueller His Testimony Must "Remain Within Boundaries" of Redacted Report, Trump Says He Can "Wipe Afghanistan Off the Face of the Earth" as He Meets Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte Calls for the Death Penalty for Drug Offenders, Syrian Airstrikes Kill At Least 50, Amid Ongoing Violence in Id…
(2019-07-23). Puerto Rico: 400,000 flood streets to demand governor resign. greenleft.org.au Hours after Governor Ricardo Rosselló resisted calls to step down over leaked messages — mocking victims of Hurricane Maria and attacking fellow politicians with misogynistic slurs — an estimated 400,000 Puerto Ricans took to the streets on July 22 and demanded Rosselló's resignation. | "The people have spoken," New York Democratic representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — whose mother was born in Puerto Rico —…
(2019-07-23). The Overlooked Difference Between Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. thenation.com The Overlooked Difference Between Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren…
(2019-07-22). He Was Told to Go Back to Africa. Instead, He May Go to the U.S. Senate. theintercept.com 
Helena, Montana, mayor Wilmot Collins was reminded by Donald Trump's recent comments of the racism he faced when he first came to the U.S. from Liberia.
(2019-07-22). "If Not Now, When Will We Stand?" Native Hawaiians Fight Construction of Telescope on Mauna Kea. democracynow.org 
A historic indigenous resistance is unfolding on the Big Island of Hawaii, where thousands have descended on Mauna Kea, a sacred Native site, to defend it from the construction of a $1.4 billion telescope. Scientists say the Thirty Meter Telescope will help them peer into the deepest corners of space, but indigenous resisters say the construction was approved without their consent and will desecrate their sacred lands. Last week, police arrested 33 people—most of them Hawaiian elders—as they blocked a road to prevent work crews from reaching the site of the telescope being planned atop Mauna Kea. And…
(2019-07-22). EPA Refuses to Ban Dangerous Pesticide Chlorpyrifos Linked to Brain Damage in Children. democracynow.org 
The Environmental Protection Agency will not ban the widely used pesticide chlorpyrifos—even though the agency's own research shows that it can cause brain damage in children. The substance is sold under the commercial name Lorsban and is banned for household use. But it's still used by farmers on more than 50 fruit, nuts, cereal and vegetable crops. The announcement came Thursday. The Obama administration said it would ban the use of the toxic chemical in 2015, but the rule never took effect. It was suspended in 2017 by then-EPA head Scott Pruitt. We go to Seattle to speak with Patti Goldman, a managing at…
(2019-07-22). "All Sides Need to Begin to De-escalate": Tensions Between Iran, U.K. & U.S. Spark Fears of War. democracynow.org 
In Iran, authorities say they've arrested 17 Iranian citizens and charged them with being CIA-trained spies for the United States. Iranian media reports that some have already been executed. This comes as tensions in the Persian Gulf continued to mount over the weekend following Iran's seizure of a British oil tanker and its 23 crew members Friday in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran said it seized the tanker in retaliation for the British impounding of an Iranian tanker earlier this month off the coast of Gibraltar. The Iranian National Guard released video Sunday showing the vessel flying an Iranian flag. Britain says…
(2019-07-22). Headlines for July 22, 2019. democracynow.org Iran Says It Has Captured and Killed Spies as Oil Tanker Standoff Intensifies, Trump Revs Up Racist Attacks on Squad as AOC Hits Back: "We're Not Going Anywhere", Heat Wave Grips U.S. as July on Track for Hottest Month Ever Recorded, Fire Breaks Out at Brooklyn Jail as Prisoners Face Dangerous Heat Without Relief, Puerto Ricans Continue Mass Protests as Gov. Rosselló Says He Will Not Seek Re-election, Boris Johnson Expected to Become New U.K. Prime Minister, Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Protesters Face Police Tear Gas and Violent Mob, Israel Begins Razing Palestinian Homes in Occupied Territories, Mueller to Testify B…
(2019-07-22). Donald Trump Is Remaking the GOP. thenation.com Donald Trump Is Remaking the GOP…
(2019-07-22). Republicans Are Transforming Federal Courts for the Next Generation. therealnews.com 
The Nation's Elie Mystal says Conservative think tanks and Senate Majority Leader McConnell are creating a right-wing federal court system with Trump's help that will affect generations to come…
(2019-07-21). Buffalo protests hit union busting. workers.org 
The Western New York SPoT Coffee chain has become the center of a pro-union protest now in its second week. Union solidarity with organizing drive at coffee chain Following the successful unionization of its Rochester location in May, SPoT fired Phoenix Cerny and Phil Kneitinger for attempting to bring the . . . | Continue reading Buffalo protests hit union busting at Workers.org
(2019-07-21). How the Border Patrol Began Its Investigation Into No More Deaths Volunteer Scott Warren. theintercept.com 
Newly unsealed documents detail the tip that led the Border Patrol to zero in on humanitarians rescuing migrants in the Arizona desert.
(2019-07-20). Trump's Racist Lies About Ilhan Omar Define the Republican Party. therealnews.com 
The Ilhan Omar quote Trump bastardized came from her conversation with John Nichols, who joins us to look at US history for inspiration and understanding…
(2019-07-19). The Real Trouble with Ilhan Omar. progressive.org While others on the left waffle on questions of imperial power and foreign relations, the freshman Democrat takes on American hegemony.
(2019-07-19). Headlines for July 19, 2019. democracynow.org 70 Catholics Arrested in Capitol Hill Protest of Trump's Immigration Policies, Asylum Seekers in Texas ICE Jail Launch Hunger Strike, House Democrats Grill Acting DHS Chief over Migrant Deaths and Squalid Jails, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez Confronts DHS Chief over Racist & Sexist Border Patrol Posts, Trump Disavows "Send Her Home" Chant After Racist Attacks on Rep. Ilhan Omar, Rep. Ilhan Omar Greeted in Minnesota with Chants of "Welcome Home", House Approves Minimum Wage Hike to $15 an Hour, Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Would Bring Overtime Pay, Union Rights, Trump to Nominate Anti-Union Lawyer Eugene Scalia as Labor S…
(2019-07-19). The Billionaires v. Bernie. progressive.org The democratic socialist candidate is under attack from the super rich, their corporations, lobbyists, and think tanks. Some are even backing his 2020 Democratic primary rivals.
(2019-07-19). A Pro-Israel Democrat Withdrew Her Support for a Bill Supporting Palestinian Rights. She Now Claims Her Name Was Added by Accident. theintercept.com 
Rep. Rosa DeLauro's reversal on the legislation is only the latest illustration of how charged the debate over Israel has become in Washington.
(2019-07-19). Anti-Racist Historian: Attacks on Rep. Omar Rooted in Belief "America Is for White People" democracynow.org 
On Thursday, President Trump attempted to distance himself from the racist chant of "send her back" about Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar at a Trump campaign rally Wednesday in North Carolina. The chants rang across the rally in response to Trump's own verbal attack against the congresswoman. He did nothing to intervene. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a resolution condemning Trump's racist remarks against Congressmembers Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Ayanna Pressley and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. We speak with Ibram X. Kendi, founding director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at A…
(2019-07-19). In 2003, This U.K. Whistleblower Almost Stopped the Iraq Invasion. A New Film Tells Her Story. democracynow.org 
In 2003, Katharine Gun, a young specialist working for Britain's Government Communications Headquarters, exposed a highly confidential memo that revealed the United States' collaboration with Britain in collecting sensitive information on United Nations Security Council members in order to pressure them into supporting the Iraq invasion. Gun leaked the memo to the press, setting off a chain of events that jeopardized her freedom and safety, but also opened the door to putting the entire legality of the Iraq invasion on trial. ‚Ä®‚Ä®Acclaimed Pentagon Papers whistleblower Daniel Ellsb…
(2019-07-19). Democrat-Backed Centrist PAC Is Supporting a Republican Against a Vulnerable Swing-District Incumbent. theintercept.com 
While the left gets slammed for launching challenges to incumbents, centrist Democrats backing a Republican in a swing district gets no attention at all.
(2019-07-19). Don't panic, support DR Congo in fight against deadly Ebola virus, UN health agency urges. un.org Ebola virus is just one challenge among many facing communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, reiterating an appeal for the international community to show support and solidarity for its people.