(2021-02-15). Create a Legacy with Medicare For All! realprogressives.org Legacy means everything to a leader, especially U.S. presidents. From Franklin D. Roosevelt giving us the New Deal, a series of public works projects, financial reforms and regulations to Lyndon B. Johnson giving us Medicare health insurance for the elderly, and Medicaid for the poor. From President Barack Obama showing us Medicare For All was popular enough to help lead him to his eventual nomination to presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders forcing Medicare for all upon our national consciousness. What might President Joe Biden's legacy be? | Over the past decade, I have done my homework and written f…
(2021-02-15). Is Biden Committing Diplomatic Suicide Over the Iran Nuclear Agreement? zcomm.org Can Biden's America be part of the solution? After only three weeks in office, surely it can't be too late. But the ball is in his court, and the whole world is watching…
(2021-02-15). Lancet Report: 40% of U.S. COVID Deaths Were Preventable. The Country Needs Universal Healthcare Now. democracynow.org 
As the U.S. death toll from COVID-19 approaches half a million, a new report says nearly 40% of the deaths were avoidable. By comparing the pandemic in the U.S. to other high-income nations, the medical journal The Lancet found significant gaps in former President Donald Trump's "inept and insufficient" response to COVID-19, as well as decades of destructive public policy decisions. One of the report's recommendations is reforming the system to a single-payer model like Medicare for All, which President Joe Biden has so far rejected in favor of bolstering the Affordable Care Act. "The Affordable Care Act still le…
(2021-02-15). Europe Will Redefine Itself Despite Political Shift in the US. counterpunch.org 
Despite the long-awaited political change in Washington as Democratic President, Joe Biden, has officially become the 46th President of the United States, Europe is unlikely to resume its previously unhindered reliance on its trans-Atlantic partner. The four years of Donald Trump were rife with tension and strife between the US and Europe — in fact,
(2021-02-15). 'We Must Get to the Truth': Pelosi Announces Far-Reaching Probe Into Insurrection Incited by Trump. commondreams.org "To protect our security, our next step will be to establish an outside, independent 9/11-type Commission," said House Speaker. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/pelosi_9_11_commission.png …
(2021-02-15). Why was Capitol police chief's request for National Guard denied ahead of riot? Republicans ask Nancy Pelosi. rt.com 
House GOP seeking to learn why the National Guard wasn't in place to prevent the January 6 Capitol riot and what took them so long to arrive are blaming Speaker Nancy Pelosi for denying them access to evidence. | Even though then-chief of the Capitol Police Steve Sund requested the troops on January 4, he was denied by Sergeant-at-Arms Paul Irving and told it would be bad "optics," according to an open letter four GOP ranking members of House committees sent to Pelosi on Monday. | #BREAKING: @RodneyDavis, (2021-02-15). Headlines for February 15, 2021. democracynow.org Senate Acquits Trump for Inciting Jan. 6 Insurrection Despite Most Bipartisan Vote Ever, Roger Stone Security Guards and Dozens of GOP Officials Were Part of Mob Who Attacked U.S. Capitol, U.S. COVID Cases Decrease, But Experts Warn Variant Spread, Relaxed Measures Could Derail Progress, Most U.S. Adults Should Have Access to Vaccine Starting in April, Be Inoculated by Summer, CDC Issues Safe Reopening Guidelines for Schools, U.K. Gov't Under Fire for Response to Disabled COVID Patients; New Zealand Locks Down Largest City, Guinea Declares Ebola Epidemic After 3 Deaths, DRC Also Reporting Cases, Burmese Protests…
(2021-02-15). Same as the Old Boss, Julian Assange Edition. counterpunch.org 
On February 9, the US Justice Department announced that US President Joe Biden, as in so many other areas, intends to serve Donald Trump's second term when it comes to persecuting heroes guilty of exposing US war crimes and embarrassing American politicians. As Trump's presidency drew to an end, some activists held out hope that
(2021-02-15). Karen Lewis, former president of the Chicago Teachers Union, dies at 67. wsws.org Lewis' death prompted an outpouring of sympathy and praise from the corporate media, fellow union officials and the Democratic Socialists of America, but a closer examination of her record tells a very different story.
(2021-02-15). Is Biden Committing Diplomatic Suicide Over the Iran Nuclear Agreement? commondreams.org American neocons and hawks, including those inside his own administration, appear to be flexing their muscles to kill Biden's commitment to diplomacy at birth, and his own hawkish foreign policy views make him dangerously susceptible to their arguments. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/codepink_2.jpg …
(2021-02-15). Majority of Americans want 3rd party as support for idea PEAKS amid disappointment in both Democrats and Republicans — poll. rt.com 
A new Gallup poll has found support for a major third political party steadily rising as more people than ever refer to themselves as Independents while Republicans and Democrats are dropping in approval. | Just last September, Gallup On top…
(2021-02-15). 'We the People' gone and no one noticed: Biden removes Obama-era petition tool to thunderous media silence. rt.com 
President Joe Biden has gone beyond purging the legacy of Donald Trump to scrub that of Barack Obama too, taking down the White House petitions page. The media was too busy gushing over his Valentine's Day display to notice. | All links to 'We the People,' the petition page launched out by the Obama administration in 2011, now
(2021-02-15). Conservative Lawyer Bruce Fein: Trump's Acquittal Gives Future Presidents License to Break the Law. democracynow.org 
As the Senate votes to acquit former President Donald Trump for inciting the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, we speak with constitutional lawyer and former Reagan administration official Bruce Fein, who says the insurrection was not just an attack on the U.S. Capitol, but "an effort, basically, to destroy the rule of law and the Constitution itself." Fein says failure to convict Trump will give license to future presidents to break the law. "It really is quite frightening that now we have a precedent that says a president has the right to do anything he wants, that he wishes to, without sanction," he…
(2021-02-15). Trump Acquitted in Senate Impeachment Trial After Lawmakers Refuse to Call Witnesses. democracynow.org 
The Senate voted 57 to 43 to convict Donald Trump for inciting the January 6 insurrection, but the vote fell short of the two-thirds majority needed to find the former president guilty. Seven Republicans voted with Democrats to convict, making it the most bipartisan impeachment trial verdict ever. House impeachment managers did not include any witnesses, after Republicans threatened to prolong the trial for weeks or even months and grind other congressional business to a halt if witnesses were called to testify. Instead, a single statement by Congressmember Jaime Herrera Beutler was entered into the record before…
(2021-02-15). Iran will block snap IAEA inspections if nuclear deal terms not met. middleeasteye.net 
Iran will block snap IAEA inspections if nuclear deal terms not met | Tehran's move is seen as a challenge to Joe Biden's attempt to revive the Iranian nuclear deal | Mon, 02/15/2021 – 10: 16 | An Iranian flag flies outside the International Atomic Energy Agency headquarters in Vienna (AFP/File photo) | Iran said on Monday that it will not allow snap inspections from the UN nuclear watchdo…
(2021-02-15). #ReleaseDishaRavi: Global Outrage After India Arrests Climate Activist Over Farmer Protest Toolkit Shared by Greta Thunberg. commondreams.org Ravi's arrest "is an unprecedented attack on democracy," said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "Supporting our farmers is not a crime." | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/gettyimages-12311814551.jpg …
(2021-02-15). Justice Reform Coalition Urges Biden to Pardon All Non-Violent Marijuana Convictions. commondreams.org www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/biden-urged-drug-reform-pot-pardons.jpg …
(2021-02-15). 'Biggest Risk' for Democrats on Minimum Wage, Says Top Sanders Aide, Is Not Raising It to $15. commondreams.org With the White House and legislative branch under their control, says Warren Gunnels, Democrats "must win" fight on behalf of working people. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/gunnels-15-minimum-wage.jpg …
(2021-02-15). President Biden: Pardon Non-Violent Federal Marijuana Offenses. commondreams.org ______________________________…
(2021-02-15). After Trump Acquittal by GOP, Sunrise Movement Says 'Time Is Now to Abolish the Filibuster'. commondreams.org "If Democrats don't deliver in this moment, future Presidents Days will recognize Trump's second term." | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/climate_justice_0.jpg …
(2021-02-15). Over 700 PKK terror suspects arrested across Turkey. yenisafak.com Turkish security forces arrested a total of 718 suspects over alleged links to the terrorist group PKK, the Interior Ministry announced Monday.According to a ministry statement, counter-terrorism units of the Security Directorate and Gendarmerie Command carried out operations across 40 of Turkey's 81 provinces to expose the activities of the terrorist PKK.In the operations, a total of 718 suspects, including provincial and district heads of the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), were arrested.The party is accused by the government of having links with the terrorist PKK.A large number of digital materials were seize…
(2021-02-15). US, Iran game of nerves revives tensions in region. yenisafak.com The delay in the new US President Joe Biden's promise to revive the Iran nuclear deal has once again raised tensions in the region with Tehran announcing to disallow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to visit the nuclear sites from Feb. 21.Following recent tensions between the two long-time adversaries, which peaked in the final weeks of Trump's presidency, Iran's parliament adopted legislation that required the country to accelerate nuclear enrichment activities and end its commitments under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Abolfazl Amouei, the lawmaker and the sp…
(2021-02-15). Myanmar deploys military tanks amid anti-coup protests. yenisafak.com Myanmar's military junta deployed troops and tanks in Yangon on Monday, as protests against the Feb. 1 military coup continued in the country's largest city, eyewitnesses said.Demonstrations have now entered the second week, with La Min, a Yangon-based freelance photographer, saying it was the first time that soldiers and military tanks were deployed near the protest sites.Even though the Myanmar authorities have escalated their crackdown and arrested a number of demonstrators, protesters have again taken to the streets in different parts of the country to continue their resentments against the coup.In Yangon, th…
(2021-02-15). Myanmar protesters take to militarized streets after internet blackout. laprensalatina.com (Update 1: Updates head, pars 1-2, adds Suu Kyi hearing pars 3-4, minor edits) Yangon, Myanmar, Feb 15 (efe-epa).- Myanmar residents on Monday resumed their protests against the military junta that seized power two weeks ago, emerging from a long night during which the country's internet was shut down and armored vehicles appeared in the …
(2021-02-15). Myanmar protesters re-emerge onto militarized streets after internet blackout. laprensalatina.com Yangon, Myanmar, Feb 15 (efe-epa).- Myanmar's internet was restored on Monday morning after a nationwide blackout overnight and as protesters resumed their demonstrations against the military junta that took power on Feb. 1. In Yangon, protesters held up placards outside the Central Bank alongside military tanks and vehicles as soldiers set up barricades. Troops and …
(2021-02-15). The New Climate War and Biden's Greening of America. zcomm.org Interview with Michael E. Mann on hist book, The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back our Planet…
(2021-02-15). Is America's Soul Beyond Redemption? thenation.com Is America's Soul Beyond Redemption?
(2021-02-15). Biden Is Adopting a Militaristic Approach to the Far East. thenation.com Biden Is Adopting a Militaristic Approach to the Far East…
(2021-02-15). Substance of Trump's Impeachment Is Not in Dispute, Biden Says. telesurenglish.net U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday said that though most Republican senators voted to acquit former President Donald Trump of inciting insurrection leading to the deadly violence on Capitol on Jan. 6, the "substance of the charge" in the impeachment trial was not in dispute. | RELATED: | "Even those opposed to the conviction, like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, believe Donald Trump was guilty of a 'disgraceful…
(2021-02-15). Expose the Insurrection Financiers. counterpunch.org Throughout his scorching indictment of President Trump, lead impeachment manager Jamie Raskin wove in quotes from eminent historic minds, including this one from his late father, Institute for Policy Studies co-founder Marcus Raskin: "Democracy needs a ground to stand on and that ground is the truth." Raskin's trial team exposed a great deal of truth
(2021-02-15). No Quick-fix to End the Yemen War. globalresearch.ca All Global Research articles can be read in 27 languages by activating the "Translate Website" drop down menu on the top banner of our home page (Desktop version). | *** | US President Joe Biden wants to "End the Yemen War" by …
(2021-02-15). GAO Report Findings Show that Biden Administration Should Scrap Trump's Economic Sanctions that Have Killed Tens of Thousands of People in Venezuela, CEPR Co-Director Says. globalresearch.ca All Global Research articles can be read in 27 languages by activating the "Translate Website" drop down menu on the top banner of our home page (Desktop version). | *** | A
(2021-02-15). The Other Americans: Biden Ends Controversial Asylum Agreements. progressive.org The new administration has vowed to 'address root causes that compel individuals to migrate.'
(2021-02-15). Democrats' impeachment cover-up leaves coup-plotter Trump emboldened. wsws.org The Democrats deliberately protected Trump's co-conspirators, including the Republican House and Senate members who sought to overturn the election and those forces within the state who worked with Trump to orchestrate a stand-down of federal forces.
(2021-02-15). A Chance for New Beginnings. progressive.org What Joe Biden could do to bring humanity and good sense to U.S. immigration policy.
(2021-02-15). Cuba: Millions for Democracy Made in USA. globalresearch.ca All Global Research articles can be read in 27 languages by activating the "Translate Website" drop down menu on the top banner of our home page (Desktop version). | *** | Although the effort has never produced the results expected by its …
(2021-02-15). The Oil Interests Behind the War in Yemen. theanalysis.news Shireen Al-Adeimi, Yemen anti-war activist and professor at Michigan State University, discusses the many interests behind the war on Yemen, which have the potential of derailing Biden's announced ending of US support for the Saudi-led coalition in this war that has devastated one of the Middle East's poorest countries.
(2021-02-15). The Lessons of Impeachment. progressive.org History will record Trump's acquittal as a shameful abdication on the part of Republican senators.
(2021-02-15). Pro-democracy demonstrations return to Thailand despite increased repression. wsws.org The military-backed government of Prayuth Chan-ocha is cracking down on participants of last year's protest movement in an effort to silence political opposition.
(2021-02-15). This week in history: February 15-21. wsws.org 25 years ago: Wildcat strike over safety issues shuts down Warren Truck plantOn February 17, 1996, workers at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant, located in the northeastern suburbs of Detroit, went on a wildcat strike. The three-day walkout cost the company 1,800 units of production and came as a response to the firing of two union officials for opposing Chrysler's speed-up drive.
(2021-02-15). Is Joe Biden Preparing for War against Iran? Will Russia and China Intervene? globalresearch.ca All Global Research articles can be read in 27 languages by activating the "Translate Website" drop down menu on the top banner of our home page (Desktop version). | *** | As the US led aggression against Iran escalates, Russia and China …
(2021-02-15). Biden Administration Should Scrap Trump's Economic Sanctions that "Have Killed Tens of Thousands of People" in Venezuela, CEPR Co-Director Says. globalresearch.ca All Global Research articles can be read in 27 languages by activating the "Translate Website" drop down menu on the top banner of our home page (Desktop version). | *** | A
(2021-02-15). False Faith in Meritocracy: Reckoning with Our Bad Old Normal. dsausa.org As Team Biden makes it clear that it wants to shake things up, it might consider launching a National Commission on Meritocratic Failure. It might find that, good as it is, free higher public education isn't going to erase the yawning inequality gap. | Not likely, I know. The new administration is chock-full of achievatrons who fully subscribe to the meritocratic creed and whose own kids are bidding for admission to elite colleges. And I realize that this is the worst possible time to be talking about meritocracy's problems in a way that could be construed as an endorsement of populist resentment of elites. Th…
(2021-02-15). Democratic Senators introduce new bill to remove Section 230 internet speech protections. wsws.org There have been more than thirty legislative proposals over the past two years from Democrats and Republicans to abolish the legal framework—known as Section 230—that protects online services such as social media channels from liability for content posted by users on their platforms.
(2021-02-14). Socialists and Republican Left Tied in Catalonia. telesurenglish.net Following the count of the polling stations, the electoral authorities of Catalonia reported a technical tie between the Party of Socialists for Catalonia (PSC) and Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya-Izquierda Republicana Republicana de Cataluña (ERC) with 33 seats in Parliament for each organization. | Likewise, it is reported that Together for Catalonia (JxCat) (a group that went to the polls for the first time), was ranked as the third force with 32 seats, while the far-right VOX party obtained 11 seats in Parliament. | For its part, Dolors Sabater (CUP-Unión Popular) won nine seats, Comú Podem eight, Ciudad…
(2021-02-14). Will Biden Finally Bring Our Troops Home From Afghanistan? scheerpost.com U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Joshua T. Jasper] By Maj. Danny Sjursen / AntiWar Real talk: Joe Biden hasn't had too many finest hours in his 47 years plus years on the national scene. To be fair, he's had his moments — like a powerful, earthy, and impassioned 1986 speech he delivered to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, opposing the Reagan administration's apologism for the "repulsive… |
(2021-02-14). Houthis step up drone attacks on Saudi Arabia after Washington says it will remove militant group from terrorist list. rt.com 
The Houthis have carried out a drone attack on an airport in Saudi Arabia, following similar attacks that have coincided with the Biden administration's decision to lift the group's terrorist designation. | A spokesman for the Iran-aligned Yemini group said that two drones launched on Sunday by its forces had hit Saudi Arabia's Abha airport. The Saudi-led coalition claims that both projectiles were intercepted as they were heading towards civilian areas near Abha. | The airport has been repeatedly targeted by Houthi drones over the past several days. On Saturday, the Houthis announced that they had carried out…
(2021-02-14). Why does every new US president always try to outdo their predecessor in boosting the debt? RT's Boom Bust explores… rt.com 
The US' federal budget deficit is on track to reach an enormous $2.3 trillion in the fiscal year 2021 — the second-highest deficit since World War II — according to a forecast by the Congressional Budget Office. | The projected deficit, which is 25 percent larger than expected, doesn't account for the 1.9 trillion stimulus bill. Larry Summers, a lead player in Democrat financial policies since the 1990s, said the debt levels, coupled with stimulus spending, could cause an overheated economy with severe inflation. | RT's Boom Bust was joined by Rick Sanchez, host of the News with Rick Sanchez, to de…
(2021-02-14). Atlantic Council Braces for Opportunities of Potential Bioterror Attack. strategic-culture.org 
Less than a month away from the one-year anniversary of the pandemic's official declaration, policy wonks at the Atlantic Council together with former and current government officials are dissecting the "lessons" of the Covid-19 epidemic to advise the Biden administration on the steps to take in order to avert the next disaster.
(2021-02-14). Washington and Seoul to resume drill simulating war with North Korea after break due to Covid-19 and Trump-Kim talks — media. rt.com 
The US and South Korea will bring back their annual military exercise aimed at defense from the North, reports say. The drill was suspended due to Donald Trump's talks with Kim Jong-un, and, later, because of the pandemic. | The allies will conduct a computer-simulated command-post drill in mid-March, South Korean media reported on Sunday. | The Korea Herald newspaper cited sources saying that a nine-day war game will simulate combat operations against Pyongyang. The event will be the first US-South Korean drill during Joe Biden's administration. | The two countries are still in talks about the size and schedu…
(2021-02-14). Biden Wants to Extradite Peace Hero Assange. indybay.org Proud Democrat Pres Biden's "Justice" Dept is appealing a British decision to not allow extradition of Julian Assange who exposed American war crimes in Iraq. See consortiumnews.com/2021/02/12/biden-doj-files-appeal-to-get-assange-extradited/…
(2021-02-14). Democrats' Shameful Cave. commondreams.org www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/gettyimages-12923215461.jpg …
(2021-02-14). Who Were the Republican Senators Afraid of When They Acquitted Their Own Attempted Murderer? commondreams.org At some point you have to wonder whether the bigger danger was the Capitol insurrection or the pusillanimous GOP reaction to it. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/mcconnell_3.jpg …
(2021-02-14). Swedish lawmaker calls for being tough on Germany over Berlin's commitment to Nord Stream 2 pipeline project. rt.com 
A member of Sweden's parliament, Bjorn Soder, is urging its government to take steps to persuade Germany to withdraw from the Russian-led Nord Stream 2 offshore gas pipeline, as a response to Russia's latest "actions." | In an official inquiry addressed to Swedish foreign minister Ann Linde and seen by RT, Soder, who is a member of the country's Democrats party, highlights that the European Union should take the necessary measures as a reaction to what some perceive as the Kremlin's actions towards jailed opposition figure Alexey Navalny, and towards the three EU diplomats booted out of Russia. The lawmaker al…
(2021-02-14). 'We've opened Pandora's Box': Graham floats idea of impeaching Kamala Harris if Republicans retake House. rt.com 
US Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) may have voted against impeaching Donald Trump, but he seems open to holding Vice President Kamala Harris to the same standard after the 2022 midterms. | Appearing on 'Fox News Sunday,' Graham railed against the impeachment trial in the Senate, which ultimately failed, with the 53-47 vote not enough to reach a 'guilty' ruling. He called it an "affront to the law" and "unconstitutional." | Despite its failure, however, the Trump-supporting Republican says Democrats have "opened Pandora's Box" and leaders like Harris could pay the price. | "We've opened Pandora's Box…
(2021-02-14). Dem Congresswoman wants 'truth commission' to target 'white supremacy' and rein in 'far-right media' over US Capitol riot. rt.com 
Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-California) has suggested a "truth commission" to tackle "racial injustice" and "white supremacy" in the US, as well as holding "far-right media" and others accountable for the US Capitol riot. | Jacobs floated her idea while appearing on CNN's 'Reliable Sources' on Sunday and said the reason for this "truth commission" proposal is because "we haven't really done the reckoning with the racial injustice and white supremacy of our past that we need to do." | Donald Trump's impeachment trial, according to Jacobs, was "just the start" and more people who "incited, encouraged, or committed acts…
(2021-02-14). GOP censures Sen. Cassidy for voting to impeach Trump, as more Republicans face retribution from party faithful at home. rt.com 
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) became the first lawmaker censured by party officials back home for voting to convict in former president Donald Trump's impeachment trial, but he is unlikely to be the last to be rebuked. | The Louisiana GOP's executive committee announced its censure of Cassidy just hours after the Senate vote. Trump was acquitted because House impeachment managers failed to win the two-thirds Senate majority needed to convict, but Cassidy was among seven Republicans who agreed with the prosecution's argument that the former president incited the January 6 Capitol riot, joining Democrats in…
(2021-02-14). Biden asks Congress to ban 'weapons of war on our streets' as he uses 3rd anniversary of Parkland shooting to demand gun control. rt.com 
President Joe Biden has released a statement allowing a closer look at what his "commonsense" policy on gun laws will be, demanding, among other things, that Congress pass universal background checks and ban "assault weapons." | "Today, I am calling on Congress to enact commonsense gun law reforms," Biden said in his Sunday statement. The timing matched the third anniversary of the Parkland shooting, which saw a gunman open fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, killing 17 and wounding another 17. | Biden has long promised to put his weight behind stricter gun laws if he were electe…
(2021-02-14). New American Regime = Exact Same Challenges for Russia. strategic-culture.org 
The next 8 years will be a time for Russia to look inwards in order to project outwards, Tim Kirby writes. | As a country that has seen total systemic collapse twice during the 20th century, Russia was watching the leadup to the U.S. presidential inauguration with just as much anticipation as the most ardent Trump/Biden supporters and fervent conspiracy theorists. It looked from Moscow, like Trump, after having been blatantly cheated out of the presidency, might just decide to flip the rigged game table over consequences be damned. Whatever chaos would ensue from such a move would surely give the Russians the fre…
(2021-02-14). GOP Refusal to Convict Trump Is 'A Clarion Call for Eliminating the Filibuster,' Says Ro Khanna. commondreams.org "Dear centrist Democrats, you couldn't even get 10 GOP votes to convict the guy who sent a mob to kill you all. You think you can get them to vote on issues like immigration/climate? Come on," said one progressive activist. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/gettyimages-12310903051.jpg …
(2021-02-14). Climate Activists Nationwide Take "Polar Bear Plunge" to Push Congress to Adopt President Biden's Plan for 100% Clean Electricity By 2035. commondreams.org ______________________________…
(2021-02-14). Now Is the Time to Really Prosecute the Case Against Trump—By Pivoting to Real Democratic Reform. commondreams.org Any approach to moving forward must reckon with the fact that one of this country's two major parties is no longer committed to multiracial democracy. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/gettyimages-12064464421.jpg …
(2021-02-14). This Is Biden's Chance to End ICE's Abuses—For Good. commondreams.org The systemic abuses of ICE make communities less safe—especially when they act in tandem with law enforcement through programs like 287(g), ICE detainers, and Secure Communities. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/gettyimages-12276707941.jpg …
(2021-02-14). 'Fire DeJoy Before He Burns Down USPS': Postmaster General Pushes Plan for Slower Mail, Higher Prices. commondreams.org "Biden should fire the governors of the USPS who appointed DeJoy, install new ones, and have them fire DeJoy. He should not be allowed to continue destroying…
(2021-02-14). More than 30 injured in Thai anti-monarchy protests. laprensalatina.com Bangkok, Feb 14 (efe-epa).- At least 31 people were injured in a clash between police and protesters during demonstrations against lèse majesté law in Thailand a day ago, officials said on Sunday. The injured include 11 protesters and 20 police officers in the protests by students and pro-democracy activists, Thai Public Broadcasting Service reported, citing …
(2021-02-14). Trump acquitted in historic impeachment trial. thecanary.co Donald Trump was acquitted on 13 February of inciting the horrific attack on the US Capitol, concluding a historic impeachment trial that spared him the first-ever conviction of a current or former US president. | The trial also, however, exposed the fragility of America's democratic traditions and left a divided nation to come to terms with the violence sparked by his defeated presidency. | 57-43: | Barely a month since the deadly January 6 riot that stunned the world, the Senate convened for a rare weekend session to deliver its verdict, voting while armed National Guard troops continued to stand their…
(2021-02-14). Myanmar military rolls back freedom laws to curb pro-democracy protests. laprensalatina.com Yangon, Myanmar, Feb 14 (efe-epa).- Myanmar's military junta has rolled back security and freedom laws to curb growing protests against the coup it staged on Feb.1. The authorities suspended articles 5, 7, and 8 of the Protection of the Citizens for the Personal Freedom and Personal Security Law, the military's True News unit reported late …
(2021-02-14). 'Archie is Going to be a Big Brother': Meghan Markle, Prince Harry Expecting Second Child. sputniknews.com Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, in May 2019, announcing soon after that they would step away from the royal household and move from the United Kingdom to the US.
(2021-02-14). Marjorie Taylor Greene threatens fellow GOP congressman for offering to testify against Trump. salon.com Many perceived Taylor Greene's tweets as inciting "mob violence" against her Republican colleague…
(2021-02-14). What connects Trump's two acquittals: The profound danger of the "Dershowitz precedent" salon.com Trump's first acquittal was a historic mistake: It fueled his supporters' anti-democratic rage and entitlement…
(2021-02-14). Republican senators condemned as "cowards and fascists" after Senate acquits Trump. salon.com Seven GOP senators vote to convict the former president — but 43 don't, and are blasted for cowardice…
(2021-02-14). It's a myth that presidents welcome movement pressure — and Biden is no different. zcomm.org Politicians fear the disruptive power of a mobilized base, even when it helps them succeed.
(2021-02-14). Urgent Solidarity With Haiti Is Needed. popularresistance.org A long-brewing crisis in Haiti, created through intervention by the United States, United Nations and allied western imperialist countries, has now come to a head. The Biden administration is openly backing a violent, corrupt and fraudulent leader, Jovenel MoàØse, and maintaining the policies of previous presidents, including Donald Trump, in Haiti. | Activists in Haiti have reached out to the Haitian diaspora in the United States and to organizations that support respect for self-determination and human rights for their solidarity. Listen to my interview with filmmaker and political activist Wilkenson Bru…
(2021-02-14). Baltimore Is Democratizing The Economy, One Pint At A Time. popularresistance.org On your first day working at Taharka Brothers, a majority-Black-owned ice cream maker in Baltimore, you can join the flavor committee and help create flavors like the limited holiday edition Sweet Potato Crumble. Or you can join the social justice committee and vet local organizations to support through ice cream sales, like the Baltimore Action Legal Team. If none of those are to your liking, there are other committees you can join. | If you work there for at least 15 months and earn top marks on your most recent performance review, you can become a part-owner of Taharka Brothers, and have not just a say but als…
(2021-02-14). Forced Labor In The United States. popularresistance.org By any measure, the United States has the worst human rights record among the nations called democratic or developed or advanced or "free world" or any of the other labels that rich capitalist countries use to describe themselves. The U.S. has the worst health care system in that group, the worst benefits for workers, and the worst income inequality. It also has the dubious distinction of being the world's biggest jailer, with some 2.3 million people behind bars. This country which treats its people so terribly is also the one most likely to project its evil doing on to others. | There is a method to the madness.
(2021-02-14). For Biden Administration, Black Lives Don't Matter In Haiti! popularresistance.org The people of Haiti have been demanding freedom from the succession of U.S.-imposed dictators for decades. One such dictator, Jovenel MoàØse, refused to leave office February 7, which marked the end of his term five years after an illegal election. This move catapulted yet another intense episode in the historic struggle of the Haitian masses against colonial intervention. Tens of thousands of Haitians went to the streets demanding democracy and an end to dictatorship. And what was the response from the U.S. puppet regime? Bullets, paramilitary terror, curfews, house raids, beatings and the imprisonment of…
(2021-02-14). Biden Calls For Reforms on Gun Control, Marking Parkland Shooting Anniversary. sputniknews.com The confrontation in the US between those advocating to carry guns and those calling for increased gun control is one of the most acute, as the right to carry a gun is deemed constitutional. But many see any gun control as a violation of the right, as those calling to restrict firearms point to the number of shootings in schools and public places.
(2021-02-14). House Manager: Trump's Impeachment Could Have Lasted Years if Witnesses Were Invited. sputniknews.com Before the impeachment vote that acquitted Trump in the US Senate on Saturday, senators agreed not to call witnesses. During the proceedings only one written statement was read out, applied by Republican Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler, who earlier voted for Trump's impeachment by the House.
(2021-02-14). Rally for People's Agenda planned for Biden's Milwaukee visit. fightbacknews.org Milwaukee, WI – President Joe Biden will be traveling to the Pabst Theater in downtown Milwaukee at 7 p.m. on the evening of February 16 for a CNN Town Hall. The trip will mark one of the new president's first times away from Washington, D.C. While Biden is speaking to an invite-only crowd inside the confines of the Pabst, a coalition of various organizations in the city will be rallying across the street outside city hall. | "While we're all glad to see Trump out of the White House, none of the problems that existed during his four years are resolved. In fact, Biden has already done some backsliding on campaign…
(2021-02-13). Will the Nuclear Powers Ever Be Willing to Forgo Their Nuclear Weapons? zcomm.org Supporting the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons remains conspicuously absent from the Biden administration's agenda, as it is from the agendas of all the other nuclear powers…
(2021-02-13). Why Victoria Nuland is Dangerous and Should Not be Confirmed. dissidentvoice.org 
Victoria Nuland exemplifies the neocons who have led US foreign policy from one disaster to another for the past 30 years while evading accountability. It is a bad sign that President Joe Biden has nominated Victoria Nuland for the third highest position at the State Department, Under Secretary for Political Affairs. As a top-level appointee, …
(2021-02-13). Legalizing All Drugs Is Just the Beginning of a Compassionate Drug Policy. truthout.org 
President Joe Biden has shifted some of his positions on drug policy in recent years: He's now against However, peer a bit closer, and you'll see that Biden's drug policy approach still assumes there is something inherently wrong with illicit drugs and…
(2021-02-13). Why Suu Kyi is Incapable of Defeating the Military. dissidentvoice.org 
On 12 February, 2021, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) adopted a resolution in which it criticized the removal of Myanmar's democratically elected government by the military, locally known as Tatmadaw. The Council also called urgently for the immediate and unconditional release of all persons arbitrarily detained, including State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi …
(2021-02-13). Interview: Formerly incarcerated organizer on Feb. 6 St. Louis jail protest. liberationnews.org 
On February 10, Liberation News interviewed Ronnie Amiyn, an organizer with EXPO (Ex-Incarcerated People Organizing) St. Louis about the organization, the conditions in St. Louis jails, the protests and organizing of incarcerated people and the responses of jail officials and the media.
(2021-02-13). [Comment] Research in forced displacement: guidance for a feminist and decolonial approach. thelancet.com The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened inequities and undermined health, human rights, and gender equality for forcibly displaced populations.1,2 The United Nations Refugee Agency estimates that, at the end of 2019, there were 79 ∑5 million people forcibly displaced as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations, or events seriously disturbing public order.3 Evidence about the needs of these populations is crucial to tailor effective and equitable responses, but data collection efforts are faced with considerable new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
(2021-02-13). 'Sociopathic': New Reporting, GOP Lawmaker Account Suggest Trump Sided With Violent Mob During Capitol Attack. commondreams.org "Trump wanted those storming the Capitol to keep him in power. There is no ifs or buts about it," said Rep. Ilhan Omar. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/trump_insurrection.jpg …
(2021-02-13). Progressives Urge Dems to Call House Minority Leader to Testify at Trump Trial. truthout.org 
Democratic House impeachment managers are facing growing public pressure to call witnesses to testify at Donald Trump's Senate impeachment trial in the wake of Progressive w…
(2021-02-13). Under Democrats' Ethics Bill, Reps Would Have to Resign From Corporate Boards. truthout.org 
This article was produced by Republican Doug LaMalfa, who represents California's First Congressional District, is a member of the House Transportation Subcommittee on Highways…
(2021-02-13). Mitch McConnell Tells Republican Colleagues He Will Vote to Acquit Trump. truthout.org 
This is a developing news story… Check back for possible updates… | Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky
(2021-02-13). New Legislation Would Expose the Financiers of the Capitol Siege. truthout.org 
Throughout his scorching indictment of President Trump, lead impeachment manager Jamie Raskin wove in quotes from eminent historic minds, including this one from his late father, Institute for Policy Studies Co-founder Marcus Raskin: | "Democracy needs a ground to stand on and that ground is the truth." | Raskin's trial team exposed a great deal of truth as they methodically made the case that Trump was "singularly responsible" for inciting the riot at the Capitol. At the same time, they laid out ample e…
(2021-02-13). CNN breaks 'negotiations underway' to put THEIR REPORTING in place of witnesses at Trump impeachment trial. rt.com 
CNN revealed that its own reporting on the aftermath of the Capitol riot may be used as evidence in the trial of Donald Trump. However, the anti-Trump network's hopes were soon dashed. | A handful of Republican defections on Saturday gave Democrats the votes they needed to call witnesses in the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump. Rep. Jamie Herrera Beutler (R-Washington) was the only witness named, but according to CNN's
(2021-02-13). Surprise, surprise! New York Times finds Trump 'GUILTY' in its own impeachment trial verdict. rt.com 
In a decision that will shock few and surprise fewer, the New York Times editorial board has | declared Donald Trump guilty. No matter the charges or evidence, the Times has been making this case for four years. | "If you fail to hold him accountable, it can happen again," the Times' editorial board wrote on Friday, in a plea to Republican senators to convict the former president. | "To excuse Mr. Trump's attack on American democracy would invite more such attempts, by him and by other aspiring autocrats," they declared. "The stakes could not be higher. A vote for impunity is an act of complicity." | Also on r…
(2021-02-13). US Senate ACQUITS Trump, ex-president cleared of incitement charges. rt.com 
The US Senate has failed to gather enough votes to convict former President Donald Trump, after a Democrat-led impeachment trial. Trump had been accused of "incitement of insurrection" after his supporters rioted on Capitol Hill. | The Senate voted 57-43 on Saturday in favor of impeachment, falling short of the 67 votes needed to comprise the constitutionally required two-thirds majority. | Democrats managed to win two more Republican votes, compare to when the Senate voted in late January to go forward with the trial. Still, only seven Republican Senators broke ranks with their party to find Trump guilty. | F…
(2021-02-13). Biden press sec Psaki insists lack of contact with Israel's Netanyahu 'not an intentional diss'. rt.com 
The Biden administration sought to downplay questions about a perceived cooling of relations between the US and Israel, saying the lack of a call between the countries' leaders was "not an intentional diss." | White House Press secretary Jen Psaki said during a Friday press briefing that a call between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would take place "soon," but was unable to give a specific time. | "It is not an intentional diss. Prime Minister Netanyahu is someone the president has known for some time," Psaki said. "It is just a reflection of the fact that we've been here…
(2021-02-13). Hillary Clinton could be charged under precedent set in Trump Impeachment trial, his lawyer says after Rubio floats the idea. rt.com 
A lawyer for former president Donald Trump said the current impeachment drive is a partisan effort that could backfire on Democrats if they lose leverage, suggesting ex-secretary of state Hillary Clinton could also be impeached. | Responding to a question from Senator Marco Rubio (R-Florida) during Friday's impeachment hearing, Trump attorney Michael van der Veen argued that the Obama-era secretary could face similar impeachment proceedings sometime in the future. | "Is it not true that under this new precedent, a future House — facing partisan pressure to 'lock her up' — could impeach a former secre…
(2021-02-13). Democrats BACKTRACK on vote to call witnesses at Trump's impeachment trial, averting a potential political quagmire. rt.com 
Hours after a surprise vote to allow for calling witnesses in Donald Trump's impeachment trial, the US Senate agreed to enter into the record a statement that prosecutors considered critical, averting weeks or months of testimony. | House impeachment managers and lawyers for Trump agreed on Saturday to enter as evidence a statement by Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-Washington) describing what she had been relayed about a telephone call during the January 6 Capitol riot. The congresswoman said late Friday that when House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-California) called Trump and asked him to demand…
(2021-02-13). Fresh from acquittal, Trump says MAGA movement has 'ONLY JUST BEGUN,' calls impeachment part of 'greatest witch hunt' in history. rt.com 
Former president Donald Trump appeared emboldened by being acquitted in a Senate impeachment trial for a second time, making clear that he will seek to remain a major political force in the times to come. | Trump denounced the impeachment as "yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country." He thanked his lawyers and the supporters who backed him through the Democrat effort to block him from ever seeking office again. The 74-year-old stopped short of saying that he will run for president in 2024, but he said the "Make America Great Again" movement has "only just begun." | Also on rt…
(2021-02-13). Biden to 'review' Guantanamo prison with 'intention' to close facility by end of term — 12 years after Obama made same promise. rt.com 
The Joe Biden administration will carry out a "robust review" of the Guantanamo Bay prison, aiming to shutter the detention center before his term is up, the White House said, some 12 years after Barack Obama vowed to do the same.
(2021-02-13). Trump impeachment acquittal is a victory for 'white supremacy' … according to liberals crying over 'sad day in America'. rt.com 
Though Donald Trump's impeachment was expected by most to not pass the Senate, the former president's loudest critics expressed their shock on social media by equating it to a victory for fascism and white supremacy. | "It is a sad day in America when only 7 republicans have the patriotism and integrity to convict a tyrant," actress and Democrat activist Alyssa Milano tweeted minutes after Trump's acquittal was announced, with 43 Senators ultimately voting down the article of impeachment accusing the former president of "inciting an insurrection." | Milano and others recommended Trump be tried in actual court,…
(2021-02-13). McConnell draws ire from both sides of the aisle by voting to acquit Trump, then blaming him as responsible for Capitol riot. rt.com 
US Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, normally a savvy political operator, managed to infuriate Republicans and Democrats of all stripes by both acquitting and excoriating former president Donald Trump over the Capitol riot. | McConnell (R-Kentucky) was among the 43 GOP senators who voted on Saturday to acquit Trump in the former president's second impeachment trial, leaving Democrats 10 votes short of the two-thirds majority that was constitutionally required for conviction. But McConnell then gave a speech blaming Trump as "practically and morally responsible" for provoking the January 6 riot — ess…