Look it up, write it down

Are you sure you're still registered?
If you have any doubts, ask your election official.

Join us at Merchant, June 7, 8:30 pm
Find out what the Resistance is doing over the summer.
Raise a glass to the cause!
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STOP, LOOK, LISTEN! by Kathy Sherretts

Look it up, write it down

In addition to picking the candidates for Representative to Congress and Senator, you may be electing a governor in your state this year. With the paralysis in Congress, and the outright abdication of responsibility by so many federal agencies, the role of state government in safeguarding our land and citizens is more important than ever. What are the issues and candidates in your state?

There are state senators and reps on the ballot, as well as judges, DAs, and various state and county level offices; and in many states, ballot initiatives. You can see who and what is on the ballot, both for the primary and this fall, at Ballotpedia. This site compiles information for every state and provides sample ballots and candidate profiles.

I'll be mailing my primary ballot this week. 

Just a reminder — overseas voters may need to re-up this year, so be sure to register with FVAP.gov or VoteFromAbroad.org.

Meanwhile, a metaphor opened in the White House grounds this week.

--Kathy Sherretts
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Video:
The View: Leslie Stahl on Trump’s Media Strategy (3:33 min)
Lesley Stahl said in an interview with PBS News' Judy Woodruff that Trump told her he keeps hammering the press so that when they write negative stories no one will believe them.

Article (long read):
The New Yorker: Trump vs. the Deep State by Evan Osnos
Amid purges, infighting, and loyalty tests, civil servants liken the Administration’s tactics to a “hostile takeover and occupation.” The federal government is treated like a vanquished foe. Over time, Trump has rid himself of questioners—conformists thrive, dissenters depart, and advisers compete to be the most explicitly quiescent.

Interactive list:
Columbia Law School: Silencing Science Tracker, from the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law
This list documents reports of government attempts to “silence science” since the November 2016 election.

Just for fun:
Roy Zimmerman (formerly of The Foremen) reminds you to Vote Republican.
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"How can I find out if I am still registered?" was the most common question asked of the voter registration team at the American Women's Club book exchange on May 25. If you have any doubts, check with your election official. Government guidelines suggest expats re-register every year.
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For more ways to take action check out the action plan put together by PAGE (Progressive Action Global Exchange), and Americans of Conscience; read the featured action suggested by Indivisible; or watch Resistance School, Leadership: Story, Structure, Strategy.