19 Comments
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Alexandra Barcus's avatar

Keep pushing. A general strike is really possible. And I think the military might be too.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much....I appreciate your fire and your focus, Alexandra.

You’re absolutely right: when enough people get fed up, when the pressure reaches a breaking point...things like a general strike really can become possible.

The ground is shifting. And honestly, I think you're onto something with the military too...there are quiet cracks showing...and they can’t be ignored forever.

Keep pushing, keep speaking out. This is how momentum builds. Grateful to have you in this fight with me.

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Alexandra Barcus's avatar

I will keep fighting in every way I can find. I despair at the dishonor we see in the entire system. Lying to most of America. Taking away the basics of life. Destroying the environment. Do the Rs not have children and grandchildren? Does a primary mean more than the future of the country? I just don’t understand. I know a lot of the Rs are making personal fortunes, but when tariffs stamp out our agriculture, our farming…I think Mr. Poag commented yesterday that Del Monte is shuttering. Where do they think they will find food? I remember the Soviet Union when it was that. You could get food in a swanky restaurant (particularly with dollars), but it wasn’t good food. Better than what most city folks got waiting in lines. Wouldn’t be surprised if food actually fuels the older folks desire to take Ukraine—they grow produce.

Sorry for the stream of consciousness. Today’s vote was really something. Thank you for all your excellent posts. I am very grateful for your pointers on riding this out and pushing back.

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Jan Moon's avatar

Something's got to be possible. I still can't believe the democracy I grew up in could buckle like this. I have been around a long time and I refuse to witness any more of the hideous, criminal takeover of my beloved United States. I have said it before, if I had the wherewithal to do more than march in protest and harangue my congress people I would do it.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much for this...your determination and love for this country really come through, and I feel every word.

It’s heartbreaking to watch something you’ve believed in and fought for bend under this kind of weight. You’re not alone in refusing to just sit back and witness this happen.

What you’re already doing...marching...pressing your representatives...speaking out...is more powerful than you might realize.

Every action keeps the pressure alive...every voice adds weight to the movement. And who knows? Something bigger is possible. Sometimes the spark comes from exactly the people who are tired but still refuse to quit. I’m proud to be standing in this with you!

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Dr. Julia Hoffman’s Sister's avatar

Thanks, Jack. Hope is something we cannot afford to give up. Thanks for helping us see possibilities, so we can encourage others to stay in the game. ❤️ I mean, the Founding Fathers definitely dwelled in possibility, not probability. It isn’t like there was a huge likelihood of success. It was possible.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much...this is beautifully said.

You’re absolutely right: the Founding Fathers didn’t bet on probability...they bet on possibility. They knew the odds were against them...but they moved anyway...because possible was enough to make it worth the fight.

That’s exactly the mindset we need now. Hope isn’t some soft...feel-good idea...it’s a strategy...it’s fuel...and it’s what keeps people in the fight long enough to actually win.

I’m so grateful you’re here helping to carry that forward and helping others stay in the game. ❤️

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PJ Adk's avatar

Thanks, Jack 💙

Yes, we can cling to hope knowing that each of us holds some power to help influence the change that’s needed. Maybe more examples of each of the 4 scenarios? To me, the SCOTUS lost its ability long ago and I don’t think they’ll be able to pull 3 over, but maybe with the other scenarios?

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much—I really appreciate this thoughtful response, PJ. You’re exactly right: we each hold more power than we sometimes realize...especially when we stay connected and engaged. That’s how influence compounds.

And yes, you bring up a great point about the Supreme Court. I tend to agree with you..it feels like that ship sailed a long time ago, and I don’t think pulling three justices over is likely, either.

But the other scenarios? I do think there’s room to push harder there...and you’ve got me thinking that it’s worth diving deeper with more examples and real-world pathways that could make those possibilities feel even more tangible.

Thank you for asking for more...I love when we can build this out together. I’ll get to work on that. So grateful you’re here!

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Bernice's avatar

I like the first one. I have always felt our military is always on the right side. It would be gratitude after the things trump has said about our soldiers.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much for sharing that...I really appreciate your perspective, Bernice.

I think a lot of people feel that deep trust in our military to ultimately stand on the right side of history...especially given the way they’ve been disrespected and disregarded by Trump over the years.

There’s something powerful about believing that gratitude and integrity can still be stronger than fear or loyalty to the wrong people.

I’m glad we’re thinking about these possibilities together. Thank you for being here and for adding your voice to this conversation!

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Carol Wynn's avatar

Thank you for this post!! I am feeling very defeated right now

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Jan Moon's avatar

I know how you feel. But take heart in all the like-minded people we are surrounded with. Don't let the bastards wear you down.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

You're welcome, Carol. More to come. Hang on...hold on...like you have at every other struggle you've ever faced...and conquered.

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Randy S. Eisenberg's avatar

Yes, please. All of the above, but I like #1.

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Greg Albrecht's avatar

Jack, I read the paper, every day. These days it's mostly for the puzzles and comics. The sports section goes on like nothing is happening, except sports. I can guarantee that if the NFL said, no season until this current situation get's fixed, it would be over in a NY minute. Yes, I know those teams are owned by billionaires. But maybe this is where the revolt starts. I think those owners owe us something for helping them to become billionaires. With "free" stadiums and stuff. And buying lots of beer. And the players for us buying their stuff.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much for this, Greg...I love how you framed it. You’re absolutely right.

The NFL has more leverage over the national mood than almost any institution in this country.

If they ever said, “We’re not playing until this gets fixed,” you’re right...it would be over in a New York minute. They could grind this machine to a halt faster than Congress ever could.

And you nailed it about the billionaires. They’ve made their fortunes on public money... public stadiums...and the loyalty of fans who show up...who buy the jerseys...who keep the whole thing alive.

They absolutely owe something back. Maybe you’re right—maybe this is where the revolt starts...right in the heart of what America spends most of its Sundays worshipping.

Thank you for this...I love this line of thinking. You’ve got me fired up!

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Terry and Bernice Lomheim's avatar

Oh, Jack. Thank you. Terry & I needed to read this today. We’re feeling so low.

With gratitude for you & your guidance.

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Jack Hopkins's avatar

Thank you so much...that really means a lot to me. I’m so glad this landed with you and Terry when you needed it.

Some days feel heavier than others, and if I can help lift even a little bit of that weight...I’m grateful to be here with you both. We’re in this together...lean on this space anytime you need it. Sending you both strength and gratitude right back. ❤️

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