Yes! I have been waiting for another Q&A. Thank you for doing these!
My question is about Gavin Newsom. While he has had some great messaging this week, I can never quite shake the sense that he is all in on the balkanization of America, given his ties to Pelosi and the Getty family, his, ahem, appreciation of the finer things in life, and so on.
I'm not sure if I've read too much of your writing or if I'm just paranoid all on my own. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
You are correct. While he remains the same disappointing politician he has always been, sometimes even disappointing politicians do the right thing in the moment.
You’re not paranoid! I’ve been so angry about his response to homeless encampments. He feels very “GOP in Dem clothing” until his resistance this week.
I am not a wonk but one bold, consequential thing that Newsom did was start marrying gay couples when he was mayor of the city and county of San Francisco which eventually led to the federal case that legalized gay marriage. He would probably try to distance himself from that now but I think this is a very good example of a Democrat acting cleverly and pushing the envelope for civil rights. I'll always respect that move.
Great question! Knowing Trump is not just a Reality TV focused person but also friends with Vince and Linda McMahon (who run the WWE wrestling organization) and once participated in a WWE event... I believe his "fight" with Musk was really "scripted drama"
I live in Los Angeles, and worked about 1/2 mile from the protests in downtown LA on Monday. There was a sickening feeling all day of impending doom that didn't let up. I'm not sure what to do. In times like these, what do you suggest? I know that's a vague question, but it's been a rough time for us Angelenos.
Howdy neighbor. I also live in LA and was at one of the protests downtown on Monday. If you're able, I would really recommend participating in an organized event. They are generally much more positive and uplifting than officials and the media want people to believe -- and nothing combats doom and gloom like being in a crowd of people dancing to La Bamba.
Wondering if you think there is anybody (country, person, etc.) that can stop Israel's genocide of the Palestinian people? I'm still struggling to understand the utter chokehold Israel seems to have over the U.S and many other countries? How much of this ties back to Epstein and child sex trafficking? The blackmail information Mossad has gathered? Thank you.
Hi Sarah - half way through your book and loving it! You've mention in the past that the Biden administration enabled the re-installation of Trump by not putting him in jail. I assume this enabling was really about keeping the status quo of big money lining pockets of both Dems and Republicans. But do you think they knew how far and fast the Trump administration would dismantle the US? Were they so naive?
Science and healthcare please. Are all the collective things happening because they truly want “the lower class” sick and poor because we’ll be easier to control? Is this out of the authoritarian playbook?
If Trump is attempting to squash Gavin Newsom because he's a political rival for the next Presidential election, I'm thinking his overreach is actually having the opposite effect. Newsom's profile has actually risen because of these actions and he's essentially putting on a master class for Democratic leadership on how to combat Trump's lies in real time. Between the rhetorical pushback and the CA AG's pending lawsuits, I'm hoping Trump will back down. What are your thoughts? And if Trump continues to escalate, what are Newsom's next moves? He floated a CA federal tax strike; do you think he can pull it off?
Sometimes I feel like I haven’t gotten past the creation of “alternate facts”. How do you level with people who have disconnected from reality and truth, in general, not just GOP or Dems? How do we restore “truth” when we’re bombarded by news media (of all types and sizes) and social media “personalities” that legitimize all the lies? It’s like sinking in water and losing the sense of “up”
I'm really interested in this question as well. Reading a book right now called "This Is Not Propaganda: Adventures in the War on Reality" that I'm hoping will offer some suggestions.
The over reach by the administration to federalize the national guard, escalate the numbers, send in the marines and create executive order that allows him to do this in any state against the wishes of the state authorities…this has inflamed the situation that was being managed. Is this a test run for down the road or is this administration gearing to declare martial law now. For demonstrators, is it better optics to hold up US flags as opposed to Mexican/palestinian flags to show the world the US government is using force against its own. Is there a way back from this? If yes, what is it? Finally..it’s clear that Trump and his administration are chronic pathological liars. Can the courts stop this as it is obvious to lower court judges but it always gets taken to the Supreme Court. Thanks for this Sarah.
I know you are asking Sarah and not me, ha, but as a fellow reader and subscriber I just wanted to share my two cents. I’m so exhausted by the “optics” debate - there’s really no winning when the powerful are always going to paint you in bad faith regardless. I appreciated Greta Thunberg and the other humanitarians on the Madleen for their clear eyed conviction and refusal to take part in the distraction circus. And similarly, I admire the protestors’ bravery and willingness to show the world that all our struggles are interconnected and solidarity is the way.
I agree with that. I don’t particularly like optics either as it isn’t so simple…but with the MSM globally being what it is…I don’t want people to say oh yeah..radicals etc. we know they are not..but Trump is such a liar…it would be good to see that his words have no bearing on what is seen..but then again..AI can also be used. So yeah.
How about flying an upside down USA flag in silent protest on Saturday? Your back and forth with Kelly just gave me the idea. I think that's what I'll do.
I’ve got no problem with Mexican flags. It’s the heritage of the entire Southwest. No one criticizes Israeli or Ukrainian flags flown in the US.
I’ve decided to carry a Fort Sumpter Flag this weekend and in future marches. This is a US flag with 33-stars. That was the flag of the US when Confederates fired on their nation’s flag at Fort Sumpter in 1861. No official US flag as ever been made unofficial, so a 33-start flag is still an official flag of the United States. As a patriot, I will carry this flag, which also resisted fascist attack, proudly.
Hi Sarah, you predicted all of this. I’ve been surprised only with the speed at which it’s happened. What do you think our chances of getting out this mess are?
I appreciate that your writing (on authoritarianism, and other topics) often includes pop culture references (especially music and film), as well as humour. It makes this whole timeline we are living more relatable, and bearable. Do you have a top ten list of music albums and or films?
I see lots of suggestions about how to protest and make ourselves heard. I feel like I’m all set there.
But, I see very little about how to prepare personally (financially, legally, geographically, etc) for living in an autocracy - just in case that is the outcome.
Your book inspired me to learn more about Mark Twain. Wondering if you have read Ron Chernow’s new MT biography? One thing that strikes me that is oddly reassuring is the realization that through American history - it has always been bad. It is just our perception and understanding of it that has changed. (Although it doesn’t make our current horrifying situation any less terrifying).
It seems that history is rhyming 'bigly' this week. The deliberate escalation and provocation of the LA protests by Agent Orange to include Marines, who are good at killing people in large numbers quickly.... rhymes with "Reichstag Fire" in 1933. Next comes "The Act of Enablement" if my 1930s Germany history is correct and that black and red train is running right on time once again in 2025. I know of the line item in the 'Big Beautiful Bill' that defangs the Courts holding government officials in contempt (which is a defacto Enablement Act), but what about the rumours that the regime can overturn elections they choose to - is that in the bill, I only have rumours? Thank you Sarah. And all of you - go find your nearest "No Kings" demonstration and make your sign now. Its time we drew a redline, together!
Hi Sarah, was wondering what your thoughts are when it comes to on-the-ground resistance against government/state violence. There are many who view Hamas, Hezbollah and other resistance fighters as nothing more than terrorists, but being born/raised in Los Angeles and always trying to play my part for the resistance, things become a bit harder to define. Who are we to judge how the people on the ground resist unlawful, unjust and violent attacks from those in power who are and have been persecuting them forever? Violence for thee but not for me? Aren't all these groups labeled "terrorists" by the state just resistance fighters, akin to the rebel alliance? Everything that's happening in our world, but particularly the 24/7 live broadcast genocide of the Palestinians over the last almost two years (!!!) has really changed the way I look at things. I stay open to continuing to grow my knowledge and learn as much as possible and your perspective is always helpful. I Please and thank you, as always
Yes! I have been waiting for another Q&A. Thank you for doing these!
My question is about Gavin Newsom. While he has had some great messaging this week, I can never quite shake the sense that he is all in on the balkanization of America, given his ties to Pelosi and the Getty family, his, ahem, appreciation of the finer things in life, and so on.
I'm not sure if I've read too much of your writing or if I'm just paranoid all on my own. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
You are correct. While he remains the same disappointing politician he has always been, sometimes even disappointing politicians do the right thing in the moment.
You’re not paranoid! I’ve been so angry about his response to homeless encampments. He feels very “GOP in Dem clothing” until his resistance this week.
Your instincts are spot on in my opinion!
I am not a wonk but one bold, consequential thing that Newsom did was start marrying gay couples when he was mayor of the city and county of San Francisco which eventually led to the federal case that legalized gay marriage. He would probably try to distance himself from that now but I think this is a very good example of a Democrat acting cleverly and pushing the envelope for civil rights. I'll always respect that move.
How do you tell when feuds that involve the administration are real or not (e.g. Trump/Musk recently)?
Great question! Knowing Trump is not just a Reality TV focused person but also friends with Vince and Linda McMahon (who run the WWE wrestling organization) and once participated in a WWE event... I believe his "fight" with Musk was really "scripted drama"
The professional wrestling term "kayfabe" really applies here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kayfabe
I live in Los Angeles, and worked about 1/2 mile from the protests in downtown LA on Monday. There was a sickening feeling all day of impending doom that didn't let up. I'm not sure what to do. In times like these, what do you suggest? I know that's a vague question, but it's been a rough time for us Angelenos.
Howdy neighbor. I also live in LA and was at one of the protests downtown on Monday. If you're able, I would really recommend participating in an organized event. They are generally much more positive and uplifting than officials and the media want people to believe -- and nothing combats doom and gloom like being in a crowd of people dancing to La Bamba.
I attended a No Kings protest last Saturday, and it was a great experience. Thank you for your suggestion!
Hooray! So glad you had a good experience. 💪💛
Wondering if you think there is anybody (country, person, etc.) that can stop Israel's genocide of the Palestinian people? I'm still struggling to understand the utter chokehold Israel seems to have over the U.S and many other countries? How much of this ties back to Epstein and child sex trafficking? The blackmail information Mossad has gathered? Thank you.
Hi Sarah - half way through your book and loving it! You've mention in the past that the Biden administration enabled the re-installation of Trump by not putting him in jail. I assume this enabling was really about keeping the status quo of big money lining pockets of both Dems and Republicans. But do you think they knew how far and fast the Trump administration would dismantle the US? Were they so naive?
Science and healthcare please. Are all the collective things happening because they truly want “the lower class” sick and poor because we’ll be easier to control? Is this out of the authoritarian playbook?
I've come to think they really just prefer us dead. Survival of the fittest is what they're thinking, I'm very sure.
If Trump is attempting to squash Gavin Newsom because he's a political rival for the next Presidential election, I'm thinking his overreach is actually having the opposite effect. Newsom's profile has actually risen because of these actions and he's essentially putting on a master class for Democratic leadership on how to combat Trump's lies in real time. Between the rhetorical pushback and the CA AG's pending lawsuits, I'm hoping Trump will back down. What are your thoughts? And if Trump continues to escalate, what are Newsom's next moves? He floated a CA federal tax strike; do you think he can pull it off?
Ditto any forthcoming military action in Chicago (Pritzker).
Sometimes I feel like I haven’t gotten past the creation of “alternate facts”. How do you level with people who have disconnected from reality and truth, in general, not just GOP or Dems? How do we restore “truth” when we’re bombarded by news media (of all types and sizes) and social media “personalities” that legitimize all the lies? It’s like sinking in water and losing the sense of “up”
I'm really interested in this question as well. Reading a book right now called "This Is Not Propaganda: Adventures in the War on Reality" that I'm hoping will offer some suggestions.
The over reach by the administration to federalize the national guard, escalate the numbers, send in the marines and create executive order that allows him to do this in any state against the wishes of the state authorities…this has inflamed the situation that was being managed. Is this a test run for down the road or is this administration gearing to declare martial law now. For demonstrators, is it better optics to hold up US flags as opposed to Mexican/palestinian flags to show the world the US government is using force against its own. Is there a way back from this? If yes, what is it? Finally..it’s clear that Trump and his administration are chronic pathological liars. Can the courts stop this as it is obvious to lower court judges but it always gets taken to the Supreme Court. Thanks for this Sarah.
I know you are asking Sarah and not me, ha, but as a fellow reader and subscriber I just wanted to share my two cents. I’m so exhausted by the “optics” debate - there’s really no winning when the powerful are always going to paint you in bad faith regardless. I appreciated Greta Thunberg and the other humanitarians on the Madleen for their clear eyed conviction and refusal to take part in the distraction circus. And similarly, I admire the protestors’ bravery and willingness to show the world that all our struggles are interconnected and solidarity is the way.
I agree with that. I don’t particularly like optics either as it isn’t so simple…but with the MSM globally being what it is…I don’t want people to say oh yeah..radicals etc. we know they are not..but Trump is such a liar…it would be good to see that his words have no bearing on what is seen..but then again..AI can also be used. So yeah.
How about flying an upside down USA flag in silent protest on Saturday? Your back and forth with Kelly just gave me the idea. I think that's what I'll do.
I’ve got no problem with Mexican flags. It’s the heritage of the entire Southwest. No one criticizes Israeli or Ukrainian flags flown in the US.
I’ve decided to carry a Fort Sumpter Flag this weekend and in future marches. This is a US flag with 33-stars. That was the flag of the US when Confederates fired on their nation’s flag at Fort Sumpter in 1861. No official US flag as ever been made unofficial, so a 33-start flag is still an official flag of the United States. As a patriot, I will carry this flag, which also resisted fascist attack, proudly.
Hi Sarah, you predicted all of this. I’ve been surprised only with the speed at which it’s happened. What do you think our chances of getting out this mess are?
I appreciate that your writing (on authoritarianism, and other topics) often includes pop culture references (especially music and film), as well as humour. It makes this whole timeline we are living more relatable, and bearable. Do you have a top ten list of music albums and or films?
Love this idea. The living through autocratic consolidation playlist.
I see lots of suggestions about how to protest and make ourselves heard. I feel like I’m all set there.
But, I see very little about how to prepare personally (financially, legally, geographically, etc) for living in an autocracy - just in case that is the outcome.
I figure you might be a good person to ask!
Your book inspired me to learn more about Mark Twain. Wondering if you have read Ron Chernow’s new MT biography? One thing that strikes me that is oddly reassuring is the realization that through American history - it has always been bad. It is just our perception and understanding of it that has changed. (Although it doesn’t make our current horrifying situation any less terrifying).
What (if anything) about how things have unfolded since Trump's re-installation in January has surprised you?
It seems that history is rhyming 'bigly' this week. The deliberate escalation and provocation of the LA protests by Agent Orange to include Marines, who are good at killing people in large numbers quickly.... rhymes with "Reichstag Fire" in 1933. Next comes "The Act of Enablement" if my 1930s Germany history is correct and that black and red train is running right on time once again in 2025. I know of the line item in the 'Big Beautiful Bill' that defangs the Courts holding government officials in contempt (which is a defacto Enablement Act), but what about the rumours that the regime can overturn elections they choose to - is that in the bill, I only have rumours? Thank you Sarah. And all of you - go find your nearest "No Kings" demonstration and make your sign now. Its time we drew a redline, together!
Hi Sarah, was wondering what your thoughts are when it comes to on-the-ground resistance against government/state violence. There are many who view Hamas, Hezbollah and other resistance fighters as nothing more than terrorists, but being born/raised in Los Angeles and always trying to play my part for the resistance, things become a bit harder to define. Who are we to judge how the people on the ground resist unlawful, unjust and violent attacks from those in power who are and have been persecuting them forever? Violence for thee but not for me? Aren't all these groups labeled "terrorists" by the state just resistance fighters, akin to the rebel alliance? Everything that's happening in our world, but particularly the 24/7 live broadcast genocide of the Palestinians over the last almost two years (!!!) has really changed the way I look at things. I stay open to continuing to grow my knowledge and learn as much as possible and your perspective is always helpful. I Please and thank you, as always