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iris lilies
6-14-25, 8:34pm
I’m glad to hear American flags were on display in the Trump protestS
I don't know if it's related but many Democrats were disturbed to see so many flags from other countries during the totally peaceful protests in Los Angeles so the word went out to display American flags at future protests. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/us/la-protests-mexican-flags-republican-reaction.html
HappyHiker
6-14-25, 9:34pm
We had a WW II vet speak at our local No Kings rally today. He spoke out against our current administration and current threat to America's democracy. It was very moving. And despite a heavy downpour, no one left the demonstration. Lovely to see multi generations there.
frugal-one
6-14-25, 9:37pm
I don't know if it's related but many Democrats were disturbed to see so many flags from other countries during the totally peaceful protests in Los Angeles so the word went out to display American flags at future protests. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/us/la-protests-mexican-flags-republican-reaction.html
I saw many times today American and Mexican flags flown side by side. My feeling is this shows the feeling of comraderie between the two countries…. as it should between neighbors IMO. BTW … could not open what you posted above.
ETA.. Seems very strange that some of you are surprised by carrying of American flags by protesters. We are Americans why wouldn’t we carry the flag? The protest is against the hitler wanna be in charge… not against our country!
iris lilies
6-14-25, 9:39pm
The reason why Americans are “upset “when they see Mexican flags waved at protests is simple:
“ The United States fundamentally hates Mexicans.” So that’s it, so glad this L.A. Times columnist told us truth.
/sarcasm
see 1:19 for the quote
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5l4j4Cuz_ag
iris lilies
6-14-25, 9:47pm
I saw many times today American and Mexican flags flown side by side. My feeling is this shows the feeling of comraderie between the two countries…. as it should between neighbors IMO. BTW … could not open what you posted above.
ETA.. Seems very strange that some of you are surprised by carrying of American flags by protesters. We are Americans why wouldn’t we carry the flag? The protest is against the hitler wanna be in charge… not against our country!
there are many sources talking about “reclaiming the American flag” for the Trump protests. Here is one not behind a paywall.
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/13/dems-rally-flag-00402458
there are many sources talking about “reclaiming the American flag” for the Trump protests. Here is ine not behind a paywall.
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/13/dems-rally-flag-00402458
That's funny. I was standing next to a guy carrying and waving a HUGE flag and he said that we had to "reclaim the flag" and he pointed to my sign and said "that's what it is, right there." Here's my sign. I had a Trump No Kings message on the other side.
6390
iris lilies
6-14-25, 10:07pm
That's funny. I was standing next to a guy carrying and waving a HUGE flag and he said that we had to "reclaim the flag" and he pointed to my sign and said "that's what it is, right there." Here's my sign. I had a Trump No Kings message on the other side.
6390
Excellent! I like your sign and like seeing the American flag used at these protests. I think it’s a dumb idea of the Left that they had to “reclaim” it since it never left them, they chose to ignore it apparently. Or something.
frugal-one
6-14-25, 10:57pm
Excellent! I like your sign and like seeing the American flag used at these protests. I think it’s a dumb idea of the Left that they had to “reclaim” it since it never left them, they chose to ignore it apparently. Or something.
I agree! how asinine.
Great turnout on Orcas Island today on our Village Green. I counted ~400 people, which is 7.3% of our year-round population. Lots of good music, good speeches, and good company. And since the Farmer's Market had just been in the same space shortly before, lots of good food.
The high school graduation was at the same time, down the street, which probably reduced the numbers(*). Luckily, after the graduation there was a parade down our main street, so the folks at the protest simply had to turn around and walk a few steps to see the wonderful graduation parade!
(*) San Juan Island, which has a bit larger of a population than my island, and serves as our County Seat, had about 14% of its year-round population show up. I think we had better music though.
https://i.imgur.com/icpUdUu.jpeg
The coolest flag I saw today was flown by a friend of mine who moved here from the Florida Keys about 40 years ago.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/28/Flag_of_Key_West%2C_Florida.svg/2560px-Flag_of_Key_West%2C_Florida.svg.png
there are many sources talking about “reclaiming the American flag” for the Trump protests.
There were lots of American flags at my village's event, large and small, new and old. Some small number flown upside down.
The format was "open mic", and many of the speakers spoke merely of our nation's history and founding documents. Several read from, and commented on, passages from the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Federalist papers. There was very little anti-Trump messaging from the large number of speakers, they mostly engaged higher-level concepts. I gave a short speech on the impact of changes to FEMA, NIH, CDC to our local fire/medical/rescue organizations on the island (which was somewhat motivated by the fact that I have to get the voters to approve a levy increase and a bond later this year.) I noted members of all political parties in the audience. We had one somewhat-deranged anti-Israel speaker, who was very upset that Israel was bullying the poor peaceloving people of Iran.
iris lilies
6-14-25, 11:36pm
There were lots of American flags at my village's event, large and small, new and old. Some small number flown upside down.
The format was "open mic", and many of the speakers spoke merely of our nation's history and founding documents. Several read from, and commented on, passages from the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Federalist papers. There was very little anti-Trump messaging from the large number of speakers, they mostly engaged higher-level concepts. I gave a short speech on the impact of changes to FEMA, NIH, CDC to our local fire/medical/rescue organizations on the island (which was somewhat motivated by the fact that I have to get the voters to approve a levy increase and a bond later this year.) I noted members of all political parties in the audience. We had one somewhat-deranged anti-Israel speaker, who was very upset that Israel was bullying the poor peaceloving people of Iran.
This sounds like a good day for America in the Orcas.
This sounds like a good day for America in the Orcas.
Well, it’s such a small community that we try not to let political differences divide us too much, as we all have to work together to make it possible to live on this rock. My house is right between the houses of the county head of our local Democratic Party and the head of the local GOP. Seems appropriate, since I’m a rabid moderate. We all come out to work together to clear the road after storms and such, and invite each other to our BBQs and dinners.
frugal-one
6-15-25, 9:03am
https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-trump-philadelphia-los-angeles-immigration-raids-a3b67d23733cd060f8d01aef1e391dbf
AP article shows that police in LA tried clearing the streets on horseback of peaceful protesters, whacking people with clubs, (this is the picture portrayed). Check out what was written about Portland….
https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-trump-philadelphia-los-angeles-immigration-raids-a3b67d23733cd060f8d01aef1e391dbf
AP article shows that police in LA tried clearing the streets on horseback of peaceful protesters, whacking people with clubs, (this is the picture portrayed). Check out what was written about Portland….
That photo of the police on horseback charging the crowd. . .
https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-trump-philadelphia-los-angeles-immigration-raids-a3b67d23733cd060f8d01aef1e391dbf
AP article shows that police in LA tried clearing the streets on horseback of peaceful protesters, whacking people with clubs, (this is the picture portrayed). Check out what was written about Portland….
So mostly peaceful then?
I saw some of the parade. The robot dogs were pretty cool.
HappyHiker
6-15-25, 11:53am
Our town of 6,500, which is heavily skewed Republican, had a peaceful demonstration, despite heavy rain. The numbers were larger than expected. Diverse crowd, all ages included. A WW II Vet spoke!
In my heart, I felt it was a great day for democracy.
frugal-one
6-15-25, 2:09pm
I am TOTALLY freaked out! Just heard from my Canadian friend who just came back from visiting relatives in the US. She asked that I not send anything anti-trump to her. I recently sent pix of protest signs, etc. She said people from Canada “have been turned away for some minor issues and even banned after questions” from entering the US. She said the border officer that she dealt with was “very pleasant and friendly” but she has heard that is NOT always the case. They are actually checking people’s phones now for ANYTHING anti-trump. Sounds like the Gestapo! ��
Well, she can just delete the texts or messages.
frugal-one
6-15-25, 2:15pm
Well, she can just delete the texts or messages.
Forget one and out! I thought we lived in a country with free speech?
The electronics thing at the border has been going on for a few months. The usual tech sites such as Wired have had articles on options.
Here's a good resource for that:
https://www.eff.org/issues/border-searches
Forget one and out! I thought we lived in a country with free speech?
I regularly delete my messages anyway. Saves space on your device. I do that with texts, WhatsApp, FB Messenger, and Signal.
Bae, I love EFF and even donate occasionally. That was a really good read. EFF also has a guide to your devices when protesting and for women seeking abortions.
Bae, I love EFF and even donate occasionally. That was a really good read. EFF also has a guide to your devices when protesting and for women seeking abortions.
I was there, Gandalf. I was there 3000 years ago when we met for dim sum in San Francisco to talk about what to do about the Steve Jackson Games situation, and all swore a solemn oath.
frugal-one
6-15-25, 6:54pm
Here's a good resource for that:
https://www.eff.org/issues/border-searches
Thanks, Bae. It was a good read and passed it on!
Denver had a couple of dozen arrests of the usual rabble rousers with no serious incidents. The other smaller cities seemed to have peaceful protests the news pretty much just described "in the thousands". Of all the publicity I saw the talk mostly was centered around immigration, which I suppose is OK, but overshadowed other important No King things.
I suspect the ROI on the parade was rather low. I think my dad who served in the Army in WWII would have liked it, but I don't think he would have liked Trump. It was hard to get away from the Trump label on the parade.
Apparently the prez will be sending out tariff letters to 12 countries beginning on Monday. These will tell countries what duties the US will assess on their imports to the US.
These duties seem they may be different than the ones announced April 2.
early morning
7-5-25, 3:16pm
Oh Tradd, I don't see how you and others in your job stay on top of all this mess! I have whiplash just from READING about it. And I wonder if my online purchases are "safe" from surprise tariffs - so if I am unsure, I just don't order. How does one know???
Oh Tradd, I don't see how you and others in your job stay on top of all this mess! I have whiplash just from READING about it. And I wonder if my online purchases are "safe" from surprise tariffs - so if I am unsure, I just don't order. How does one know???
Where are you ordering from? If ordering from Amazon, make sure it says "fulfilled by Amazon." That means it's shipping from a US Amazon warehouse, not directly from overseas.
I never ordered from Shein or Temu or the cheapos on eBay. You don't want to order something that ships directly from China.
There's subreddit for customs brokers and we are continually updating each other, providing tips on getting clearances through with all the added complications of the increases.
early morning
7-5-25, 3:34pm
Thanks, Tradd! Sometimes we have orders for stuff for a museum, and we don't always know where it's shipping from (when there's a third party involved, often branding the merchandise). I've taken to verify a base price (hats, shirts, water-bottles, etc) from the person or company doing the branding and getting a verified guaranteed price for the base item, just in case. Much of what we can afford DOES come from China. So far, we've been ok, but as warehouses empty of "pre-tariff" merch, I expect this to change. I'm pretty careful about Amazon for items, it's easy to see where that stuff is coming from. Other places, not so much.
Welcome! You'll just have to contact customer service wherever you're ordering from and ask both where it's shipping from AND country of origin (manufacture) if it's not shipping from a US warehouse. I bet most places are getting those questions these days.
The tariff situation is one of the reasons I have a NYT subscription ($4/month) as they have very good coverage on the trade stuff.
The tariff whiplash has started up again. Interestingly, no panic from customers yet. I guess they're waiting to see what happens. So many changes this week. The stuff with Brazil about their former president is just bats. The letters that were sent out this week are just confusing everyone, I think!
sweetana3
7-12-25, 11:50am
A big issue is that no one can trust anything coming out of mouths. President says one thing and the Secretary of the department says the opposite the next day. Words are meaningless in this comedy.
A big issue is that no one can trust anything coming out of mouths. President says one thing and the Secretary of the department says the opposite the next day. Words are meaningless in this comedy.
I've lost track of the details of who said what in the Epstein controversy, but someone in a position of power is apparently not telling the truth. I'm undecided of whether the Tucker Carlson style consoracy theorists are caught in their own trail of deception, or if they might actually be on to something for once. Tulsi Gabbards "discoveries" of Obama's role in the previous elections is such an obvious distraction that I'm surprised it's getting any attention.
What a mess.
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/27/crow-gabbard-weapon-of-mass-destruction-00479152
We apparently have a trade deal with the EU now, but even on the previous ones with Vietnam and Indonesia, NOTHING official has been published online. The reciprocal tariff reduction to 10% expires on Thursday. Whatever increases, deals, etc., go into effect on Friday. I'll be surprised if anything is published before Wednesday.
Donald has fired the Commissioner of Labor Statistics after the poor report on jobs today. Blames Obama or Biden somehow. I'd expect better job reports in the future, now.
New duties go into effect Aug 7, but there’s an in transit exemption for ocean freight already on the way before Aug 7.
Donald has fired the Commissioner of Labor Statistics after the poor report on jobs today. Blames Obama or Biden somehow. I'd expect better job reports in the future, now.
He is a mafia thug.
Donald has fired the Commissioner of Labor Statistics after the poor report on jobs today. Blames Obama or Biden somehow. I'd expect better job reports in the future, now.
Three accountants are interviewing for the Director Of The Bureau of Labor Statistics . The President asks the first candidate, “What’s one plus one?” The candidate responds, “Two.” The President shows them the door and says, “Don’t call us, we’ll call you.” Candidate number two is asked the identical question which results in the same response and outcome. Finally, candidate three is asked, “What’s one plus one?” Leaning forward in her chair, responding in a low voice she says, “What do you want it to be?”
Good joke. Everybody laugh. Roll on snare drum. Curtains.
iris lilies
8-1-25, 11:15pm
Donald has fired the Commissioner of Labor Statistics after the poor report on jobs today. Blames Obama or Biden somehow. I'd expect better job reports in the future, now.
Better job reports? Ya think?
a circus
The latest in the morning news circus of the Trump administration was the elimination of many millions for mRNA research. One of the liberal medias said there may not be a Cocid booster availible in the fall and they may discontinue it's updates for new mutations. Aside from bird flu dangers, there have been a number of trials using an mRNA to treat various kinds of cancer. One of those I could potentially benefit from in the future. RFK Jr. is a bozo.
frugal-one
8-11-25, 5:27pm
Authoritarian regime is starting the takeover! Read the last line…
https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-police-13ba96454031352665e59ee67f678482
I wonder sometimes if these daily antics are a diversion from the Epstein files and the economy and the general abandonment of the sciences. The look back at Obama and Biden for colluding with the Russians to interfere with the 2020 elections seems to be up that aisle of delusion.
China reciprocal duty reduction (10% instead of 125%) extended for 90 days.
Anyone else worried for Washington, New York, and Chicago? And all the rest of us?
Anyone else worried for Washington, New York, and Chicago? And all the rest of us?
No.
In most states if a city requires intervention due to corruption or public safety concerns the state has the ability and perhaps duty to intervene. In the case of DC, there is no state to intervene, only the federal government. Implying that federal intervention might migrate to other cities is not a concern in any real sense.
It was actually Trump who threatened it. Thus the concern.
New York and Chicago, by name.
Trump Floats Deploying National Guard to New York, Chicago, and LA After DC Crack Down (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/trump-floats-deploying-national-guard-to-new-york-chicago-and-la-after-dc-crack-down/ar-AA1KjOl3?ocid=BingNewsSerp)
Anyone else worried for Washington, New York, and Chicago? And all the rest of us?
The use of troops in LA turned out to be mostly a political move. I think for the time being it's just bluster and attention getting. I'm sure Trump can do, or try to do, just about anything he wants to regardless of the law, but maybe DC is under a different set of rules. The way Donald has handled the pardon of the Jan. 6 criminals doesn't show much respect for DC police.
I don't subscribe to the Washington Post, but noticed one of their headlines about a Pentagon proposal to create a military reaction force to send to areas of civil unrest.
If Orange Man tries to take over Chicago, I think there would be a violent reaction.
I think the optics of declaring an “emergency” in Washington DC, occupying it with troops and federal law enforcement officers, and displacing the local civil authorities are quite poor.
In Roman times, it was considered poor form to bring troops into the capitol, and for good reasons.
Do any of you keep part of your portfolio in TIPS?
https://tipswatch.com/2025/08/10/tips-investors-face-a-sky-is-falling-moment/
My few I-=Bonds should be easy to divest from when their rates no long compete with CDs. I see where the new head of DLS is from the Heritage Foundation and hints that labor stats may no longer be reported monthly, but maybe quarterly. No news is good news?
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/08/12/trump-bls-jobs-report-00505025
Do any of you keep part of your portfolio in TIPS?
https://tipswatch.com/2025/08/10/tips-investors-face-a-sky-is-falling-moment/
No TIPS or zeros or I-bonds, but some 20 year treasuries.
frugal-one
8-12-25, 11:22pm
No.
In most states if a city requires intervention due to corruption or public safety concerns the state has the ability and perhaps duty to intervene. In the case of DC, there is no state to intervene, only the federal government. Implying that federal intervention might migrate to other cities is not a concern in any real sense.
Again, you are not paying attention. The crime rate in DC is down “bigly”. No reason to do this but the start before the move on to other cities. Authoritarian rule here we come.
Do any of you keep part of your portfolio in TIPS?
https://tipswatch.com/2025/08/10/tips-investors-face-a-sky-is-falling-moment/
No.
Again, you are not paying attention. The crime rate in DC is down “bigly”.
Actually, I think I might pay too much attention, at least enough to make me wonder if the DC crime figures are correct. The DC Police Union alleged several months ago that the department routinely reclassified violent crimes to make it appear that crime was going down.
https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/dc-police-commander-suspended-crime-statistics/3959566/
frugal-one
8-13-25, 11:12am
Actually, I think I might pay too much attention, at least enough to make me wonder if the DC crime figures are correct. The DC Police Union alleged several months ago that the department routinely reclassified violent crimes to make it appear that crime was going down.
https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/dc-police-commander-suspended-crime-statistics/3959566/
Sounds like B.S. trump changes (or gets his “supporters”) to change statistics in his favor.
Sounds like B.S. trump changes (or gets his “supporters”) to change statistics in his favor.
LOL, Ok. Just trying to provide an additional data point before you make up your mind although I guess I'm a little late.
frugal-one
8-13-25, 12:10pm
LOL, Ok. Just trying to provide an additional data point before you make up your mind although I guess I'm a little late.
trump fires those who provide numbers he doesn’t like. Here’s an additional talking point for you.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-fires-commissioner-of-labor-statistics-july-jobs-report-erika-mcentarfer/
trump fires those who provide numbers he doesn’t like. Here’s an additional talking point for you.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-fires-commissioner-of-labor-statistics-july-jobs-report-erika-mcentarfer/
OK, thanks for that. As an aside though there's a difference between data points and talking points. One should precede the other.
This stuff going on with JD Vance's Cotswalds vacation is really weird. Apparently secret service have gone door to door asking people for their social media accounts, and then they took up all the disabled parking spaces at a farmstore:
Cotswolds angry with JD Vance and Secret Service over latest blunder (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cotswolds-angry-jd-vance-secret-131450043.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACBiHX_b-KOxV_fnQRMw2fRCQ06YI8Pj4JlSnqxdqx9GolzLMQUeXosioTr d0IDJewr7LcSll8uz2NE4fm4Mr6UPUhnc9J5a07eTkQf6-DL6BLHaoStpfVGkyuEIwUXsxVoOOBIeuAcXYm4afjViqdIMrby ifMygTZppWCCNvrec)
As someone who uses a disabled parking sticker, this one really bothered me. As someone who uses social media, the first one bothered me more. Makes me nervous about posting here. Really weird.
Sorry, adding a link about the first one:
JD Vance's secret service entourage 'demanding villagers' social media details' | LBC (https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/jd-vance-secret-service-entourage-demanding-villagers-social-media-details-5Hjd8pc_2/)
This stuff going on with JD Vance's Cotswalds vacation is really weird. Apparently secret service have gone door to door asking people for their social media accounts, and then they took up all the disabled parking spaces at a farmstore:
Cotswolds angry with JD Vance and Secret Service over latest blunder (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cotswolds-angry-jd-vance-secret-131450043.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACBiHX_b-KOxV_fnQRMw2fRCQ06YI8Pj4JlSnqxdqx9GolzLMQUeXosioTr d0IDJewr7LcSll8uz2NE4fm4Mr6UPUhnc9J5a07eTkQf6-DL6BLHaoStpfVGkyuEIwUXsxVoOOBIeuAcXYm4afjViqdIMrby ifMygTZppWCCNvrec)
As someone who uses a disabled parking sticker, this one really bothered me. As someone who uses social media, the first one bothered me more. Makes me nervous about posting here. Really weird.
Sorry, adding a link about the first one:
JD Vance's secret service entourage 'demanding villagers' social media details' | LBC (https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/jd-vance-secret-service-entourage-demanding-villagers-social-media-details-5Hjd8pc_2/)
Is that even legal in the UK? If it were some kind of UK policy to protect foreign visitors, wouldn't it be something the UK security detail would manage?
This stuff going on with JD Vance's Cotswalds vacation is really weird. Apparently secret service have gone door to door asking people for their social media accounts, and then they took up all the disabled parking spaces at a farmstore:
Cotswolds angry with JD Vance and Secret Service over latest blunder (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cotswolds-angry-jd-vance-secret-131450043.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACBiHX_b-KOxV_fnQRMw2fRCQ06YI8Pj4JlSnqxdqx9GolzLMQUeXosioTr d0IDJewr7LcSll8uz2NE4fm4Mr6UPUhnc9J5a07eTkQf6-DL6BLHaoStpfVGkyuEIwUXsxVoOOBIeuAcXYm4afjViqdIMrby ifMygTZppWCCNvrec)
As someone who uses a disabled parking sticker, this one really bothered me. As someone who uses social media, the first one bothered me more. Makes me nervous about posting here. Really weird.
Sorry, adding a link about the first one:
JD Vance's secret service entourage 'demanding villagers' social media details' | LBC (https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/jd-vance-secret-service-entourage-demanding-villagers-social-media-details-5Hjd8pc_2/)
I have a disabled parking placard myself. That pisses me off. The social media thing, too. I had posted a few months back how I had been posting on my own FB how the tariff rollout was a mess and it made my job much worse. Someone who is an Orange Man fan boi complained to the local Customs office that I wasn’t supporting the prez. Customs person contacted me as I’ve dealt with her for a long time. We both had a good laugh.
Is that even legal in the UK? If it were some kind of UK policy to protect foreign visitors, wouldn't it be something the UK security detail would manage?
Remember the UK has no issue prosecuting people for stuff posted on social media. I listen to the BBC a lot. Lots of people have had the cops show up at their door questioning them about postings.
This stuff going on with JD Vance's Cotswalds vacation is really weird. Apparently secret service have gone door to door asking people for their social media accounts, and then they took up all the disabled parking spaces at a farmstore:
I suspect it wasn't the Secret Service going door to door but rather the local constabulary. I worked with the SS several times during the 90's and early 00's during presidential visits/events and it was my experience that they allow local police and private security associated with the visit/event to incorporate their own methods/means within their participation plans.
Also, over the past several years the UK has gone batshit crazy over social media posts. It appears that just about any social media post critical of preferred policies or demographics are an invitation to an early morning knock on your door. It doesn't surprise me that local police may ask anyone they come in contact with about their social media presence.
Also, over the past several years the UK has gone batshit crazy over social media posts. It appears that just about any social media post critical of preferred policies or demographics are an invitation to an early morning knock on your door. It doesn't surprise me that local police may ask anyone they come in contact with about their social media presence.
I spend several months a year in Cambridge and Oxford. I just hosted several scholars from those universities here in Brigadoon for a few weeks. I discussed this issue with them at some length. The situation is a bit less dire, and more nuanced, than is commonly made out here in the USA...
I suspect it wasn't the Secret Service going door to door but rather the local constabulary. I worked with the SS several times during the 90's and early 00's during presidential visits/events and it was my experience that they allow local police and private security associated with the visit/event to incorporate their own methods/means within their participation plans.
Also, over the past several years the UK has gone batshit crazy over social media posts. It appears that just about any social media post critical of preferred policies or demographics are an invitation to an early morning knock on your door. It doesn't surprise me that local police may ask anyone they come in contact with about their social media presence.
yes, I think you are right, and I read it wrong. This seems to indicate it was the local police then passing it on to the SS:
Villagers near JD Vance's Cotswold's mansion claim they were 'quizzed by police for social media details' as VP's security lockdown sparks outrage among locals | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14996101/jd-vance-cotswolds-visit-social-media-questions-police.html)
I think.
Do any of you keep part of your portfolio in TIPS?
https://tipswatch.com/2025/08/10/tips-investors-face-a-sky-is-falling-moment/
Related: I am about to receive my first-ever Social Security check.
Fun fact: The Bureau of Labor Statistics data is used by the Social Security Administration for the annual cost-of-living adjustments to our Social Security benefit.
Fun fact 2: EJ Antoni, who was just appointed to head the BLS after the previous head was sacked by Trump, said late last year about Social Security: "... a Ponzi scheme that was foisted on the American people by the Democrats in the 1930s. You're not going to be able to sustain a Ponzi scheme like Social Security. Eventually, you need to sunset the program."
frugal-one
8-13-25, 6:10pm
OK, thanks for that. As an aside though there's a difference between data points and talking points. One should precede the other.
That’s not the issue.
That’s not the issue.
But it often is, especially in social media, and in these days it's becoming alarmingly noticeable in most all media.
frugal-one
8-13-25, 6:55pm
Related: I am about to receive my first-ever Social Security check.
Fun fact: The Bureau of Labor Statistics data is used by the Social Security Administration for the annual cost-of-living adjustments to our Social Security benefit.
Fun fact 2: EJ Antoni, who was just appointed to head the BLS after the previous head was sacked by Trump, said late last year about Social Security: "... a Ponzi scheme that was foisted on the American people by the Democrats in the 1930s. You're not going to be able to sustain a Ponzi scheme like Social Security. Eventually, you need to sunset the program."
All statistical numbers will be dubious from this regime. Be thankful if you don’t have to rely on social security because this autocracy will do what it can to destroy.
frugal-one
8-13-25, 6:58pm
But it often is, especially in social media, and in these days it's becoming alarmingly noticeable in most all media.
Not what we were discussing.
Not what we were discussing.
OK, sorry.
iris lilies
8-14-25, 12:14am
Remember the UK has no issue prosecuting people for stuff posted on social media. I listen to the BBC a lot. Lots of people have had the cops show up at their door questioning them about postings.
yes, that is worrisome and is worrisome to those in the UK paying attention.
All of these Western countries claiming their case law and traditions substitute for the First Amendment rights in America are learning otherwise.
Related: I am about to receive my first-ever Social Security check.
Fun fact: The Bureau of Labor Statistics data is used by the Social Security Administration for the annual cost-of-living adjustments to our Social Security benefit.
Fun fact 2: EJ Antoni, who was just appointed to head the BLS after the previous head was sacked by Trump, said late last year about Social Security: "... a Ponzi scheme that was foisted on the American people by the Democrats in the 1930s. You're not going to be able to sustain a Ponzi scheme like Social Security. Eventually, you need to sunset the program."
Further, inflation numbers are used to determine prime lending rates, which then affect the rates of bonds and other fixed income securities. Those of us counting on fixed incomes in retirement may also take a hit if the numbers are manipulated.
I wonder if the day will come when the government tries to push cryptocurrency as payment for social security payouts.
Winning hearts and minds:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/14/us/newsom-la-immigration-agents.html?unlocked_article_code=1.eE8.Ghzl.EE23V GI6D-tR&smid=url-share&fbclid=IwY2xjawMLZNNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHu85BOLgQCpBf H7vSTcK75lQOnRAzqqFEj4ZQg5wrmN2X8cThgt4N4HLhNHt_ae m_ez7fkztGOhZcpvkf1fUG8g
frugal-one
8-14-25, 11:27pm
Winning hearts and minds:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/14/us/newsom-la-immigration-agents.html?unlocked_article_code=1.eE8.Ghzl.EE23V GI6D-tR&smid=url-share&fbclid=IwY2xjawMLZNNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHu85BOLgQCpBf H7vSTcK75lQOnRAzqqFEj4ZQg5wrmN2X8cThgt4N4HLhNHt_ae m_ez7fkztGOhZcpvkf1fUG8g
Another example of trump’s authoritarian show of force! Glad to see citizen’s in Washington and LA are protesting this unwarranted dictatorship move! Teachers are actually patrolling around schools to sound the alarm of ICE agents! What a sad world this is becoming.
I don't know what in the world is causing this trend in authoritarianism. But it's not just a US thing. I was just reading a Chris Hedges article about conservative right-wing Hindu majority trying to make Hinduism a national religion, and they are suppressing, and even have killed journalists who are reporting the truth about what's going on. And then there's Hungary, China and Russia. I think, unfortunately, Trump is shooting for membership in that club.
I think the irony is that people give up the need to trust in the truth when they are offered easy solutions to complex problems by people who promise them a magic wand. Think those immigrants are taking something from you? Just deport all their asses. Have you been promised hope for a return to better days? Who cares if those promises are laced with lies? The pull to buy in is seductive when it costs you nothing but your suspension of disbelief.
frugal-one
8-15-25, 10:04am
Protests scheduled for tomorrow all over the country in protest of trump trying to get redistricting in TX (and elsewhere) AND unwarranted show of force by military on our streets. We all NEED to get out and show our displeasure of the current regime!
I don't know what in the world is causing this trend in authoritarianism.
Historically, we seem to move in opposite directions now and then. I was reading about Jung's concept of enantiodromia which one could apply to current political changes. Hoping some equilibrium happens yet in my lifetime but it is hard to be hopeful at this moment in time.
Pinky toe, I had to look this up. How had I never learned that term??? Thank you for challenging my brain today.
Enantiodromia is a principle introduced in the West by psychiatrist Carl Jung. In Psychological Types, Jung defines enantiodromia as "the emergence of the unconscious opposite in the course of time." It is similar to the principle of equilibrium in the natural world, in that any extreme is opposed by the system in order to restore balance. When things get to their extreme, they turn into their opposite. Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enantiodromia)
Pinky toe, I had to look this up. How had I never learned that term??? Thank you for challenging my brain today.
Enantiodromia is a principle introduced in the West by psychiatrist Carl Jung. In Psychological Types, Jung defines enantiodromia as "the emergence of the unconscious opposite in the course of time." It is similar to the principle of equilibrium in the natural world, in that any extreme is opposed by the system in order to restore balance. When things get to their extreme, they turn into their opposite. Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enantiodromia)
Haha! I looked it up, too! Word of the Day! Thanks for posting the definition, nswef. I do think enantiodromia makes sense--I think there's often a pendulum effect in a lot of things we do individually and as a culture.
frugal-one
8-15-25, 3:57pm
Looked it up also. Should have kept reading! Feeling there will not be time for me to see the reversal. Hoping it is not too late for us all. Mother nature is showing her fury as well.
iris lilies
8-15-25, 4:16pm
I don't know what in the world is causing this trend in authoritarianism. But it's not just a US thing. I was just reading a Chris Hedges article about conservative right-wing Hindu majority trying to make Hinduism a national religion, and they are suppressing, and even have killed journalists who are reporting the truth about what's going on. And then there's Hungary, China and Russia. I think, unfortunately, Trump is shooting for membership in that club.
I think the irony is that people give up the need to trust in the truth when they are offered easy solutions to complex problems by people who promise them a magic wand. Think those immigrants are taking something from you? Just deport all their asses. Have you been promised hope for a return to better days? Who cares if those promises are laced with lies? The pull to buy in is seductive when it costs you nothing but your suspension of disbelief.
One of the political pundints I’ve heard recently (and I don’t remember who at this point) made it clear in his writings that democratic rule and freedom of speech is NOT the natural state of man governing himself. It is a new and precious thing we have to consciously guard and protect. That road looks rocky.
I don't know what in the world is causing this trend in authoritarianism. But it's not just a US thing. I was just reading a Chris Hedges article about conservative right-wing Hindu majority trying to make Hinduism a national religion, and they are suppressing, and even have killed journalists who are reporting the truth about what's going on. And then there's Hungary, China and Russia. I think, unfortunately, Trump is shooting for membership in that club.
I think the irony is that people give up the need to trust in the truth when they are offered easy solutions to complex problems by people who promise them a magic wand. Think those immigrants are taking something from you? Just deport all their asses. Have you been promised hope for a return to better days? Who cares if those promises are laced with lies? The pull to buy in is seductive when it costs you nothing but your suspension of disbelief.
Oh, yes, Modi is very Hindu nationalist. I have to hear all day long at work, when the owner is there, how wonderful India is. Gag. This is a country that had a caste system, has a bad record of treating women like trash, including killing them. The government at times will shut down the internet to certain areas.
Then you’ve got Russia, China, and the Islamic countries.
I sometimes think that humans just aren't very smart as a species. We have such a beautiful planet and yet we continue to destroy it and each other.
I sometimes think that humans just aren't very smart as a species. We have such a beautiful planet and yet we continue to destroy it and each other.
Some people NEED to be destroyed.
I sometimes think that humans just aren't very smart as a species. We have such a beautiful planet and yet we continue to destroy it and each other.
On the plus side, it's highly unlikely that we can destroy the planet. Earth has has five extinction events and will probably have another, whether it's a volcano or asteroid, or a human caused event. The planet will likely regenerate with a new diversity of life forms, just like it has in it's long history, even if it takes millions of years or longer. However we could sure make it an unpleasant place to live for future generations.
On the plus side, it's highly unlikely that we can destroy the planet. Earth has has five extinction events and will probably have another, whether it's a volcano or asteroid, or a human caused event. The planet will likely regenerate with a new diversity of life forms, just like it has in it's long history, even if it takes millions of years or longer. However we could sure make it an unpleasant place to live for future generations.
I agree, but it's so frustrating that we willfully trash our house and don't care. We're mocking God with our ingratitude and hubris.
ETA: Here's another example of the pendulum swinging in the same direction as the US: Ecuador.
Here's an article from the NYT: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/15/opinion/ecuador-galapagos-noboa.html
And here's the TL;DR version:
For almost two decades this small country has pioneered new ways of imagining and legislating the human relationship with other life on Earth — and inspired similar innovations around the world.
Now, however, that ecological progress is under severe threat from a series of reforms steamrolled by Ecuador’s young populist president, Daniel Noboa. Mr. Noboa is the heir to an agribusiness empire, and came to power with the promise of combating organized crime. His reforms will throw Ecuador’s stunning landscapes open to mining and drilling, dismantle government agencies in the name of “efficiency,” target public officials and civic organizations that he claims obstruct his agenda and concentrate broad emergency powers in his own hands.
Together these measures amount to the most serious assault on environmental protection and constitutional integrity in Ecuador’s recent history. They also come at a perilous moment for a country where murder rates increased sixfold between 2020 and 2023, and where violence toward environmental activists is now also rising.
Mr. Noboa’s first and boldest step was to dissolve the Ministry of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition on July 24 and hand its powers to the Ministry of Energy and Mines. This is a clear case of putting the fox in charge of the henhouse, and leaves Ecuador without an independent institution to protect its extraordinary ecosystems.
Sound familiar? :(
Sound familiar? :(
Today's NYT had an article about how the environmental efforts have been set back by at least a generation. There was a time when the Earthday protests were among the largest in US history. It's beyond unfortunate that we've lost sight of these things. Appearently the evangelicals don't place custodianship of the planet as one of their priorities over money.
The conversion of the rose garden into a mara largo type ball room is a good analogy for a shift in public opinion.
frugal-one
8-16-25, 8:51pm
Traitor trump siding with Putin on Ukraine. Would not be surprised if trump is getting a deal from Putin to build another trump tower there !
I see the editors of National Review have commended the President for taking action against a lawless rogue state. But enough about the District of Columbia. Chuck Schumer insists that he has no fear of crime, however. Neither does his security detail.
At a certain point I have to start thinking "if the American people are going to put up with this nonsense, they deserve what they get".
The good news is that Europe seems to be waking from it’s torpor concerning it’s defense after the last few US presidents have botched Ukraine policy so badly.
I have to give Trump a little credit for bringing all of the stakeholders, as they would say in the corporate world, face to face in the same room to figure out solutions. Although the dire sanctions he threatened Russia with seem to have been one of his empty threats.
I think since the Park Service said it was impossible to add another face on Mt. Rushmore was not possible, he's been pushing for the Nobel Prize.
frugal-one
8-19-25, 6:57pm
We are in dire straits when our lawmakers are held captive if they do not bow down and are DEMANDED to sign papers to have police guards! Basic rights of freedom being violated! Total fascist playbook! This is only the start. The majority public disapproval of the current regime invokes action to do whatever they can to stay in power. My fear is the next “election” will be a farce!
https://www.texastribune.org/2025/08/19/nicole-collier-texas-house-dps-escort-redistricting-quorum/
https://www.britannica.com/topic/fascism
frugal-one
8-19-25, 7:00pm
I have to give Trump a little credit for bringing all of the stakeholders, as they would say in the corporate world, face to face in the same room to figure out solutions. Although the dire sanctions he threatened Russia with seem to have been one of his empty threats.
I think since the Park Service said it was impossible to add another face on Mt. Rushmore was not possible, he's been pushing for the Nobel Prize.
Nobel prize for what? Being TACO man?
Nobel prize for what? Being TACO man?
What did Obama do for his?
We are in dire straits when our lawmakers are held captive if they do not bow down and are DEMANDED to sign papers to have police guards!
I know that if I were exercising my duties as an elected official, and someone tried to interfere with my ability to do so, there would be consequences. Depending on the interference, potential quite swift consequences.
frugal-one
8-19-25, 7:20pm
What did Obama do for his?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009_Nobel_Peace_Prize
For a start, I can’t see the nobel going to a convicted felon or someone who tried to overthrow our government!
ToomuchStuff
8-20-25, 12:27am
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009_Nobel_Peace_Prize
For a start, I can’t see the nobel going to a convicted felon or someone who tried to overthrow our government!
Just our government? Because the first part I think you would revise your statement, aka Nelson Mandela.
Over the weekend, 407 HS codes were added to the list of HS codes subject to steel/aluminum duties. This even includes things such as perfume, which probably includes the bit of metal in the sprayer on the bottle. What this means in practice is that the supplier has to break out the steel/aluminum (and copper) content value from the non-steel/aluminum/copper value. Otherwise, the entire value of the product is hit with the 50% duty.
That seems kind of insane. It reminds me of a movie, Conspiracy, with Stanley Tucci and Kenneth Branagh and Colin Firth. Seems apropos.
That is insane, Tradd. How do people believe that this type of nonsense is NOT going to hit the consumer?
That is insane, Tradd. How do people believe that this type of nonsense is NOT going to hit the consumer?
I have no clue. Some people still apparently believe the orange man that the overseas country (exporter) pays the duty.
What did Obama do for his?
I think the fact that Obama got the prize and he hasn't is one of his primary motivators.
I think the fact that Obama got the prize and he hasn't is one of his primary motivators.
There may be something to that. However, I asked the question in response to another poster's question of "Nobel Prize for what?" to subtly point out that not so long ago another President was awarded the prize not for anything he had done, but rather for perceived aspirations for what he might do. Given the current President's ongoing efforts to secure peace throughout multiple regions in the world, I would think the answer to her original question would be self evident.
We are in dire straits when our lawmakers are held captive if they do not bow down and are DEMANDED to sign papers to have police guards! Basic rights of freedom being violated!
I'm not so sure that any Texas lawmakers basic rights of freedom are being violated given that the Texas Legislature procedural rules for Quorum (approved by both parties, including the lady who refused to sign) call for and authorize the Texas Speaker's requirement. I think that's why all the other affected Democrat lawmakers willingly signed the document and are only now tearing them up in an effort to make voters think the Republicans are being unreasonable. http://house.texas.gov/resources/rules (https://t.co/B0yrQfCKJn)
Excerpt below:
6477
frugal-one
8-20-25, 12:52pm
Republicans ARE being unreasonable! This is a blatant case of gerrymandering! The redistricting was done not long ago. It is scheduled to be looked into again in 8 years! IMO trump is trying change boundaries so he/republicans stay in power indefinitely!
https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-8-20-2025
frugal-one
8-20-25, 12:57pm
Just our government? Because the first part I think you would revise your statement, aka Nelson Mandela.
Mandela was not in office when he tried to overthrow the government. He did not try to overthrow to remain in power. That’s the difference IMO. He also served many years in prison as should donald!
frugal-one
8-20-25, 1:01pm
There may be something to that. However, I asked the question in response to another poster's question of "Nobel Prize for what?" to subtly point out that not so long ago another President was awarded the prize not for anything he had done, but rather for perceived aspirations for what he might do. Given the current President's ongoing efforts to secure peace throughout multiple regions in the world, I would think the answer to her original question would be self evident.
That is a joke. He is TACO man!
There may be something to that. However, I asked the question in response to another poster's question of "Nobel Prize for what?" to subtly point out that not so long ago another President was awarded the prize not for anything he had done, but rather for perceived aspirations for what he might do. Given the current President's ongoing efforts to secure peace throughout multiple regions in the world, I would think the answer to her original question would be self evident.
Some might tend to think then that the Nobel Prize has become rather empty of meaning. Unlike the days of Al Gore and Carter.
The latest seems to be that after firing the head of the BLS Trump has fired the head of defense intelligence for contradicting the effects of the bombing in Iran. Armed troops are roaming the streets of the nations Capitol. Government has basically taken partial control of a major US corporation, as in Intel, contrary to free capitalism. And the FBI has raided the home of John Bolton, probably due to some sort of Trump grudge. And Voting districts are being realigned. I think the talking heads are calling it flooding the field. It's sounding a little like fascism to me.
early morning
8-23-25, 11:36am
it's sounding a LOT like fascism to me!
it's sounding a LOT like fascism to me!
We've certainly seen this playbook before.
CBP just updated their de minimus FAQ. If you order ANYTHING that ships from overseas, you will start paying duty beginning August 27.
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/e-commerce/faqs
DHL and the national posts of some countries are stopping (at least temporarily) shipments to the US.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/22/business/dhl-us-shipments-suspended-de-minimis.html
Don't try to order smaller stuff under $800 from overseas right now. Things over $800 are different because they're considered commercial shipments and don't have the complications of the under $800 shipments that used to be duty free. The over $800 have always had customs clearances done and so they're not problematic.
iris lilies
8-23-25, 2:17pm
My Blythe* children will have to go unclothed for a while. Their clothes come from China,
thailand, etc. While the Chinamen make crappy clothes for humans, some Chinese factories turn out exquisitely scaled and detailed clothing for Blythe dolls. They’re not the crap that Mattel makes for Barbies and etc.
* dolls
President now mobilizing National Guard into 19 states:
National Guard mobilizing in 19 states amid immigration, crime crackdown (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/national-guard-mobilizing-in-19-states-amid-immigration-crime-crackdown/ar-AA1L3tSd?ocid=BingNewsSerp)
It's been in the news about IL. Pritzker has told Orange Man to pound sand.
iris lilies
8-24-25, 6:57pm
If I thought the generic problem of “crime “in St. Louis would be addressed by sending in the National Guard, I might be for it.
But my state isn’t on that list.
We have a decent city prosecutor so at least that bit has turned around. Murderers are no longer let go simply because the prosecution doesn’t show up for court dates. Our police force cannot fill spots though, and it’s not for lack of money they just aren’t applicants.
If I thought the generic problem of “crime “in St. Louis would be addressed by sending in the National Guard, I might be for it.
But my state isn’t on that list.
We have a decent city prosecutor so at least that bit has turned around. Murders are no longer let go simply because the prosecution doesn’t show up for court dates. Are police force cannot fill spot though, and it’s not for lack of money they just aren’t applicants.
Your state is red, that's why it's not on the list.
iris lilies
8-24-25, 9:42pm
Your state is red, that's why it's not on the list.
I thought that might be the case I haven’t read that is the stated reason. Iowa and Florida on the list and they overwhelmingly voted for Trump in 2024. They both have Republican governors as well.
So if you compare the violent crime rates vs the US News and World Reports rankings, states NOT on Trump's list that are in the bottom 19 are Alaska, California, Colorado, Missouri, Michigan, Montana, Kansas, Maryland, Oklahoma, Arizona, North Carolina.
States that are on his list but are in the top 19 leaast crime rates are Wyoming, Nebraska, Utah, Virginia,
That's just one ranking of course, but the targets seem to be pretty random. What are they basing these National Guard raids on? To IL's point, it doesn't seem to be only politics.
So if you compare the violent crime rates vs the US News and World Reports rankings, states NOT on Trump's list that are in the bottom 19 are Alaska, California, Colorado, Missouri, Michigan, Montana, Kansas, Maryland, Oklahoma, Arizona, North Carolina.
States that are on his list but are in the top 19 leaast crime rates are Wyoming, Nebraska, Utah, Virginia,
That's just one ranking of course, but the targets seem to be pretty random. What are they basing these National Guard raids on? To IL's point, it doesn't seem to be only politics.
Wyoming, Nebraska, and Utah all have land use issues. Think of that standoff from several years ago? Wyoming? Utah? Lots and lots of land and natural resources and citizens with rights that may be inconvenient for certain plans.
Wyoming, Nebraska, and Utah all have land use issues. Think of that standoff from several years ago? Wyoming? Utah? Lots and lots of land and natural resources and citizens with rights that may be inconvenient for certain plans.
Wow. That's a good point. So it might be a front for a military takeover of our natural resources. He showed us in NJ with his antics in Atlantic City what he can do with eminent domain. And he has a lot of private and corporate interests that are probably looking to benefit from a land grab.
If we're talking Clive Bundy types, theere are a lot of people in Utah and Wyo. who own guns and have a disrespect for government regulation, although some of them might be among Trump's base. Wyomong has one of the higherst gun ownerships among states. I could see standoffs if the government startst throwing around it's weight.
Here's exactly why many overseas postal services, as well as DHL, have stopped low value parcel shipments (under $800) to the US. Other countries have a low value threshold, maybe as low as $100, on imports before import duties kick in. So these countries are used to collecting duty from the recipients. Not the US!
The US doesn't have a method in place for collecting the duties on low value shipments through the USPS. So they've moved the responsibility for collecting the duties on these small value parcels to the originating countries postal service! The duties would have to be collected before the parcels even shipped out. These postal services have to get a customs bond (basically insurance) to insure they pay the duties timely (all regular importers to the US have to get a customs bond, it's something I have to deal with as part of my job). These foreign postal services don't have any procedures in place to collect these duties, so they've stopped the small value shipments to the US.
That's interesting, Tradd. I wonder what the implications of just that one aspect of the whole tariff thing are.
On another note, what are the implications of Trump taking 10% of private corporations like Intel? What precedent does that set?
I see where Trump is calling for the FCC to revoke the licenses of ABC and NBC. I can't imagine him actually pulling it off or intimidating them with threats, but it's possible, since he can always fire the heads of the FCC and appoint his sycophants. A nation of fear. I think Stalin just had his staff enemies assassinated but we're way more civilized?
https://www.npr.org/2025/08/25/nx-s1-5515480/fcc-abc-nbc-reviews
Here's exactly why many overseas postal services, as well as DHL, have stopped low value parcel shipments (under $800) to the US. Other countries have a low value threshold, maybe as low as $100, on imports before import duties kick in. So these countries are used to collecting duty from the recipients. Not the US!
The US doesn't have a method in place for collecting the duties on low value shipments through the USPS. So they've moved the responsibility for collecting the duties on these small value parcels to the originating countries postal service! The duties would have to be collected before the parcels even shipped out. These postal services have to get a customs bond (basically insurance) to insure they pay the duties timely (all regular importers to the US have to get a customs bond, it's something I have to deal with as part of my job). These foreign postal services don't have any procedures in place to collect these duties, so they've stopped the small value shipments to the US.
I did just get a DHL shipment of a low value parcel shipment yesterday from Europe. I did not pay anything but maybe it was paid by seller, or maybe I got in under the wire.
Wow. That's a good point. So it might be a front for a military takeover of our natural resources. He showed us in NJ with his antics in Atlantic City what he can do with eminent domain. And he has a lot of private and corporate interests that are probably looking to benefit from a land grab.
Take this for what it is worth, Catherine, but last night it came to me in a dream that some of these states were places (like Wyoming and Utah) where they might be placing camps.
I did just get a DHL shipment of a low value parcel shipment yesterday from Europe. I did not pay anything but maybe it was paid by seller, or maybe I got in under the wire.
You just squeaked under the wire.
You just squeaked under the wire.
My daughter lives in the UK, and we frequently send each other small packages of treats and books.
I guess that will be no more.
My daughter lives in the UK, and we frequently send each other small packages of treats and books.
I guess that will be no more.
Gifts under $100 are still duty free.
Gifts under $100 are still duty free.
The problem there is the books, which are often...spendy.
Academic publishers are cruel.
The problem there is the books, which are often...spendy.
Academic publishers are cruel.
I thought I read books were still allowed.
I thought I read books were still allowed.
That would be superb!
Tradd, mine was an oil painting. Do you think that would be exempt?
I just read in the NYT that the impact of tariffs are starting to take effect. AND at the same time, I saw that the things that I saved in my Amazon cart have all INCREASED in price since I put them in there. For instance, a memory foam mattress topper that I was holding off on has gone from $48 to $56. There were five things in my cart and every one of them has gone up--from about $2 to $10.
Tradd, mine was an oil painting. Do you think that would be exempt?
I see no exemptions for art.
I just read in the NYT that the impact of tariffs are starting to take effect. AND at the same time, I saw that the things that I saved in my Amazon cart have all INCREASED in price since I put them in there. For instance, a memory foam mattress topper that I was holding off on has gone from $48 to $56. There were five things in my cart and every one of them has gone up--from about $2 to $10.
Which article is this?
And, no, pharmaceuticals aren’t included in the Indian duty increase that goes into effect today.
I see no exemptions for art.
Thanks!
One more question, Tradd, if I did buy another painting and there was a charge, where would it be collected? Do they deliver it somewhere and I have to pay to get it out of wherever they delivered it? do people pay the delivery person at the house?
Which article is this?
Weird. I saw the article on my phone first thing in the morning and now I can't find it. I'll let you know if I do.
One more question, Tradd, if I did buy another painting and there was a charge, where would it be collected? Do they deliver it somewhere and I have to pay to get it out of wherever they delivered it? do people pay the delivery person at the house?
Value?
200-500.
Unless it’s shipped something like DHL express, duty collection will be a mess. DHL, FedEx, UPS have long done these shipments and will collect the duties from you before delivery. Strongly suggest you pay more to ship it with one of these.
Or just don’t buy from overseas. I’m not kidding. It will save you a lot of guessing and anxiety.
frugal-one
8-27-25, 2:29pm
Now see Church shooting in Minneapolis. Suppose the felon dictator wannabe will now want to send more milita to that city? There needs to be more realistic restrictions on guns.. ie only a few shots available in guns! That makes more sense than sending the militia.
Unless it’s shipped something like DHL express, duty collection will be a mess. DHL, FedEx, UPS have long done these shipments and will collect the duties from you before delivery. Strongly suggest you pay more to ship it with one of these.
Or just don’t buy from overseas. I’m not kidding. It will save you a lot of guessing and anxiety.
I looked and he shipped it DHL Express, and it was fast and easy. But it sounds like it may not be in the future.
Importers are starting to send cargo back. Got docs last minute for a shipment arriving tomorrow. Manufacturing machinery from the EU. Lots of high end manufacturing equipment comes from Europe. About $800K cargo value. Subject to 50% steel duty. They’re sending it back. They don’t have the budget for the extra duties. They had people coming out to install it. Now the funny part: company exec thought he shouldn’t be subject to the duty because they were importing it to manufacture stuff here. I asked him where he got that idea since that exemption doesn’t exist. He also objected strongly when I referred to him as the importer because he makes stuff here. I told him he brings stuff in from outside the country so he is an importer. Think I know which way he voted. ����
The IEEPA /reciprocal tariffs were ruled illegal, but they're still in effect until October to allow Orange Man to appeal to the SC.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/29/business/economy/trump-tariffs-appeals-court.html?smid=url-share
The IEEPA /reciprocal tariffs were ruled illegal, but they're still in effect until October to allow Orange Man to appeal to the SC.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/29/business/economy/trump-tariffs-appeals-court.html?smid=url-share
It would sure be something if all the tariffs were revoked and it was all for nothing.
It would sure be something if all the tariffs were revoked and it was all for nothing.
The Section 232 industry specific tariffs (steel, aluminum, copper, autos, etc) are under a different law and not affected by this ruling.
The Section 232 industry specific tariffs (steel, aluminum, copper, autos, etc) are under a different law and not affected by this ruling.
I'm guessing that would still be a lot and an embarrassment for America or Trump? My cursory understanding of the issue is whether the tariffs were enacted due to "economic emergency" and possibly should have gone through congress. The SC Is going to be busy.
Local news announced that CVS and Walgreens in Colorado will require a prescription to get the annual Covid booster. They speculated that insurance may not pay for it. I'll be making a point of getting mine with the influx of unvaccinated people. It sounds like Medicare will still cover the cost for those over 65.
It will be of some interest tot see if there is a big outbreak, but there may not be anyone left at the CDC to track it, or it will be a cover up like the BLS firing.
I'm guessing that would still be a lot and an embarrassment for America or Trump? My cursory understanding of the issue is whether the tariffs were enacted due to "economic emergency" and possibly should have gone through congress. The SC Is going to be busy.
Yep, the economic emergency is a bunch of BS. Will be really interesting to see if the SC sees it that way or not. IEEPA doesn't even mention tariffs.
More tariffs!
Gift article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/25/business/economy/trump-tariffs-pharmaceuticals-furniture-trucks.html?unlocked_article_code=1.o08.xo6H.8Vr1S sj1vTV8&smid=url-share
5% on heavy trucks, 30% on upholstered furniture, 50% on wood cabinets and vanities, and 100% on branded/patented pharmaceuticals (unless the manufacturer is building a plant in the United States). Effective October 1.
Nothing official yet. Just Truth Social. Note: most branded/patented pharma comes from Europe. The generics tend to come from India/China.
I loved that he devoted a whole tweet to furniture and cabinetry.
I kept waiting for one concerning pillows.
This is just a clownshow.
I loved that he devoted a whole tweet to furniture and cabinetry.
I kept waiting for one concerning pillows.
This is just a clownshow.
I have customers that import furniture from both China and India. The upholstered stuff (chairs, sofas) as well as some cabinets that will get hit with these new tariffs. Will be interesting to see how they stack with the current tariffs.
These new ones will be under Section 232, which is the industry specific tariffs. The steel, aluminum, and copper, as well as auto tariffs fall under the same law.
These are separate from the IEEPA tariffs (fentanyl and reciprocal).
flowerseverywhere
9-26-25, 5:31am
https://apnews.com/article/doge-musk-trump-gsa-fired-employees-ce18553b281fbf5816ec2fd491d79b78
surprise. Remember all those cancelled leases? Turns out some of the agencies were never told and the leases expired with workers still there. So now there are penalties from the owners on top of rents.
plus they are hiring back some workers with seven months back pay because the departments can’t function without them. Who knew?
If Trump is a clown show, I have to think in similar terms for people who voted for him and continue to support him, as well as his cohorts in Congress and his sycophant staff who all continue to enable him. The term is enablers.
I think his mental decline is becoming more apparent after watching him embarrass America in front of the UN.
I spent time at work this week preparing for a fed shutdown. I went through a 16 day shutdown in 2013 and 35 days in 2018/19.
As I learned during the 2013 shutdown, the International Trade Commission website that hosts the US tariff https://hts.usitc.gov blocks anyone from using it. So I downloaded all the individual PDFs for all the sections to the public shared drive at work. Back in 2013, I still had my paper copy of the tariff from when I took the broker's exam in 2012, but everyone else where I worked for at the time had already switched from paper copies to the online version.
CBP'S trade system is called ACE (Automated Commercial Environment), developed back in the 2010s. There is a portal that importers or customs brokers can log onto to do some things. It's more useful for importers as they can pull all sorts of reports. For brokers, the main use is for filing protests to make changes or protest a CBP decision after a shipment has been cleared. The portal is so bad we say it has stage 4 cancer. Extremely non-user friendly, even with the major update a few months ago. I've filed the occasional protest in paper form for years. I finally struggled and taught myself how to file a protest electronically.
I also made sure we had access to certain FDA notifications of arrival on food imports via FDA's ITACS website, rather than relying on FDA emailing them out. https://www.access.fda.gov/itacs/#/ At the time of the 2013 shutdown, FDA was still mailing out a lot of the NOAs. Because they didn't have postage money, they couldn't mail them out. That's when a lot of importers and brokers moved to using ITACS more.
CBP has already scheduled a call with the trade on Wednesday to outline how operations will be affected during a shutdown. The uniformed CBP officers will still work, but a lot of the civilian employees will be furloughed. These are the import specialists, etc. The ABI reps (Automated Broker Interface, the software that bridges brokers systems and CBP's ACE), aka the CBP help desk, will mostly be furloughed, leaving very few reps to handle the entire country. I've worked with my reps for more than 10 years. Brokers are assigned to specific reps. This is especially bad with the new tariffs going into effect Oct 1. There are always issues filing clearances when new tariffs go into effect. Both the brokerage software providers and CBP programmers work overtime.
FDA inspections and related will be slower. CBP Agriculture officers will still be working, but I believe some are furloughed. Everything moves slower. This shutdown should be a better experience than 2018/19 since CBP and the other agencies dealing with imports had the experience of being paperless and offsite during covid.
Meanwhile, Trump is sending in troops to war-ravaged Portland.
Meanwhile, Trump is sending in troops to war-ravaged Portland.
The amount of money spent on the deportation program as well as the guard in cities is ridiculous.
frugal-one
9-27-25, 2:55pm
The amount of money spent on the deportation program as well as the guard in cities is ridiculous.
AND, ludicrous amounts of money spent on stupid things like making a mega ballroom at the white house or cementing in the rose garden. Also, trump taking an entourage to sporting events…. lunacy!
Also, trump taking an entourage to sporting events…. lunacy!
As it happens, two of my sons were at the Ryder Cup yesterday when they saw this and sent the family a picture. (Air Force One in case you can't make it out)
6534
AND, ludicrous amounts of money spent on stupid things like making a mega ballroom at the white house or cementing in the rose garden. Also, trump taking an entourage to sporting events…. lunacy!
The WH ballroom is apparently being paid for by Trump himself as well as private donors
gimmethesimplelife
9-27-25, 4:10pm
Meanwhile, Trump is sending in troops to war-ravaged Portland.As a former Portlander (1991 - 1996), I say good luck with that! Portlanders will not put up with this BS for long. Rob
gimmethesimplelife
9-27-25, 4:13pm
The amount of money spent on the deportation program as well as the guard in cities is ridiculous.Crossing fingers.....my take as a former Portlander - this is a city more likely than most to stand up to this current Administration's BS. What "standing up" might look like - we'll just have to see if such indeed takes place. But my point, trying to not get too chatty as is my habit - this is money well spent for once as my belief is that invading Portland is more likely to yield the United States splitting up than invading most US cities. So I smile internally and hope for the split up, it's the best we can hope for as a nation going forward. Rob
Portland is by all accounts a cesspool.
Portland is by all accounts a cesspool.
Really? Have you been there?
As a former Portlander (1991 - 1996), I say good luck with that! Portlanders will not put up with this BS for long. Rob
They should bring lots of rakes.
Portland is by all accounts a cesspool.
I’ve been there a dozen times this year, I must have missed the cesspool part. Parking and traffic were a bit bad the day I accidentally showed up on some city-wide holiday, the Rose Festival or something like that.
Welcome to life in the Handmaid's Tale, Sooner Style:
Teachers concerned about what's missing from Bibles now in Oklahoma classrooms (https://kfor.com/news/oklahoma-education/teachers-concerned-about-whats-missing-from-bibles-now-in-oklahoma-classrooms/)
early morning
9-29-25, 11:20am
That's rich, from a state that celebrates/champions liars, cheats, and thieves. Sooners, indeed.
iris lilies
9-29-25, 11:26am
Welcome to life in the Handmaid's Tale, Sooner Style:
Teachers concerned about what's missing from Bibles now in Oklahoma classrooms (https://kfor.com/news/oklahoma-education/teachers-concerned-about-whats-missing-from-bibles-now-in-oklahoma-classrooms/)
it’s a good teaching moment. Have the kids find what’s missing from this presentation of the US Constitution
Does the introductory material make it clear that this is the original Founding Fathers’ document? My handy dandy bathroom copy of the Constitution notes when each of the 11th - 27th Amendments were ratified.
gimmethesimplelife
9-29-25, 12:29pm
Portland is by all accounts a cesspool.Ummmm no. Where are you getting this from? I would be tempted to say that there is a whole world out there beyond FOX Entertainment For Conservatives (sorry, FOX News LOL).....but you have shown depth and the ability to think before and I don't wish to be disrespectful so I will merely ask where are you getting this from? Rob
iris lilies
9-29-25, 10:29pm
Portland is by all accounts a cesspool.
I don’t know, I’ve heard st. Louis described In very unflattering terms for many years and it’s just not a cesspool.
I will say that at one time in my life Portland was the promised land, I was doing my best to get jobs in the Pacific Northwest and I interviewed in Corvallis with an eye getting to Portland eventually. But when I paid my first and only visit to downtown Portland it was… A disappointment. The place lacked architecture of interest.
I’m sorry Jane is no longer here to argue against this because she always did. ;)
by the way, Jane’s house sold to someone and I wonder if that party is flipping it. It needed work.
I heard Stockholm described as having been taken over by violent illegal Muslim immigrants, who were destroying the city and the culture. I had heard there were no-go zones.
I arrived there during the weeks around the 2017 terrorist truck attack, carried out by a Muslim fellow from Uzbekistan. My Airbnb was on the route of the attack.
During the weeks after the attack, I visited the “no-go zones”. They seemed fine, and my daughter and I had a good time. At the same time, US media was continuing to ramp up coverage about just how bad it was, in places I had just had a lovely lunch and chats with locals. Clearly my experienced reality was very different from what the US news was reporting. My impression was that the “uncontrolled violence” was not widespread….
Sweden did seem to be doing all sorts of proactive things to integrate the immigrants into their society. This was evident in all sorts of cultural sites, print and broadcast media, and so on.
I think I may have mentioned this all here in nearly-real-time, back then.
I was very very impressed that in the park adjacent to the horrors of that day, there was a large gathering. Of people from all walks of life. Who were there to thank and support their first responders, who had just had to clean up some rather horrific things. Brought a tear to my eye.
Security was very tight at transport hubs, but in that gentle-yet-firm way the Swedish people have come up with. Reassuring and helpful, not confrontational.
frugal-one
9-30-25, 5:29am
Just watched the evening news (had recorded) and witnessed propaganda about how social security will not be dispursed if the government shuts down Oct 1. Other scare tactic items were mentioned but this caught my attention since it is relative to me and I had just read what the impact of a government shutdown would have on me personally.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/social-security-government-shutdown-2025-impact-benefits-checks-services/
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-live-senate-resumes-as-trump-meets-with-congress-leaders-over-possible-government-shutdown
Hard to fathom that anyone would want to eliminate or hinder healthcare for millions of people but that is exactly what republicans want to do.
Trump went on a temper tantrum tirade of deepfake video name calling using fowl language posted on X after the shutdown meeting. Not a good sign it will be resolved in the near future.
https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/09/29/congress/trump-ai-video-deepfake-schumer-jeffries-00586048
Hard to fathom that anyone would want to eliminate or hinder healthcare for millions of people but that is exactly what republicans want to do.
Are Republicans actually trying to take away healthcare for millions or is the funding in question part of covid era emergency appropriations that Democrats set to expire in the Inflation Reduction Act?
frugal-one
9-30-25, 9:35am
[QUOTE=Alan;449329]Are Republicans actually trying to take away healthcare for millions or is the funding in question part of covid era emergency appropriations that Democrats set to expire in the Inflation Reduction Act?[/QU
Looks to me like they are trying to take away healthcare. Like many things going on .. it doesn’t make sense. Talk now of closing national parks too.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflation_Reduction_Act
I don’t think so.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflation_Reduction_Act
Your article mentions 3 years of Affordable Care Act subsidies. That's what's expiring.
Your article mentions 3 years of Affordable Care Act subsidies. That's what's expiring.
That's right. That's what the Democrats are trying to use as a bargaining chip to prevent the government shut down. Paul Krugman posted a great chart to show what the financial impact would be on people across different household sizes and incomes.
Good article if you can get to it: https://substack.com/home/post/p-174759141
Here's the chart if you can't
6540
iris lilies
9-30-25, 10:25am
Your article mentions 3 years of Affordable Care Act subsidies. That's what's expiring.
Ah, Nanny Gubment. She giveth, she taketh away. Such a cruel Nanny.
Seriously, are there really ACA peeps who thought their subsidies would always be the same?
That's right. That's what the Democrats are trying to use as a bargaining chip to prevent the government shut down. Paul Krugman posted a great chart to show what the financial impact would be on people across different household sizes and incomes.
Good article if you can get to it: https://substack.com/home/post/p-174759141
Here's the chart if you can't
6540
Thanks, Catherine, I appreciate this information. Excellent post.
Ah, Nanny Gubment. She giveth, she taketh away. Such a cruel Nanny.
Seriously, are there really ACA peeps who thought their subsidies would always be the same?
All that could be settled with European-style healthcare program. The ACA is just an OK first step towards that.
HappyHiker
9-30-25, 3:14pm
Trump went on a temper tantrum tirade of deepfake video name calling using fowl language posted on X after the shutdown meeting. Not a good sign it will be resolved in the near future.
https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/09/29/congress/trump-ai-video-deepfake-schumer-jeffries-00586048
Darn that frisky, avian Prez, using his clucking "fowl" language again.
Darn that frisky, avian Prez, using his clucking "fowl" language again.
Must have been sort of Freudian:-}
HappyHiker
9-30-25, 7:40pm
Must have been sort of Freudian:-}
Well he surely does strut like he's the Cock of the Coop...
I had to do a review of the Krugman article. It seems like the ACA allowed some people who wanted to escape the wage slave traditional work place with health insurance benefits could go out and start a small business or little home based cottage operation and could get health insurance without the a prohibitively high cost of private insurance. I can almost remember discussion of this in the forums as it sort of gets back to YMOYL concepts of not being locked into work with the golden handcuffs of high health insurance costs. Probably goes double for those who with existing conditions who could become somewhat uninsurable in the private insurance market.
iris lilies
9-30-25, 8:37pm
That's right. That's what the Democrats are trying to use as a bargaining chip to prevent the government shut down. Paul Krugman posted a great chart to show what the financial impact would be on people across different household sizes and incomes.
Good article if you can get to it: https://substack.com/home/post/p-174759141
Here's the chart if you can't
6540
am I reading this chart right if I see one person with a household income of $40,000 pays about $300 a month in the new regime? Is that right?
I chose that data point because we were at $30,000 -$40,000 when we retired at were paying around $1200 per month on COBRA if I remember correctly.That was 10 years ago. Then we went of an ACA policy for practically nothing per month.
I would’ve been fine at $300 a month for each of us, but I’m not sure I’m reading this chart correctly. Please someone confirm. Oh wait, ours would be higher because we were 60 years old.
Well he surely does strut like he's the Cock of the Coop...
Or the Cock of the Coup.
I had to do a review of the Krugman article. It seems like the ACA allowed some people who wanted to escape the wage slave traditional work place with health insurance benefits could go out and start a small business or little home based cottage operation and could get health insurance without the a prohibitively high cost of private insurance. I can almost remember discussion of this in the forums as it sort of gets back to YMOYL concepts of not being locked into work with the golden handcuffs of high health insurance costs. Probably goes double for those who with existing conditions who could become somewhat uninsurable in the private insurance market.
Yes, making it necessary for people to become wage slaves because they need the employer-based health insurance is almost unAmerican. If we as a nation want to encourage health, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, the systems should support that. One way to support that is to de-couple guaranteed healthcare from the employer-based system we have. IMHO.
iris lilies
10-1-25, 10:06am
Yes, making it necessary for people to become wage slaves because they need the employer-based health insurance is almost unAmerican. If we as a nation want to encourage health, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, the systems should support that. One way to support that is to de-couple guaranteed healthcare from the employer-based system we have. IMHO.
Yet, the government removed the option to buy catastrophic health insurance. That is exactly the kind of policy we would’ve purchased when we retired if we could have. But Nanny took away that option for us, thanks Nanny!
early morning
10-1-25, 10:19am
Yet, the government removed the option to buy catastrophic health insurance. But when I retired in 2020, not QUITE old enough for medicare, that's exactly what I bought - just not thru the exchange, from an independent broker. So I'm confused about this. I paid about $200 a month, I think? And I got nothing until I'd paid out $20K myself for the year. To me, that seems like catastrophic coverage, although of course it wasn't named that.
iris lilies
10-1-25, 10:20am
But when I retired in 2020, not QUITE old enough for medicare, that's exactly what I bought - just not thru the exchange, from an independent broker. So I'm confused about this. I paid about $200 a month, I think? And I got nothing until I'd paid out $20K myself for the year. To me, that seems like catastrophic coverage, although of course it wasn't named that.
what year was that? my understanding is that catastrophic coverage was available only to younger people. But what you describe is exactly the policy I would’ve purchased. It sounds great. I wouldnt expect the ACA exchange to offer this, so maybe I am wrong and it WAS available I just didnt look in the right place.
edited to add: early morning, I just looked into it and you are right! Mea culpa! For sure we would’ve taken one of those Insurance policies and saved thousands. Well, too late now. Instead we paid out Cobra costs for 18 months, ugh!
catherine
10-1-25, 11:44am
So, I'm working on my next market research report, and here is a direct quote from a person I spoke with about social determinants of health.
So I grew up with no privilege. I created my own privilege through just educating myself and learning all I could learn. I was very determined to not be a product of where I came from. I tried really hard to elevate myself, which I did. I've worked for General Motors, Hewlett Packard, and it was my cushion. Corporate America was my cushion. It provided me with all the stability, all of the comfort that I needed, but it was not satisfying to my purpose. So I work a full time schedule on a very part time salary. So I don't currently have medical insurance. I this is my first time in life, being without medical insurance, I'm scared...a little nervous. I do have health conditions, but I maintain the best I can by trying to eat healthy.I protected myself with life insurance. I feel like, if you know nothing else, I will be covered on that end.
If this person who is working in a non-profit setting (her choice--but a highly rewarding one for her, and I'm sure beneficial for her community) had access to a national heath system, she wouldn't have to pray she doesn't get an emergency that will put her in the hospital. AND she is willing to work for peanuts to provide value to her community. The country is getting a great deal with her as a dedicated citizen. It would be more of a win-win situation if the country provided her with the same health benefits she got at her soul-sucking corporate job.
Or the Cock of the Coup.
Good one. I was thinking the quack of the flock.
iris lilies
10-1-25, 1:40pm
So, I'm working on my next market research report, and here is a direct quote from a person I spoke with about social determinants of health.
So I grew up with no privilege. I created my own privilege through just educating myself and learning all I could learn. I was very determined to not be a product of where I came from. I tried really hard to elevate myself, which I did. I've worked for General Motors, Hewlett Packard, and it was my cushion. Corporate America was my cushion. It provided me with all the stability, all of the comfort that I needed, but it was not satisfying to my purpose. So I work a full time schedule on a very part time salary. So I don't currently have medical insurance. I this is my first time in life, being without medical insurance, I'm scared...a little nervous. I do have health conditions, but I maintain the best I can by trying to eat healthy.I protected myself with life insurance. I feel like, if you know nothing else, I will be covered on that end.
If this person who is working in a non-profit setting (her choice--but a highly rewarding one for her, and I'm sure beneficial for her community) had access to a national heath system, she wouldn't have to pray she doesn't get an emergency that will put her in the hospital. AND she is willing to work for peanuts to provide value to her community. The country is getting a great deal with her as a dedicated citizen. It would be more of a win-win situation if the country provided her with the same health benefits she got at her soul-sucking corporate job.
You are drawing financial conclusions without “showing your work” as our old math teachers would say.
I would like to know how much she makes first of all, where she lives (cost of rent consideration) before I conclude, she cannot afford an ACA policy.
how many people have told you they cannot afford an ACA policy? Whether with today’s current subsidies or before the three year hike in subsidy. Catherine, isn’t this woman telling you she does not now have an ACA policy and that’s with these apparently high subsidies? do I understand her correctly?
I remain skeptical that my friends with three paid for buildings that contain 5-6 rental units plus their paid for Mexican condo can’t afford an ACA policy. That’s what they told me back in the day. ridiculous.
Actually, I'm not trying to lawyer her specific case, it's more an attempt to put a face on the impact of not having a national health plan. You are right, she does not have an ACA policy, as far as I know. That's what she suggests here--that all she has is a life insurance policy.
Franky, it is raising my blood pressure listing to the straight-out lies and deception I'm hearing with DH watching Fox News in the other room right now. UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS DO NOT QUALIFY FOR FEDERAL MEDICAID MONEY. Unless they go to a hospital with a life-threatening condition, the hospital MAY get reimbursed for their care. Medicair funds represent less than 2% of the Federal Medicaid budget. Undocumented workers, however, contribute almost $1B dollars in taxes. https://itep.org/reuters-fact-check-undocumented-immigrants-can-and-do-pay-taxes/
Let's quibble about nickels and dimes, but the fact is, the Republican party is using this ONE talking point in typical Trump fashion to try to convince Americans that these Medicaid cuts are warranted because aliens are stealing millions and millions from American taxpayers. It is driving me crazy. If this Medicaid stuff goes down, Federally Qualified Health Centers will close. People will die. But who cares as long as it's not my kid. Not in my community.
ETA: IL, I'm not "shouting" at you--it's this background noise in my living room I'm reacting to.
Franky, it is raising my blood pressure listing to the straight-out lies and deception I'm hearing with DH watching Fox News in the other room right now. UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS DO NOT QUALIFY FOR FEDERAL MEDICAID MONEY.
But in many cases they do qualify for state Medicaid benefits which are paid using federal Medicaid dollars. https://www.uspresidentialelectionnews.com/2025/10/fact-check-yes-blue-states-are-using-medicaid-dollars-to-cover-illegal-immigrants/#google_vignette
How States Backdoor Federal Medicaid Money
Some states have restructured their budgets in ways that let them expand coverage to people who should not qualify, while still drawing down federal Medicaid matching funds.
Provider tax recycling: States like California tax hospitals and insurers, then recycle the money back through Medicaid payments. That inflated spending triggers more federal matching funds, which are then used to expand coverage
Artificial cost shifting: By reclassifying certain services or administrative costs, states can claim them under Medicaid and pull in a federal match, even when the services go to populations that should be excluded
Waivers and loopholes: Some states apply for waivers or build state programs that mirror Medicaid, but still manage to intertwine them with the federal match system
State-funded Medicaid lookalikes: In places like California, Oregon, Washington, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey, these programs provide full health coverage to illegal immigrants. On paper, they are “state programs,” but in practice, they often rely on the same infrastructure and funding flows as Medicaid
The result is that Medicaid dollars, both state and federal, are being used directly and indirectly to pay for illegal immigrant health care.
California – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all low-income adults regardless of status (Source (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/keep-your-Medi-Cal/Pages/Medi-Cal-Immigrant-Eligibility-FAQs.aspx))
Oregon – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all ages, regardless of status (Source (https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/oregon-health-plan-changes-improve-access-to-care/))
Washington – Full Medicaid-style coverage for adults regardless of status (Source (https://healthcarevaluehub.org/report/washington/2024/washington-expands-medicaid-like-coverage-regardless-of-citizenship-status/))
Illinois – Medicaid-style coverage for undocumented seniors 65+(Source (https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalclients/healthbenefitsforimmigrants/healthbenefitsforimmigrantseniors.html))
New York – Full Medicaid for undocumented seniors 65+; pregnant women and children also covered regardless of status (Source (https://www.nyc.gov/site/mayorspeu/resources/expanded-medicaid.page))
New Jersey – Coverage for all children under 19, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://nj.gov/coverallkids/faqs/))
Connecticut – Coverage for children up to age 15, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2024-07-01/ct-kids-ages-15-and-younger-now-qualify-for-husky-health-care-regardless-of-immigration-status))
Rhode Island – Coverage for all children under 18, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.rilegislature.gov/pressrelease/_layouts/15/ril.pressrelease.inputform/DisplayForm.aspx?List=c8baae31-3c10-431c-8dcd-9dbbe21ce3e9&ID=372559))
Massachusetts – MassHealth Limited plus Health Safety Net for certain hospital/community health services, regardless of status (Source (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-safety-net-for-patients))
District of Columbia – DC Health Care Alliance covers undocumented adults (Source (https://www.legalaiddc.org/legal-info/know-your-rights-dc-healthcare-alliance))
Minnesota – MinnesotaCare expansion for undocumented adults (Ended July 2025, Source (https://www.mnsure.org/assister-central/announcements/index.jsp?id=34-607905))
Colorado – Not Medicaid, but OmniSalud provides subsidized marketplace plans for undocumented residents (Source (https://connectforhealthco.com/get-started/omnisalud/))
This list is not exhaustive but merely a sample of where illegal aliens can receive taxpayer-funded Medicaid on your dime.
The result is that Medicaid dollars, both state and federal, are being used directly and indirectly to pay for illegal immigrant health care.
California – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all low-income adults regardless of status (Source (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/keep-your-Medi-Cal/Pages/Medi-Cal-Immigrant-Eligibility-FAQs.aspx))
Oregon – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all ages, regardless of status (Source (https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/oregon-health-plan-changes-improve-access-to-care/))
Washington – Full Medicaid-style coverage for adults regardless of status (Source (https://healthcarevaluehub.org/report/washington/2024/washington-expands-medicaid-like-coverage-regardless-of-citizenship-status/))
Illinois – Medicaid-style coverage for undocumented seniors 65+(Source (https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalclients/healthbenefitsforimmigrants/healthbenefitsforimmigrantseniors.html))
New York – Full Medicaid for undocumented seniors 65+; pregnant women and children also covered regardless of status (Source (https://www.nyc.gov/site/mayorspeu/resources/expanded-medicaid.page))
New Jersey – Coverage for all children under 19, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://nj.gov/coverallkids/faqs/))
Connecticut – Coverage for children up to age 15, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2024-07-01/ct-kids-ages-15-and-younger-now-qualify-for-husky-health-care-regardless-of-immigration-status))
Rhode Island – Coverage for all children under 18, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.rilegislature.gov/pressrelease/_layouts/15/ril.pressrelease.inputform/DisplayForm.aspx?List=c8baae31-3c10-431c-8dcd-9dbbe21ce3e9&ID=372559))
Massachusetts – MassHealth Limited plus Health Safety Net for certain hospital/community health services, regardless of status (Source (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-safety-net-for-patients))
District of Columbia – DC Health Care Alliance covers undocumented adults (Source (https://www.legalaiddc.org/legal-info/know-your-rights-dc-healthcare-alliance))
Minnesota – MinnesotaCare expansion for undocumented adults (Ended July 2025, Source (https://www.mnsure.org/assister-central/announcements/index.jsp?id=34-607905))
Colorado – Not Medicaid, but OmniSalud provides subsidized marketplace plans for undocumented residents (Source (https://connectforhealthco.com/get-started/omnisalud/))
This list is not exhaustive but merely a sample of where illegal aliens can receive taxpayer-funded Medicaid on your dime.
Interesting information.
In many of these state cases, the direct and indirect funds drawn from the Federal coffers is limited to seniors and children. I would like to see what percentage of the Federal budget these workarounds to cover sick people represent.
It's also a question of priorities. We are not expanding the National debt by trillions of dollars by tightening the Medicare/Medicaid belt. Personally, I would never die on the sword of taking healthcare away from already indigent people... but Trump's soundbite that "Illegal Aliens are siphoning your money and that's why we have to pass this bill." is bunk.
iris lilies
10-1-25, 2:49pm
Actually, I'm not trying to lawyer her specific case, it's more an attempt to put a face on the impact of not having a national health plan. You are right, she does not have an ACA policy, as far as I know. That's what she suggests here--that all she has is a life insurance policy.
Franky, it is raising my blood pressure listing to the straight-out lies and deception I'm hearing with DH watching Fox News in the other room right now. UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS DO NOT QUALIFY FOR FEDERAL MEDICAID MONEY. Unless they go to a hospital with a life-threatening condition, the hospital MAY get reimbursed for their care. Medicair funds represent less than 2% of the Federal Medicaid budget. Undocumented workers, however, contribute almost $1B dollars in taxes. https://itep.org/reuters-fact-check-undocumented-immigrants-can-and-do-pay-taxes/
Let's quibble about nickels and dimes, but the fact is, the Republican party is using this ONE talking point in typical Trump fashion to try to convince Americans that these Medicaid cuts are warranted because aliens are stealing millions and millions from American taxpayers. It is driving me crazy. If this Medicaid stuff goes down, Federally Qualified Health Centers will close. People will die. But who cares as long as it's not my kid. Not in my community.
ETA: IL, I'm not "shouting" at you--it's this background noise in my living room I'm reacting to.
oh honey, my head would explode if I had to have fox or I suppose any of them on all day but yeah fox for sure on during the day at my house. We don’t DO TV during the day at all and we’ve never ever watched News shows (well, never during the day and we stopped watching any tv delivered news 30 years ago.)
we managed to get our conservative talking points elsewhere. :)
Some of the confusion can be resolved with a little searching. I don't really understand complicated exceptions around medicaid, however I take it that there are hospitals and clinics that will not deny treatment for walks ins who are sick. Now, those without health insurance due to affordability will be treated at whose expense? News had at least one of these clinics recently shut down due to the numbers now adding up for continued operations. Others like the big hospitals will need to charge paying customers more to make up the differences, and I assume those cost will be passed along to us in some form or another. It gets complicated, but I doubt the GOP is representing the situations accurately.
https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/5-key-facts-about-immigrants-and-medicaid/
iris lilies
10-1-25, 7:17pm
Some of the confusion can be resolved with a little searching. I don't really understand complicated exceptions around medicaid, however I take it that there are hospitals and clinics that will not deny treatment for walks ins who are sick. Now, those without health insurance due to affordability will be treated at whose expense? News had at least one of these clinics recently shut down due to the numbers now adding up for continued operations. Others like the big hospitals will need to charge paying customers more to make up the differences, and I assume those cost will be passed along to us in some form or another. It gets complicated, but I doubt the GOP is representing the situations accurately.
https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/5-key-facts-about-immigrants-and-medicaid/
Hospitals are required by law to treat ANYONE in a medical emergency. Anyone. That’s federal law. It was enacted during the Reagan years.
Roger’s link is from the “ KFF” which irritatingly changed its name from the Kaiser Family Foundation. I think we all know them as their old name and they are a reputable think tank that does healthcare population research.
flowerseverywhere
10-2-25, 5:58am
Alan, your post was interesting and I understand a lot of what your point is.
So if any expanded Medicaid or other programs that states pay for totally exclude illegals, how will that affect us as a whole. For instance, if children get no healthcare and are allowed to go to school without questioning legal status, what happens during measles for example when herd immunity is not reached? What happens if a woman goes into labor?
As long as children are allowed to go to school without questioning legal no documentation of legal status, there is birthright citizenship and people can request asylum anytime, not just at a legal border crossing at first entry this will continue to be a problem. Plus employers not checking legal status or e-verify being incorrect. Like the Iowa school district superintendent fiasco. Until stiff penalties are given to employers this will not change. Obviously day laborers outside of a Home Depot would cease to exist. Do you think any of these things will be changed to avoid some of these problems?
executive orders will not fix this. And I seriously doubt laws will change with our legislative make up. And should they change? Impeachments, investigations, opposition to doge actions large taking up enormous legal time and resources that could go towards getting these issues straightened out. Both parties are to blame.
iris lilies
10-3-25, 2:43pm
So, I'm working on my next market research report, and here is a direct quote from a person I spoke with about social determinants of health.
So I grew up with no privilege. I created my own privilege through just educating myself and learning all I could learn. I was very determined to not be a product of where I came from. I tried really hard to elevate myself, which I did. I've worked for General Motors, Hewlett Packard, and it was my cushion. Corporate America was my cushion. It provided me with all the stability, all of the comfort that I needed, but it was not satisfying to my purpose. So I work a full time schedule on a very part time salary. So I don't currently have medical insurance. I this is my first time in life, being without medical insurance, I'm scared...a little nervous. I do have health conditions, but I maintain the best I can by trying to eat healthy.I protected myself with life insurance. I feel like, if you know nothing else, I will be covered on that end.
If this person who is working in a non-profit setting (her choice--but a highly rewarding one for her, and I'm sure beneficial for her community) had access to a national heath system, she wouldn't have to pray she doesn't get an emergency that will put her in the hospital. AND she is willing to work for peanuts to provide value to her community. The country is getting a great deal with her as a dedicated citizen. It would be more of a win-win situation if the country provided her with the same health benefits she got at her soul-sucking corporate job.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gURhbK0Q8pc
I just happened to run across this today as I was listening to Caleb Hammer, one of the financial kids I tune into now and then.
This is your girl. She wants to flee the United States because she “literally “ hates everything about the United States and when pressed for specifics, she literally hates the healthcare system, the one she’s never applied for help with. The one she clearly knows nothing about. The one she’s too lazy to explore.
The salient conversation happens at 9:15 To 12:45.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gURhbK0Q8pc
I just happened to run across this today as I was listening to Caleb Hamme, one of the financial kids I tune into now and then.
This is your girl. She wants to flee the United States because she “literally “ hates everything about the United States and when pressed for specifics, she literally hates the healthcare system, the one she’s never applied for help with. The one she clearly knows nothing about. The one she’s too lazy to explore.
The salient conversation happens at 9:15 To 12:45.
First of all, I also like Caleb Hamme. He's annoying sometimes to listen to, but he makes some good points, and he made a few good points in that clip--not to mention how annoying that woman is.
The person I quoted in my previous post did say this (which I didn't include in the quote above):
"I know that I have the resources and I have people that I can go to to perhaps get some type of insurance that is affordable, but it may not be what I would been offered if I was still with General Motors. So I am conditioning myself to just being accepting whatever it is that I qualify for."
The person I interviewed was really nothing like the woman in the video because my interviewee was driven, self-motivated, intelligent, and principled. She didn't complain, she was just talking about the reality of her situation. Yes, she made that choice to work for a non-profit on a very small salary and she gave up a sweet Cadillac plan. My point is that IMHO, insurance access should be more universal in terms of coverage. It would make everything more efficient.
But thanks for the video. Now I want to watch the whole thing!
iris lilies
10-3-25, 8:45pm
First of all, I also like Caleb Hamme. He's annoying sometimes to listen to, but he makes some good points, and he made a few good points in that clip--not to mention how annoying that woman is.
The person I quoted in my previous post did say this (which I didn't include in the quote above):
"I know that I have the resources and I have people that I can go to to perhaps get some type of insurance that is affordable, but it may not be what I would been offered if I was still with General Motors. So I am conditioning myself to just being accepting whatever it is that I qualify for."
The person I interviewed was really nothing like the woman in the video because my interviewee was driven, self-motivated, intelligent, and principled. She didn't complain, she was just talking about the reality of her situation. Yes, she made that choice to work for a non-profit on a very small salary and she gave up a sweet Cadillac plan. My point is that IMHO, insurance access should be more universal in terms of coverage. It would make everything more efficient.
But thanks for the video. Now I want to watch the whole thing!
I came for the mustache. i stayed for the shitshow.
gawd almighy this girl is dumb. But pretty. Her boyfriend is dumb and p*$$ywhipped. That’s the only explanation.
I haven’t watched the entire thing yet, I had to drive to Kansas City for a meeting. But if she’s taking psych meds she has clearly has some sort of interaction with some kind of health professional.
iris lilies
10-3-25, 10:03pm
First of all, I also like Caleb Hamme. He's annoying sometimes to listen to, but he makes some good points, and he made a few good points in that clip--not to mention how annoying that woman is.
The person I quoted in my previous post did say this (which I didn't include in the quote above):
"I know that I have the resources and I have people that I can go to to perhaps get some type of insurance that is affordable, but it may not be what I would been offered if I was still with General Motors. So I am conditioning myself to just being accepting whatever it is that I qualify for."
The person I interviewed was really nothing like the woman in the video because my interviewee was driven, self-motivated, intelligent, and principled. She didn't complain, she was just talking about the reality of her situation. Yes, she made that choice to work for a non-profit on a very small salary and she gave up a sweet Cadillac plan. My point is that IMHO, insurance access should be more universal in terms of coverage. It would make everything more efficient.
But thanks for the video. Now I want to watch the whole thing!
OK, I agree that the girl in the Caleb Hammer interview is not the same as your interviewee. I just wish your interviewee would explore health insurance because if she has ANY money at all, she needs to protect it. A health event could wipe out her bank account.
Sure understand your point that yes having a national health plan be wonderful* but we don’t have that. We do have all kinds of tax supported health insurance programs so why isn’t she looking into those? Seriously, why?
One reason could be that as Mr. Hammer points out, it’s the TikTok mindset. Drilled into everyone that healthcare is so bad here in the United States. It’s not even worth looking into . just like I had a anti-ACA mindset and was convinced the ACA kept me from having a catastrophic plan when I learned just the last couple days that it did not. We would’ve liked that catastrophic plan.
your interviewee might find that the healthcare plans available to her may not not be the crap she thinks they are. I’m satisfied with the government healthcare plan I’m on and it certainly is not free. I was satisfied with an ACA silver plan which WAS close to free fir us.
*or would it? Hmmm.
OK, I agree that the girl in the Caleb Hammer interview is not the same as your interviewee. I just wish your interviewee would explore health insurance because if she has ANY money at all, she needs to protect it. A health event could wipe out her bank account.
Sure understand your point that yes having a national health plan be wonderful* but we don’t have that. We do have all kinds of tax supported health insurance programs so why isn’t she looking into those? Seriously, why?
One reason could be that as Mr. Hammer points out, it’s the TikTok mindset. Drilled into everyone that healthcare is so bad here in the United States. It’s not even worth looking into . just like I had a anti-ACA mindset and was convinced the ACA kept me from having a catastrophic plan when I learned just the last couple days that it did not. We would’ve liked that catastrophic plan.
your interviewee might find that the healthcare plans available to her may not not be the crap she thinks they are. I’m satisfied with the government healthcare plan I’m on and it certainly is not free. I was satisfied with an ACA silver plan which WAS close to free fir us.
*or would it? Hmmm.
You definitely raise good points and I don't disagree. In my research, however, I've heard that it is very difficult to navigate the healthcare system. I know the reflexive response is "well, try harder--your life depends on it" but for people who are overwhelmed with just keeping their heads above water on a daily basis--balancing jobs and kids and maybe being a single parent and having to choose between gas to get to work and risking the utilities being shut off... every day is a battlefield. So then when you apply for Medicaid and they ask you to document a $50 savings bond that you bought 5 years ago and a myraid of things like that, it gets pushed to the side. You're not sick today, right? I think that couple on Caleb Hammer's show were ridiculous, but I've spoken to a lot of other people who are not ridiculous... just overwhelmed.
It is very difficult without having experienced it, to know what it's like, and it's very easy for people to judge. It's a natural reaction unless you've been there. But I do agree, that my interviewee has the wherewithal to just get something that works for her so she can move on.
One consistent message I got from the people I spoke with is that lack of life skills is a generational lack. They aren't taught and they have no clue. They admitted that when it comes to helping communities dealing with social determinants of health, education on basic life skills would go a long way.
iris lilies
10-4-25, 8:52am
I absolutely agree that in the bigger picture, navigating all of the social welfare programs can be complex, time consuming, and just frustrating.
And for people who dont drive so have limited transportation and who may have limited internet access or skills, it is even worse. Add in having to drag a couple of little kids along every time ypu want to apply for food stamps or TANF benefits or whatever, what a nightmare.
But then, they aren’t working (necessarily, for some anyway) so that IS their work.
Think of our own welfare system experience, the alphabet soup of Medicare. It is pretty complicated and of course not free.
But your interviewee is an educated person. It just takes one person to lead her to Healthcare.gov. Why dont YOU send her that link because that’s where she should start.
catherine
10-4-25, 11:15am
But your interviewee is an educated person. It just takes one person to lead her to Healthcare.gov. Why dont YOU send her that link because that’s where she should start.
Yes, unfortunately, as a market researcher, I can't do stuff like that. Do you know how often I've heard patients relay bad advice they've gotten, or misperceptions they have about their health conditions and I can't correct them? On occasion I've been tempted to slip them an offline hint...
iris lilies
10-5-25, 10:05am
But in many cases they do qualify for state Medicaid benefits which are paid using federal Medicaid dollars. https://www.uspresidentialelectionnews.com/2025/10/fact-check-yes-blue-states-are-using-medicaid-dollars-to-cover-illegal-immigrants/#google_vignette
How States Backdoor Federal Medicaid Money
Some states have restructured their budgets in ways that let them expand coverage to people who should not qualify, while still drawing down federal Medicaid matching funds.
Provider tax recycling: States like California tax hospitals and insurers, then recycle the money back through Medicaid payments. That inflated spending triggers more federal matching funds, which are then used to expand coverage
Artificial cost shifting: By reclassifying certain services or administrative costs, states can claim them under Medicaid and pull in a federal match, even when the services go to populations that should be excluded
Waivers and loopholes: Some states apply for waivers or build state programs that mirror Medicaid, but still manage to intertwine them with the federal match system
State-funded Medicaid lookalikes: In places like California, Oregon, Washington, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey, these programs provide full health coverage to illegal immigrants. On paper, they are “state programs,” but in practice, they often rely on the same infrastructure and funding flows as Medicaid
The result is that Medicaid dollars, both state and federal, are being used directly and indirectly to pay for illegal immigrant health care.
California – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all low-income adults regardless of status (Source (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/keep-your-Medi-Cal/Pages/Medi-Cal-Immigrant-Eligibility-FAQs.aspx))
Oregon – Full Medicaid-style coverage for all ages, regardless of status (Source (https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/oregon-health-plan-changes-improve-access-to-care/))
Washington – Full Medicaid-style coverage for adults regardless of status (Source (https://healthcarevaluehub.org/report/washington/2024/washington-expands-medicaid-like-coverage-regardless-of-citizenship-status/))
Illinois – Medicaid-style coverage for undocumented seniors 65+(Source (https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalclients/healthbenefitsforimmigrants/healthbenefitsforimmigrantseniors.html))
New York – Full Medicaid for undocumented seniors 65+; pregnant women and children also covered regardless of status (Source (https://www.nyc.gov/site/mayorspeu/resources/expanded-medicaid.page))
New Jersey – Coverage for all children under 19, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://nj.gov/coverallkids/faqs/))
Connecticut – Coverage for children up to age 15, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2024-07-01/ct-kids-ages-15-and-younger-now-qualify-for-husky-health-care-regardless-of-immigration-status))
Rhode Island – Coverage for all children under 18, regardless of immigration status (Source (https://www.rilegislature.gov/pressrelease/_layouts/15/ril.pressrelease.inputform/DisplayForm.aspx?List=c8baae31-3c10-431c-8dcd-9dbbe21ce3e9&ID=372559))
Massachusetts – MassHealth Limited plus Health Safety Net for certain hospital/community health services, regardless of status (Source (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-safety-net-for-patients))
District of Columbia – DC Health Care Alliance covers undocumented adults (Source (https://www.legalaiddc.org/legal-info/know-your-rights-dc-healthcare-alliance))
Minnesota – MinnesotaCare expansion for undocumented adults (Ended July 2025, Source (https://www.mnsure.org/assister-central/announcements/index.jsp?id=34-607905))
Colorado – Not Medicaid, but OmniSalud provides subsidized marketplace plans for undocumented residents (Source (https://connectforhealthco.com/get-started/omnisalud/))
This list is not exhaustive but merely a sample of where illegal aliens can receive taxpayer-funded Medicaid on your dime.
This is a very good example of indirect funding of issues claimed by some not to be funded. I knew there was tax money going to adult illegal aliens but at the superficial level, that money cannot be identified.
It reminds me of NPR claiming they don’t get money from taxes but the truth is that they got some funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which is entirely tax funded. it’s a tax pass through.
And I’m not even saying that’s wrong, necessarily, I see that life is complex and there really isn’t much simple about our world.
Yes, unfortunately, as a market researcher, I can't do stuff like that. Do you know how often I've heard patients relay bad advice they've gotten, or misperceptions they have about their health conditions and I can't correct them? On occasion I've been tempted to slip them an offline hint...
Not to drag this topic on, I am listening to Ramit and he actually speaks to some of the family/cultural/societal issues about growing up on the edge. The clip starts at 1:02:30 and runs for 3 minutes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLUp-vF98uo
I related to Josh in many ways.
iris lilies
10-6-25, 10:09am
Not to drag this topic on, I am listening to Ramit and he actually speaks to some of the family/cultural/societal issues about growing up on the edge. The clip starts at 1:02:30 and runs for 3 minutes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLUp-vF98uo
I related to Josh in many ways.
I had started that episode of Ramit show but couldn’t get into the couple so I skipped it. I may go back and watch it now that you pointed this out. I’m reading the comments and they are extremely positive towards this man and his wife.
Ramit did talk about societal systems that support financial success and how hard it is to make it when they are absent, it doesn’t matter how hard you work. Sure I agree with that.
iris lilies
10-8-25, 10:36pm
And yesterday Ramit treated us to another sociology lecture about kids who grow up in neighborhoods where there are very few men and they see so many of their friends killed or relatives dead at early age, and how that affects their “live for today with money” mindset.
The couple on yesterday are tragically unprepared for retirement. The woman cried at the drop of a hat at any negativity. She said near the end of the program she couldn’t stay home alone with her partner’s 14 year-old daughter for him to go out and get a job in the evenings. I think she’s ridiculous. Ramit seemed to ignore the importance of parenting the teenage girl as he offered solutions to their financial woes.
The man was handsome and had a smooth demeanor. He is earning good money for someone who had such a rocky underprivileged childhood but they live in Washington DC so things are expensive there. Their household income is $163,000 and they have more than $300,000 in student loans. The man is 57 years old and has $180,000 in student loans.
that caused me to look up some information about student loans and I will post that on another thread.
But then later in the episode after delivering this lecture about growing up in poverty, Ramit went off on a rant to this couple about how immigrants come here and work hard and sacrifice to earn wealth and stay out of debt. he was trying to convince him that they needed to bring in more money.
it was an odd episode.
catherine
10-8-25, 11:04pm
Hmm.. I'll have to watch that one. I always am so grateful that I never had student loans, and even if I had they would have been a fraction of what people sign up for today. I don't know how they think they're going to pay them off! Something has to change on that front.
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