Monday, June 29, 2026

10 Questions Every Democrat Must Now Be Made Answer

As the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) increasingly influence the Democratic Party, there is a growing need for clarity on what this faction stands for. An editorial highlights 10 important questions aimed at understanding Democrats' alignment with the DSA's radical platform. These questions focus on key policies and beliefs that could shape the future of the party.

1. Radical Platform of the DSA: The DSA's new platform is rooted in Marxism, portraying "the entire global system of capital" as an adversary. It promises to create an entirely new society, reflecting a significant shift to the left.

2. Public Awareness: Many members of the Democratic Party and the general public lack understanding of the DSA’s views and goals. Previous scrutiny of the DSA has been limited despite their growing rhetoric and influence.

3. Poll Results: A recent poll indicates that nearly 50% of Democrats have a favorable view of socialism, highlighting a potential shift in party ideology and its leadership dynamics.

4. Questions for Democrats:

● Support for Major Spending Initiatives: Can Democrats endorse initiatives like paid family leave, free education, and cancellation of student debt, despite the hefty financial burdens these entail?

● Universal Healthcare: Do Democrats back the DSA’s call for universal healthcare and understand its significant cost implications?

● Reparations for Slavery: Are they in favor of reparations, recognizing the economic and social impacts this would create?

5. Policing and Criminal Justice:

● Defunding the Police: Do Democrats support the idea of defunding police departments and what alternatives do they propose?

● Federal Jobs Guarantee: Would they support a federal jobs guarantee reminiscent of socialist policies, despite the financial fallout?

6. Immigration and Borders:

● Abolition of ICE: Do Democrats advocate for an open borders policy and the elimination of current immigration enforcement agencies?

7. Nationalization of Industries: Would Democrats agree to nationalizing large corporations and essential industries under a socialist agenda?

8. Military and Foreign Policy:

● Defunding the Military: Do they support the drastic reduction of military spending and closing foreign military bases?

9. Political Structure Changes:

● Abolishing Key Government Institutions: Are they in favor of abolishing the Electoral College, the Senate, and even the Supreme Court as a means to reshape governance?

10. Perception of the Party’s Direction: Lastly, do Democrats agree that the party may be moving towards communism, as stated by some of their leaders, and if they don’t agree, why is there hesitance to criticize the DSA?

The editorial calls on Democrats to clarify their positions on these pressing issues, emphasizing that they must be held accountable for their allegiance to the DSA’s socialist platform. Understanding where the party stands on these matters is vital for party members and voters alike, as the implications of these policies could significantly reshape America’s political and economic landscape. 

https://issuesinsights.com/2026/06/29/10-questions-every-democrat-must-answer/

The NIH Emails

A collection of internal emails from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has revealed pre-existing pandemic planning collaborations between various organizations, including governments, foundations, and pharmaceutical companies, dating back to 2016. Dr. Francis Collins, NIH Director from 2009 to 2021, played a central role in these efforts, laying the groundwork for responses to health crises, including Covid-19.

● Historical Context: The emails, dated from at least 2016, show strategic foresight in pandemic preparedness long before Covid-19. Collins’ collaboration with the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, and the World Economic Forum was aimed at strengthening health research and international coordination.

● Ebola Outbreak Influence: The response strategy saw significant momentum following the Ebola outbreak from 2014-2016, which exposed weaknesses in global preparedness. The focus shifted towards building permanent infrastructure instead of reactive measures.

● Establishment of CEPI: The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) was established in 2017 to prioritize vaccine development, creating a significant player in pandemic preparedness, which became pivotal during the Covid response.

● Investment in Research in Africa: Emails highlight a concerted effort to enhance research capabilities in Africa, where regulatory frameworks were often lacking. Collins emphasized the need for strong leadership in these initiatives.

● Long-term Planning by Pharmacies: By 2018, discussions among pharmaceutical leaders indicated plans for enduring investments in health infrastructure. This included planning projects like SMART Vaccines, which aimed to guide vaccine investments.

● Impact at the Onset of Covid: When Covid emerged in early 2020, multiple organizations were well-prepared, leading to coordinated roles in vaccine funding and distribution. In contrast, widespread lockdowns and mask mandates were introduced as urgent measures.

● Response to Diverging Opinions: The Great Barrington Declaration, which criticized broad lockdowns, faced significant pushback from Collins, who sought to discredit dissenting views and maintain the narrative built by his network.

● Germ Games Concept: The emails also detail a proposal for large-scale simulations, dubbed "Germ Games," inspired by military war games. These exercises aimed to improve pandemic response and garnered support from significant health organizations and the Gates Foundation.

● Collaboration with the Military: Collins and Fauci conversed about utilizing the military's experience in crisis simulations to enhance pandemic preparedness.

● Ongoing Global Health Initiatives: The 'Germ Games' idea paved the way for future simulations like Event 201, focusing on crisis management in a hypothetical pandemic scenario. This approach shaped pandemic readiness strategies, which were instrumental during the Covid-19 outbreak.

The internal NIH emails indicate that the response to Covid-19 did not arise spontaneously but was the culmination of years of planning and strategic collaborations among various influential health organizations. These findings prompt reconsideration of how pandemic preparedness was implemented, revealing potential conflicts and vested interests that shaped public health responses. The repercussions of these decisions continue to impact global health strategies today. 

https://brownstone.org/articles/the-nih-emails/

RNC Sues Colorado’s TDS-Afflicted Elections Chief For Violating State Constitution

 The lawsuit against Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold regarding voter eligibility rules that permit non-residents to vote in Colorado elections. The Republican National Committee (RNC) is leading the lawsuit, claiming that Griswold's guidance violates the Colorado Constitution.

1. Background of the Lawsuit: The RNC filed a lawsuit against Jena Griswold, alleging she allowed individuals who have never lived in Colorado to vote in state elections. The lawsuit argues that allowing votes based on a parent's residency violates Colorado's residency requirements.

2. Claims in the Lawsuit: The lawsuit indicates that Griswold is contradicting Colorado's constitution by issuing guidance for voting for those who have never made Colorado their home. The RNC asserts that residency cannot be inherited and that the law improperly lets non-residents register and vote.

3. Parties Involved: The lawsuit includes the RNC, Rep. Jeff Crank, and Douglas County Clerk Sheri Davis, who argues that she is caught between following Griswold's guidance and adhering to state law. Clerk Davis claims the inclusion of non-resident voters dilutes the votes of eligible Colorado residents.

4. Griswold's Role: Jena Griswold is a Democrat and has previously attempted to prevent Donald Trump from appearing on the primary ballot, leading to accusations of partisanship. The lawsuit’s timing is crucial, given the upcoming elections.

5. Federal Context: The case references the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA), which regulates voting procedures for service members and overseas citizens but also implies that states have rights to set voter requirements.

6. Prior Legal Context and Outcomes: There have been similar legal challenges in other states, including North Carolina, where courts ruled against non-residents voting in state elections. The RNC has called for Congress to address voting regulations to prevent non-residents from voting in elections where they lack a connection.

7. Impact on Local Politics: Clerk Davis and Rep. Crank are directly affected by the non-resident voting issue, as it changes electoral dynamics and undermines the integrity of elections. The lawsuit represents broader concerns about election integrity and eligibility.

The ongoing lawsuit against Secretary Jena Griswold highlights critical issues surrounding voter eligibility in Colorado, focusing on the balance between federal voting laws and state constitutional requirements. As the legal battle continues, it raises important questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the qualifications necessary for participation in elections.

https://thefederalist.com/2026/06/29/rnc-sues-colorados-tds-afflicted-elections-chief-for-violating-state-constitution/

America 250: Founding fathers, presidents point to the Bible as the anchor of liberty

 As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, there is a reflection on how the Bible has been considered a foundational element of liberty and moral guidance by various presidents and founding fathers throughout American history.

1. Historical References: Presidents like Ulysses S. Grant in 1876 emphasized the Bible as the "sheet-anchor" of American liberties, urging the youth to internalize its teachings. Calvin Coolidge in 1926 highlighted the connection between the nation’s birth and the conviction of its founders who were God-fearing and independent.

2. Influence on Founding Principles: In 1976, Gerald Ford noted that early settlers brought the Bible and principles of equality across the ocean. Franklin D. Roosevelt acknowledged the Bible’s guiding influence, citing George Washington and Thomas Jefferson as examples of founding fathers who held it in high regard for moral guidance.

3. Later Presidential Acknowledgments: Ronald Reagan pointed out the Bible's enduring influence in shaping the nation’s character and rights. He highlighted how its teachings instilled a sense of common purpose among settlers.

4. Call for Bible Education: Historical leaders like Zachary Taylor and Abraham Lincoln advocated for the Bible’s importance in education and moral development, believing it essential for a free society.

The Bible has consistently been regarded by American leaders as a vital source of moral guidance and foundational principles, shaping the nation's identity and values from its inception to the present day.

https://justthenews.com/nation/states/center-square/america-250-founding-fathers-presidents-point-bible-anchor-liberty

When the American Dream Dies, Socialism Rises

A shift in perspective towards socialism among younger Americans is emerging, as they face significant economic challenges that differ from previous generations. This change reveals a sense of disillusionment with the traditional American Dream, leading many to view socialism as an appealing alternative.

● Changing Definitions: For many young individuals, socialism is perceived as a means to achieve economic fairness, contrasting with historical views of it as state control.

● Generational Divide: A survey indicates that 44% of voters under 40 view socialism favorably, while only 12% of older Americans share this view. This divide points to a growing acceptance of socialist ideas among younger people.

● Diminished American Dream: Many young adults believe they may be the first generation to experience a lower standard of living than their parents, challenging a long-held expectation of upward mobility.

● Economic Pressures: Rising costs of housing, education, transportation, and food create financial burdens. Young Americans struggle with high home prices, student debt, expensive childcare, and general living costs.

● Increased Financial Strain: A typical lifestyle that once required a single income now often demands two full-time incomes, leading to greater financial instability for many families.

● Distrust in Institutions: Public trust in institutions has eroded, with younger Americans observing government spending on large programs while struggling with rising personal costs. This perception fosters a belief that the current economic system does not serve them well.

● Political Resonance: Politicians advocating for expansive governmental solutions, like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, attract significant support from younger voters seeking change.

● Dangers of Socialism: Despite its appeal, socialism has historical shortcomings, leading to economic failures in countries like Venezuela and the Soviet Union. Such warnings, however, may seem less relevant to young Americans amid their present struggles.

The attraction of socialism to younger Americans stems from frustration with an economic system that appears increasingly closed off to them. To counter this trend, real policy changes that enhance opportunity, such as affordable housing and rising wages, are essential. When opportunity is accessible, trust in the current economic model can be restored, reducing the allure of socialism as a perceived solution. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/06/when-the-american-dream-dies-socialism-rises/

Congress Is No Longer Performing Its Constitutional Function

Congress is failing to fulfill its constitutional role in governing the United States, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among Americans. The author outlines the consequences of this decline and suggests that addressing these issues requires restoring Congress's legislative powers.

1. Loss of Governance Ability: The federal government is struggling to govern effectively, which has led to various national issues including affordability, healthcare, immigration, and national security. Congress's approval ratings are at their lowest.

2. Persistent Economic Problems: Issues like inflation, inadequate housing, and healthcare dysfunction are symptoms of deeper structural problems within the economy. Congressional inaction on these core issues has left many Americans feeling economically insecure.

3. Legislative Paralysis: Congress is increasingly unable to pass necessary legislation, leading to a reliance on executive orders and regulatory agencies to fill the gap. This departure from the intended separation of powers undermines effective governance.

4. Party Discipline Over Debate: The centralized authority within party leadership diminishes independent legislative debate. This results in members of Congress prioritizing party loyalty over legislative deliberation.

5. Challenges Faced by Presidents: Recent presidencies reveal difficulties in advancing legislative agendas due to partisan divisions. Reliance on executive orders limits the potential for lasting change.

6. Need for Institutional Reform: The article argues that for Republicans (and Congress as a whole) to create meaningful, long-term reforms, they must restore Congress's function as the primary lawmaking body. Legislation should be clear enough to withstand judicial scrutiny and to prevent agencies from overstepping.

The article concludes that protracted legislative inaction not only hampers domestic governance but also projects weakness internationally. A nation that cannot legislate effectively faces significant risks, emphasizing the importance of Congress reclaiming its role to govern effectively for the future of America. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/06/congress-is-no-longer-performing-its-constitutional-function/

The Senate’s Gutless Republican Wonders

The Republican Party in the Senate is facing challenges in passing significant election reforms, specifically the Safeguard America voter ID bill. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of their congressional majority.

● The article discusses how, in the United States, photo identification is required for various activities, yet many states do not require it for voting.

● Many Republicans believe that voter ID should be an easy measure to implement given its perceived necessity by those who voted for them.

● Despite their slim majority, Senate Republicans have been unable to pass the voter ID bill, which is a key priority for President Trump.

● The Democratic Party opposes this legislation, fearing it could disenfranchise parts of their voter base, including marginalized groups.

● The article indicates that the failure to pass the bill may affect the Republicans' chances in upcoming elections.

● Historically, the concept of voter ID was not necessary when identification technology didn't exist, and communities were closely-knit.

● Republicans have tools at their disposal, like extending Senate sessions to push for legislative action, but the author expresses doubt about their willingness to make sacrifices.

● The article concludes with the suggestion that if the Republican Party can successfully implement voter ID legislation, it could strengthen their position ahead of the elections.

The inability of Senate Republicans to pass the voter ID bill raises concerns about their majority's effectiveness and their potential electoral success in the near future. 

https://spectator.org/the-senates-gutless-republican-wonders/

10 Questions Every Democrat Must Now Be Made Answer

As the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) increasingly influence the Democratic Party, there is a growing need for clarity on what this ...