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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsLessons Learned
Despite the very deliberate efforts of Trump and the Republican party to divide Americans, what is going on right now in Texas is the ultimate proof that such tactics have failed miserably.
The GOP should take note: American citizens will always unite no matter how much division you sow, no matter how low you are willing to stoop in order to pit one citizen against the other, no matter how determined you are to separate us into US versus THEM.
The lessons we are learning from the devastation in Harveys wake are invaluable. We now know that when push comes to shove, our nation is comprised of caring people who have little regard for their neighbours race, religion, or immigration status.
But the lessons we are learning go far beyond that. We have also learned that while self-proclaimed Christian churches keep their doors closed to those who desperately need shelter, Houstons mosques have been open to all. We have learned that celebrity televangelists like multi-millionaire Joel Osteen have proven themselves to be completely devoid of the so-called Christian values they have used as bait in order to line their own pockets.
We have learned that Republicans who voted against relief for the victims of super-storm Sandy have a completely different position when it is their state and their constituents who are affected, highlighting the fact that their concern for their fellow citizens is limited to those whose votes keep them in office.
We have learned of the GOPs dismissal of regulations that, if enforced, would have mitigated the damage. We have learned that no one knows exactly what deadly chemicals are stored at the Arkema plant thanks to Governor Greg Abbott, who, while AG of Texas, classified once-public reports on hazardous chemicals. Thats the same Greg Abbott who is now feigning concern for the people he himself put in harms way.
As for Trump, those of us with functioning brains have not learned anything we didnt already know. The devastation in Texas was immediately reduced to a photo-op, and inane comments about the size of the crowd that showed up for his arrival in a state that is literally drowning. As always, it was all about HIM and we were not surprised. We know that he and Melania were sporting hats that are being sold via Trumps Store because nothing says empathy for your fellow citizens like using a national tragedy as an infomercial to flog your Made in China crap.
Yes, lessons learned and we continue to be educated by people who have opened their hearts and their homes, while so-called Christians close their churches to those in need.
We continue to be educated by black/white/brown citizens who are risking their own safety to save black/white/brown strangers, while the GOP continues to defend their pResidents in-your-face racism and bigotry in the aftermath of the events in Charlottesville.
And sadly, we continue to be educated about a pResident who, desperate for a win after his series of failures, is still pushing for congressional funding of his fuckin useless wall while people whose entire lives have been wiped-out are wondering if theyre even a blip on his radar.
Lessons learned and there are more to come. I have a feeling these lessons will not be forgotten by the populace any time soon.
Wellstone ruled
(34,661 posts)we will see the real tragedy of Harvey. With the Water most likely gone,the piles of Furniture and Sheet Rock waiting to be hauled away,will show the real extent of the damage. And with Texas Insurance Laws that kicked in at midnight,thousands can expect to get screwed royally once again.
This could be the Storm that sends our Nation into a recession.
Ilsa
(61,692 posts)Rapidly rising gasoline prices, even if temporary, the massive losses for insurance companiez, and the halted productivity of everyone in Houston, South Texas except for medical and rescue personnel. All I can do is guess that the companies have insulated themselves against heavy losses.
Wellstone ruled
(34,661 posts)Consumer Staples and Goods are on the plus side stock price wise. Appears this what we used to call the replacement needs after a disaster.
Here is the unknown,remember Katrina,that seemed to be the thing that kicked the Housing Bubble wide open. Do we have another disaster that is about to pop the economy into recession? Hunch says yes. With the Right Wing Nut Jobs in control of Washington,it is only going to get ugly real fast.
The so called Freedom Party(Koch Brothers,and Mercers)are already spewing their collective anti disaster relief in they don't get their cuts in Social Welfare Programs. Another Sandy on Roids.