Makisha Boothe’s Post

The State of the Union, SXSW and the Oscars were a reminder of the value our democracy and society places on optics and not actions. But at what cost? The latest from Errin Haines:

If you knew a guy who had a skill for picking winners - you’d listen to him, right? Say he picked the last 10 World Cup winners, or went 10-10 choosing the winner of the Kentucky Derby, or say he could tell you who would win an election. Tuning in to BBC World I learned about a guy named Allan Lichtman. Lichtman is a smart guy - Brooklyn born, he attended Stuyvesant High School and thereafter graduated from Brandeis (Phi Beta Kappa/magna cum laude) and Harvard where he earned his PhD in history. A historian and professor at American University, Lichtman has correctly predicted the results of nine of the 10 most recent presidential elections (It would have been 10 for 10 as he included Al Gore, who eventually lost to George Bush, but won the popular vote). Lichtman’s formula is simple and based on what he calls the “Thirteen Keys” - The system includes four factors based on politics, seven on performance, and two on candidate personality. When 8 or more of the 13 keys are true for the incumbent party, its candidate will win the election—but if fewer than 8 are true, the challenger will win. Lichtman was being interviewed on BBC and he seemed pissed off. The “presidential prognosticator” believes Biden is in a position to win, but suggested that the media and fellow Democrats will be to blame for losing the White House if Biden is forced to leave the race, because that’ll impact the “key count” - and Incumbency is a key “key”. Reading through the “keys” to the White House, depending how you interpret them, Biden seems to hold 9 or 10 keys. If he loses incumbency, it is a different story. It should be noted that “debate performance” is not one of the keys, nor is mental health or age. Turn back the clock, Ronald Reagan had a disastrous start to his debate season - and eventually took the White House in decided fashion, twice. Now, in addition to politicians and pundits calling for a change, popular culture has chimed in - George Clooney, Rob Reiner, Barbara Streisand and many who previously were supportive, simply have become silent - Even Obama, Biden’s former running mate. In a weird instance of bipartisanship, Donald Trump called Clooney a “rat” and suggested he should “get out of politics and go back to TV,” (Of course, he called Biden a rat too). While everyone has become an expert - Biden and democracy are hanging in the wind - and our country is at risk of being led by a wannabe autocrat Donald Trump - who will look to rule the world with his chums Vladimir Putin, Viktor Orbán, MbS and Kim Jong Un. Or, we can listen to the real expert - Allan Lichtman, and let Biden do his thing.

RATIONALE FOR QUITTING USA PRESIDENT RACE: Joe  Biden explains on him withdrawing from this Race for his 2nd Term He had done exceptionally well as the US President in extremely diffficult Covid and Post Covid Times. The only majprblemish on his presidential record will  be that USA not standing up for the Palesteine People, Children, Civilians, whose cause was championed by deveral USA Presidents earlier and received even Nobel Peace Prize for their mediation for temporary peace or truce in Middle East. "It's been the honour of my life to serve as president but in the defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think it's more important than any title," he said. "I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America's future all merited a second term," Biden said. "But nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition, so I've decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation." "I ran for president four years ago because I believed, and still do, that the soul of America was at stake, the very nature of who we are was at stake," he said. "And that's still the case." "I've made it clear that I believe America is at an inflection point, one of those rare moments in history when the decisions we make now will determine the fate of our nation and the world for decades to come 'Passing the torch to new generation: Biden in Oval Office address' Rediff - 25 Jul 24 https://lnkd.in/gQ-Q7679 #biden #joebiden #president #usapresident #futureofdemocracy #unitedstates #democracy #usa #unitedstatesofamerica #elections2024 #november2024

Epic article and headline from The Atlantic covering the historic panel on the chronic disease epidemic at the Senate this week. First of all, there is rampant "distrust in institutions" due to the fact that the "liberal elite" completely misused the power of said institutions over the past 4 years. So if you don't like the "woo woo caucus" or all the Americans behind them, then maybe you should take a look in the mirror and consider why it is that we now have to build alternatives to the modern medical paradigm. Secondly, the fact that this article focuses almost exclusively on the group's connections to Donald Trump and the MAGA movement, as well as the lack of "credentials" for some of the speakers, while dismissing the whole point of the summit....chronic disease, health outcomes, big agriculture and big pharma, just reinforces what I've shared above. The institutions, aka the corporate media, is no longer a trustworthy source of information on a whole host of topics. The fact that this article seeks to further divide it's readers along party lines, when the whole purpose of this summit was to bring together a group of bi-partisan leaders to come together on one of the most important issues of today reveals all you need to know about the media's angle here. You decide who you want to listen to. That's your choice in a free country. Also, the term "woo woo" is the new "conspiracy theory." In a few years, it will turn out, we were right. 😁

Exciting news for the Scottish National Party as six contenders prepare to launch their bids for the leadership position. This upcoming race signals a pivotal moment for the party and could shape their future trajectory significantly. Here are some predictions and commentary on this development: * It is expected that the leadership race will energize party members and supporters, leading to increased engagement and enthusiasm within the party. This could result in a rejuvenated SNP ready to tackle key issues and challenges facing Scotland. * The diverse range of contenders vying for the leadership role indicates a healthy internal democratic process within the SNP. This competition can bring forth fresh ideas and perspectives, ultimately strengthening the party's position in Scottish politics. * The outcome of this leadership contest will not only determine the future direction of the SNP but also have implications for Scotland's political landscape as a whole. The new leader will play a critical role in shaping policies, strategies, and alliances moving forward. * It will be interesting to see how each contender approaches key issues such as independence, social justice, and environmental sustainability. Their visions and platforms will be scrutinized by both party members and the public as they seek to gain support for their bids. * As the SNP navigates through this leadership transition, it is essential for the party to maintain unity and focus on its core principles and objectives. A cohesive and purpose-driven approach will be crucial in effectively representing the interests of the people of Scotland. Overall, the upcoming leadership race for the Scottish National Party presents a significant opportunity for the party to demonstrate its readiness to lead and govern effectively. The outcome of this contest could shape the future political landscape of Scotland and set the course for the SNP's engagement with key issues and challenges in the region. Exciting times lie ahead for the SNP and Scotland as a whole.

Ursula von der Leyen, the current President of the European Commission, has solidified her bid for re-election after receiving unanimous support from her German center-right party, the Christian Democrats, in Berlin. This endorsement reaffirms her intent to pursue a second term and supports her standing within the European Union's executive branch. The decision, made during a leadership meeting, is a step in Von der Leyen's political journey, marking the continuity and stability she brings to the EU's administrative leadership. #EUCommission #UrsulaVonDerLeyen #PoliticalEndorsement #EuropeanUnion

At the Democratic National Convention, former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama delivered powerful messages urging the nation to rally behind Vice President Kamala Harris as she faces a challenging race against Donald Trump. While Michelle Obama noted that "hope is making a comeback," her speech also marked a sharp contrast to her 2016 convention tone, calling out Trump's insecurities about Black success. Former President Obama echoed her urgency, affirming the country's readiness to embrace Harris, highlighting her historic candidacy as the first woman of Jamaican and Indian heritage running for president. These speeches emphasized the urgency to unite a diverse coalition to defeat Trump. Both Barack and Michelle Obama used their platform to stress the stakes, portraying the election as a critical juncture for America's future. As they positioned Harris as a leader capable of healing and advancing the nation, her campaign is drawing support from Democrats across the political spectrum and even former Trump officials like Stephanie Grisham. Grisham candidly criticized her former boss, highlighting Harris’ empathy and integrity in stark contrast to Trump. Harris’ message emphasized unity, freedom, and opportunity, framing her campaign as "people-powered" and committed to moving the country forward. Meanwhile, the symbolic roll call and moments of levity, including Lil Jon's performance, brought a festive atmosphere to the convention. Personal stories from Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff, added depth to the portrayal of Harris as a compassionate leader with the strength and determination to lead the nation. As Harris’ coalition grows, Trump remains a formidable opponent, attacking her with claims of a “Marxist agenda.” However, Barack Obama’s call for unity and Michelle Obama’s dismantling of Trump’s divisive tactics demonstrated the Democratic Party’s commitment to offering a hopeful alternative. With the election framed as a battle for the soul of the nation, Kamala Harris, backed by the Obamas and a wide-reaching coalition, is positioned as the candidate capable of restoring democracy and trust in American institutions. #KamalaHarris2024 #DemocraticNationalConvention #HopeAndChange #EmpathyInLeadership #Election2024 #UniteForTheFuture https://lnkd.in/eZhjfcPV

A few weeks ago, I was at the National Association of State Chambers Annual Conference in West Virginia. As always, it was great to connect with local and national chamber leaders. I thought I’d share a few key takeaways from the meeting: 🔹Political extremes in both directions are challenging pro-business advocates and state chamber leaders. Between red state populists and blue states have progressives, few are able to find pro-business and pro-growth focused pols.  🔹What’s working? Business-led, non-partisan economic visioning and planning. More than a dozen state chambers are leading the way and their members and state economic conditions are reacting positively. The plans aim to increase investment, grow jobs, and expand opportunity for citizens of their state while holding politicians accountable. Great work by: Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Florida Chamber of Commerce, NC Chamber, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Chamber of Commerce 🔹The race for jobs and talent keeps accelerating and state chambers continue to be the drivers behind these efforts. Overall, we’re seeing action move rapidly from DC to the states, and state chambers are the most effective leaders in this space.

In an era of pivotal political events and ongoing governmental debates, President Joe Biden's upcoming State of the Union (SOTU) address holds unparalleled significance. With the backdrop of Super Tuesday's primaries and a tense government funding narrative, this address promises insightful reflections and forward-looking propositions. Why does this annual event captivate Washington, D.C., and what does it mean for Americans nationwide? Our latest blog delves into the historical roots of the SOTU, the evolving audience engagement, and the anticipated themes of tomorrow night's speech. From the unity agenda aiming to bridge bipartisan gaps to addressing pressing issues like healthcare, consumer protection, and national security, get a comprehensive preview of the potential policy directions and their implications. Moreover, the blog explores the Republican response, signaling the intricate dynamics of political discourse and the shaping of future policies. Don't miss out on understanding the depth of these discussions. Dive into our blog for a detailed analysis and tune in to C-SPAN tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET for the live address. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/e2CJP-4b #StateOfTheUnion #SOTU2024 #PoliticalAnalysis #Government #PublicPolicy

Leadership is what you practice