The question on Meet the Press was, “Do you think that the people who stormed the capital should be held responsible to the full extent of the law?” And Stefanik’s response was, “I have concerns about the treatment of the January 6th hostages. Uh, I have concerns, we have a role in Congress of oversight over the treatment of prisoners, and I believe we are seeing the weaponization of the federal government against not just President Trump but we are seeing it against conservatives and Catholics.”
Thank you for providing a clear and concise response based on facts and the actual statement of Stefanik. When presented with evidence of holding incorrect ideas a person of goodwill should admit the error of their previous opinion and form a new opinion based in the corrected facts.
What was that officer to do? His duty was to protect the lawmakers who were at the time under attack by a violent, out of control mob smashing doors and windows to gain entry. Should he have let her climb in through the window and waited around to see what would happen next? What would she have done if she had gotten in and there was no gunshot to give those following behind her pause? I can’t say for sure, but it was apparent the rioters weren’t on a sightseeing tour or simply lost and looking for the exit or a bathroom. She was not a victim of excessive force. She was a poor misguided individual and I lay her death at Trump’s feet. His lies sent her there.
The raging men who lifted and propelled Ashley Babbitt’s body forward, like a battering ram, bear major responsibility for her ultimate death - whether she was a willing martyr or not.
She was shot in the SHOULDER, not the head or the heart, after multiple warnings, in an effort to protect the elected women and men inside the room who were donning gas masks and who were threatened with their lives by the massive assault. The maniacs who used Ashley Babbit as their weapon should be the ones sued by her family…
Again, until you consider that there are others trains of thought besides liberal or conservative, I don’t think you can have a real debate. I believe there are far more moderates in the North Country than liberals or conservatives.
It is incredible that anyone, let alone an elected representative, can get away with such clear bullsh!t. “We” the people elected her. It is on us to change that. Can we fight through the ignorance and malice?
“It is certain, in any case, that ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.” - James Baldwin
Many people talk to me about what a terrible representative Elise Stefanik has become. I keep waiting for someone to tell me I’m wrong about her; that they don’t mind that she lies about everything. She got 60 percent of the vote in last election. If you can change the mind of one of those six people who voted for you, there is a chance of voting her out.
So Ken, 1 Billion people who watched our Congress Member do her job and tell the world that genocide is not OK solidly represents the view of her constitutes.
It is undeniable that she represents the will of her constituents. That is why she is re-elected with larger and larger margins. One mistake liberals make is to confuse her representing "the will" of NY21 voters with "the interests" of said voters. It's undeniable she represents the former. It's equally undeniable that she doesn't represent the latter. But the former is what the majority of voters care about.
I think what you are saying in a roundabout way is that the voters are misguided. The bigger questions is why that is and it often comes down to what their media diet is.
Stefanik doesn’t give a hoot about what her constituents think. All she cares about is her slavish, fawning desire to mimic everything that comes out of Donald Trump’s mouth. It’s Trump’s popularity that keeps her in office, not her own.
Just remember, Anonymous, even a stopped clock is right twice a day. Should all her other lies and unbelievable nonsense be forgotten and forgiven because she was correct about one thing? I think not.
In 2018, I asked Elise Stefanik if she would pledge not to lie during her campaign for re-election. She did not take that pledge. Her behavior since then has gotten worse. If you can’t pledge to upheld a basic moral principle I won’t vote for you.
You also told her that you would not speak to her spokesman, you'd only deal with Congress Member Stefanik directly. Really? You're entitled to preferential treatment? What other news source made the same request? Ken, I noticed that some comments have been banned. Will you pledge never to deny freedom of speech to anyone who posts in this open forum? YES or NO, (sound familiar?)
I appreciate your columns especially those about your wife and your community!
I must tell you that I thought your question asking her to agree not to lie was an unfair question.
In my 80 years on planet earth, I have never known a politician to not ever lie...not even Jimmy Carter!
Her behavior is reprehensible. She is not to be trusted! A few friends and I were speaking of her recently and we all said we felt sorry for her son! The kid doesn’t stand a chance amongst his peers with a parent like her! Go well, keep writing your truth & do good things😊
She’s as narcissistic as Donald Trump is. Trump recently said he hoped for an economic depression between now and November. Sadly for him, he’s apt to lose on that account, too.
Question??? Who is Jill Lochner? Why haven't I heard more about her until this morning? It was suggested, that in lieu of a person running against her, all who oppose her should write in their own name on the ballot.......NOW, I've got a better idea.... we know Lochner won't beat her in the primary, but a write in candidate???? That should be VERY INTERESTING... Your thoughts??? Thank you for all that you do to keep district 21 informed.
I wrote about Jill Lochner when she first announced she was challenging Stefanik. She is an old-fashioned moderate Republican but has no money to run a competitive campaign. At the time, she said most of the Republican chairs would not even meet with her. That is the power of Stefanik. Everyone is afraid of her.
I would love to know how many psychologists they have working for the Republican party who are experts on cults and psychological manipulation. Someday someone will write a book just on this portion of the MAGA movement. We will need conversion therapy for half of the country should we ever get out of this mess.
Of course they won't certify the election unless they win. That is a given. They have learned from past experience how to do things more successfully in the future. The past was practice for the future.
I am wondering what Washington County’s DA Tony Jordan is thinking about what Stefanik had to say? Is he is actually prosecuting “hostages” and not criminals? How does this play out for our local prison’s like Comstock? The correctional officers now become “terrorists” because they are holding “hostages”? It is time to start asking our local elected officials where they stand on Stefanik’s BS.
As for Jill Lochner, I have been following her since early fall. I wonder if there is going to be a primary with her name on the ballot across NY 21? If so, maybe it is time to get her sign’s, put them in our yards and offer the constituent’s an alternative.
I think Mark Frost is more concerned about his access to these people than he is about journalistic integrity. I wouldn’t count on him to be Doremus Jessup.
What do you mean by that? Are you actually saying the January 6th rioters were some kind of noble rescuers who broke the law in the interest of justice and mercy?
I think it is long overdue for local Republican leaders - supervisors, town board members, everyone - to tell us if they support the proposed dictatorship of Trump and Stefanik.
I bought a 1978 Guild from Parkway during Covid because I figured if I spent a crapload of money on a guitar I’d learn to play it. I didn’t get really serious until 2 years ago. I practice for 3 hours a day. I can’t play much because I was just starting to get decent at rhythm and fell in love with fingerstyle.
I don’t know what your level is, but I do online lessons from Tomas Michaud and he’s a lotta fun.
What little I know is that Roman dictators (the origin of the term) were different than the more modern definition. They were leaders that were granted extraordinary powers for a set length of time to deal with a specific issue and then would revert to their previous status.
They lost their republic after Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon river and brought his army into Rome. He and his successors, I don’t believe, were considered dictators.
Now that I go and read the Wikipedia page I see that they say that. “After Caesar's assassination in 44, the office was formally abolished and never revived.”
Maybe that old school dictatorship is what Trump is aiming for with the one day thing. One day to build the wall and drill drill drill. I see somewhere we’re pumping more oil now than ever in the US, but I suppose you can never have too much.
Kevin, John Medina has several Brain Rules books, the first book in the following list I ruled out, that last two I’m thinking about. Brain Rules for Baby: How to Raise a Smart and Happy Child from Zero to Five, Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School and then Brain Rules for Aging Well: 10 Principles for Staying Vital, Happy, and Sharp. I’m not an avid reader, I lean more toward comic books.
In the seventh grade my English teacher informed me if I sat in the back of the room and did not interrupt her class, I could do anything I wanted. I’m not sure what she was thinking, but if she was thinking I would get bored and want to become part of the class again it didn’t work out. Some mornings as I walked to school, I would stop at a small mom and pop grocery store, take the quarter given me to buy milk and snack and purchase a comic book. The pictures helped me remember who was who and in the telling of the story if I did not understand some of the words. When I got home sometimes the dictionary I would pull out.
As for my ability to play the guitar, if I put my mind to it with a couple weeks of practice, I’ll bet I could play rhythm with the following band. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC2MtD3k_9s . They are not at the level of a Beatles cover band and neither am I so it might workout.
So you are saying that Donald Trump’s promise to suspend the Constitution, use the government to strike back at his political enemies and to suspend media outlets that don’t support him are lies. I believe if you review the events of Jan. 6, it shows that overturning an election is very possible.
Trump and his minions have for years now been promoting the fiction to his followers that our Republic is irretrievably broken and that “he alone can fix it” and “make America great again.” That sounds like a dictator wanna be to me.
Elise is not the problem. It is is the 61% of the 21st that are devoted to the Republican religion. We have a large Catholic contingent here. Hence the phrase "coming after Catholics". Looks like Elise missed the fact that the President is a devout Catholic.
President Biden and Rep. Pelosi don’t “support abortion.” They support women’s rights. That’s something any Republican with a libertarian bone in their body should support, too.
Biden and Pelosi are the bulwark against more and more women ending up in the position Kate Cox was in. And as Mike Parwana pointed out you most certainly are passing judgment on their faith.
Why do folks like yourself insist there are just two kinds of people - conservatives and liberals. Many of us are moderates. Many of us are willing to vote for people in any party. There are not just two ways of viewing the world.
Kevin I went to the kate-cox link you supplied. Although your argument “President Biden and Rep. Pelosi don’t “support abortion.” They support women’s rights”, looks similar to the argument that the Civil War was not about slavery but state rights. Yup, the right to own slaves. So, do they support the medical procedure called abortion?
Then you write “That’s something any Republican with a libertarian bone in their body should support, too” This conclusion is based on a generalization of “women’s rights”. The problem as I see it, the right to abortion under the law is now in question. Since your assertion “women’s rights” is on unsolid ground I believe any attempt to persuade the other side will bear no fruit. You’ll be preaching only to the choir, those whom all sing the same song.
Under what conditions should it be a legal right? Then the question of Legal vs what is right? Pandora's Box pops to mind https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandora%27s_box). This will be a never-ending point of contention. Even when the mother’s life is in danger and the decision to use the procedure should be hers alone, some will disagree. It’s just the world we
Your suggestion to ban Dennis sounds a bit like banning books. I don’t recall ever learning anything new from someone who agreed with me. How I handle the information they supply that’s on me and at times I change my mind so often I wonder what do I really think.
I did at least give Dennis credit for not being as bad as the guy with the Nazi propaganda a few days ago. I think his comment about everyone here drinking “Tingley koolaid” was the one that put him firmly in the troll category.
If it was my substack I’d boot him, but it’s not. If I came here and saw a couple of trolls just wallpapering obnoxious comments I’d stop coming.
If he wants to debate that’s fine, I don’t see a lot of polite, reasoned disagreement. It’s up to the management and their tolerance for 🐂
I’d really like to understand why someone like Dennis supports Elise Stefanik. He attacks liberals and Dems but I don’t here a lot of details about why Stefanik has done for local residents.
When it comes to serving constituents you can probably say the same about most Republicans in Congress. And as bad as Kevin McCarthy was I’m sure he did stuff that was beneficial to his district. He’s gone. Patrick McHenry, Kay Granger and probably any number of normies are leaving.
I’m sure it’s not much fun having to bow and scrape to the guy one of them referred to as Orange Jesus. Then you’re having to serve alongside MTG, Boebert, Gosar, Gaetz and oh God the list is too long.
Kevin taking your words “I don’t see a lot of polite, reasoned disagreement” out of context and viewing them as a generalization, watch the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU6LfXNeQM4 Your Brain: Perception Deception | Full Documentary | NOVA | PBS.
After I watched it, I wonder if “reasoned disagreement” is even possible on any subject that has an emotional component.
That was an interesting documentary. I don’t watch tv because I perceive that it’s mostly a waste of life. That is an interest of mine, tho. I can recommend a very good book on neuroplasticity called Brain Rules by John Medina. I’ve started playing guitar in the past few years and am relieved to learn that our brains can continue to form new neural pathways and acquire new abilities even at an advanced age. Not by watching reality shows.
I realize we all have biases. I attempt to keep myself aware of, and avoid, logical fallacies. I try to be polite when arguing with people. There are folks in the church I attend that read my letters. So, when I write them I bear that in mind.
Admittedly, I might be less respectful in comment threads. Then, I don’t go looking for substacks run by Trump supporters in order to engage them. If I wasn’t trolling to begin with, it would evolve into it. It’s a waste of my time and peace of mind and theirs.
That’s where I put Dennis. If he feels that all the commenters here are haters then why is he here? Hoping to make us see the light? He presents himself as having an open mind, but he obviously has some biases, too. Maybe he should watch the show, too.
Abortion is an medical issue involving the mental and physical health of women. Politicians, clerics, and we men in general really should stay out of it.
Yeah. This Catholic was wondering about that comment. I didn't realize They were coming after me. I'd better keep my head down. On second thought, nah.
Excellent analysis, however, any time law enforcement has an event in NY-21 she is usually there, and the local LEO's seem to be very happy to pose for photo ops with her. The list of endorsements she gets from the 15 counties in her district is staggering. Her legislative accomplishment are miniscule, but somehow these folks believe she is doing the people's business. To quote the great cartoonist Walt Kelly, "We have met the enemy and he is us"
Thank you Ken. I watched Rep. Stefanik's interview and was sickened by it. I wish I could put your appeal to the voters in her District in the hands of each and every one of them in the hopes that some would see through her distortions, lies, and incivility. Calling those convicted of crimes on January 6th "hostages" says it all and her unqualified defense of her mentor Donald Trump is sad and reprehensible. Please keep up your appeal to NY 21 voters and let your readers know how we can help bring reason and sensibility back to the North Country.
Many of us knew this is where we would be, after she turned to Chairman Schiff and lied, "This is our time", knowing full well that the rules did not include questions from committee members at large. It was clear as this lying traitor stood on Jan 6 and said, "Some people have questions.", as police handcuffed and transported traitorous criminals from within the Capitol. Then she had the nerve to use LEOs as a campaign prop. Any endorsements she receives from any law enforcement officials, or law enforcement unions should be particularly chilling. Knowing what we know now, in addition to her push of the legal defense fund scam that is now under mail fraud investigation, as well as her campaign assistance to the now indicted former Queens Congressman, should make it clear that the rule of law and Constitution indeed means nothing to this vile traitor.
Israeli children and adults were brutally massacred and their bodies desecrated on October 7th…and those who survived their rapes and horrific physical and emotional wounds became true HOSTAGES …and countless human beings remain hostages in Gaza and God knows where else.
Sadistic Stefanik, who now dares to celebrate convicted Jan. 6th insurrectionists as “hostages”, stayed silent until days later after Oct. 7th…and only after being pressured to release her useless minimalist robotic press statements.
POWs from our World Wars from WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Middle East/other countries where our U. S. Troop overt/covert operations have occurred throughout our military history, including journalists and other civilians, were/are true HOSTAGES.
Stefanik stood silently smiling, as early as 2018, next to her hero Herr Trump, with her familiar facial mask, at Fort Drum on August 13, 2018, when they both used the signing of the 2019 John McCain National Defense Authorization Act as their major joined-at-the-hip Photo Op. Both refused to utter the words “John McCain” during the entire ceremony, as evidenced in every printed document related to that speech, which was intended to once again dishonor an authentic “Hostage”/VN War POW/U.S. Senator who was terminally ill…and died less than 2 weeks later from cancer.
They both knew Sen. McCain was still conscious and aware of what they intentionally perpetrated against a dying American Patriot and War Hero.
It took 2 days for Trump to finally agree to allow the White House flag to be lowered.
As an active duty career Navy nurse, and ultimately as a hospice nurse, I was privileged to meet then CAPT John McCain, and countless other POWS from the VN War era and earlier wars. I wish I had remained healthy enough to serve as a VA Hospital volunteer.
But sadly, as a retired Navy officer, I remain ashamed of the Vietnam Vets Org., American Legion, VFW, The Military Officers Association, and other military associations - who to this day have never condemned or criticized Trump for his abuse and dishonoring of ALL POWS, living and deceased, from all wars. And the continued abuse and dishonoring of all surviving family members of POWS.
And I regret having voted for our NYS Putin/Trump puppet Stefanik the first time around…naively believing that given the strong female representation of Betty Little and Kirsten Gillibrand that she would adopt positive collegiality which might strengthen both parties in NYS.
I stopped voting for Stefanik, Stec and all GOP candidates - local and National - after Sen John McCain’s death. I can only hope more Women…military and civilian…mothers and daughters and grandmothers of both parties … will do the same in the days and months ahead.
Thank you for your service and your comment. It would have been an honor to meet John McCain and the others. I also remember James Stockdale who ran with Ross Perot as another man who suffered in the POW camps.
Also, I can’t think of the word hostage without being reminded of the hostages held in Iran for 444 days. Thanks Ted Koppel for the count.
I cannot recall any other politician so willing to say ANYTHING to advance her own interests. A totally hollow person, she's actually a perfect match for her Svengali - the terrifying Donald Trump. I would urge my North Country neighbors to think carefully about what is at stake here. Whatever else concerns you; whatever Trumpian promises sound attractive; don't forget that without democracy, our Republic is lost and so are we.
I think if you read the Jan. 6 Report, if you read what Donald Trump has promised to do if elected (suspend Constitution etc, if you read any of the indictments against Trump you will get a pretty good idea of what criminal behavior he and his minions are capable of doing. Have you read any of these documents?
I think you underestimate the powers of the executive branch of government. You should read the January 6 report or any of the indictments. These are serious, serious charges backed by strong evidence.
This report includes testimony from Special Agent David Sawyer. He witnessed an altercation between demonstrators and Officer Dunn. Unfortunately, video shows he was not in the building at the time and cameras confirm he was at another building and it was impossible he witnessed the event. He lied under oath, nothing will happen to him.
The hate that Elise Stefanik has for our country’s democratic and justice system values lives loudly within her. What we need to understand is that Stefanik, as well as her right-wing cohorts, are literally at war with our country. They will use any means necessary in their attempt to control the levers of government, including lies, cheating, and threats.
We need to stand strong in protecting our democracy.
Geeze. It is really hard to understand. Perhaps we can get an explanation from Mark Frost of the Chronicle. HIs pen has advanced Stefanik's career and continues to promote her lies and Anti-American agenda. Would love to hear his views beyond his stock excuse of "everyone had their own opinion." It's not just a matter of opinion, Mark. Your false press is part of the problem.
Thanks for asking, Dennis. Apart from her UnAmerican lies to her constituents, particularly regarding the validity of the 2020 election, despite promising to deliver the truth, and despite her refusal to recognize and honor the office of the president of the United States, Stefanik has and continues to give aid and comfort to the enemies of the Constitution, particularly the murderous insurrectionist fascist, Donald Trump, whose lies led to the killing of Ashli Babbitt, and to whom she pays servile tribute unbecoming of a free and independent American with allegiance to one nation indivisable. She is treasonous to all things American.
exactly...all her words are despicable....and dangerous....and how anyone in her, in our, election district can think she represents us is, at this point, insane. She writes in her newsletter that it is an honor to represent us...we are dishonored by her.
I hope you have calmed down Ken and catched your breath. Whew! We have work to do this coming election to elect a more reasonable congressional representative in NY21.
Not to be a pessimist, but I think our only real chance of losing the Albany Tourist is if the Orange Loser picks her in the veepstakes. If he does we get rid of her. If he doesn’t she’s got egg on her face because she sold every ounce of dignity for bupkis.
Redistricting might give hope that some in the district will be drawn into a new district, but that just means others will be subject to her representation.
The question on Meet the Press was, “Do you think that the people who stormed the capital should be held responsible to the full extent of the law?” And Stefanik’s response was, “I have concerns about the treatment of the January 6th hostages. Uh, I have concerns, we have a role in Congress of oversight over the treatment of prisoners, and I believe we are seeing the weaponization of the federal government against not just President Trump but we are seeing it against conservatives and Catholics.”
Thank you for providing a clear and concise response based on facts and the actual statement of Stefanik. When presented with evidence of holding incorrect ideas a person of goodwill should admit the error of their previous opinion and form a new opinion based in the corrected facts.
By using the term “hostages” there is a strong implication they did nothing wrong and are being held against their will.
Ask unarmed, murdered Army veteran Ashley Babbitt who was her uniformed well armed killer.
She shouldn't have been breaking the law. Period. She wasn't *murdered*.
What was that officer to do? His duty was to protect the lawmakers who were at the time under attack by a violent, out of control mob smashing doors and windows to gain entry. Should he have let her climb in through the window and waited around to see what would happen next? What would she have done if she had gotten in and there was no gunshot to give those following behind her pause? I can’t say for sure, but it was apparent the rioters weren’t on a sightseeing tour or simply lost and looking for the exit or a bathroom. She was not a victim of excessive force. She was a poor misguided individual and I lay her death at Trump’s feet. His lies sent her there.
Thanks, Beth Ann and others.
The raging men who lifted and propelled Ashley Babbitt’s body forward, like a battering ram, bear major responsibility for her ultimate death - whether she was a willing martyr or not.
She was shot in the SHOULDER, not the head or the heart, after multiple warnings, in an effort to protect the elected women and men inside the room who were donning gas masks and who were threatened with their lives by the massive assault. The maniacs who used Ashley Babbit as their weapon should be the ones sued by her family…
I think you are splitting hairs. Are hostages guilty of something or are they innocent?
Lol MAGA madness for sure!
Twist it, turn it, make it fit your dialogue.
You aren't able to gaslight anyone here.
If you support her you are complicit with crime.
Again, until you consider that there are others trains of thought besides liberal or conservative, I don’t think you can have a real debate. I believe there are far more moderates in the North Country than liberals or conservatives.
I wondered how long it would take for you to start the name calling.
It is incredible that anyone, let alone an elected representative, can get away with such clear bullsh!t. “We” the people elected her. It is on us to change that. Can we fight through the ignorance and malice?
“It is certain, in any case, that ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.” - James Baldwin
Many people talk to me about what a terrible representative Elise Stefanik has become. I keep waiting for someone to tell me I’m wrong about her; that they don’t mind that she lies about everything. She got 60 percent of the vote in last election. If you can change the mind of one of those six people who voted for you, there is a chance of voting her out.
So Ken, 1 Billion people who watched our Congress Member do her job and tell the world that genocide is not OK solidly represents the view of her constitutes.
It is undeniable that she represents the will of her constituents. That is why she is re-elected with larger and larger margins. One mistake liberals make is to confuse her representing "the will" of NY21 voters with "the interests" of said voters. It's undeniable she represents the former. It's equally undeniable that she doesn't represent the latter. But the former is what the majority of voters care about.
I think what you are saying in a roundabout way is that the voters are misguided. The bigger questions is why that is and it often comes down to what their media diet is.
I disagree. I know for a fact that many voters in this district vote for the R after any candidate’s name without even knowing policies.
Stefanik doesn’t give a hoot about what her constituents think. All she cares about is her slavish, fawning desire to mimic everything that comes out of Donald Trump’s mouth. It’s Trump’s popularity that keeps her in office, not her own.
Just remember, Anonymous, even a stopped clock is right twice a day. Should all her other lies and unbelievable nonsense be forgotten and forgiven because she was correct about one thing? I think not.
In 2018, I asked Elise Stefanik if she would pledge not to lie during her campaign for re-election. She did not take that pledge. Her behavior since then has gotten worse. If you can’t pledge to upheld a basic moral principle I won’t vote for you.
You also told her that you would not speak to her spokesman, you'd only deal with Congress Member Stefanik directly. Really? You're entitled to preferential treatment? What other news source made the same request? Ken, I noticed that some comments have been banned. Will you pledge never to deny freedom of speech to anyone who posts in this open forum? YES or NO, (sound familiar?)
Sounds like you worked for Stefanik. Her attack dog spokesperson was harassing my staff. I think I banned him from newsroom too. I would do it again.
Noticing that anonymity seems to be your need. Because you defend the indefensible?
I appreciate your columns especially those about your wife and your community!
I must tell you that I thought your question asking her to agree not to lie was an unfair question.
In my 80 years on planet earth, I have never known a politician to not ever lie...not even Jimmy Carter!
Her behavior is reprehensible. She is not to be trusted! A few friends and I were speaking of her recently and we all said we felt sorry for her son! The kid doesn’t stand a chance amongst his peers with a parent like her! Go well, keep writing your truth & do good things😊
I didn't realize that her Republican opponent was still in the race. When journalists fail to inform, lies spread.
Do you sincerely think that Elise real desire was just to call out antisemitism? Are you that gullible?
She’s as narcissistic as Donald Trump is. Trump recently said he hoped for an economic depression between now and November. Sadly for him, he’s apt to lose on that account, too.
Question??? Who is Jill Lochner? Why haven't I heard more about her until this morning? It was suggested, that in lieu of a person running against her, all who oppose her should write in their own name on the ballot.......NOW, I've got a better idea.... we know Lochner won't beat her in the primary, but a write in candidate???? That should be VERY INTERESTING... Your thoughts??? Thank you for all that you do to keep district 21 informed.
I wrote about Jill Lochner when she first announced she was challenging Stefanik. She is an old-fashioned moderate Republican but has no money to run a competitive campaign. At the time, she said most of the Republican chairs would not even meet with her. That is the power of Stefanik. Everyone is afraid of her.
Here is the article:
https://kentingley.substack.com/p/if-you-are-looking-for-a-new-republican
I would love to know how many psychologists they have working for the Republican party who are experts on cults and psychological manipulation. Someday someone will write a book just on this portion of the MAGA movement. We will need conversion therapy for half of the country should we ever get out of this mess.
Of course they won't certify the election unless they win. That is a given. They have learned from past experience how to do things more successfully in the future. The past was practice for the future.
I am wondering what Washington County’s DA Tony Jordan is thinking about what Stefanik had to say? Is he is actually prosecuting “hostages” and not criminals? How does this play out for our local prison’s like Comstock? The correctional officers now become “terrorists” because they are holding “hostages”? It is time to start asking our local elected officials where they stand on Stefanik’s BS.
As for Jill Lochner, I have been following her since early fall. I wonder if there is going to be a primary with her name on the ballot across NY 21? If so, maybe it is time to get her sign’s, put them in our yards and offer the constituent’s an alternative.
I think Mark Frost is more concerned about his access to these people than he is about journalistic integrity. I wouldn’t count on him to be Doremus Jessup.
Ann Franks accomplices broke the law too.
What do you mean by that? Are you actually saying the January 6th rioters were some kind of noble rescuers who broke the law in the interest of justice and mercy?
I think it is long overdue for local Republican leaders - supervisors, town board members, everyone - to tell us if they support the proposed dictatorship of Trump and Stefanik.
So was Rome.
Kevin, you put a question in my mind. so, a searching I went a searching, and the following link is what I found https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romandictator
I have ovation guitar, that I haven't attempted to play in so long may calluses are gone.
I bought a 1978 Guild from Parkway during Covid because I figured if I spent a crapload of money on a guitar I’d learn to play it. I didn’t get really serious until 2 years ago. I practice for 3 hours a day. I can’t play much because I was just starting to get decent at rhythm and fell in love with fingerstyle.
I don’t know what your level is, but I do online lessons from Tomas Michaud and he’s a lotta fun.
What little I know is that Roman dictators (the origin of the term) were different than the more modern definition. They were leaders that were granted extraordinary powers for a set length of time to deal with a specific issue and then would revert to their previous status.
They lost their republic after Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon river and brought his army into Rome. He and his successors, I don’t believe, were considered dictators.
Now that I go and read the Wikipedia page I see that they say that. “After Caesar's assassination in 44, the office was formally abolished and never revived.”
Maybe that old school dictatorship is what Trump is aiming for with the one day thing. One day to build the wall and drill drill drill. I see somewhere we’re pumping more oil now than ever in the US, but I suppose you can never have too much.
Kevin, John Medina has several Brain Rules books, the first book in the following list I ruled out, that last two I’m thinking about. Brain Rules for Baby: How to Raise a Smart and Happy Child from Zero to Five, Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School and then Brain Rules for Aging Well: 10 Principles for Staying Vital, Happy, and Sharp. I’m not an avid reader, I lean more toward comic books.
In the seventh grade my English teacher informed me if I sat in the back of the room and did not interrupt her class, I could do anything I wanted. I’m not sure what she was thinking, but if she was thinking I would get bored and want to become part of the class again it didn’t work out. Some mornings as I walked to school, I would stop at a small mom and pop grocery store, take the quarter given me to buy milk and snack and purchase a comic book. The pictures helped me remember who was who and in the telling of the story if I did not understand some of the words. When I got home sometimes the dictionary I would pull out.
As for my ability to play the guitar, if I put my mind to it with a couple weeks of practice, I’ll bet I could play rhythm with the following band. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC2MtD3k_9s . They are not at the level of a Beatles cover band and neither am I so it might workout.
Since I’m thinking about music and somewhat along the same lines as “Your Brain: Perception Deception” watch the following link first https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRNYUE9PZRE Axis of Awesome - 4 Four Chord Song, after you have viewed it view this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHNez1VVJKY&t=2s
After watching several Tomas Michaud videos, I decided to subscribe to his channel.
So you are saying that Donald Trump’s promise to suspend the Constitution, use the government to strike back at his political enemies and to suspend media outlets that don’t support him are lies. I believe if you review the events of Jan. 6, it shows that overturning an election is very possible.
Trump and his minions have for years now been promoting the fiction to his followers that our Republic is irretrievably broken and that “he alone can fix it” and “make America great again.” That sounds like a dictator wanna be to me.
Dennis I'm not sure that what you say cannot not happen, could not happen. Can you explain in some detail why it cannot happen?
Excellent point. Are correctional officers now "terrorists" because they are holding "hostages?" Excellent point.
Elise is not the problem. It is is the 61% of the 21st that are devoted to the Republican religion. We have a large Catholic contingent here. Hence the phrase "coming after Catholics". Looks like Elise missed the fact that the President is a devout Catholic.
I didn’t realize you were the person who gets to decide who is a devout Catholic and who is not.
Yes
Classic? Thank you!
President Biden and Rep. Pelosi don’t “support abortion.” They support women’s rights. That’s something any Republican with a libertarian bone in their body should support, too.
Biden and Pelosi are the bulwark against more and more women ending up in the position Kate Cox was in. And as Mike Parwana pointed out you most certainly are passing judgment on their faith.
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/12/13/1218953788/texas-abortion-ban-supreme-court-kate-cox
I hadn’t read through all the comments to see what a troll Dennis is. If it was my substack I would ban him. Just sayin’.
https://support.substack.com/hc/en-us/articles/360041688471-How-do-I-ban-or-un-ban-someone-from-commenting-on-my-publication-
You’re not here to debate.
In any case, just giving my opinion. Like you are.
Why do folks like yourself insist there are just two kinds of people - conservatives and liberals. Many of us are moderates. Many of us are willing to vote for people in any party. There are not just two ways of viewing the world.
Never said I don't like a debate. However I won't debate people who are conspiracy theorists or MAGA supporters. Wasting my breath
Kevin I went to the kate-cox link you supplied. Although your argument “President Biden and Rep. Pelosi don’t “support abortion.” They support women’s rights”, looks similar to the argument that the Civil War was not about slavery but state rights. Yup, the right to own slaves. So, do they support the medical procedure called abortion?
Then you write “That’s something any Republican with a libertarian bone in their body should support, too” This conclusion is based on a generalization of “women’s rights”. The problem as I see it, the right to abortion under the law is now in question. Since your assertion “women’s rights” is on unsolid ground I believe any attempt to persuade the other side will bear no fruit. You’ll be preaching only to the choir, those whom all sing the same song.
Under what conditions should it be a legal right? Then the question of Legal vs what is right? Pandora's Box pops to mind https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandora%27s_box). This will be a never-ending point of contention. Even when the mother’s life is in danger and the decision to use the procedure should be hers alone, some will disagree. It’s just the world we
Your suggestion to ban Dennis sounds a bit like banning books. I don’t recall ever learning anything new from someone who agreed with me. How I handle the information they supply that’s on me and at times I change my mind so often I wonder what do I really think.
So, for me it's earbud time, put the song in loop mode, turn up the volume to drown out the noise in my mind and take a break. Genesis Land Of Confusion with Lyrics https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?&q=land+of+confusion+genesis+lyrics&&mid=E1861DD04E83E1A03DA5E1861DD04E83E1A03DA5&&FORM=VRDGAR
I did at least give Dennis credit for not being as bad as the guy with the Nazi propaganda a few days ago. I think his comment about everyone here drinking “Tingley koolaid” was the one that put him firmly in the troll category.
If it was my substack I’d boot him, but it’s not. If I came here and saw a couple of trolls just wallpapering obnoxious comments I’d stop coming.
If he wants to debate that’s fine, I don’t see a lot of polite, reasoned disagreement. It’s up to the management and their tolerance for 🐂
Abortion isn’t really a big issue for me being a 67 year old man with no daughters, granddaughters etc. I do have empathy for those who are affected.
I’d really like to understand why someone like Dennis supports Elise Stefanik. He attacks liberals and Dems but I don’t here a lot of details about why Stefanik has done for local residents.
When it comes to serving constituents you can probably say the same about most Republicans in Congress. And as bad as Kevin McCarthy was I’m sure he did stuff that was beneficial to his district. He’s gone. Patrick McHenry, Kay Granger and probably any number of normies are leaving.
I’m sure it’s not much fun having to bow and scrape to the guy one of them referred to as Orange Jesus. Then you’re having to serve alongside MTG, Boebert, Gosar, Gaetz and oh God the list is too long.
Kevin taking your words “I don’t see a lot of polite, reasoned disagreement” out of context and viewing them as a generalization, watch the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU6LfXNeQM4 Your Brain: Perception Deception | Full Documentary | NOVA | PBS.
After I watched it, I wonder if “reasoned disagreement” is even possible on any subject that has an emotional component.
That was an interesting documentary. I don’t watch tv because I perceive that it’s mostly a waste of life. That is an interest of mine, tho. I can recommend a very good book on neuroplasticity called Brain Rules by John Medina. I’ve started playing guitar in the past few years and am relieved to learn that our brains can continue to form new neural pathways and acquire new abilities even at an advanced age. Not by watching reality shows.
I realize we all have biases. I attempt to keep myself aware of, and avoid, logical fallacies. I try to be polite when arguing with people. There are folks in the church I attend that read my letters. So, when I write them I bear that in mind.
Admittedly, I might be less respectful in comment threads. Then, I don’t go looking for substacks run by Trump supporters in order to engage them. If I wasn’t trolling to begin with, it would evolve into it. It’s a waste of my time and peace of mind and theirs.
That’s where I put Dennis. If he feels that all the commenters here are haters then why is he here? Hoping to make us see the light? He presents himself as having an open mind, but he obviously has some biases, too. Maybe he should watch the show, too.
Oh, and definitely yanny.
Abortion is an medical issue involving the mental and physical health of women. Politicians, clerics, and we men in general really should stay out of it.
Yeah. This Catholic was wondering about that comment. I didn't realize They were coming after me. I'd better keep my head down. On second thought, nah.
What kind of bizarre alternate future am I living in? This must be a bad dream.
Wake up Mike! WAKE UP!
My dream speaks!
Excellent analysis, however, any time law enforcement has an event in NY-21 she is usually there, and the local LEO's seem to be very happy to pose for photo ops with her. The list of endorsements she gets from the 15 counties in her district is staggering. Her legislative accomplishment are miniscule, but somehow these folks believe she is doing the people's business. To quote the great cartoonist Walt Kelly, "We have met the enemy and he is us"
Explain why you like Elise Stefanik? What has she done to earn your support?
Excellent debate skills there, Dennis. I thought we were the haters?
I believe it is truth serum.
Thank you Ken. I watched Rep. Stefanik's interview and was sickened by it. I wish I could put your appeal to the voters in her District in the hands of each and every one of them in the hopes that some would see through her distortions, lies, and incivility. Calling those convicted of crimes on January 6th "hostages" says it all and her unqualified defense of her mentor Donald Trump is sad and reprehensible. Please keep up your appeal to NY 21 voters and let your readers know how we can help bring reason and sensibility back to the North Country.
Many of us knew this is where we would be, after she turned to Chairman Schiff and lied, "This is our time", knowing full well that the rules did not include questions from committee members at large. It was clear as this lying traitor stood on Jan 6 and said, "Some people have questions.", as police handcuffed and transported traitorous criminals from within the Capitol. Then she had the nerve to use LEOs as a campaign prop. Any endorsements she receives from any law enforcement officials, or law enforcement unions should be particularly chilling. Knowing what we know now, in addition to her push of the legal defense fund scam that is now under mail fraud investigation, as well as her campaign assistance to the now indicted former Queens Congressman, should make it clear that the rule of law and Constitution indeed means nothing to this vile traitor.
Israeli children and adults were brutally massacred and their bodies desecrated on October 7th…and those who survived their rapes and horrific physical and emotional wounds became true HOSTAGES …and countless human beings remain hostages in Gaza and God knows where else.
Sadistic Stefanik, who now dares to celebrate convicted Jan. 6th insurrectionists as “hostages”, stayed silent until days later after Oct. 7th…and only after being pressured to release her useless minimalist robotic press statements.
POWs from our World Wars from WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Middle East/other countries where our U. S. Troop overt/covert operations have occurred throughout our military history, including journalists and other civilians, were/are true HOSTAGES.
Stefanik stood silently smiling, as early as 2018, next to her hero Herr Trump, with her familiar facial mask, at Fort Drum on August 13, 2018, when they both used the signing of the 2019 John McCain National Defense Authorization Act as their major joined-at-the-hip Photo Op. Both refused to utter the words “John McCain” during the entire ceremony, as evidenced in every printed document related to that speech, which was intended to once again dishonor an authentic “Hostage”/VN War POW/U.S. Senator who was terminally ill…and died less than 2 weeks later from cancer.
They both knew Sen. McCain was still conscious and aware of what they intentionally perpetrated against a dying American Patriot and War Hero.
It took 2 days for Trump to finally agree to allow the White House flag to be lowered.
As an active duty career Navy nurse, and ultimately as a hospice nurse, I was privileged to meet then CAPT John McCain, and countless other POWS from the VN War era and earlier wars. I wish I had remained healthy enough to serve as a VA Hospital volunteer.
But sadly, as a retired Navy officer, I remain ashamed of the Vietnam Vets Org., American Legion, VFW, The Military Officers Association, and other military associations - who to this day have never condemned or criticized Trump for his abuse and dishonoring of ALL POWS, living and deceased, from all wars. And the continued abuse and dishonoring of all surviving family members of POWS.
And I regret having voted for our NYS Putin/Trump puppet Stefanik the first time around…naively believing that given the strong female representation of Betty Little and Kirsten Gillibrand that she would adopt positive collegiality which might strengthen both parties in NYS.
I stopped voting for Stefanik, Stec and all GOP candidates - local and National - after Sen John McCain’s death. I can only hope more Women…military and civilian…mothers and daughters and grandmothers of both parties … will do the same in the days and months ahead.
And it was a coincidence that Trump said the same thing a few days earlier?
Do you feel the same way about all those for whom justice comes slowly or just for those who attacked our Capitol on January 6th?
It is probably not used enough with Stefanic. In my 20 years editor she was clearly the most prolific.
Thank you for your service and your comment. It would have been an honor to meet John McCain and the others. I also remember James Stockdale who ran with Ross Perot as another man who suffered in the POW camps.
Also, I can’t think of the word hostage without being reminded of the hostages held in Iran for 444 days. Thanks Ted Koppel for the count.
Powerful
Thank you for your service and for your strong voice.
I cannot recall any other politician so willing to say ANYTHING to advance her own interests. A totally hollow person, she's actually a perfect match for her Svengali - the terrifying Donald Trump. I would urge my North Country neighbors to think carefully about what is at stake here. Whatever else concerns you; whatever Trumpian promises sound attractive; don't forget that without democracy, our Republic is lost and so are we.
I think if you read the Jan. 6 Report, if you read what Donald Trump has promised to do if elected (suspend Constitution etc, if you read any of the indictments against Trump you will get a pretty good idea of what criminal behavior he and his minions are capable of doing. Have you read any of these documents?
I think you underestimate the powers of the executive branch of government. You should read the January 6 report or any of the indictments. These are serious, serious charges backed by strong evidence.
This report includes testimony from Special Agent David Sawyer. He witnessed an altercation between demonstrators and Officer Dunn. Unfortunately, video shows he was not in the building at the time and cameras confirm he was at another building and it was impossible he witnessed the event. He lied under oath, nothing will happen to him.
The hate that Elise Stefanik has for our country’s democratic and justice system values lives loudly within her. What we need to understand is that Stefanik, as well as her right-wing cohorts, are literally at war with our country. They will use any means necessary in their attempt to control the levers of government, including lies, cheating, and threats.
We need to stand strong in protecting our democracy.
Geeze. It is really hard to understand. Perhaps we can get an explanation from Mark Frost of the Chronicle. HIs pen has advanced Stefanik's career and continues to promote her lies and Anti-American agenda. Would love to hear his views beyond his stock excuse of "everyone had their own opinion." It's not just a matter of opinion, Mark. Your false press is part of the problem.
She supports Trump. She believes people convicted on Jan. 6 are “hostages” and she says the 2020 election was rigged. That’s just this past week.
You don’t think trying to overturn a fair election is anti-American?
Thanks for asking, Dennis. Apart from her UnAmerican lies to her constituents, particularly regarding the validity of the 2020 election, despite promising to deliver the truth, and despite her refusal to recognize and honor the office of the president of the United States, Stefanik has and continues to give aid and comfort to the enemies of the Constitution, particularly the murderous insurrectionist fascist, Donald Trump, whose lies led to the killing of Ashli Babbitt, and to whom she pays servile tribute unbecoming of a free and independent American with allegiance to one nation indivisable. She is treasonous to all things American.
Oh yeah, and Mark Frost supports her.
exactly...all her words are despicable....and dangerous....and how anyone in her, in our, election district can think she represents us is, at this point, insane. She writes in her newsletter that it is an honor to represent us...we are dishonored by her.
I hope you have calmed down Ken and catched your breath. Whew! We have work to do this coming election to elect a more reasonable congressional representative in NY21.
Not to be a pessimist, but I think our only real chance of losing the Albany Tourist is if the Orange Loser picks her in the veepstakes. If he does we get rid of her. If he doesn’t she’s got egg on her face because she sold every ounce of dignity for bupkis.
Maybe we do, maybe we don’t. Paul Ryan lost as a VP candidate but kept his seat.
Right you are. Thanks for crushing my dream. 😉
Redistricting might give hope that some in the district will be drawn into a new district, but that just means others will be subject to her representation.
I’m with you on that. Anyone who will promise not to lie.
I’ll always stand by my record as a journalist. And I have always tried to be 100 percent truthful in anything I write.
If you have an example go for it.