So, America, Affinity For Authoritarians Is A Thing Now?

What the hell is going on in this country? Is this really the country people want?


I am old enough to remember when authoritarians, dictators and despots were derided and looked upon negatively. I am old enough to remember when authoritarianism was viewed as vehemently and distinctly un-American. But, the #OrangeMuskratHairedKing comes into power and everything is changed.


I have been saddened by what I have seen over the last week from some of my fellow Americans. It's been disheartening and frightening. I'm not talking about President Trump. He is what he is and his actions, while disturbing, are unsurprising. It's his supporters, quite frankly, seeming to have fully gulped the orange kool-aid and going along with his affinity for strongmen.


But, as Trump his effusive praise of his new man crush, Kim Jong Un, was distressful and jaw dropping. Trump gushed about Lil Kim every chance he could. I mean he complimented and slobbered so much over Kim Vladimir Putin became jealous and told Trump, "But, he can't sit on horse shirtless like I can. I thought I was your one and only." To which Trump replied, "One and only? You know I'm a playa. You've seen Stormy Daniels and we both know you've seen the "Mountain Dew" tape.


Seriously, though, Trump's endless praise of Kim Jong Un was unsettling. He kept saying how "strong" he was and he's "so funny and smart". He said a few times how "he loves his country" and "he loves his people". And, not a word from the "real Americans".


Trump saying Kim "loves his people" is one of the most idiotic and dumbassed things he's ever said. Kim starves his people. He denies them basic human rights. Most of North Korea has either spotty or no electricity. Kim routinely jails any dissidents or people who don't at all times subjugate themselves to him. And, those he doesn't jail he murders in the most heinous and gruesome ways. He has killed numerous members of his family! This is the man our petulant clown of a president calls "strong".


Here's the real problem. Trump thinks that kind of shit is strength. Several times Trump alluded to how Kim guides his country in "a tough manner". He meant it as a compliment. He sounded envious of Kim for he can run North Korea. He even mentioned how he wants us (Americans) to stand to attention to him like North Koreans do Lil Kim. And, Trumpsters, save the ish about he was joking. He was NOT! I saw the effin interview and he wasn't joking or being sarcastic, which he clearly doesn't know what sarcasm is. That Penn education did alot for him I see. (#Cheets, the previous sentence is an example of sarcasm.) However, not a word of criticism or rebuke from the "real Americans". Not. One. Damn. Peep.


And, the thing is Trump's "wet dream" fest over Kim Jong Un wasn't an one off thing. This fool routinely criticizes the leaders of our allies such as Angela Merkel and Justin Trudeau. Yet, he heaps praise upon dictators, despots and authoritarians like Putin, Duterte in the Phillipines, Erdogan in Turkey and the Emirates in Saudia Arabia. So, the leader of the free world talks shit about the other leaders of the free world while slobbin the cobs of the world's most notorious thugs and murderers. Anyone see a problem here? Apparently, the "real Americans" don't.


What the hell is happening? Where's the beacon on a hill Ronald Reagan mentioned? Because we certainly aren't that if we're endorsing and praising dictators. And, look, let's be real here. America has always been in bed with dictators. The ends justify the means philosophy. However, we always recognized the ho as a ho. Now, we are acting the ho is a queen and the queens are hood rats. Presidents never admired the strongmen and seemed envious they couldn't be just like them but now...


Real Americans where are you? You won't even check your dear leader when he is clearly going against American principles, standards and morals. This country was founded because the colonists were escaping from under tyrannical rule. They set up a government and constitution whose purpose was to prevent the citizens from being under such rule. And, now we have a president who openly and enthusiastically displays admiration and envy of the very men and systems our founding fathers were vehemently opposed.


Yet, the people who claim to love the country and defend the Constitution the most stay silent. Even worse many of them seem to want authoritarian rule. And, they're the patriots? I don't understand this.


Will these "lovers" of the Constitution not check this president? His affinity for authoritarians and authoritarianism is undeniable. Just look at this travesty with immigrant children being separated from their parents. Look at how this president disparages and lies about the media. He calls the fourth estate the biggest enemy America has. Not only is it disgusting but how can any sane decent person say that when a madman could send a nuke toward us at any second.


I'm just one person, but I'll be damned if I let the country I love be turned into an authoritarian state. It's not the promise or purpose of America. Our president is supposed to be a promoter of democracy and a democratic republic; not the enemy of it.


When are we going to wake up and provide the check on power we're supposed to do?

Roseanne, You Need To Take A Seat...Many Seats!

Oooooh, Lawd! Lawd! Lawd! Lawd! Roseanne, you have frayed all my nerves! You really need to *take a damb seat*. I'm serious! Sit yo trifilin ass down and delete your damn Twitter! I mean eviscerate it!


You ouchea in these Twitter streets just spitball clusters of fuckery and wads of dumbassery throwing them against the wall hoping they stick. Heffa, don't you know shit isn't going to stick especially your slimy rancid putrid hate mongering ish! It does what you should do, slide away.


I almost spit my coffee out this morning when I read you actually tweeted your racist tweet about Valerie Jarrett wasn't racist; it was, in fact, a condemnation of anti-semitism. 😐😐😐 Say, what?! And, then your ignorant ass attempted (miserably, may I add) to justify your most recent justification by saying your "Planet of the Apes" reference was indeed a condemnation because the original screenplay writer, Rod Serling, wrote Planet of The Apes as a movie decrying anti-Semitism. 😐


I'm going to attempt to be tactful with you because obviously you're mentally ill. *Sigh* That is the most bullshit in one tweet I've ever read! And, that is saying a helluva lot considering your buddy, Donald Trump, is an avid Twitter user and tweets vapid bullshit literally every single day.


Rosie, you are mentally ill, right? Otherwise, the only other logical explanation would be that you're certifiably hopelessly effin stupid! Why are you tweeting? I thought you were giving up the Twitter? Uh, you should!


I'm going to break it down for you why I and nobody with an IQ higher than 10 believes you. I know you said all of us "low IQ" people (nice thieving of a reference from #CheetoJesus, who is the personification of low IQ) don't have to believe you. We don't because we're not low IQ nor do we sip the orange kool-aid you do. First, after apologizing in an effort to save your show, you said on Twitter you thought Ms. Jarrett was "Saudi". I don't need to pull that receipt do I? Didn't think so. Well, after the #clapbacks exposing that as horseshit you then said you thought she was "White". Child, puhhhleeeeze! Even the spirit of Robert E. Lee was side-eying yo ass. 😒 Then, you threw out some pure uncut fuckery about you thought Ms. Jarrett was "half-Jew". Hell, even your alt-right defenders on social media was like, "What did this bish say?!" 😳 But, my personal fav was the "I was on Ambien" defense. No, don't blame it on the rain nor the a-a-a-alcohol but blame it on a med for sleeping. I didn't know a side effect of Ambien was random racism. Oh, Honey, you were reaching for the stars with that one. "My Twitter was hacked" thought that shit was weak, wack and grasping for straws with C-Lo Green's arms. Gurrrl, you couldn't come up with something...anything better than that? Really? That's sad...Pathetic actually.


Look, I am just going to keep it real with you. We've all (like all decent, non-racist, non-bigoted, and not trifilin as hell people) been talking and we think it's time you get the hell on! Like gon now! Get'cha ass movin! Delete your Twitter! Maybe Milo Yianopolous or James Woods will take you in. Perhaps, Stacey Dash will give you room and board as her way of helping wayward racists. Hell, maybe Alex Jones will decide he needs a sidekick who's even batshit crazier than he is. If nothing else I'm sure Scott Baio is always down for a wet nurse.


But, whatever you do, go away. I don't care if you go away mad, as long as you just go away! Stop giving lame ass excuses for your racist tweet which was just another tweet in a pattern of racist, conspiratorial, tacky and really just insane thing you've said and done over the years. We put up with it because your sitcom was funny. It was one of the best ever truthfully. But, you, sista girl are really not a good human being. You weren't when you grabbed your crotch during the national anthem back in the early 90s and you're not now. I don't care what sweet nothings Sean Hannity and #Cheets whisper in your ears.


Roseanne, I mean this. I'd rather be trapped in a room forced to stare at Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon and listen to Sarah Huckabee Sanders on a loop for 72 hours straight than read one more tweet or hear one more lie from you.


And, let's be honest, if people in this country don't wake up that'll probably be the punishment Comrade Tiny Hands gives me for constantly calling him #CheetoJesus.


Roseanne......#GurlBye

The GOP Could Sway Blacks To Their Side, But Race Sells

As is the case with being Black "anything" in America being a Black voter is often extremely frustrating and elicits the question, "Why am I never seen as good enough?" Now, I imagine some will see the previous sentence as "woe is me" or as self-loathing. If you do, then you're part of the problem and once again the actual issue(s) is not being seen.


The Democratic Party see the African-American voter like the reliable girlfriend, if you will. They take her for granted. They often ignore her. They're always looking at "prettier" chicks. And, when in a pinch they know despite repeatedly disappointing her and showing a lack of appreciation she will be by their side and come through for them.


Now, the Republican Party views the African-American as that pretty girl whom they give a glance or two but they just won't give a chance. They don't give her a chance because they can't give up the thots. They know the thots are trifilin and sketchy. But, they also know they will have to put in some work to get the pretty girl. They will have to clean themselves up a little, toss a Tic-tac in their mouth, breakout the good cologne and change some of their errant ways. Whereas with the thots they can skip a shower, spray some Axe on, splurge for the supersized chicken nugget meal followed by a waffle cone with the two scoops and "surprise" them with a cheap ass teddy bear from the Dollar Tree. And, that will be enough for them to get them drawers. The pretty girl will not only make them work for the drawers but make them be patient. It might take weeks. With the thot one hour of Netflix and chill and she's giving up more peach cobbler than Mrs. Fields. The thot, in case you haven't figured it out, is the folks who hold racial resentment, the bigots and flat out undeniable racists and White Nationalists.


Now, don't get all in your feelings, Conservatives. Hear me out. I'm by no means saying all or even most Republicans are bigots or racists. But, what I am saying is most of the Republican Party is complicit in racism. Don't shake your head "no". Yes, you are.


The Republican Party has straddled the line for decades. I laugh when I hear idiots like Steve Bannon chastise Democrats for "identity politics". The Republican Party has played identity politics for every election since 1964. Time and time again dog whistles have been blown and coded language enacted. From Richard Nixon's "law and order" bullshit to Ronald Reagan kicking off his 1980 campaign with a "White grievance" speech in Philadelphia, Mississippi to George H.W. Bush's Willie Horton ads in 1988 to the GOP's "Obama might be a Muslim" tour in 2008 to Trump's entire damn campaign in 2016 has race been used in campaigns. The straddling the line of approach of "We're not saying Black people are bad (wink wink) but..." has been employed repeatedly every election season from local races to state congressional races to gubernatorial races to federal house and senatorial races. Don't deny it. The evidence is overwhelming.


But, what is crazy is it makes no sense. For years...decades I've never understood why. Why hasn't the GOP as a whole made a concerted effort to go after the African-American vote, in particularly African-American men? Do White Conservatives not see the number of issues they actually have in common with a plurality, if not, majority of African-Americans?


For instance, there are certain religious social issues Conservatives and the Black community share common ground. The church is a staple in the Black community. Even if church attendance is moderate the respect for church issues is high. When it comes to homosexuality the majority of Blacks' views are more in line with the Conservative viewpoint. On the issue of abortion around 40% of African-Americans are aligned with the Republican platform. Believe it or not many Blacks consider themselves fiscally conservative. A substantial number of African-Americans are more closely aligned with Republicans on Second Amendment issues than with Liberals. When it comes to criminal justice issues I believe at least a plurality of African-Americans believe in a tough justice system. They just want it to be fair and evenly administered. Most Blacks are for religious freedoms. I suspect a majority of African-Americans wouldn't oppose prayer in school as long as it's not mandatory. And, I think a substantial number of Blacks believe somewhat in the Conservative view on foreign policy. Although I suspect it's more in the range between Hillary Clinton and John McCain than whatever clusterfuck foreign policy Trump has.


So, why do Blacks overwhelmingly tend to vote Democratic White Republicans may ask? Well, I'll tell ya. One, it's because as a party it seems Republicans can't get out of the way of their own bigotry and/or being an apologist for bigotry. Two, the Republican Party never makes a concerted effort for the Black vote. "Why not us?" is not a real pitch. It's a weak bitch ass attempt if I may be frank.  When former Republican Party chair, Michael Steele, attempted to put measures in place to reach out to Black folks he was replaced as chair. His successor, Reince Priebus, said he would continue Steele's efforts but instead shit all over them and didn't do a fucking thing. When J.C. Watts, a former U.S. Representative from Oklahoma, attempted to take over the party chair and encourage the party to reach out to people of color he was essentially told to sit his black ass down and shut the fuck up.


And, three....the Republicans can't stay away from the thots. That easy skank coochie is too hard to resist. They just won't tell thots like Steve Bannon, David Duke, Richard Spencer, Milo Yianopolous, Lou Dobbs (yes, I said Lou FUCKIN Dobbs), Breitbart, Rep. Steve King (R-IA), Alex Jones and the entire caravan of hate spewing race mongering twat biscuits (Yes, you read correctly; no, I won't apologize. It was the nicest thing I think I could say.) to pack their shit and GET OUT! Instead they tell them, "Y'all go over there and stay down for awhile. You don't have to leave. You just can't be heard. You know, like any good thot or side piece. I can't be with you in public, but you can come over when the porch light is off. And, that's simply not good enough.


And, Republicans, if you wanna get mad get mad. It's whatevs to me. You can't legitimately deny what I'm saying. The best way I have heard it put is the following: "Here's the problem. For 50 plus years you've harbored these racists and White Nationalists. You've allowed them to live in your house. You gave them a room on the condition they'd stay out of sight. You let them hang their Nazi regalia, swastikas, White Nationalists flags and their other putrid racist shit. The problem for you know is Donald Trump came along and said, 'Hey, you don't have to be confined to this room where you're not seen. Come down stairs into the living room. Mingle around.' Now, they feel free to roam around the house. They've tore down the Van Goghs, pissed in your potted plants and having lewd racists' sex in the front yard for the neighbors to see and you're embarrassed. They've taken over your house and you only have you to blame because you should've kicked them out in 1964 but instead allowed them to squat."


That is why the majority of African-Americans don't vote Republican. The way they see it is yes, the Democrats have let them down. Yes, the Democrats' policies have failed in certain places like Detroit and Chicago. Yes, the Democrats often take them for granted and are patronizing. Yes, some Democrats are racists as hell. But.........At the end of the day the Democratic Party as a whole has done some good things for the Black community and although everything previously stated is true at least an effort has been made and on some level they care. They actually give a shit even if it's misguided.


And, Conservatives, I already hear the clapback. You're saying, "But, a Republican freed the slaves." You know damn well the Republican Party now is nothing like the party was then or even 60 years ago. Quit bushittin!


"But, it was Democrats who opposed Civil Rights." Stop that shit! It was Southern Democrats who opposed Civil Rights. It was a Democratic president who spear headed the bill in Congress.


Here is what you must see, Republican Party. You have an opportunity to get more Black folks on your side. But, first, you gotta throw out the trash and burn it. Even if Blacks agree with you on some issues it's hard in good conscience to support a party who allows David Duke to have any oxygen, who is an apologist for making moral equivalences between Nazis and counter protesters and who is filled with people who seem to genuinely have difficulty repudiating and disavowing racism unequivocally without any "whataboutism".


What you need to understand is most Black folks don't vote for Democrats over Republicans because they believe Dems are the saviors and all wear white hats. It's because they see Dems as the lesser of two evils-one who no longer makes excuses or asinine moral equivalencies for the dudes in pointy white hats and their ilk.

One's Wealth Doesn't Define One's Quality

One of the statements that people make that drives me up the wall is when they equate wealth with intelligence and/or the quality of human being someone is. It literally makes me wanna snap on folks. It is such a superficial way of looking at people. It is also very revealing of the people who believe it.


I want to make clear this isn't going to be some hit piece on rich people. I have no issues with wealth. I'm not resentful of those who have more than myself. This will be about people who seem to worship money and judge a person's character and substance based upon their wealth and status.


I know a person who frequently says anytime a rich or famous person is criticized, "Hey, they're rich and we're not so who are we to talk about them." "They must be smart because they're rich." "They must've done something right because they have money and nobody knows who we are." "They're better than us because they have lots of money and big houses and we're working 9 to 5's. So, we can't say anything about them because they're obviously smarter and better people than us."


All of those previous quotes are ones that word for word I've had said to me. They always are said defending someone who has done wrong or has questionable character. And, these sentiments are shared by many people.


What I always find perplexing about this attitude is that often the people who say it like to portray themselves as "deep" or mature or thoughtful. I am always astounded at how they don't realize how shallow and cursory they sound. It really is a superficial childish way of looking at the world.


Many wealthy folks are wealthy because of their own hard work, intuition and intelligence. However, there are many wealthy people who are wealthy because they were born into it, they got lucky and some because they stole it whether legally or illegally. You can't look at someone who is wealthy and assume that wealth makes them superior.


Just because someone has money it doesn't mean they are smart. This is one of my biggest pet peeves. Money doesn't equate to brains. Plenty of rich people are stupid. They may have a talent such as singing that put cheddar in their bank account, but they can't put two coherent sentences together. A businessman may be wealthy but isn't particularly bright. He may have good people around him that steer him in the right directions.


I have never understood the idiocy of such beliefs. If someone was ignorant as hell, then they win the lottery, are they all of a sudden smart? Of course, not. It's patently ridiculous to think that. Instead of being poor and ignorant now they're wealthy and ignorant.


An equally illogical and nonsensical take is that rich people are above reproach and "good people" simply because they are rich. Having money doesn't mean you can't be an asshole. It doesn't mean you can do deplorable things and be exempt from critique and rebuke. Wealth doesn't give you a special moral status. If you're amoral, you are amoral.


It is beyond frightening to me people have this attitude. I realize we celebrate wealth, celebrity and fame in this country. You'll receive no argument from me it's too much. Everyone knows I'm a huge sports fan and have been known to be an athlete apologist. However, because I do follow athletes I know their wealth and their talent doesn't define them as human beings. Just like the rest of us it's their words and actions that define them. For example, Michael Jordan is very rich and was very talented but that doesn't change the fact he can be a small petty person. And, just because he has more money than me doesn't mean I don't have the right to state that and find it disdainful. Same goes for Isaiah Thomas. (And, for the record, they're two of my personal all-time favorite players. One and two as a matter of fact.)


What is disturbing is this is how some people judge folks. It's how they judge who to vote for; who to romantically be involved with; who to have around their kids and who in general are "worthy" human beings. Man, I don't know about you but that kind of shallowness is scary. That kind of thinking reveals some people's total lack of depth. It's a horrifying view of the world.


Hey, I'd love to be rich. Hell, I'd love to be above the point where homeless people feel like they should give me money. But, as I said to the person I mentioned earlier in the blog, "I'd rather be dirt poor and have good character than to be rich and have no character." I received a very perplexed look when I made that statement. I meant it. But, what concerns me is if I made that same statement to 100 people I'm not convinced a majority wouldn't give me that same perplexing look.

Who Are You To Question My Patriotism

Something that is really just pissing me off lately is the ease which certain sections of society question peoples patriotism. Actually, it has pissed me off for quite awhile now. It's an issue that has become worse over the last few years.


The thing is the patriotism isn't being questioned over treasonous statements, treasonous acts or actual anti-American statements and actions. Mine and others patriotism is being questioned by some because we disagree with their politics. Our patriotism is being questioned because some of us don't think Donald Trump is a king or savior or Jesus. We're being called un-American because we think our president is a narcissistic race baiting unread ignorant assclown. We are being called treasonous because whether we agree with the method or not we support NFL players' constitutional right to free speech and peacefully protest.


Here is my question. WHO THE HELL ARE YOU TO QUESTION MY PATRIOTISM?! Huh? I'm waiting on the answer!


It's time to educate! So, all of you "real Americans" sit yo ass down and read! It won't hurt 'cha. You'll be a'right.


Oh, wait, are you still with me or did I piss you off? Are you all in your feelings? Do you feel I'm being condescending? Well, guess what, Stars and Stripes, that's how I feel too. Except I feel insulted because the crap I'm being given is dripping with disingenuousness.


I love my country! I love my country although it hasn't always loved me. In fact, throughout the majority of its history it hasn't loved my people. It's a fact. Quit clutching your QVC pearls that I would say such a thing. Am I wrong? Yeah, that's what I thought. I'll proceed.


Despite all its flaws and all its pretentiousness I love my country. No other place on this earth I'd rather be than right here in the good 'ol US of A. Fact is this is the greatest country on earth. It's the greatest country to ever exist. My loyalty to it is undying. However, that does not mean my love for it has to make me blind. That does not mean I have a servile view. In fact, the founding fathers wanted the complete opposite. They didn't want a country of sheep because that is the very thing they were escaping from in England. They wanted freedom of expression and believed healthy dissent was necessary for a democracy.


But, we have a substantial portion of society now who seem to believe it is they who decide what patriotism is. They believe any opposition to their ideology or chosen person is anti-American. They believe any criticism of America (they disagree with) is un-American.


No, actually, all of that is bullshit. We have a multi party political system in this country because democracy encourages different opinions. If I criticize things occurring in our country it's not because I hate it. It's because I love it and want it to be better. You know just like when you criticize it. I mean is it really lost on you that saying "make America great again" inherently implies it's not great now, which is a criticism? I mean really?!


My disliking the current occupant of the White House doesn't make me unpatriotic just like I'm sure you'll agree disliking the previous occupant made you unpatriotic. I'm also quite sure you'll agree criticizing the current president (regardless of frequency) doesn't make myself and others unpatriotic just like it didn't make you unpatriotic for criticizing the previous president (regardless of frequency, right? Unless, you somehow believe that you are unequivocally right and those of my ilk are unequivocally wrong. Thus, you have a monopoly on patriotism and love of America. But, I'm positive you don't think such a thing, correct?


Debate and differing opinions are part of what democracy and a healthy republic are built on. So, what I am trying to figure out is why I am un-American for debating. Dissent was encouraged by our founding fathers and its protection was built into the framework of our Constitution. So, why is it when certain ones of us dissent we're called anti-American?


What kills me is this idea of certain people deciding what is patriotism and who are real Americans. Who made you kings and queens? Who made Donald Trump king? Did I miss something? NFL players decide to take a knee during the playing of the national anthem to protest the unjust treatment of disenfranchised people in a country where burning its flag is deemed constitutional; yet, Trump and Trumpsters are given the supreme authority to vilify players as traitors, disrespectful, ungrateful and un-American. Huh? Somebody help me out here. When did a peaceful act of protest-an act that was only began because a military veteran requested it be done because it was respectful when the original act of sitting was deemed disrespectful- become grounds for being called a traitor or even being deported as someone suggested?


Perhaps, the issue here (or one of them) is that some are confusing patriotism with nationalism. The two are, in fact, different. How can I explain it. Patriotism is like Bill Gates or Warren Buffett with their wealth. They don't necessarily feel the need to flaunt their wealth because everyone knows they're rich. And, they're secure with themselves so they see no need in ostentatiousness. Now, in contrast, nationalism is like income tax thots during the months of January to April every year. They aren't so much interested in being monetarily sound as they are in looking wealthy. It's the mentality of "it's not about the substance as much as the style". In other words people believe they're more patriotic than others because they have 18 flags inside and outside their house, they posses 27 flag themed shirts, they tear up every time they hear Lee Greenwood's "Proud To Be An American, they wear six gaudy...I mean GAWWWWWDY flag themed baseball caps, they have a pocket version of the Constitution which like their Bible sits on a shelf never opened collecting dust, they have an American flag bumper sticker posted on their vehicle and they're more than happy to tell you 26 times a day how patriotic they are and how unless you're just like them you are not. Oh, and lest I forget their #MAGA hat and matching throw blanket for those cold nights when watching Netflix that they're boycotting because Obama signed a deal with them. But, when it comes to supporting the right to peaceful dissent or free speech they have ideological differences with, supporting the American tenant of differing opinions or upholding the democratic principle of freedom of independent thought and right to keep a check on the current administration they're not so hot on. Well, it's subjective. Oppose Obama? You're a true patriot. Oppose Trump? You should be deported.


I will ask the question again. WHO ARE YOU TO QUESTION MY PATRIOTISM? I dare anybody to find one quote from my social media accounts that are anti-American or American hating. I defy one person to say they've ever heard me saying anything anti-American. Criticizing Trump, his policies, his supporters sycophant servile loyalty, racism, sexism, xenophobia or homophobia isn't unpatriotic. If you are idiotic enough to think it is, it isn't my patriotism you should be questioning. It's yours!


I love my country! I want the best for it! I want it to fulfill its promise and potential! We don't have to agree on what ways are best to do that. But, don't you dare ever question my patriotism because I am not tacky enough with it for you or because I don't succumb to your views. I have never questioned someone's patriotism because we disagree politically and I'd appreciate the same in return.

Bill Clinton Has Learned NOTHING In 20 Years

Twenty-six years ago I was on the cusp of my 18th birthday. I was so excited because, of course, I was about to be 18 and because I was about to become a high school senior. But, what I was actually most excited about was I would be able to vote.


At that age I was all into politics. Everything I wrote for journalism class had to do with either sports or politics. I had been interested in politics since I was seven or eight years old. I sat with my mom every evening Monday through Friday at 6:30 and watched Crossfire on CNN. I also sat down with her every Friday night and watched the McLaughlin Group. (Judge me if you must.) I was that kid. I loved watching the debate and soaking in the information.


However, for all my interest and excitement over politics my fire became even more stoked in 1992 by one William Jefferson Clinton. I actually liked some of what George Bush proposed to my parents dismay. I even found Ross Perot intriguing despite fearing he might have been a bit "touched". But, it was Bill Clinton who won me over.


His message and personality appealed to me as a young person and as a young African-American. I felt he got it. He seemed to be the first politician I had seen that didn't pander to Blacks or just ignored us but embraced us and our culture. He genuinely seemed intent on helping our communities and addressing our issues.


I was well aware of his "issues". I was old enough to get it. I watched the Gennifer Flowers interview on 60 Minutes. I watched the subsequent Clinton interview on 60 Minutes. While my mother saw him as a "womanizer" but the clear "lesser of the three evils", I believed he had probably had an affair with Ms. Flowers. But, I didn't really care. I saw that as his and Hillary's business. In that sense I get where Trumpsters are coming from regarding #CheetoJesus. Like them, I felt the message Clinton was delivering superseded his "indiscretion".


I remember the excitement I felt on that evening of the first November Tuesday in 1992 when Bill Clinton was declared the winner. Hours earlier I had cast a ballot for the first time. And, here was the guy I voted for and the man who galvanized my political energy and seemed to have encapsulated my ideology winning. And, frankly, I felt he did a helluva job and didn't hesitate to vote for him again in 1996.


But, then Monica Lewinsky happened. Once again, Playa Playa Bill was in a sex scandal. I thought at the time (and still do) it was a bunch of partisan Republican bullshit and alot of nothing. Yes, he perjured himself but at the end of the day he was being prosecuted for getting his cob buttered. What bothered me was the fact it affected Chelsea who I felt empathy for because she was my age and treated so shitty. She was in essence still a kid. And, the very people who know would lose their shit if folks went after Tiffany or Baron Trump were the same people saying disgusting and atrocious things about Chelsea. I also felt bad for the embarrassment Hillary must have felt. (I'd say save the troll comments but I'm not a whiny bitch like Trump, so give me what you got.) And, while in the grand scheme of things it wasn't like Playa Playa had committed money laundering or collusion or tax fraud, he had brought shame upon the office of the presidency and tarnished the good I felt he had done. And, I wasn't naive about who the man was but felt the good outweighed the bad so I stuck with the 'ol dog. I have for the 20 years since despite his bitchassness toward Obama in 2008 and his glad-handing with #Cheets. Again, I'm no fronter nor am I bandwagoner. I've always been a side-eyer toward Trump. I've always found him to be repugnant. Just making it clear for the unclear, remedial and the lil bit slow. 😒 Anyways, I had even posted during the 2016 if William was able to run I'd vote for him and he would've beaten Trump. I still say that despite what people say publicly they would've voted for Playa Playa. And, for the record, I believe after watching the attitude toward Trump's undeniable fuckery, I was and am right. I mean, at this point, if you still believe #CheetoJesus is pure you really need to have your right to vote and operate motor vehicles revoked. Shit, I don't know if you can be trusted with an electric razor or nail clippers. Really tho! I'm serious! But, I digress.


But, along came Monday and the Craig Melvin interview with Bill Clinton. I was in awe. I couldn't really believe I was watching someone so politically astute and television savvy be so utterly tone def and simply fucking stupid! What respect, admiration, affinity and sentimentality I had for the dude was washed away. I no longer in good conscience could be an apologist. I won't say he's dead to me but the funeral parlor is on call. They have their cell phone in arm's reach.


I sat there and listened to Bill Clinton sound envious of the fact that Trump seems to be getting away with his chicanery while he didn't. Strike one.


Then, I watched him tell the truth in a "must lie situation". He said if he were President now and the same ish happened as it did in 1998 he wouldn't resign because the "facts would be known". 😐 What, muthafucka?! First of all, we know the facts. You got yo strudel iced in the Oval Office by a woman who was half your age. Secondly, in the age of #MeToo why in God's name would you say you wouldn't resign in a totally hypothetical never going to happen situation?! This fool had to know how that answer was going to sound. It's a must lie sit-i-ation. The correct answer, Dummy, was, "In the current climate I would've likely stepped down for the betterment of the country and my family." Striiiiiiike two!


Oh, but wait, there is more. When Craig Melvin, who did an excellent job, asked about Monica Lewinsky Clinton took the ugliest way out in front of a pitch swing eva! He was completely dead pan and emotionless in his reiterating his remorse over the entire situation. He literally sounded annoyed at the question, as if he didn't know it was coming. Then, when Melvin asked him if he has ever spoken with Ms. Lewinsky, Playa Playa became defensive and callous saying, "I never spoke to her. I apologized several times publicly. But, I never talked to her. I apologized to my family, the country and her publicly several times." He made it sound as if his public apology was more than enough. It was apparent he never made an effort to speak with her, which says volumes about his true feelings about the entire episode. He proceeded to scorn Craig Melvin over the questions and insinuate they were "gotcha" questions when neither the questions nor the tone of the questions suggested anything of the such.


Yes, Monica Lewinsky was a grown ass woman. Yes, the entire thing was 100% consensual. But, it was so painfully obvious how tone def and oblivious 20 years later he is. He was twice her age. He was her superior. And, he was the President of the United States of America. She was an intern. He came on to her and put her in a damn near impossible situation. Sure, she could've rejected him and left. But, as always, it's easier said than done. For every mouf that said, "I would've kicked him in the balls" I say (especially at that time in society) at least 75% of you would've done exactly what she did at her age and in her position. He knew better and not to mention considering all of the trouble he had gone through and how the Republicans were looking for any reason to hang him it was beyond stupid and irresponsible for him to do that. For Bill Clinton not to have that perspective 20 years later is a big FAIL! STRIKKKKKKKE THREE! You're outtttta herrrrrrrre!


I am not even disappointed or disillusioned. I'm not even disgusted. I'm just disenchanted that he is still so tone def and so stupid. And, his endorsement of #MeToo was so lukewarm and disingenuous he was better off not saying anything and keeping his mouth fucking shut. In fact, he should've just shut up and never did the is interview. I hope Hillary clocked his ass afterwards.


I just realized what I have always known and said before. In many ways, too many ways for my comfort, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump are the same dude. They were friends for a reason. Birds of a feather....Birds of a feather....They both see all women in three categories: Women they'd never fuck because they're "not attractive"; women they've fucked; and women they haven't fucked yet. And, I can't...won't condone or roll with that. You may call it harsh. You may say it's not true. I say show me how examples of how I'm wrong because I believe I can show more examples of how I'm right.


I used to feel William is a good man at his core who is flawed. I now realize he is a very flawed man who has done some good.


After watching that interview one thing is crystal clear though. After 20 years Bill Clinton hasn't learned jackshit!

An American Myth: Opinion And Honesty Are Respected

We hear often in our society people say they want honesty, appreciate candor and respect other's opinions. In today's world more often than not people are lying when they say any of that. We all know it's not true because we've been the recipient of the anger or resentment when we are honest with someone. We have experienced the recoil when we express an opinion that is unpopular. And, many of us ourselves have not only been recipients of such behavior but have been the perpetrators of it as well.


Truth be told we have always been this way as a society. We, as a country, have a long line of people who were made social outcasts or denounced as troublemakers and dissidents for expressing their opinions on the issues of the day. It just seems that in the current climate it's worse than it's ever been and rightfully so.


When many people say things like, "I respect other's opinions", "I enjoy the debating of ideas", "I think diverse opinions are good" they're usually lying. What they really mean is they respect other's opinions as long as it is the same as theirs. They only enjoy debating if they're seen as the winner and right. The former is more important than the latter. And, often if you read through a social media thread you'll likely see less of a debate and more of a petulant online shouting match which usually ends with someone getting blocked. And, when they say "diverse" opinions they mean they don't care whom the opinion comes from as long as it's THEIR opinion.


Perhaps, you're saying right now, "Rob, you're being awfully cynical. People aren't that close-minded." Oh, yeah? Be a liberal and go say to some conservatives, "I think affirmative action has some positives to it" and see how well that opinion is respected. Or, be a conservative and say to some liberals, "You know there is some merit to the belief of the way to stop a bad guy with a gun is with a good guy with a gun" and see how the reaction goes. We have become so tribal and so enamored with our own perceived correctness on every issue that we don't want to listen to anything that could possibly chip away at that. Frankly, we as a society don't want to critically think so we instinctively shoot down anything that is contradictory to what we believe and we don't want to have the capacity to respect someone else's opinion.


As for honesty, we are not really interested in that either. People love to say, "I love candor and honesty", "I hate liars". Allow me to translate for you what is really meant. They love candor as long as it isn't about them. People say they hate liars but what they hate is them being lied to. They'll lie in a heartbeat and have no problems with others being lied to (especially if it benefits them).


Again, it sounds like I'm being cynical but am I? Tell someone you think is doing wrong to others that they're not right and see what that reaction is. For every two people that will say, "Maybe you're right", you'll have at least another two sneer at you and immediately push back.


People say they respect and appreciate honesty and others opinions because it sounds good. It is the right thing to say it but it's not how they really feel.


Of course, I'm not saying this is true of all people or even the vast majority. But, it's true of many. Don't believe me? Look at the political discourse and partisanship that exists in this country right now. Truthfully think about how many people who have a different ideology from you that you can have an intelligent civil debate with. Give sincere honest thought to how many people feel they can have one with you. Ask yourself how many people in your life can you truly be honest and candid without them trippin on you or immediately getting defensive or whom you fear would stop talking to you all together.


Simply, more folks than not want you to be honest with them until you are. More folks than not respect your opinion until you give it. That has to change if we're going to progress as a society.

Your Comfort Isn't > My Self-Worth

I have finally realized that some things simply cannot be allowed to slide anymore. One of those things is peoples desire to be allowed to be comfortable in their ignorance and "soft bigotry/racism".


One of the primary tenants of the anti-pc movement is the desire of folks to say whatever racist, homophobic, sexist thing they want without pushback. Now, of course, the anti-pc people will say that's not true. For some it's not true but for a substantial segment it's exactly the case. Don't get me wrong. I think political correctness goes way to far sometimes. However, I don't think disrespecting and insulting someone because of their race, gender, sexual orientation, ect has anything to do with political correctness. It is an issue of morality, courtesy and common decency.


It has become apparent that in the era of Trump some people feel more emboldened to say racially insensitive and derogatory things. The rise of social media has contributed more than anything. It is easy for people to sit behind a keyboard or cell phone and say whatever they want because there isn't the fear of physical altercation. Twitter/Facebook muscles is what some call them.


But, many people will say things to your face. They will just use code words or cloak it in a joke. It's more of a soft bigotry. And, they will play victim if anyone pushes back.


I am ashamed to say for years I was guilty of never saying anything. My silence was in direct contradiction of what my parents taught me. I didn't want to "rock the boat". I often found myself in situations where I was the only Black kid, so I wanted people to like me and let things slide. As I became older, it also became a matter of not wanting to have confrontation or potentially jeopardizing my livelihood. At times I would go silent or show facial displeasure at a joke or comment and I would see the victimhood swell up or I'd get the "lighten up, it's just a joke". I would be present when other people (both Whites and POC) would speak up and they would be met with disdain or labeled "bleeding hearts" or "soft".


But, as I've become older I have less and less tolerance for peoples ignorance and racism and their excusing of racism. I have learned what my mom always said was correct, "You can't let people get away with their offensive jokes and comments because they'll just go further and further. You'll allow them to become comfortable being a bigot around you." And, that has been proven to be exactly correct.


If people think they can tow the line around you, they'll eventually cross that line. And, if you say nothing, you're being complicit. I can no longer in good conscience be complicit. I abhor racism and will not tolerate it in any form. If that costs me friends or Facebook followers or whatever so be it.


My dignity, self-worth and pride of being a Black AMERICAN outweighs your desire to be comfortable in your ignorance. Quite frankly, to hell with your ignorance. If I see, hear or read racism and bigotry I'm calling it out. If racist and bigoted things are said to me I'm calling it out. I'm not going to nor have I nitpick everything. Some things you do let slide because as Jay-Z said, "some fools love to perform".


But, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired of hearing, "Don't be so sensitive. Just let it go." I notice the people who say that mess the most are the people who say the racist insults, jokes, snide comments and who perpetuate the stereotypes. Do not tell me to "let it go" so you don't feel guilty about the racist thing you just said or defended. How about you "let go" of your racism, bigotry, racial resentment and immediate instinct to defend racism and racists. How abou dah?!


You can call it "being pc" or whatever devoid of intelligent thing you want. It is NOT being pc to avoid making racist, homophobic, xenophobic, sexist or misogynistic statements! Not saying that crap is called being decent, respectful and human. It is not a matter of being politically correct; it's a matter of being moral. If one can't see that, then perhaps they need to reset their moral compass.


You know I can take a joke. I laugh at "racial" jokes. But, there is a difference between a comedian saying something of a racial nature and saying something blatantly racist. If you can't tell the difference, all I can say is "bless your heart".


People need to quit wanting it to be the damn 1950s. It is not. It's not going back to that no matter how hard some try to take us there. Times have changed. Black people are no longer property nor will be seen as insignificant. Hispanics are apart of the American fabric. Deal with it. Members of the LGBTQ community are human beings. You don't have to agree with their lifestyle but that doesn't mean you can't treat them with respect and equality.


It really is not that hard to be respectful and decent. It's not that hard to not be a bigot and an asshole. IF you're someone who actually finds it hard to be a decent person, then you need to look long and hard at YOU! You might not be a good human being. And, if you claim to be a Christian, pick up the Bible your always erroneously hiding behind to justify your bigotry and actually read it.


Just know this. I'm all out of f***s to give. I am! I can no longer...I will no longer sacrifice my self-worth, the self-worth of my children, the self-worth of my family or what is just plain right so you can feel comfy in your ignorance and bigotry. #SimplyCannot

The Roseanne Cancellation Unleashes The Usual Apologists And Hypocrites

Lawd! Lawd! People make me so tired. So, so, so tired!


I already planned on writing a blog today. But, as is often the case the ever evolving news cycle altered the topic I was planning on writing. I was going to talk about how some progressives are fake and hypocritical. But, along came Roseanne Barr, her itchy Twitter finger and her inability to keep her racism tucked in.


For those who don't know ABC cancelled Roseanne today due to her saying former President Obama adviser, Valerie Jarrett, was the "child of the Muslim Brotherhood and Planet of the Apes". The joke was obviously racially charged and Roseanne admitted as much in her subsequent half-assed Twitter apology.


Now, I have some mixed emotions about ABC cancelling the show because of Roseanne exercising her First Amendment right. But, then again, I have a problem with the President of the United States wanting NFL players fired and deported for exercising their First Amendment rights. So, what do I know.


Oh, I know that I am already tired of Trumpsters and their faux outrage and blatant hypocrisy. I'm going to say to them exactly what they've been saying for the last week about the NFL anthem protest rule. "Everyone has the right to exercise their First Amendment rights but that doesn't mean they are exempt from consequences. These NFL owners are business owners and have the right to look out for what is best for their company. They've determined these protests are un-patriotic, immoral and bad for business." Well, ABC decided Roseanne comparing Black folk to apes is racist, immoral and bad for business. Nothing wrong with that, right? You hypothetical clowns were good with it last week with the NFL and should be good with it this week with ABC, no.


I can hear Trumpsters now, "Well, Roseanne wasn't at work." Um...and your point is...what? Kathy Griffin wasn't at work when she made that tasteless joke with Trump's severed head. Yet, y'all demanded she be fired. And, she subsequently was. Um, y'all demanded the Dixie Chicks lose sponsors and be fired from their label because they exercised their First Amendment rights. So, I'm confused about the anger with Roseanne's cancellation. What is the difference? Can't quite put my finger on it.


What I've truly found rich and exposing today is the amount of false equivalencies I have heard. I mean, shit, it's like y'all aren't even trying anymore. I mean I have been insulted at the fact people can't even fake something half-assed intelligent.


I have heard how what Michelle Wolf said about Sarah Huckabee Sanders at the White House Correspondents dinner was just as awful as what Roseanne said. 😐 So, lemme get this straight. Michelle Wolf talking about Sanders' "smokey eye" (which wasn't even a reference to her looks) is just as offensive as Roseanne's racist comment saying Valerie Jarrett was derived from a monkey? Seriously! Oh, wait, it wasn't racist because this one time "I was told by a doctor we're all descendants of monkeys", which is the defense I was told. I wish I was making this up.


But, wait, there is more! The other gold medal apologist false equivalency I found fascinating was comparing what Stormy Daniels said about Trump. What did she say you might ask. Well, her saying she had sex with Trump and his saying she reminds him of Ivanka. Yes, that is every bit as awful as Roseanne saying an educated well read Black woman is derived from an ape. I swear on everything holy. Stop laughing! I'm not making this shit up!


Then, basically the next line of defense I've read and heard is "we're too sensitive"; "people are snowflakes". Yes, the very same people who are triggered whenever anyone calls Trump a Cheeto or references his orange tint are calling me and others a "snowflake" for being offended at a Black woman being referenced to an ape in an obvious racially insensitive tweet. Let that shit sink all the way in for a minute. I mean you really can't make this ish up!


It actually hurts me Roseanne was cancelled. Although I have never been a fan of Roseanne Barr, the show is one of my favorites. I'm on the fence about whether it should've been cancelled or even how much credit for moral standing ABC deserves here. Likely, advertisers would've bolted sending the show into a downward spiral. Not to mention one of the head writers, Wanda Sykes, already said after the tweet she wouldn't be coming back. And, some co-stars were already showing anger and consternation. So, Roseanne single-handedly killed the show.


Lemme leave you with this. The same people who are blasting the NFL players for disrespecting the flag are the very same people who are all in their feelings defending a woman who once spit and grabbed her crotch during the national anthem and who never really apologized for it all because she likes their dear leader.


So, tell me more about how you're more patriotic than I am and how you're not a shameless hypocrite.

There Are Still Sexual Assault/Misconduct Apologists

Today CNN broke a story about sexual misconduct allegations regarding Morgan Freemam. MORGAN FREEMAN! Yes, Mr. Driving Ms. Daisy; Mr. First Black President; Mandelaaaaa; god! That Morgan Freeman. Is nothing real anymore?


The fact is I was shocked but not surprised. This trend of sexual predators being exposed is starting to look like steroid users in baseball. The actual number of dudes I could list that I'd be genuinely surprised at being accused of sexual misconduct is pretty damn miniscule. It really is. I was genuinely surprised that Catfish's Nev Schulman was accused. But, at this point should I be. I'll note that if it turns out to be false I won't be surprised. The story is shaky.


But, for Morgan Freeman I can't say the same. I read the story thoroughly. Multiple women went on record describing what he did. Some called it "inappropriate behavior"; others called it sexual assault and/or misconduct. The story had 16...SIXTEEN sources who confirmed the accusers accounts either in part or in full. One of the victim accounts was by a CNN reporter who has part of the incident on video. And, the real clincher for me was from Freeman himself. He gave a statement-not of denial- but the 'ol "If I did anything to offend or make anyone feel uncomfortable...". That is damn near a confession. Why, Mandela, why? 😡


But, as with Bill Cosby; Harvey Weinstein; Matt Lauer; Charlie Rose; ect, the excusing and moralizing was almost instantaneous. The half-assed victim blaming began.


Here we are in the crux of the #MeToo movement and an alleged enlightening of men about their attitude toward women and I hear some of the most inane ignorant ass shit possible! I literally had said to me today, "Why are they coming out now?" (An oldie but still moronic goodie) I replied some of these accounts are within the last three years. Next question, "Why didn't they do something or say something then?" (Ya know low-key victim blaming.) I said, "Oh, I don't know...because it was freakin Morgan Freeman and they were afraid of their careers being ruined!" Then I heard, "Some of these claims are just about nothing. It's not like they got raped." Uh-huh. Real convo. Then the minimizing of #MeToo accounts began with the, "A lot of these women's stories are 'he told me a dirty joke' or 'he brushed up against me'." I then had to drop a little knowledge, "Most of these claims are more than dirty jokes. Sure, some of these accusations are incidents blown way out of proportion. But, the vast majority are credible with contemporaneous accounts. And, brushing up against someone to cop feel without their consent is sexual assault. 😒" The response to that was the classic apologist go-to. "Well, they'll have to go after every man to ever be in the workforce. Because man has been doing that since the beginning of work. And, every man has inappropriately touched a woman or groped her." I said, "Well, men have been sexually harassing women since the beginning of time. Also, not every man has sexually harassed woman. It's actually very easy not to do. A lot of men have never groped a woman or try to lift up their skirt or put their hand down their shirt."


What kills me about this type of attitude is the total lack of awareness and the fact it's still pervasive. It is an archaic attitude but is one held by many men and women! It is astounding to me that rape culture is still rampant in this country.


How ridiculous is it for someone to still believe it's ok for "boys to be boys". OMG! It is not ok! How about we teach our boys to properly respect women and our "big boys" to be FUCKING MEN! How about dah! How about men and boys stop thinking women's main role in life is to be there for their pleasure. How about we as men stop thinking women's asses, boobs and vaginas are ok to grope and grab without consent! How about we quit bullshittin about we don't know what is ok and what isn't. Quit mudding the waters. A glance at a woman because you think she's attractive is infinitely different from glaring at her. Respectfully telling a woman, "You look nice today", is a far cry from, "Dayummmm! Look at the tits on you! I'd like to see what that ass looks like bent over. Come sit on my face, Honey!" I mean fucking really we don't know the difference! Seriously, if you don't know the difference, you're a hopeless dumbass! Sorry. Not sorry!


Respecting women, respecting their space isn't that hard. Hell, it's not hard at all. Knowing what's consent or approval to do something and what is not isn't really that taxing to decipher.


People have to quit being apologists for behavior that is clearly wrong. Just because "it's always happened" means it's right or should continue. There are a lot of things that have "always happened" in our society that should stop. I find it disappointing and frankly disgusting that people have to be told sexual harassment/assault is wrong and should never be excused.


Be better!

Fake News Works!

I didn't really plan on writing a blog today. I thought maybe posting a blog four days in a row would possibly be oversaturation. But, then I heard something that triggered my mind into contemplating on a subject I've been wanting to write about. Then, I thought, "No. I'll wait until tomorrow or Friday." But, I opened Facebook and lo and behold there staring me in the face was the very thing I'd been contemplating writing on, fake news.






Facebook had placed in my news feed a guide to detecting fake news and how to determine if a article is legit. I'm sure the grilling from Congress and the having to admit the Russians infiltrated Facebook feeds with false and/or misleading stories forced this guide's publishing. In any event it lead me to deciding to write a blog. I am going to go over each bullet point because it's important. Fake news is real. And, it's not difficult to see how it influenced the 2016 election and how it will likely influence the 2018 midterm elections.






I'm sure some people will now blow off this blog but I hope enough people will just give it a read and consider that maybe they can be myopic in their thinking at times and that living in their bubble without ever venturing outside of it can be dangerous. And, it is silly to never vet a news source to make sure it's legit and the articles they are publishing are, first exist, and are legit.






The following are the guidelines from Facebook (My thoughts are in parentheses.):






1.Be skeptical of headlines. False news stories often have catchy headlines in all caps with exclamation points. If shocking claims in the headline sound unbelievable, they probably are. (This is very true. As a journalism major I can tell you rarely does a headline have an exclamation point. Headlines are designed to get your attention. However, if your first thought is, "Wow! That sounds crazy! That sounds weird!" It is 99.5% of the time. Real stories have eye-catching headlines; not the shit you see on a National Enquire front page.)







2. Look closely at the URL. A phony or look-alike URL may be a warning sign of false news. Many false news sites mimic authentic news sources by making small changes to the URL. You can go to the site to compare the URL to established sources. (Yes, you should watch this closely. Same goes for Facebook and Twitter handles. I'll admit I've been fooled a few times. Often the differences between the fake name and the real name are subtle, but after a little inspection the difference is noticeable.)






3. Investigate the source. Ensure that the story is written by a source that you trust with a reputation for accuracy. If the story comes from an unfamiliar organization, check their "About" section to learn more. (This is the most difficult rule that is listed. Let's be honest here sometimes reputable sources like Fox News post stories that are false. They have enough truth in them to avoid libel charges or they're littered with quotes that are more opinion than fact. But, this goes to people believing what they wanna believe. My best advice is before believing a source is to see if other news sources are reporting the same story or something similar. But, then we get into what is "reputable". Some people think the New York Times and the Washington Post aren't reputable but sources like alt-right and White Nationalists sites are. Can't always compete with willful ignorance and willful racism. My compromise would be if you're right leaning check the Wall Street Journal, Washington Examiner, New York Post, The National Review or even Sinclair. If they aren't reporting it also, it's likely false. Same goes for left leaning people. Checkout Huffington Post, The Root, MSNBC or Rawstory. If none of them are reporting something you read, it's probably not true.)






4. Watch for unusual formatting. Many false news sites have misspellings or awkward layouts. Read carefully if you see these signs. (Look, I'm no fan of alot of Fox News. But, their actual news corp is solid. They're not illiterate. Same goes for Breitbart. I find their narratives on many things to be repulsive and racist; however, their writers can punctuate and actually employ spell check. If you read some shit that looks like it was written by a fifth grade remedial student, it's highly likely it's a Russian bot or some highly partisan (on both sides) assclown that is spouting off. Or, *sigh* it's um...the President's Twitter feed. Trumpsters, don't get in your feelings. You know I speak the truth.)






5. Consider the photos. False news stories often contain manipulated images or videos. Sometimes the photo may be authentic, but taken out of context. You can search for the photo or image to verify where it came from. (Yassss! Google is your friend. It's not some tool of the establishment meant to brainwash you. Stop that ignant ish! Just stop it. A quick search on the internet will tell you if a photo or video is real and will provide you if it's being used in proper context. Again, you have to realize what's legit, whether you like the source or not. If the photo comes from CNN, it doesn't automatically make it "fake news". Use commonsense and quit being remedial. Yeah, I said it!)






6. Inspect the dates. False news stories may contain timelines that make no sense, or event dates that have been altered. (This is commonsense. If a story is saying Hillary Clinton accused Trump's administration of trying to secretly start up slavery plantations and the story is dated "May 23, 2005", it's obviously fake. Do I really need to say don't share or retweet that garbage? Yes, I need to say it! Don't share or retweet that garbage!)






7. Check the evidence. Check the author's sources to confirm that they are accurate. Lack of evidence or reliance on unnamed experts may indicate a false news story. (I can already hear Trumpsters now. See! See! Anonymous sources! No, Skippy. Slow ya roll. Any journalist has to use anonymous sources at some point. If a reporter is using one source without any verification from another source or documents it may be false. If they're using multiple sources (anonymous or otherwise), there is likely at least some truth to the story. *Side note: If someone is only denying the story but taking no action against the author, the story is true!* Again, a little research will do you a lot of good. Research the reporter. Checkout their history. If they don't have a history of false reporting it's legit. And, false reporting doesn't include negative reporting against your candidate or reporting you don't like.)






8. Look at other reports. If no other news source is reporting the same story, it may indicate that the story is false. If the story is reported by multiple sources you trust, it's more likely to be true. (As I stated above, if nobody else is reporting it, it's probably false. For example, MSNBC will often say something like, "Heidi Pryzbilla of USA Today is reporting.... NBC has not independently verified this story, but are working on it." Then, 20 minutes later they may say, "NBC News is now verifying what Heidi Pryzbilla reported earlier..." That's how it actually works in the news business. Other news organizations whether they're print, tv or online will pick up on a story and give it credence even if they don't confirm it right away. Contrary to what the Trump/Fox News bubble believes CNN and MSNBC do this for Fox News all the time.)




9. Is the story a joke? Sometimes false news stories can be hard to distinguish from humor or satire. Check whether the source is known for parody, and whether the story's details and tone suggest it may be just for fun. (If it's from The Onion, it's satirical and not real. Absolutely astonishing how many people share Onion stories on Facebook thinking they're real. Or, they go apeshit over a story, perhaps demanding Obama be jailed or apologize for something only to look fucking stupid when someone points out, "It's a joke. Story isn't real." Of course, rarely is there contrition or an apology. *Smh*)






10. Some stories are intentionally false. Think critically about the stories you read, and only share news that you know to be credible. (Unfortunately, this requires people to be fair, honest, balanced, have an intellectual curiosity and to be rational. I've discovered in the last few years an alarming number of people are none of these things. It cuts across political affiliation, gender, race, religious affiliation and class status. People think truth is subjective and facts are a matter of convenience. If they support their narrative, wonderful; if they don't, fuck 'em. And, that is exactly how many people feel whether they admit it or not. Folks are so myopic and simpleminded they either can't or refuse to think critically and curiously! Don't get sideways with me for saying it neither! I dare you to say I'm wrong. People in the #Resistance won't hear of anything unless it rips Trump and Trumpsters to shreds. They attack people who agree with them because they only agree with them 95%. It's the most asinine thing. But, Trumpsters are just as bad if not worse. Anything from the so-called mainstream media they won't believe even when irrefutable proof backs up the media's account. If there is any story about racism, xenophobia, homophobia or the #MeToo movement they immediately disregard it and call it #FakeNews. It's really pathetic and absurd. It really is.)


It's not difficult to see how Russia interfered with our election and swayed voters. They used our two biggest weaknesses against us. They used our partisanship and our willful ignorance/lack of intellectual curiosity/unwillingness to be informed. Honestly, they didn't have to work that hard. They just planted some false stories, some triggers and some instigation about racial resentment and sat back.


What Russia did speaks more about us than it does them. It's not a very attractive narrative. It's actually quite shameful and disgraceful.


Fake news is employed because IT WORKS! Think about that!