

7/4/25: Bloated nasty bill advances, Trump thrilled
Jul 4, 2025
Join Jamie Raskin, a constitutional law expert and Representative for Maryland, as he dives into the legal challenges surrounding Trump's agenda. Arizona's Rep. Yassamin Ansari discusses the controversies of Trump's strikes on Iran. California Senator Alex Padilla shares a bizarre experience of being handcuffed by Kristi Noem's security. Meanwhile, Minnesota Senator Tina Smith reflects on the rising political violence and the difficulty of bipartisan collaboration. Together, they unravel the implications of current legislation on democracy and governance.
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Padilla's Handcuff Incident Reveals Suppression
- Senator Alex Padilla was handcuffed at a press conference despite properly identifying himself and having escorts.
- This incident highlights the broader issue of militarization and suppression of dissent in America today.
Authoritarian Playbook in America
- Authoritarians use tactics like mistreatment of officials, media suppression, and ignoring court orders.
- These tools weaken democracy and threaten institutions, demanding public awareness and pushback.
Maintain Grassroots Engagement
- Resist attempts by authoritarian leaders to convince you that your voice doesn't matter.
- Engage in activism big or small to maintain grassroots power and pressure for change.