9/9/21: Krystal's Return, Biden's Terrible Month, VA Gov, Liberal Healthcare Deniers, ACLU Flip-Flop, Holmes Trial, Manchin Corruption, Lab Leak, Populism, and More!

Thomas Frank's "The People Know" offers a concise yet insightful history of anti-populism in America. He examines the recurring attempts to discredit and undermine populist movements, revealing the strategies employed by elites to maintain their power. Frank's analysis highlights the enduring tension between the interests of the ruling class and the aspirations of ordinary citizens. The book provides a valuable historical context for understanding contemporary political struggles. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the history of populism and its ongoing relevance in American politics.

Thomas Frank's "The Wrecking Crew" delves into the systematic dismantling of American institutions and the rise of corporate power. He meticulously traces the actions of conservative think tanks and policy advisors who orchestrated this transformation. Frank exposes the ideological underpinnings and strategic maneuvers that reshaped the political landscape, leading to increased inequality and the erosion of democratic norms. The book provides a critical examination of the forces that have shaped modern American politics and the consequences of their actions. It's a compelling narrative of power, ideology, and the fight for control over American society.

In 'Listen, Liberal', Thomas Frank argues that the Democratic Party has abandoned its historic commitment to the working and middle classes, instead aligning itself with the interests of the professional class. Frank contends that this shift has led to increased economic inequality, as policies favoring Wall Street and corporate interests have become more prevalent. He criticizes Democratic presidents such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama for their adherence to free-market policies and their reliance on advice from Ivy League-educated elites. The book also discusses the 2016 presidential election and how the Democratic Party's failure to address economic inequality contributed to the rise of populist candidates like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders.

In this book, Thomas Frank explores the transformation of Kansas from a state with a radical past to a stronghold of conservative politics. He argues that the culture wars have allowed the Republican Party to capture the populist language of social class, presenting themselves as the embodiment of working-class anti-elitism. Frank analyzes how conservatism, once associated with class privilege, became the creed of many ordinary Americans, particularly in Kansas, where workers and farmers support policies that often harm their own economic interests. The book critiques the role of the Democratic Party in neglecting its traditional support base, such as organized labor, and how this neglect has contributed to the rise of conservative politics[1][2][4].