Monday, July 08, 2024
German Lawmaker: French Elections Is 'a Troubling Situation' | DW News
The Conservative Party Should Be 'Put Out of Its Misery' and 'Dissolved' | Marcus Fysh
This man is right in so many ways, but wrong when it comes to what has killed the Tories. Cameron, along with Osborne, started the death spiral by instigating extreme austerity measures which have caused untold damage to this country’s economy, infrastructure, and social services, etc., creating poverty in the country, the likes of which we haven’t seen since the Victorian era. Then Cameron made the stupid move of calling for a referendum on our membership of the European Union, which again has led to even more impoverishment of the nation. Regardless of what Marcus Fysh says, this country cannot achieve lasting prosperity and growth outside of the world's largest and most successful single market and customs union this world has ever known. And one which is on our doorstep to boot. Brexit is one of the main reasons for the death of the Tories. Further, regardless of what this man says, you cannot make Brexit work. The best that can be done — maybe — is mitigate the losses caused by Brexit, but even that is going to prove extremely difficult.
On top of all this, the electorate grew tired of the circus of clowns that were presented as the leaders of the party. And their policies were ridiculous, un-Conservative, unworkable, and often extremely expensive. Take that ridiculous Rwanda policy as a case in point. Then there was the corruption in the Conservative Party which the electorate grew tired of, too.
But Marcus Fysh is right in calling for the death of the Tories. As I have stated on so many occasions over the years, the Tories need to go the way of the Whigs, into oblivion. The party is a relic of a bygone age. Moreover, it is riven by disagreements over direction and future policies. When they were one nation Conservatives, the party was successful. As soon as they abandoned one nation Conservatism, the party started to fall apart. It must also be said that under the Tories, the wealth gap has grown and grown. Children in the country are going hungry whilst the superrich are living in the lap of luxury. This is no recipe for the success of a political party. The electorate grew tired of it all. The Conservatives deserve their fate. – © Mark Alexander
Henri Lafont, the Godfather of the Gestapo | Documentary
US Braced for Extreme Weather as Hurricane Beryl and West Coast Heatwave Strike | BBC News
Rudy Rochman: Should All Jews Move to Israel?
You can SUPPORT Rudy Rochman and his team’s work here.
Death Toll Rises after Russian Strikes Hit Ukraine | BBC News
Jul 8, 2024 | A children's hospital has been seriously damaged in Kyiv and at least 31 people have been killed across Ukraine during rare daytime Russian strikes.
Ohmatdyt Children's Hospital - Ukraine's biggest paediatrics facility - sustained major damage during the blast, and pictures from the scene showed young children - some with IV drips - sitting outside the hospital as it was evacuated.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is visiting Poland, has vowed to retaliate.
Ohmatdyt Children's Hospital - Ukraine's biggest paediatrics facility - sustained major damage during the blast, and pictures from the scene showed young children - some with IV drips - sitting outside the hospital as it was evacuated.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is visiting Poland, has vowed to retaliate.
23€ pro Schachtel Zigaretten? | stern TV Talk mit Mario Basler
Tories Running Out of Time to Fix Their Broken Party
France Faces Hung Parliament after Election Result | BBC News
Jul 8, 2024 | France is facing political deadlock after parliamentary elections dealt a blow to the far-right National Rally - but leave no party with a majority.
A coalition of left-wing parties - has won most seats in the high stakes snap election. The left-wing New Popular Front has won 182 seats in total, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally have 143 MP’s, coming behind President Emmanuel Macron’s Ensemble Alliance, which has 168 seats.
RN leader Jordan Bardella blamed "unnatural political alliances" for stopping their rise to power.
A coalition of left-wing parties - has won most seats in the high stakes snap election. The left-wing New Popular Front has won 182 seats in total, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally have 143 MP’s, coming behind President Emmanuel Macron’s Ensemble Alliance, which has 168 seats.
RN leader Jordan Bardella blamed "unnatural political alliances" for stopping their rise to power.
What the Election Results Mean for Macron, France and the EU | DW News
French Election Yields Deadlock as Left Surges and Far Right Comes Up Short
THE NEW YORK TIMES: The outcome left no party with an absolute majority and France bracing for potential political paralysis.
France faced a hung parliament and deep political uncertainty after the three main political groups of the left, center and right emerged from snap legislative elections on Sunday with large shares of the vote but nothing approaching an absolute majority.
The preliminary results upended widespread predictions of a clear victory for the National Rally, Marine Le Pen’s anti-immigrant party that dominated the first round of voting a week ago. Instead, the left-wing New Popular Front won 178 seats.
The centrist coalition of President Emmanuel Macron, who cast the country into turmoil a month ago by calling the election, was in second place with 150 seats. Trailing it was the National Rally and its allies, which took 142 seats. » | Roger Cohen, Reporting from Paris | Sunday, July 7, 2024
How the French Election Results Unfolded: A left-wing coalition unexpectedly surged and the far-right National Rally fell short of predictions. But no coalition captured a majority in Parliament, meaning months of gridlock could lie ahead. »
France faced a hung parliament and deep political uncertainty after the three main political groups of the left, center and right emerged from snap legislative elections on Sunday with large shares of the vote but nothing approaching an absolute majority.
The preliminary results upended widespread predictions of a clear victory for the National Rally, Marine Le Pen’s anti-immigrant party that dominated the first round of voting a week ago. Instead, the left-wing New Popular Front won 178 seats.
The centrist coalition of President Emmanuel Macron, who cast the country into turmoil a month ago by calling the election, was in second place with 150 seats. Trailing it was the National Rally and its allies, which took 142 seats. » | Roger Cohen, Reporting from Paris | Sunday, July 7, 2024
How the French Election Results Unfolded: A left-wing coalition unexpectedly surged and the far-right National Rally fell short of predictions. But no coalition captured a majority in Parliament, meaning months of gridlock could lie ahead. »
Sunday, July 07, 2024
Exit Poll Shows Surprise Win for Leftwing Alliance in French Election
THE GUARDIAN: Marine Le Pen’s National Rally falls into third place, despite strong showing in first round of voting
A leftwing alliance was on track to become the biggest force in the French parliament on Sunday after tactical voting held back the far right, but the shape of the future government remained uncertain after no group won an absolute majority.
The New Popular Front alliance of parties – which includes the former ruling Socialist party, the leftwing La France Insoumise, the Greens and Communists – was predicted to take 172–192 seats, according to projections by Ipsos pollsters for the French public broadcaster.
Emmanuel Macron’s centrist grouping, Ensemble, was in second place, projected to take between 150–170 seats, a loss of up to 100 seats but a stronger showing than expected.
Marine Le Pen’s far-right, anti-immigration National Rally (RN) was predicted to come third with 132–152 seats, along with its allies on the right. » | Angelique Chrisafis in Paris | Sunday, July 7, 2024
A leftwing alliance was on track to become the biggest force in the French parliament on Sunday after tactical voting held back the far right, but the shape of the future government remained uncertain after no group won an absolute majority.
The New Popular Front alliance of parties – which includes the former ruling Socialist party, the leftwing La France Insoumise, the Greens and Communists – was predicted to take 172–192 seats, according to projections by Ipsos pollsters for the French public broadcaster.
Emmanuel Macron’s centrist grouping, Ensemble, was in second place, projected to take between 150–170 seats, a loss of up to 100 seats but a stronger showing than expected.
Marine Le Pen’s far-right, anti-immigration National Rally (RN) was predicted to come third with 132–152 seats, along with its allies on the right. » | Angelique Chrisafis in Paris | Sunday, July 7, 2024
Cyprus : Europe’s Mideast Outpost?
Jul 5, 2024 | The Republic of Cyprus, the easternmost member of the European Union, is at the frontline of the EU’s activities in the Middle East. Throughout 2024, it has received widespread international praise for its crucial role in providing aid to Gaza. However, the growing risk of conflict on the Lebanese-Israeli border has now seen Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia, threaten the island. This precarious situation underscores Cyprus's complex geopolitical position, balancing relations between the Middle East and the EU.
Traditionally, Cyprus has maintained strong ties with Europe and the Middle East. The island's history of diverse rulers—from ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines to the Ottomans and the British—reflects its strategic importance at the far eastern end of the Mediterranean. Post-independence in 1960, Cyprus navigated complex regional dynamics, forming close ties to its Arab neighbours. The 1974 Turkish invasion, resulting in the island's division, deepened its ties with the Non-Aligned Movement and Middle Eastern countries, particularly as anti-Western sentiment grew. However, Cyprus's EU membership in 2004 shifted its focus somewhat towards Europe but didn't sever its Middle Eastern connections. Cyprus continues to be pivotal in EU's humanitarian efforts in the Middle East, becoming an essential humanitarian hub, especially in crises like the Lebanese Civil War and the recent Gaza conflict. Yet, its increasing collaboration with Israel, especially after tensions between Israel and Turkey escalated, has complicated its position, drawing threats from Hezbollah.
Traditionally, Cyprus has maintained strong ties with Europe and the Middle East. The island's history of diverse rulers—from ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines to the Ottomans and the British—reflects its strategic importance at the far eastern end of the Mediterranean. Post-independence in 1960, Cyprus navigated complex regional dynamics, forming close ties to its Arab neighbours. The 1974 Turkish invasion, resulting in the island's division, deepened its ties with the Non-Aligned Movement and Middle Eastern countries, particularly as anti-Western sentiment grew. However, Cyprus's EU membership in 2004 shifted its focus somewhat towards Europe but didn't sever its Middle Eastern connections. Cyprus continues to be pivotal in EU's humanitarian efforts in the Middle East, becoming an essential humanitarian hub, especially in crises like the Lebanese Civil War and the recent Gaza conflict. Yet, its increasing collaboration with Israel, especially after tensions between Israel and Turkey escalated, has complicated its position, drawing threats from Hezbollah.
The Far Right Is Close to Power in France. Will the Rest of Europe Follow?
BBC: How likely is France to wake up on Monday morning to a new far-right dawn?
That was the garishly painted, hotly debated scenario in media headlines, the EU in Brussels and seats of government across Europe following the first round of France’s parliamentary vote last week.
But despite the spectacular showing by Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN) party, the short answer is: an RN majority is possible. Not probable.
French centrist and leftist parties have strategically withdrawn candidates to bolster each other’s contenders ahead of Sunday’s decisive second round.
But the impact of this election will be seismic, whether or not the RN wins an outright majority - or whether Jordan Bardella, its social media-savvy young president, becomes France’s new prime minister.
Polls predict RN is all but guaranteed to win more seats than any other political grouping.>br />
That means a decades-old taboo will have been shattered in France, a core EU nation. » | Katya Adler, Europe editor | Sunday, July 7, 2024
Frankreich-Wahl: So geht es weiter | Mittagsmagazin
Frankreichs rechte Jugend - Wohin steuert unser Nachbarland? | auslandsjournal
Right-wing Revolt: Why Europe's Young Are Turning against 'Progressive' Politics | SpectatorTV
Michael Lambert: Starmer & Labour Face an Impossible Challenge in Trying to Clear Up the Mess Left by the Tories
Jul 7, 2024 | Last week saw the general election in which Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives were beaten by the Labour Party under Keir Starmer.
Under the First Past The Post system, Labour won 411 seats with just 34% of votes cast and with a turnout of just 60%.
The government now faces an almost impossible set of challenges. Starmer says he will re-negotiate our deal with the EU, will do away with 'red tape' hindering trade with the EU and that he will finance the many areas that are starved of cash by growing the economy. He has also stated recently that the UK will never return to EU membership in his lifetime.
Under the First Past The Post system, Labour won 411 seats with just 34% of votes cast and with a turnout of just 60%.
The government now faces an almost impossible set of challenges. Starmer says he will re-negotiate our deal with the EU, will do away with 'red tape' hindering trade with the EU and that he will finance the many areas that are starved of cash by growing the economy. He has also stated recently that the UK will never return to EU membership in his lifetime.
Anti-tourism Protesters Soak Diners with Water Pistols in Barcelona
Jul 7, 2024 | Tourists dining in Barcelona were drenched with water guns by angry crowds of anti-tourism protesters marching down the main boulevards.
Carrying banners with slogans including “Tourism kills the city” and “Tourists go home”, several thousand demonstrators rallied through hotspots including the famous La Rambla.
Some of the demonstrators called out insults at tourists who took photographs of the march, while others taped off hotels and restaurants in a symbolic protest at overtourism in the Catalan capital. The use of water guns by some protestors againt onlooking tourists prompted some heated verbal exchanges, but order was maintained by police escorting the march.
Carrying banners with slogans including “Tourism kills the city” and “Tourists go home”, several thousand demonstrators rallied through hotspots including the famous La Rambla.
Some of the demonstrators called out insults at tourists who took photographs of the march, while others taped off hotels and restaurants in a symbolic protest at overtourism in the Catalan capital. The use of water guns by some protestors againt onlooking tourists prompted some heated verbal exchanges, but order was maintained by police escorting the march.
Pride Flag | I Saw the Sign | Doku HD | ARTE
Jul 7, 2024 | Sechs Farben und eine klare Message: Die Regenbogenflagge - Pride Flag - ist das Zeichen von queeren Menschen. Sie steht für Hoffnung und Freiheit, Zusammenhalt und Widerstand. Unter diesem Zeichen fordern Menschen weltweit sexuelle Selbstbestimmung. Und doch gibt es bis heute Diskriminierungen, Verbote und Verhaftungen für Menschen, die sich offen mit der Pride Flag zeigen.
Das Lied „Somewhere over the Rainbow“ macht Schauspielerin Judy Garland im Film „Der Zauberer von Oz“ 1939 über Nacht zum Star und ist bis heute eine Hymne der Pride-Bewegung. Die Regenbogenflagge als ihr Zeichen entsteht jedoch erst Jahrzehnte später – der amerikanische Künstler und Aktivist Gilbert Baker entwirft sie im Jahr 1978. Sein Auftrag: ein positives Symbol für eine Bewegung zu entwickeln, die Homosexualität aus der Tabuzone holt und für gleiche Rechte kämpft. Denn fast überall steht Homosexualität damals unter Strafe, Verhaftungen und Razzien sind an der Tagesordnung. Zwar kommt es schon 1969 zum Aufstand in der New Yorker Schwulenkneipe „Stonewall Inn“, der später als Christopher Street Day in die Geschichte eingehen wird. Doch das ist erst der Anfang eines langen Kampfes für Anerkennung und Gleichberechtigung, der bis heute anhält. „I saw the Sign“ erzählt die Geschichte einer Flagge, die alle queeren Menschen über Landesgrenzen hinaus unter einem Symbol vereint – und die immer noch polarisiert.
Charles Beal, Freund des Erfinders und Präsident der Gilbert Baker Foundation, kämpft bis heute für das Regenbogensymbol. Die polnische Menschenrechtsaktivistin Anna Prus erreicht mit ihrer Regenbogen-Madonna über die Landesgrenzen hinaus Aufmerksamkeit. Sébastien Tremblay, Experte für queere transatlantische Geschichte, rückt die Regenbogenflagge in ihren historischen Kontext. Für Designforscher Tom Bieling ein starkes Zeichen: bunte Streifen, die jeder versteht.
Dokureihe, Regie: Frédérique Veith (D 2023, 23 Min)
Video verfügbar bis zum 20/03/2026
Das Lied „Somewhere over the Rainbow“ macht Schauspielerin Judy Garland im Film „Der Zauberer von Oz“ 1939 über Nacht zum Star und ist bis heute eine Hymne der Pride-Bewegung. Die Regenbogenflagge als ihr Zeichen entsteht jedoch erst Jahrzehnte später – der amerikanische Künstler und Aktivist Gilbert Baker entwirft sie im Jahr 1978. Sein Auftrag: ein positives Symbol für eine Bewegung zu entwickeln, die Homosexualität aus der Tabuzone holt und für gleiche Rechte kämpft. Denn fast überall steht Homosexualität damals unter Strafe, Verhaftungen und Razzien sind an der Tagesordnung. Zwar kommt es schon 1969 zum Aufstand in der New Yorker Schwulenkneipe „Stonewall Inn“, der später als Christopher Street Day in die Geschichte eingehen wird. Doch das ist erst der Anfang eines langen Kampfes für Anerkennung und Gleichberechtigung, der bis heute anhält. „I saw the Sign“ erzählt die Geschichte einer Flagge, die alle queeren Menschen über Landesgrenzen hinaus unter einem Symbol vereint – und die immer noch polarisiert.
Charles Beal, Freund des Erfinders und Präsident der Gilbert Baker Foundation, kämpft bis heute für das Regenbogensymbol. Die polnische Menschenrechtsaktivistin Anna Prus erreicht mit ihrer Regenbogen-Madonna über die Landesgrenzen hinaus Aufmerksamkeit. Sébastien Tremblay, Experte für queere transatlantische Geschichte, rückt die Regenbogenflagge in ihren historischen Kontext. Für Designforscher Tom Bieling ein starkes Zeichen: bunte Streifen, die jeder versteht.
Dokureihe, Regie: Frédérique Veith (D 2023, 23 Min)
Video verfügbar bis zum 20/03/2026
France Votes as the Far-right Seeks Power | REUTERS
The Secret Family Member of US President Joe Biden | 60 Minutes Australia
'I Am the Anti-Merkel': Marine Le Pen on Brexit, EU, Putin and Nato - BBC Newsnight
Saturday, July 06, 2024
Inside the Real Story of Boris Johnson's Rise to PM | The Rise and Fall of Boris Johnson | Channel 4 | Reupload
BoJo is a clown and a disaster. He has destroyed the UK single-handedly. An awful man! – © Mark Alexander
Brexit Endgame: 2019-2020 | ARTE.tv Documentary
Jul 3, 2024 | A look back at the last 12 months before Britain left the European Union, which finally happened on 31 January 2020. It was a year of chaos and plotting, fear and loathing, often descending into farce..
Brexit Endgame: 2019-2020 | ARTE.tv Documentary
Available until the 01/09/2024
The tw*ts that were at the top (supply the vowel of your choice), have turned this country into a basket case. Thank God they are gone. – © Mark Alexander
Brexit Endgame: 2019-2020 | ARTE.tv Documentary
Available until the 01/09/2024
The tw*ts that were at the top (supply the vowel of your choice), have turned this country into a basket case. Thank God they are gone. – © Mark Alexander
Cannabis for All (Reupload) | ARTE.tv Documentary
This shows just how ridiculous and stupid Rishi Sunak’s generational smoking ban was. Thank God he has been kicked into the long grass. It is to be hoped that his successor will not resurrect that ridiculous idea. It makes no sense to ban cigarette smoking. Period! And at a time in which countries across the West are busy making the smoking of cannabis legal, it makes even less sense. Were I to have a son/daughter, I would prefer him/her to take up the smoking habit than take up the cannabis habit! But, truth to tell, I do not endorse the legalisation of cannabis for recreational purposes. For medicinal purposes, yes.
I am a former smoker. I quit in early April 2022. Cold turkey. But even though I have quit, I shall still defend a person’s right to enjoy a cigarette. I derived untold pleasure from the habit. And, for your information, I NEVER felt addicted to it. Nicotine is NOT an addictive substance. Anyone who tells you otherwise is talking BS. – © Mark Alexander
Panic in the Baltic | ARTE.tv Documentary
Jun 24, 2024 | After the end of the Cold War, the Baltic was viewed almost as a quiet backwater. A nice place to visit to see charming Hanseatic cities and sandy beaches. But since the war in Ukraine the Baltic sea, bordered by eight European Union countries as well as Russia, has become a hot spot of world geopolitics. And tensions are high.
Panic in the Baltic | ARTE.tv Documentary
Available until the 17/08/2024
Panic in the Baltic | ARTE.tv Documentary
Available until the 17/08/2024
Ku Klux Klan - A Story of Racism, Violence and Hatred | DW Documentary
Jun 15, 2024 | Three letters that are synonymous with racism, violence and hatred: KKK. This is the abbreviation for the Ku Klux Klan. The terrorist organization has been active in the USA for over 150 years, especially in the rural areas of the South.
Once founded as a racist secret society to oppress the black population of the USA, the movement has split into many splinter groups over the course of its history. At times, these were almost inactive. But since 2016, when President Donald Trump was elected, the Ku Klux Klan has seen a resurgence.
The film reconstructs the history of the movement and talks to former judges and FBI agents who tried to fight the organization. A KKK dropout also weighs in. This film charts the development of the most notorious racist criminal organization in the United States.
This documentary is age-restricted. Therefore, it cannot be embedded on external websites. It must be watched on YouTube. Please cleick here to watch it. – Mark
Once founded as a racist secret society to oppress the black population of the USA, the movement has split into many splinter groups over the course of its history. At times, these were almost inactive. But since 2016, when President Donald Trump was elected, the Ku Klux Klan has seen a resurgence.
The film reconstructs the history of the movement and talks to former judges and FBI agents who tried to fight the organization. A KKK dropout also weighs in. This film charts the development of the most notorious racist criminal organization in the United States.
Peter Stefanovic: Starmer Sends Message that UK’s Hard-won Reputation for the Rule of Law & Human Rights Are Safe under His Government
The circus has left town. The clowns are on an extended vacation. Praise Ye the Lord! – © Mark Alexander
France and the Far Right
Jul 4, 2024 | After the first round of voting in the parliamentary poll, the clear winner with 33% of the votes was Marine Le Pen’s far right RN Party. They are the successor to the Front Nationale created by Jean Marie Le Pen, Marine’s Dad who famously declared that the holocaust was a 'detail' of history.
The RN were hoping to install their candidate Jordan Bardella as prime Minister, but ahead of the second round of voting more than 200 opposition candidates have quit allowing for an anti RN coalition.
Will that be enough to keep them out of office…and how did it even get this far?
Adrian Goldberg hears from Assa Samake Roman, a French journalist based in Edinburgh, and Olly Haynes, a freelance specialising in France.
The RN were hoping to install their candidate Jordan Bardella as prime Minister, but ahead of the second round of voting more than 200 opposition candidates have quit allowing for an anti RN coalition.
Will that be enough to keep them out of office…and how did it even get this far?
Adrian Goldberg hears from Assa Samake Roman, a French journalist based in Edinburgh, and Olly Haynes, a freelance specialising in France.
Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian Wins Iran Presidential Election | DW News
Moderate Pezeshkian Wins Iran Presidential Election | REUTERS
Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian wins Iran presidential election: Victory reflects deep dissatisfaction with direction of country and could bring greater cooperation with west »
Sir Keir Starmer's First Cabinet: Who Has Been Appointed?
EU Leaders Criticize Hungarian Prime Minister for 'Peace Trip' to Russia | DW News
Jul 5, 2024 | Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Friday to discuss the war in Ukraine. Putin said he wanted to take the opportunity to "discuss the nuances that have developed" over the conflict with Orbán. Orbán said at a press conference with Putin in Moscow that Hungary viewed its six-month stint holding the rotating European Council presidency as a peace mission.
"Many steps are needed to end the war, but we took the first step to restore dialogue," Orbén said, adding that "points of view remained far from each other in Kyiv and Moscow." The Hungarian PM also visited Kyiv, for the first time since Russia's invasion, earlier in the week.
"Many steps are needed to end the war, but we took the first step to restore dialogue," Orbén said, adding that "points of view remained far from each other in Kyiv and Moscow." The Hungarian PM also visited Kyiv, for the first time since Russia's invasion, earlier in the week.
A Defiant Biden Says Only the ‘Lord Almighty’ Could Drive Him From the Race
THE NEW YORK TIMES: President Biden dismissed concerns about his age, his mental acuity and polls showing him losing his re-election bid.
President Biden on Friday dismissed concerns about his age, his mental acuity and polls showing him losing his re-election bid, saying in a prime-time interview that his sharpness is tested every day while he is “running the world.” He vowed to drop out only if “the Lord Almighty” told him to.
During a 22-minute interview with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos, which aired unedited, Mr. Biden, 81, said there was no need for him to submit to neurological or cognitive testing. He said he simply did not believe the polls showing him losing. And asked how he would feel if former President Donald J. Trump were elected in November, he brushed off the question.
“I’ll feel as long as I gave it my all and I did the goodest job as I know I can do, that’s what this is about,” Mr. Biden said in an interview that was intended to assuage growing concerns about his age following last Thursday’s debate. But with him speaking in a hoarse voice and remaining defiant throughout, there was little indication that the interview would do much to stanch the bleeding during the deepest crisis of a long political career.
Again and again, Mr. Biden told Mr. Stephanopoulos that voters should consider his accomplishments in office. » | Michael D. Shear, Reporting from Washington | Published July 5, 2024; updated July 6, 2024
President Biden on Friday dismissed concerns about his age, his mental acuity and polls showing him losing his re-election bid, saying in a prime-time interview that his sharpness is tested every day while he is “running the world.” He vowed to drop out only if “the Lord Almighty” told him to.
During a 22-minute interview with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos, which aired unedited, Mr. Biden, 81, said there was no need for him to submit to neurological or cognitive testing. He said he simply did not believe the polls showing him losing. And asked how he would feel if former President Donald J. Trump were elected in November, he brushed off the question.
“I’ll feel as long as I gave it my all and I did the goodest job as I know I can do, that’s what this is about,” Mr. Biden said in an interview that was intended to assuage growing concerns about his age following last Thursday’s debate. But with him speaking in a hoarse voice and remaining defiant throughout, there was little indication that the interview would do much to stanch the bleeding during the deepest crisis of a long political career.
Again and again, Mr. Biden told Mr. Stephanopoulos that voters should consider his accomplishments in office. » | Michael D. Shear, Reporting from Washington | Published July 5, 2024; updated July 6, 2024
'You're Kidding Me, Right?': Amanpour Challenges Le Pen on 'Far-right'
Friday, July 05, 2024
French PM Urges Calm after Assaults in Run-up to Second Round Vote
THE GUARDIAN: Gabriel Attal’s call comes on tense last day of campaigning after more than 50 candidates and canvassers attacked
The French prime minister, Gabriel Attal, has urged all political parties to call for calm on a tense last day of campaigning for a snap election in which the far right hopes to win a majority in parliament.
“Violence and intimidation have no place in our society,” Attal wrote in a social media post.
The interior minister, Gérald Darmanin, said: “This campaign is short and yet we already have 51 candidates, substitutes and activists who have been physically assaulted.” » | Angelique Chrisafis in Paris | Friday, July 5, 2024
The French prime minister, Gabriel Attal, has urged all political parties to call for calm on a tense last day of campaigning for a snap election in which the far right hopes to win a majority in parliament.
“Violence and intimidation have no place in our society,” Attal wrote in a social media post.
The interior minister, Gérald Darmanin, said: “This campaign is short and yet we already have 51 candidates, substitutes and activists who have been physically assaulted.” » | Angelique Chrisafis in Paris | Friday, July 5, 2024
Schwuler Sex - früher per Gesetz verboten | Planet Schule
Wir leben nun im Jahre 2024. Es ist wirklich höchste Zeit, daß wir fangen an, zu leben und zu leben lassen noch einmal wieder. Es gibt Vieles, was andere Menschen mich enzetzt, aber ich würde natürlich, auf keinen Fall, ihre Freude von ihnen wegstehlen. Als Leute müssen wir wieder neu erlernen, das Konzept 'leben und leben lassen'. – © Mark Alexander
Sicherheitsrisiko schwul - Die Affäre Kießling - Homosexualität in der Bundeswehr | SWR Doku
Feb 5, 2024 | Verteidigungsminister Manfred Wörner entlässt Ende 1983 den NATO-General Günter Kießling. Der sei angeblich schwul und deshalb ein Sicherheitsrisiko. Ein Ringen um Wahrheit und Gerechtigkeit beginnt. Es geht um schlampige Ermittlungen, fragwürdige Zeugen und einen Doppelgänger. Die Doku zeichnet die Ereignisse nach und zeigt, was der Skandal für Homosexuelle in der Bundeswehr bedeutet – bis heute.
Ein Skandal erschüttert im Januar 1984 die Bundeswehr. Verteidigungsminister Manfred Wörner hatte Ende 1983 den ranghöchsten deutschen NATO-General entlassen. Günter Kießling sei angeblich schwul und deshalb ein Sicherheitsrisiko für die Bundesrepublik. Doch an der Geschichte kommen schnell Zweifel auf. Es beginnt ein Ringen um Wahrheit und Gerechtigkeit. Es geht um schlampige Ermittlungen, fragwürdige Zeugen und einen Doppelgänger. Schließlich muss Bundeskanzler Helmut Kohl eine Entscheidung treffen. In der Dokumentation von Simone Schillinger kommen Menschen zu Wort, die 40 Jahre zuvor in die teils bizarren Ereignisse involviert waren. Der Film geht jedoch noch einen Schritt weiter. Er spürt auf, welchen Einfluss die sogenannte „Affäre Kießling“ auf die Geschichte der Homosexuellen in der Bundeswehr hatte. Jahrzehntelang waren sie Vorurteilen und Schikanen ausgesetzt und lange war Homosexualität ein Ausmusterungsgrund. Bei vielen Betroffenen haben diese Erfahrungen Narben hinterlassen.
Diese Doku aus der Reihe "ARD-History" trägt den Originaltitel: Sicherheitsrisiko schwul - Die Affäre Kießling, Ausstrahlungsdatum:08.01.24.
Alle Aussagen und Fakten entsprechen dem damaligen Stand und wurden seitdem nicht aktualisiert.
Ein Skandal erschüttert im Januar 1984 die Bundeswehr. Verteidigungsminister Manfred Wörner hatte Ende 1983 den ranghöchsten deutschen NATO-General entlassen. Günter Kießling sei angeblich schwul und deshalb ein Sicherheitsrisiko für die Bundesrepublik. Doch an der Geschichte kommen schnell Zweifel auf. Es beginnt ein Ringen um Wahrheit und Gerechtigkeit. Es geht um schlampige Ermittlungen, fragwürdige Zeugen und einen Doppelgänger. Schließlich muss Bundeskanzler Helmut Kohl eine Entscheidung treffen. In der Dokumentation von Simone Schillinger kommen Menschen zu Wort, die 40 Jahre zuvor in die teils bizarren Ereignisse involviert waren. Der Film geht jedoch noch einen Schritt weiter. Er spürt auf, welchen Einfluss die sogenannte „Affäre Kießling“ auf die Geschichte der Homosexuellen in der Bundeswehr hatte. Jahrzehntelang waren sie Vorurteilen und Schikanen ausgesetzt und lange war Homosexualität ein Ausmusterungsgrund. Bei vielen Betroffenen haben diese Erfahrungen Narben hinterlassen.
Diese Doku aus der Reihe "ARD-History" trägt den Originaltitel: Sicherheitsrisiko schwul - Die Affäre Kießling, Ausstrahlungsdatum:08.01.24.
Alle Aussagen und Fakten entsprechen dem damaligen Stand und wurden seitdem nicht aktualisiert.
An Evening with a Socialist Defector: Victor Grossman aka Stephen Wechsler
Oct 5, 2019 | An American journalist, writer and popular speaker, who defected to the USSR in 1952, Victor Grossman has since lived in East Germany, then the reunified Germany, chronicling life, politics and humanity.
Victor's latest book is published by Monthly Review Press and titled "A Socialist Defector: From Harvard to Karl-Marx-Allee": [Click here.]
Recorded at Der Rote Laden, Friedrichshain, Berlin on 3 October 2019.
Please note that I am posting this video for educational purposes only. I have no liking for that economic system. Not at all. However, I am interested to know what day-to-day life was like behind the ‘Iron Curtain’. Furthermore, Victor Grossman is a rather fascinating character. – © Mark Alexander
Related video here.
Victor's latest book is published by Monthly Review Press and titled "A Socialist Defector: From Harvard to Karl-Marx-Allee": [Click here.]
Recorded at Der Rote Laden, Friedrichshain, Berlin on 3 October 2019.
Please note that I am posting this video for educational purposes only. I have no liking for that economic system. Not at all. However, I am interested to know what day-to-day life was like behind the ‘Iron Curtain’. Furthermore, Victor Grossman is a rather fascinating character. – © Mark Alexander
Related video here.
Großbritannien-Wahl: Gewinner, Verlierer und Überraschungen | DW Nachrichten
Farage Wins First Seat as His Upstart Right Wing Reform UK Party Gains Ground
CNN: Nigel Farage, a driving force behind Britain’s Brexit movement and a confidant of former US President Donald Trump, has been elected to parliament for the first time, as his upstart right-wing Reform UK party looks to shake up the country’s politics.
Farage becomes a member of Britain’s parliament on his eighth attempt after winning with 46.2% of the vote in the heavily pro-Brexit Clacton, a seaside town on England’s southeastern coast where Reform UK had polled well.
With most of the votes now counted, results indicate Reform UK has won at least four seats in the House of Commons, with 14.4% of the vote, a comparatively strong showing in Britain’s first-past-the-post electoral system where smaller parties often struggle to translate their national support into parliamentary seats. » | Helen Regan, Rob Picheta and Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN | Friday, July 5, 2024
Farage becomes a member of Britain’s parliament on his eighth attempt after winning with 46.2% of the vote in the heavily pro-Brexit Clacton, a seaside town on England’s southeastern coast where Reform UK had polled well.
With most of the votes now counted, results indicate Reform UK has won at least four seats in the House of Commons, with 14.4% of the vote, a comparatively strong showing in Britain’s first-past-the-post electoral system where smaller parties often struggle to translate their national support into parliamentary seats. » | Helen Regan, Rob Picheta and Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN | Friday, July 5, 2024
Lib Dems Oust Four Cabinet Ministers as They Win Record Number of Seats
THE GUARDIAN: With all but a handful of results declared, party’s tally stands at 71, beating its previous record of 62 in 2005
The Liberal Democrats have taken a record number of seats for the party in the general election.
Ed Davey’s party has ousted four cabinet ministers and denied the Tories success in constituencies once held by former prime ministers David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson.
With 641 results declared, the Lib Dems’ tally stood at 71, beating the party’s previous record of 62 under Charles Kennedy’s leadership in 2005.
In early results, the Lib Dems ousted Gillian Keegan, the education secretary – her Chichester seat had a 21,500 majority in 2019 and had been held by the Conservatives for a century – and Alex Chalk, the justice secretary.
By Friday morning, the party had won 71 seats, with only a handful to be declared making it their highest total since 1923, when they were just the Liberal party led by Herbert Asquith.
Speaking after winning his Kingston and Surbiton seat again by more than 17,000 votes, Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader, said many voters had turned to his party for the first time to be their “champions”. » | Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent | Friday, July 5, 2024
The Liberal Democrats have taken a record number of seats for the party in the general election.
Ed Davey’s party has ousted four cabinet ministers and denied the Tories success in constituencies once held by former prime ministers David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson.
With 641 results declared, the Lib Dems’ tally stood at 71, beating the party’s previous record of 62 under Charles Kennedy’s leadership in 2005.
In early results, the Lib Dems ousted Gillian Keegan, the education secretary – her Chichester seat had a 21,500 majority in 2019 and had been held by the Conservatives for a century – and Alex Chalk, the justice secretary.
By Friday morning, the party had won 71 seats, with only a handful to be declared making it their highest total since 1923, when they were just the Liberal party led by Herbert Asquith.
Speaking after winning his Kingston and Surbiton seat again by more than 17,000 votes, Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader, said many voters had turned to his party for the first time to be their “champions”. » | Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent | Friday, July 5, 2024
Rishi Sunak Resigns as Tory Leader in Final Speech as PM
Jul 5, 2024 | Rishi Sunak has resigned as Prime Minister. Mr Sunak conceded the election just before 5am, congratulating Sir Keir on his victory and telling Tories who had lost their seats: “I am sorry.”
Labour racked up a string of major gains from the Conservatives as a slew of Cabinet ministers including Grant Shapps, Gillian Keegan and Penny Mordaunt lost their seats.
Labour racked up a string of major gains from the Conservatives as a slew of Cabinet ministers including Grant Shapps, Gillian Keegan and Penny Mordaunt lost their seats.
Liz Truss Caps List of High-Profile Conservative Seat Losses
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Ms. Truss, who was forced out as prime minister after 49 chaotic days, lost by 630 votes in a district she previously held by more than 26,000.
Liz Truss, the former Conservative Party prime minister, lost her seat Friday morning. Following a chaotic 49-day premiership in 2022, which sent mortgage rates soaring, the pound tumbling and required an intervention by the central bank to calm markets, she has been ousted from Parliament.
Five years ago, she won a majority of more than 26,000. This time, she lost by 630 votes, a huge swing in support to the Labour Party.
She told the BBC that the reason the Conservatives lost was because “we haven’t delivered sufficiently on the policies people want,” such as keeping taxes low and reducing immigration. She said she agreed that she was part of the group in power that had failed to deliver these changes but laid the blame on the inheritance the party received in 2010, not herself.
“During our 14 years in power, unfortunately, we did not do enough to take on the legacy we’d been left,” she said.
But Ms. Truss is just one of many prominent Conservative lawmakers to lose their seats, including recent members of the cabinet. Others include: » | Eshe Nelson, Reporting from London | Friday, July 5, 2024
Liz Truss, the former Conservative Party prime minister, lost her seat Friday morning. Following a chaotic 49-day premiership in 2022, which sent mortgage rates soaring, the pound tumbling and required an intervention by the central bank to calm markets, she has been ousted from Parliament.
Five years ago, she won a majority of more than 26,000. This time, she lost by 630 votes, a huge swing in support to the Labour Party.
She told the BBC that the reason the Conservatives lost was because “we haven’t delivered sufficiently on the policies people want,” such as keeping taxes low and reducing immigration. She said she agreed that she was part of the group in power that had failed to deliver these changes but laid the blame on the inheritance the party received in 2010, not herself.
“During our 14 years in power, unfortunately, we did not do enough to take on the legacy we’d been left,” she said.
But Ms. Truss is just one of many prominent Conservative lawmakers to lose their seats, including recent members of the cabinet. Others include: » | Eshe Nelson, Reporting from London | Friday, July 5, 2024
Labour Wins UK General Election with Keir Starmer to Be Next Prime Minister | BBC News
Jul 5, 2024 | Labour has officially won the 2024 general election after reaching the required 326 seats.
Speaking in central London, the next prime minister Keir Starmer says "change begins now". "It feels good, I have to be honest," he tells a cheering crowd. He adds that the task of a Labour government is "nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold our country together".
Speaking in central London, the next prime minister Keir Starmer says "change begins now". "It feels good, I have to be honest," he tells a cheering crowd. He adds that the task of a Labour government is "nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold our country together".
Thursday, July 04, 2024
Homosexualität damals vs. heute - Gay & Grey | Zervakis & Opdenhövel. Live.
Verbotene Liebe - Homosexualität im NS-Regime | Reupload
Geschichte einer Verfolgung - Der "Schwulenparagraph" | dokus und reportagen
In the Last Two Days…
Machtwechsel erwartet: Vereinigtes Königreich wählt neues Parlament
Ich bin kein Freund der Labour Party, gar keiner, aber die Tories haben in den letzten 14 Jahren und mehr einen miserablen Job bei der Führung des Landes gemacht. Es ist höchste Zeit für eine Veränderung. – © Mark Alexander
Verbotene Liebe - Von der Todesstrafe zur Ehe für alle
May 22, 2021 | 50 Jahre nach der Aufhebung des Totalverbots der Homosexualität blickt die neue ORF-III-Dokumentation „Verbotene Liebe“ zurück auf die Geschichte der gleichgeschlechtlichen Liebe in Österreich. Es ist eine Geschichte des Versteckens und Verbergens. Es ist die Geschichte von Menschen, die lange Zeit selbst gar keine Geschichte haben durften. Wie ist es gelungen, dass aus Unterdrückung Selbstbewusstsein wurde und aus Doppelleben Sichtbarkeit? Und ist es überhaupt möglich, dass aus einem Tabu Normalität wird?
In der Dokumentation von Peter Fässlacher (klicken Sie hier) kommen prominente Gesprächspartnerinnen und Gesprächspartner zu Wort, die den Weg zur Gleichstellung aus historischer, fachlicher wie persönlicher Sicht kommentieren: Schauspieler und Moderator Günter Tolar, Rechtsphilosophin Elisabeth Holzleithner, Co-Leiter von „QWIEN“ (Zentrum für queere Geschichte) Hannes Sulzenbacher, Aktivistin und Autorin Marty Huber, Moderator und Schauspieler Alfons Haider, Film- und Kulturwissenschaftlerin Andrea Braidt sowie Rechtsanwalt und Präsident des „LAMBDA“-Rechtskomitees Helmut Graupner.
In der Dokumentation von Peter Fässlacher (klicken Sie hier) kommen prominente Gesprächspartnerinnen und Gesprächspartner zu Wort, die den Weg zur Gleichstellung aus historischer, fachlicher wie persönlicher Sicht kommentieren: Schauspieler und Moderator Günter Tolar, Rechtsphilosophin Elisabeth Holzleithner, Co-Leiter von „QWIEN“ (Zentrum für queere Geschichte) Hannes Sulzenbacher, Aktivistin und Autorin Marty Huber, Moderator und Schauspieler Alfons Haider, Film- und Kulturwissenschaftlerin Andrea Braidt sowie Rechtsanwalt und Präsident des „LAMBDA“-Rechtskomitees Helmut Graupner.
LGBT Rights in East Germany
Please note well that the mere fact that I am posting this video here should not be in any way misconstrued. I am not posting it because I have any liking for the then GDR, communist East Germany; rather, I am posting it for educational purposes. I, for one, had absolutely no idea that the GDR was progressive in matters gay rights.
Truth to tell, I have trouble understanding why others have trouble with two people of the same sex loving each other anyway. Many people’s attitudes would point to them being in some way pious, whereas, in actual fact, they are usually most certainly not. And how many of those homophobes eat shellfish or have tattoos? Lest we forget, these two things are STRICTLY FORBIDDEN by the Bible. Check out Leviticus! And how many of us mix fibres when we dress ourselves in the morning? Or transgress when it comes to the many other dietary laws and restrictions — the many proscriptions clearly set out in the Bible? – © Mark Alexander
In the Days When We Used to Feed Our Children Proper Food in School Canteens
Pictures of children eating proper food in school canteens. It wasn’t gourmet food, but it was tasty and nourishing. And palatable nourishment is what our children need. What children eat in schools these days is largely junk food and sodas. Such food is most unsuitable for growing children; and it is certainly not nourishing.
It was a sad day when they decided to do away with school canteens in which children’s food was prepared and made on the premises. So many children from poor homes in the country today are going hungry. Tragically. How much better it would be if they could enjoy at least one square meal in the school canteen!
Who, I wonder, was the Minister for Education who did away with school canteens? We know who snatched the free milk from the children! – © Mark Alexander
Did Thatcher Ruin or Save the UK Economy?
Eddie Discusses Some Recent Cigar Arrivals and Recaps on His Cyprus Trip
Cost of Living in the 1970s | Price of Shopping | 1970s Food Prices | Money Go Round | 1977
Imagine being able to do the weekly food shop for so little! – Mark
Skint: The Truth About Britain's Broken Economy | Channel 4 Documentaries
Happy July 4th! Let's Keep America Free and Independent | The Warning
Jul 4, 2024 | "The stakes are high on this July 4th. Freedom is precious, fragile and it's on the line."
On the 248th anniversary of American independence, Steve Schmidt looks back at the history of this great nation and why it's ideals are something we need to uphold through turbulent times.
1776: Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence: In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congressadopts the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims the independence of the United States of America from Great Britain and its king. »
On the 248th anniversary of American independence, Steve Schmidt looks back at the history of this great nation and why it's ideals are something we need to uphold through turbulent times.
1776: Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence: In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congressadopts the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims the independence of the United States of America from Great Britain and its king. »
Central Bank Independence Is a Myth. They Need to Be Democratized.
Disastrous Poll Ratings: Is Sunak Responsible? | DW News
Wednesday, July 03, 2024
Holy Humanist: Fleeing Saudi Arabia | Jasmin's Unprecedented Journey to Freedom
Germany’s First African-born MP to Stand Down after Racist Abuse
THE GUARDIAN: Karamba Diaby’s announcement he wants to spend time with family comes after bullet and arson attacks on his office
The first African-born MP to enter the German parliament has announced he will not be standing in next year’s federal election, weeks after he revealed the hate mail, including racist slurs and death threats, he and his staff had received. Karamba Diaby, 62, who entered the Bundestag in 2013 in a moment hailed as historic by equality campaigners, said he wanted to spend more time with his family and to make room for younger politicians. » | Kate Connolly in Berlin | Wednesday, July 4, 2024
The first African-born MP to enter the German parliament has announced he will not be standing in next year’s federal election, weeks after he revealed the hate mail, including racist slurs and death threats, he and his staff had received. Karamba Diaby, 62, who entered the Bundestag in 2013 in a moment hailed as historic by equality campaigners, said he wanted to spend more time with his family and to make room for younger politicians. » | Kate Connolly in Berlin | Wednesday, July 4, 2024
Britain Will Not Rejoin EU in My Lifetime, Says Starmer
THE GUARDIAN: Labour leader also says he cannot foresee circumstances where UK would re-enter single market or customs union
Screenshot taken from the Huardian website. Keir Starmer at a campaign event in Scotland. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian
Keir Starmer has insisted the UK will not rejoin either the EU, the single market or the customs union within his lifetime, in his firmest pledge yet that Labour will not seek much closer relations with Europe for as long as he is prime minister.
The Labour leader told reporters on Wednesday he did not think Britain would go back into any of the three blocs while he was alive, all but ruling out rejoining even if he wins a second term in office.
In recent days, the Labour leader has begun talking more freely about what his party would do in power, as polls continue to suggest it is heading for a landslide victory. He also said on Wednesday, for example, that he would seek to extend the parliamentary timetable immediately after the election to allow more time to legislate before the summer. » | Kiran Stacey Political correspondent | Wednesday, July 3, 2024
This is precisely why I could never vote for this clown! And you shouldn’t either! Obviously, the man has no understanding of even basic economics.
This man will put your taxes up, and he will certainly not be able to deliver economic growth. When it comes to economics, the man has no understanding. Keep him out of office! – © Mark Alexander
Keir Starmer has insisted the UK will not rejoin either the EU, the single market or the customs union within his lifetime, in his firmest pledge yet that Labour will not seek much closer relations with Europe for as long as he is prime minister.
The Labour leader told reporters on Wednesday he did not think Britain would go back into any of the three blocs while he was alive, all but ruling out rejoining even if he wins a second term in office.
In recent days, the Labour leader has begun talking more freely about what his party would do in power, as polls continue to suggest it is heading for a landslide victory. He also said on Wednesday, for example, that he would seek to extend the parliamentary timetable immediately after the election to allow more time to legislate before the summer. » | Kiran Stacey Political correspondent | Wednesday, July 3, 2024
This is precisely why I could never vote for this clown! And you shouldn’t either! Obviously, the man has no understanding of even basic economics.
This man will put your taxes up, and he will certainly not be able to deliver economic growth. When it comes to economics, the man has no understanding. Keep him out of office! – © Mark Alexander
DJ Khaled : Wild Thoughts | Official Video | ft. Rihanna, Bryson Tiller | Reupload
Niall Ferguson: Are We the Soviets Now?
Tactical Voting Could Wipe the Tories Out for a Generation. Here’s How I Think It Should Be Done
THE GUARDIAN: Voters are realising that we have the chance of a lifetime to consign this destructive, incompetent party to third place
With coordinated tactical voting in this election, the unthinkable could become possible. We pretty much know that Labour will form the next government, probably with a large majority (I’m sure even Tories have placed a bet on that). But such is the country’s visceral loathing for the Conservative party – its lies, entitlement, scandals and incompetence – that millions are now hoping that it will be voted into third place. This could change the course of British politics for at least a generation.
Everywhere, including in the foreign media, tactical voting is a huge story. This is the political opportunity of our lifetime. I’m part of the tactical voting website team at Stopthetories.vote, where you type in your postcode and, based on the latest polling, you’re informed how best to vote to make sure that a Tory candidate does not win in your constituency. Others will be using different platforms with the same aim. » | Carol Vorderman | Wednesday, July 3, 2024
My followers and my regular visitors will know that I have been saying for years now, ever since Brexit in fact, that the Tories need to go the way of the Whigs: into oblivion. Or, put another way, as a punishment for that ridiculous Brexit, they should go the way of the dodo: into extinction. The party is a fossil, and it is populated by many fossils too. Old, stale, über-rich and often corrupt people who think of the past and often live in the past, too. There is little consideration given to the circumstances of the 'little people' or of the benefits of EU membership for them, either. And for the less fortunate and underprivileged? They don't even come on the Tories' radar screen. The time has come to teach these selfish unrepresentative 'representatives' a hard lesson. Tomorrow is your chance to do so! I probably will not vote. None of the parties offer me what I want. Therefore, I am up a creek without a paddle. Or put into politcal jargon, I am disenfranchised. I am an ex-Tory voter who will never vote for the spivs ever again. I am a full-blooded European. The Tories have taken the rug from under my feet, and I shall never forgive them for it. – © Mark Alexander
With coordinated tactical voting in this election, the unthinkable could become possible. We pretty much know that Labour will form the next government, probably with a large majority (I’m sure even Tories have placed a bet on that). But such is the country’s visceral loathing for the Conservative party – its lies, entitlement, scandals and incompetence – that millions are now hoping that it will be voted into third place. This could change the course of British politics for at least a generation.
Everywhere, including in the foreign media, tactical voting is a huge story. This is the political opportunity of our lifetime. I’m part of the tactical voting website team at Stopthetories.vote, where you type in your postcode and, based on the latest polling, you’re informed how best to vote to make sure that a Tory candidate does not win in your constituency. Others will be using different platforms with the same aim. » | Carol Vorderman | Wednesday, July 3, 2024
My followers and my regular visitors will know that I have been saying for years now, ever since Brexit in fact, that the Tories need to go the way of the Whigs: into oblivion. Or, put another way, as a punishment for that ridiculous Brexit, they should go the way of the dodo: into extinction. The party is a fossil, and it is populated by many fossils too. Old, stale, über-rich and often corrupt people who think of the past and often live in the past, too. There is little consideration given to the circumstances of the 'little people' or of the benefits of EU membership for them, either. And for the less fortunate and underprivileged? They don't even come on the Tories' radar screen. The time has come to teach these selfish unrepresentative 'representatives' a hard lesson. Tomorrow is your chance to do so! I probably will not vote. None of the parties offer me what I want. Therefore, I am up a creek without a paddle. Or put into politcal jargon, I am disenfranchised. I am an ex-Tory voter who will never vote for the spivs ever again. I am a full-blooded European. The Tories have taken the rug from under my feet, and I shall never forgive them for it. – © Mark Alexander
Little Britain in der Dordogne | ARTE Re: Reupload
Jul 3, 2024 | Immer mehr Briten wollen das Brexit-Chaos hinter sich lassen und suchen ihr Glück in Südwest-Frankreich. Ob als Fleischer, Handwerker oder Vermieter von Ferienwohnungen. Durch den EU-Austritt ihres Heimatlandes müssen sie nun viele bürokratische Hürden überwinden, die Geld und Nerven kosten.
Nicola und Graham Parker suchen ihr Glück in Südwest-Frankreich: Genervt von Wirtschaftskrise und Brexit-Chaos haben sie ihr Haus in England verkauft und ein altes Landgut in Montignac-de-Lauzun erworben. So wie sie sind mittlerweile rund 9000 Briten in die Dordogne gezogen.
Doch der EU-Austritt Großbritanniens macht den Neustart kompliziert, denn nun gibt es viele bürokratische Hürden: Die Aufenthaltsgenehmigung beantragen, Sprachkenntnisse nachweisen, Einbürgerungstests bestehen. Manch ein Einheimischer rümpft die Nase angesichts der Briten, die mittlerweile ganze Ortschaften prägen.
Reportage (D 2023, 32 Min)
Verfügbar bis zum 10/06/2025
Nicola und Graham Parker suchen ihr Glück in Südwest-Frankreich: Genervt von Wirtschaftskrise und Brexit-Chaos haben sie ihr Haus in England verkauft und ein altes Landgut in Montignac-de-Lauzun erworben. So wie sie sind mittlerweile rund 9000 Briten in die Dordogne gezogen.
Doch der EU-Austritt Großbritanniens macht den Neustart kompliziert, denn nun gibt es viele bürokratische Hürden: Die Aufenthaltsgenehmigung beantragen, Sprachkenntnisse nachweisen, Einbürgerungstests bestehen. Manch ein Einheimischer rümpft die Nase angesichts der Briten, die mittlerweile ganze Ortschaften prägen.
Reportage (D 2023, 32 Min)
Verfügbar bis zum 10/06/2025
Michael Lambert: Let Us Never Forget the Damage These Tories Have Done to This Country
Jul 3, 2024 | Over the past eight years since 2016 the UK economy and society have been severely damaged and may never fully recover following the madness of Brexit.
Incompetence, dishonesty, and corruption have all featured in a series of governments under five different prime ministers. Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage bear the greatest responsibility for the extreme damage which the UK has suffered. A series of incompetent and often self-serving politicians have caused the UK economy to decline and for the country to have become a worldwide laughing stock.
Those responsible should never be forgotten or forgiven including Rishi Sunak, Suella Braverman, Priti Patel, Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, and many others.
Incompetence, dishonesty, and corruption have all featured in a series of governments under five different prime ministers. Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage bear the greatest responsibility for the extreme damage which the UK has suffered. A series of incompetent and often self-serving politicians have caused the UK economy to decline and for the country to have become a worldwide laughing stock.
Those responsible should never be forgotten or forgiven including Rishi Sunak, Suella Braverman, Priti Patel, Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, and many others.
How Does Greece's Government Justify a 6-day Working Week? | DW News
Related article here.
Peter Stevanovic: In an Act of Desperation Rishi Sunak Drafts in Boris Johnson to Tell One of His Biggest Porkers
BoJo the Clown couldn’t help himself, so how could he possibly help Sunak? What a joke! This band of corrupt clowns, jesters and fools need to be kicked into the long grass. – © Mark Alexander
Jon Danzig: Come Off It, Prime Minister!
The sooner we get rid of this one, the better! He seems not to have read his ‘job description’! Moreover, the word ‘slippery’ doesn’t begin to describe him. Let us be rid of these corrupt Tories! – © Mark Alexander
Meloni Condemns Fascist Nostalgia Amid Scandal in Her Party’s Youth Wing
THE NEW YORK TIMES: A news report used a hidden camera to show members of the youth arm of Brothers of Italy glorifying fascism.
The news report was a blow to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has sought to cast herself as a modern, pragmatic leader of Italy, saying again and again that fascism belonged to history. | Riccardo Antimiani/EPA, via Shutterstock
Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, urged leaders of her political party on Tuesday to reject antisemitism, racism and nostalgia for totalitarian regimes after an Italian news outlet caught on a hidden camera members of the youth section of her party glorifying fascism.
“I am angry and saddened by how we were represented by the behavior of some youth of our movement,” Ms. Meloni wrote in an email, seen by The New York Times, to directors of her party, Brothers of Italy.
The news report, which came out in two episodes last month, was filmed by a journalist with the Italian news outlet Fanpage.it who pretended to be an activist with National Youth, the youth arm of Brothers of Italy.
The report said the hidden camera showed members of the movement doing fascist salutes, praising the Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, instructing others to spread stickers with fascist slogans and defining themselves as fascists. People identified by the report as members of the youth group were filmed while shouting, “Sieg heil,” an expression adopted by the Nazis. Other people identified as members of the youth wing were filmed as they made racist and antisemitic comments. » | Emma Bubola, Reporting from Rome | Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, urged leaders of her political party on Tuesday to reject antisemitism, racism and nostalgia for totalitarian regimes after an Italian news outlet caught on a hidden camera members of the youth section of her party glorifying fascism.
“I am angry and saddened by how we were represented by the behavior of some youth of our movement,” Ms. Meloni wrote in an email, seen by The New York Times, to directors of her party, Brothers of Italy.
The news report, which came out in two episodes last month, was filmed by a journalist with the Italian news outlet Fanpage.it who pretended to be an activist with National Youth, the youth arm of Brothers of Italy.
The report said the hidden camera showed members of the movement doing fascist salutes, praising the Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, instructing others to spread stickers with fascist slogans and defining themselves as fascists. People identified by the report as members of the youth group were filmed while shouting, “Sieg heil,” an expression adopted by the Nazis. Other people identified as members of the youth wing were filmed as they made racist and antisemitic comments. » | Emma Bubola, Reporting from Rome | Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Georgien: Der große Traum von der EU | ARTE Reportage
Jul 2, 2024 | Georgien wird drei Jahrzehnte nach seiner Unabhängigkeit von der alten UDSSR von teils gewalttätigen Demonstrationen erschüttert. Sie richten sich vor allem gegen das neue Gesetz über "ausländische Einmischung". Es könnte Georgiens neuen Status als Kandidat für die Europäische Union gefährden, den es im Dezember 2023 erhalten hat.
Die Regierung der Partei "Georgischer Traum", die von einem Oligarchen geführt wird, der in Russland ein Vermögen gemacht hat, verabschiedete dieses umstrittene Gesetz nach russischem Vorbild. Es verpflichtet NGOs dazu, ihre ausländischen Finanzquellen anzugeben.
Das prorussische Regime in Tiflis beschuldigt den Westen und Europa, in Georgien Prinzipien durchsetzen zu wollen, die ihren traditionellen Werten widersprechen, das betrifft insbesondere auch die Anerkennung der LGBT-Community.
Eine überwältigende Mehrheit der Bevölkerung teilt diese Auffassungen der Regierung augenscheinlich nicht, sie halten fest an ihrem Traum von der EU. Georgien ist bis heute zu gut 20 Prozent von der russischen Armee besetzt, sie wachen in den abtrünnigen Regionen Ossetien und Abchasien. Dort spielt Putin seine Macht aus, er versucht, den russischen Einfluss in den anderen ehemaligen Republiken der alten UDSSR auszuweiten. Sein Ziel ist ein neues viel größeres Russland, so wie damals in der alten UDSSR.
Die Regierung der Partei "Georgischer Traum", die von einem Oligarchen geführt wird, der in Russland ein Vermögen gemacht hat, verabschiedete dieses umstrittene Gesetz nach russischem Vorbild. Es verpflichtet NGOs dazu, ihre ausländischen Finanzquellen anzugeben.
Das prorussische Regime in Tiflis beschuldigt den Westen und Europa, in Georgien Prinzipien durchsetzen zu wollen, die ihren traditionellen Werten widersprechen, das betrifft insbesondere auch die Anerkennung der LGBT-Community.
Eine überwältigende Mehrheit der Bevölkerung teilt diese Auffassungen der Regierung augenscheinlich nicht, sie halten fest an ihrem Traum von der EU. Georgien ist bis heute zu gut 20 Prozent von der russischen Armee besetzt, sie wachen in den abtrünnigen Regionen Ossetien und Abchasien. Dort spielt Putin seine Macht aus, er versucht, den russischen Einfluss in den anderen ehemaligen Republiken der alten UDSSR auszuweiten. Sein Ziel ist ein neues viel größeres Russland, so wie damals in der alten UDSSR.
Tuesday, July 02, 2024
Brazil’s Unparalleled Spate of Book Bans Is Page Out of US Culture Wars
THE GUARDIAN: A series of bans on volumes with race, gender and LGBTQ+ themes have proliferated in recent years
It started with a social media video: a school principal from a medium-sized Brazilian city lashed out against an award-winning novel, saying it was “disgusting” and disrespectful of “good manners”.
The next day, the local department of education ordered all schools in nearby cities to remove the book from their libraries.
In less than a week, three other states also banned O Avesso da Pele, by Jeferson Tenório – published in the UK as The Dark Side of Skin – from their schools.
The book ban in March, was the most high-profile in a series of such cases which have proliferated in Brazil in recent years.
Works targeted for banning typically involve race, gender and the LGBTQ+ communities. » | Tiago Rogero in Rio de Janeiro
It started with a social media video: a school principal from a medium-sized Brazilian city lashed out against an award-winning novel, saying it was “disgusting” and disrespectful of “good manners”.
The next day, the local department of education ordered all schools in nearby cities to remove the book from their libraries.
In less than a week, three other states also banned O Avesso da Pele, by Jeferson Tenório – published in the UK as The Dark Side of Skin – from their schools.
The book ban in March, was the most high-profile in a series of such cases which have proliferated in Brazil in recent years.
Works targeted for banning typically involve race, gender and the LGBTQ+ communities. » | Tiago Rogero in Rio de Janeiro
Keir Starmer’s £76,000 of Freebies Revealed
Who would trust a politician of any hue? They all seem to be in politics for themselves, for their own gain. – © Mark Alexander
Trump Reposts Image Calling for Military Tribunals against Liz Cheney
Donald Trump - America's Future Caesar | The Warning
Argentina’s President Butts Heads with South American Leftist Leaders
THE GUARDIAN: Turning from his ferocious attacks on domestic opponents, Javier Milei aims his scorn at the heads of Brazil and Bolivia
On the campaign trail, Argentina’s showman president, Javier Milei, brandished a chainsaw to highlight plans for ferocious spending cuts. In office, the rightwinger has apparently decided to take the power tool to foreign relations as well.
In recent days, Milei has busied himself losing friends and alienating people with a series of verbal attacks on the leftwing leaders of Argentina’s two biggest neighbours, Bolivia and Brazil.
First came Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whom Argentina’s far-right libertarian leader had called a corrupt communist during last year’s election. Last week, when Lula suggested Milei should apologize for talking “loads of nonsense”, the Argentinian quickly scotched the idea.
“Since when do you have to say sorry for telling the truth?” the television celebrity turned politician said of his attack on the president of Argentina’s top trade partner. “Have we become so sick with politically correctness that you can’t say anything about the left even when it’s true?” » | Tom Phillips, Latin America correspondent, and Facundo Iglesia in Buenos Aires | Tuesday, July 2, 2024
On the campaign trail, Argentina’s showman president, Javier Milei, brandished a chainsaw to highlight plans for ferocious spending cuts. In office, the rightwinger has apparently decided to take the power tool to foreign relations as well.
In recent days, Milei has busied himself losing friends and alienating people with a series of verbal attacks on the leftwing leaders of Argentina’s two biggest neighbours, Bolivia and Brazil.
First came Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whom Argentina’s far-right libertarian leader had called a corrupt communist during last year’s election. Last week, when Lula suggested Milei should apologize for talking “loads of nonsense”, the Argentinian quickly scotched the idea.
“Since when do you have to say sorry for telling the truth?” the television celebrity turned politician said of his attack on the president of Argentina’s top trade partner. “Have we become so sick with politically correctness that you can’t say anything about the left even when it’s true?” » | Tom Phillips, Latin America correspondent, and Facundo Iglesia in Buenos Aires | Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Professor Tim Wilson: The Gay Biblical Texts in Context
Paul McKenna: Choose Happiness!
Change your life with Paul McKenna.
A Socialist Defector: From Harvard to Karl-Marx-Allee
Rechte bis rechtsradikale Regierung in den Niederlanden vereidigt
Scholz verspricht Hilfen wegen NS-Verbrechen in Polen
Eddie and Edward Discuss the Habanos World Days Festival in London for the Trinidad 55th Anniversary
Edward Sahakian Cigar Shop and Sampling Lounge »
Germany, Poland Discuss Defense Cooperation and a Bigger NATO Presence on Eastern Flank | DW News
Professor Tim Wilson: The defeat of liberalism in the US and EU…
Sean Sherman: Reviving Native American Cuisine | Talk to Al Jazeera
Sean Sherman spoke of nixtamalization. I had never heard of the process before, so I had no idea what he was talking about. I therefore decided to google it. It turns out that it is a traditional Central American maize processing method. You can find more information on this processing method here.
Biden Warns That Supreme Court’s Immunity Ruling Will Embolden Trump
THE NEW YORK TIMES: The president, under scrutiny since his damaging debate appearance last week, did not stumble or falter during his brief remarks.
President Biden warned on Monday that the Supreme Court’s decision on presidential immunity meant that there were “virtually no limits on what the president can do” and urged voters to prevent former President Donald J. Trump from returning to the White House freed from the constraints of the law.
“The American people must decide if they want to entrust the president once again — the presidency — to Donald Trump,” Mr. Biden said during brief remarks, “knowing he’ll be more emboldened to do whatever he pleases whenever he wants to do it.”
Mr. Biden’s response to Monday’s court ruling was his first public remarks since he spent the weekend hunkered down with family at Camp David. His disastrous debate performance in Atlanta last week has led some Democrats to call for him to drop out of the presidential race because of concerns about his age and mental fitness.
The president appeared ruddier than he did during the 90-minute debate, when many observed that he looked very pale. He did not stumble over his words on Monday or falter midsentence. But he was using a teleprompter for the remarks, which lasted about four and a half minutes. » | Michael D. Shear, Reporting from Washington | Monday, July 1, 2024
Listen to Biden speak well on this here.
This dangerous, but not surprising, ruling by the US Supreme Court shows the world just how flawed the US judicial system is. It is to be hoped that the American electorate will show superior judgment on election day. – © Mark Alexander
President Biden warned on Monday that the Supreme Court’s decision on presidential immunity meant that there were “virtually no limits on what the president can do” and urged voters to prevent former President Donald J. Trump from returning to the White House freed from the constraints of the law.
“The American people must decide if they want to entrust the president once again — the presidency — to Donald Trump,” Mr. Biden said during brief remarks, “knowing he’ll be more emboldened to do whatever he pleases whenever he wants to do it.”
Mr. Biden’s response to Monday’s court ruling was his first public remarks since he spent the weekend hunkered down with family at Camp David. His disastrous debate performance in Atlanta last week has led some Democrats to call for him to drop out of the presidential race because of concerns about his age and mental fitness.
The president appeared ruddier than he did during the 90-minute debate, when many observed that he looked very pale. He did not stumble over his words on Monday or falter midsentence. But he was using a teleprompter for the remarks, which lasted about four and a half minutes. » | Michael D. Shear, Reporting from Washington | Monday, July 1, 2024
Listen to Biden speak well on this here.
This dangerous, but not surprising, ruling by the US Supreme Court shows the world just how flawed the US judicial system is. It is to be hoped that the American electorate will show superior judgment on election day. – © Mark Alexander
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