Let's talk about the GOP defying Trump and a countdown to shutdown....

[@dianagross8784]

Gerrymandering has given us the most unproductive, ignorant and stupid congress of our lifetimes

[@jeanine1410]

Agree.

[@tombrown4683]

New ! Improved ! Now with Added Stupidity from top to bottom !

[@Frostbite08]

Gerrymandering, Citizens United, and cuts to public education.

[@capnkirk5528]

Roughly 50% of Americans voted to make Elon Musk the "shadow" President of the United States (Trump simply didn't want to go to jail). *That is NOT "gerrymandering'* America CHOSE Trump, even if YOU didn't. You have shown the world what you ARE (and while some of us embrace it, most of us are appalled).

[@Lumi_Lumi13]

@@Frostbite08 also the overturning of The Fairness Doctrine, which prevented the spreading of misinformation & disinformation throughout media (TV, paper, internet)

[@trinidadscorpion3835]

I hope that Jimmy Carter outlives trump.

[@kathyq6167]

From your lips...🙏🏻

[@richardhouvener6423]

By years!

[@kenbrown2808]

I find myself wishing RBG had outlived tRump. but if wishes were horses, beggars could ride.

[@befayedocrimes4751]

@@trinidadscorpion3835 In a just world, men like him would have been considered model statesmen and not "too soft" to be effective. Tragic what the news grifters and pundits of today's political climate would probably make of him now if he was actually in office.

[@gracevalentine1666]

So many people HATE 45, he’s gonna croak from the vibe

[@sharonkaufman2748]

McConnell could have done the right thing and we wouldn't be in this upside down country!

[@RiiDii]

Yep. McConnell isn’t infallible.

[@snieves4]

Twice

[@jcspoon573]

​@@snieves4There's no realistic way the Zelensky call would have rallied enough Republicans to impeach Trump. MCconnell wouldn't give an order that wouldn't be followed. The Jan 6 vote, though? He could have ended this forever with no blowback.

[@michaelprozonic]

beating a dead horse there.

[@crunchystuff3365]

You can add AG Garland to that list.

[@dianneperkins9192]

They should have passed a budget (ie: performed their jobs) months ago. They have been kicking the can down the road to avoid accountability.

[@marcning918]

And got rewarded for it by an ignorant voting base.

[@m.r.6264]

They've been kicking the can down the road since they took over the House a couple of years ago. They got rewarded by their voting base that doesn't pay attention. The rest of us that did know better, are going to have to deal/listen to the continuing buffoonery for at least the next 2-4 years

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!! Thank you!!! Thank you!!!

[@Scheherizade]

What else should we expect from a bankruptcy filing, failed business man, and a foreigner who never had an original idea in his privileged life?

[@KarenHawes]

Republicans have always been the party of "no" and never one of "let's find something that works.for the most people possible."

[@MBMCincy63]

@@KarenHawes well stated 👍🏻

[@RealBradMiller]

Yup.

[@AdamBladeTaylor]

They're the party of "what will cause the most harm?"

[@gdwnet]

Funny how they talk about cancel culture but are all about cancelling things.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!!

[@garybowler5946]

Reality television but with real consequences for all.

[@bikerhighmiler8998]

Exactly..

[@ralffsmith2655]

"Consequences" , that word is as unknown in American politics as the definition of tariffs was the day before the election

[@graydanerasmussen4071]

"On Tonight's Episode of: The Running Man!" -Remember that one, written by Stephen King, under Pesudonym.

[@backyard_expert]

spot on.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!!

[@aprilcalhoun8984]

It is getting increasingly difficult for me to see the Republicans as a governing party

[@Sonjaslostson]

It's because they're not. They tell people "Government doesn't work" and then get elected to make sure government doesn't work for anyone but our oligarchs.

[@Elaine-m8j]

They haven't been a governing party for a very long time - such an awful bunch of selfish do nothings.

[@pearl_kill_Gaming]

@@Sonjaslostson Not only that. But the Dems are also right of center corporatists. There have only been a handful of actual progressives in my life. The Democratic party would not allow them to run because it would have messed with their corporate donors. a few things could solve a lot of our political issues. 1 limit lobbying (basically just bribing) 2 ranked choice voting 3 get rid of the electoral college 4 term limits for Judges and politicians 5 No insider trading (if caught they need to be removed from their positions) 6 And AT MINIMUM hold people accountable. 7 TAX THE ULTRA WEALTHY... they will still be ultra wealthy I know I know, what a fantasy right?

[@almackenzie2549]

They refuse to run anything but their mouth

[@dieweisseRose2025]

INCREASINGLY difficult???? 🤯

[@Mark5mith]

Removing the debt ceiling, for a man that bankrupted a casino, or two, sounds like a crackin idea, said no-one.

[@lukeanderson439]

Removing the debt ceiling wouldn't be a problem. It just would mean we pay our bills without requiring an argument first.

[@scourge6563]

If no one agrees that it is a good idea, why is there a real possibility that it might happen?

[@timm5362]

@@lukeanderson439 No we wouldn't. It's the government equivalent of removing the spending limit on your credit card because you maxed out. Banks won't lend to Trump and venues won't let him rally there anymore. Why? BECAUSE HE DIDNT PAY HIS BILLS!

[@JJ-qo7th]

"Shocking those who believed he wanted to cut the national debt." It's only possible for them to believe this if they completely ignore what he did to it his first time in office.

[@k.k.9897]

I don't see how anyone can be shocked at this point

[@evilsharkey8954]

He’s a notorious liar. They’re fools for believing him.

[@71suns]

Trump increased the US deficit nearly 8 trillion dollars in 4 years.

[@saywhat6062]

Chump also wants to eliminate the debt ceiling.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!! This is what happens when the American people let a convicted felon do their thinking for them!!!

[@pmclaughlin4111]

I was a federal employee through two shutdowns...very stressful...dangerous for the economy...really hurts those at the bottom-including children and seniors ....but for once, I really hope the Democrats don't save us

[@71suns]

If you imagine you're not at the bottom you soon will. Project 2025 will have devastating consequences on every single American who isn't part of the wealthiest 10%. Americans are carrying CREDIT CARD DEBT to the tune of 1.6 trillion dollars as of several months ago.. undoubtedly that number has grown exponentially since then. And that's only taking into account credit card debt. It's way past time to come out of denial and living in a fantasy land. Debt- slavery is alive and well in the US and serves to keep the people subdued and with few options but bowing and scraping.

[@comfortablynumb9342]

There's a German word for the way I feel about the GOP fights. Schadenfreude.

[@ljosephdumas3113]

Grifters Oligarchs Pedophiles

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

I love that word so much. Nope, I'm not petty and vindictive at all!

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning my Comfortable friend! We should know by the end of the day if this congress is capable of accomplishing anything.

[@comfortablynumb9342]

@thing_under_the_stairs ya my German isn't very good but I remember that word. I can still order a beer and say hi and bye too. Das ist gut. 😂

[@vitameat]

A less polite but relevant word, Schiess

[@Leonaza7]

I’m so tired of government officials not working for the people. Simply raging against the people and media for exposing their criminal behavior. These people figured out how to rage against the system and increase their loyalty among their constituents while doing nothing to make those same people’s lives any better. All they want is tenure

[@Leonaza7]

Just in time for Christmas, a shutdown would force TSA, FAA, FEMA, and so many other crucial government workers to work without pay. Congress should be the first to experience no paychecks, suspended health insurance, and disrupted travel, which is what they are wishing on the rest of us to please their mad king.

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

🌞👍

[@sillyladtan]

It is so exhausting, my word

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Leonaza! Chaos for Christmas is the repug way of celebrating.

[@gabrielbarraza3432]

They keep doing it because enough of us vote to keep them in office or fail to vote, thereby keeping them in office. Democracy requires constant vigilance, understanding, and participation.

[@SchnauzerGal2500]

I don't understand how this can be what millions of people actually want for the next four years...

[@janicepalesch9221]

Apparently, they're willing to take it as long as they are free to HATE.

[@backyard_expert]

I believe President Musk and his first-lady-man Donald Trump were helped by their buddy Putin to win the election. Just sayin...

[@joeyager8479]

But look at the price of eggs!!!

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

I'd be damned if I know!!!

[@andyjulia]

This is what happens when you ignore facts.

[@johnhull2582]

"More for me but not for thee." Class War is here.

[@jesseteixeira6284]

Adjust more claims.

[@Tinfoilhelmets]

No, it's the immigrants and gays. They're ruining everything. Culture wars! Don't blame the rich!

[@jadesidhe2634]

This war started a long long time ago

[@CantankerousDave]

Been here since Reagan, dude.

[@PostalHeathen]

​@@CantankerousDave It didn't start with Reagan. This goes back generations.

[@Needabreak365]

Kaitlyn Collin’s was pushing Warren about “what are Dems going to do to negotiate this so we don’t shut down?” Warren finally said “there’s no one to negotiate with, this is on the republicans. You should get president musk here for an interview if you want to figure out how to avoid a shutdown”. It was funny and perfect. I usually don’t like her, but I appreciated that.

[@manderly33]

What’s to dislike? She’s a great senator who has done real good for Americans.

[@k.k.9897]

Love Warren

[@kathyq6167]

I saw that also, Kaitlyn asked her REPEATEDLY, like 4 different ways how/if the Democrats were going to step up and help. (???!!!???) Give 'em the rope. WTF, was it just me? I was yelling at my TV-then just went to bed 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@kathyq6167]

And, yes Senator Warren I think was frustrated with her questions also.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

At least Elizabeth Warren is honest!!!

[@jf-be4zy]

Compost the billionaires , they are full of sh!t.

[@kathyq6167]

LOL, hahaha. More methane to add to the climate! Good Lord 🤦🏼‍♀️. ✌️💙🇺🇲

[@PattiBennett-iy5qd]

OK. But don’t put them in my garden. I want healthy tasty food. Not toxic, infective, poison.

[@JC-cu3sr]

Lol!

[@valorjoz]

President Elon Musk is doing a great job keeping former businessman Donald Trump in line!

[@backyard_expert]

President Musk and his first-lady-man Donald Trump will be the face on the new DOGE monetary bill.

[@tinacongdon]

It's disgusting!

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Elon Musk is not an American citizen!!!

[@fantym1633]

Leon Skum figured out a way to circumvent the requirement of natural birthright citizenship for office of President - just buy it.

[@meh.7539]

Hasn't even taken office, yet.🤨😑

[@allanpatterson7653]

Openly with no shame throws away election pledges.

[@meh.7539]

@@allanpatterson7653 We all tried to tell'em... Not our lesson to learn.

[@allanpatterson7653]

@@meh.7539 Trump just spit on two election pledges. He no longer needs them.

[@meh.7539]

@@allanpatterson7653 Yeah, he got what he wanted...

[@Soapandwater6]

I can remember back when Presidents left office, they disappeared and kept quiet. He rules the MAGA cult even while he's out of office.

[@jessetorres8738]

If The Federal Government shuts down then all Congressmen shouldn't get paid for as long as it lasts. I don't understand the "logic" of electing politicians who want to defund the government & reduce the role it has in protecting people. I also don't get why anyone who works for the federal government whether it be in Washington D.C., for the Postal Service, or at a National Park would vote for Republicans when every time there's a shutdown it costs them getting paid.

[@jollyjackass]

That would really only matter if politicians were made to live on their salaries. I’m sure some do but I could think of a bunch that would most likely make a bonus.

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

@@jollyjackass Aye, most of them make more from their investments than they do in salary. Cutting off their salary would mean nothing to them.

[@AprilB-vy6uq]

Logic is the key word here.

[@timothyjohnson6258]

@@WhatIsThatAvi Is that what they are calling their bribes now, "investments"?

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

@@timothyjohnson6258 No, those are called “gifts” now.

[@Leonaza7]

Oligarchy, we didn't vote for Elon but he seems to weilding a powerful role over how our country is run. In the end everyday Americans will be hurt by his ability to influence laws and government spending to benfit his empire. We are headed down a scary road. Lobbying should have been controlled along time ago.

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

Keep telling Donnie that he’s just playing second fiddle to President Elect Musk, and his fragile little ego will lead him to breaking up with Eloi.

[@Allastrology]

indeed!

[@bobfg3130]

Elon is going down the drain. Most of hi wealth is from Tesla. Trump just promised to cut incentives for electric cars. He shall do it. Tesla is broke. SpaceX is his other part of his wealth. Trump will cut that too. Trump and the GOP will have to blame someone for the problems they will cause. They will blame Musk. They will cut his contracts and investigate him and they can do it legitimately. This will bankrupt him. Probably his brother too.

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Musky has more money than drumph, so he has more power.

[@Allastrology]

@@WhatIsThatAvi your probably right, lol!

[@Sableagle]

So the President-Elect made a mess and the "Unofficial President" made it worse *again.* Yeah, that tracks.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

To the Trump Supporters: YOUR VOTE DID THIS!!!! REMEMBER THIS IN 2026!!!!

[@joebenedetti5515]

Heard MAGA Fed workers really wanted a pet leopard for xmas. Surely it wouldn't eat their face....

[@MafGeek]

😂

[@analogalien651]

Gonna be a long 4 years ahead

[@davidellis4084]

What makes you think it will only be four years?

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

@@davidellis4084 It will be, or there’ll be a fight. Remember, there are more privately owned firearms in this country than there are people.

[@shawnr771]

Lets all be sand in the gears.

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

The roof! The roof! The roof is on fire! 😂

[@marcning918]

And it's going to burn for a full four years.

[@beltonite2243]

And we don't need no water.😂

[@AndrewAMartin]

​@@marcning918 At least until the midterms...

[@camelsheit_on_the_walls446]

Ms. Belle, THANK YOU and a good Friday to you, Beau, and your entire 2-legged & 4-legged family! To everyone here: have a good Friday🌞!

[@MBMCincy63]

@@camelsheit_on_the_walls446 I wish you a great Friday also 👋🏻🌨️

[@markrenfrow9873]

And back to you Astrid!

[@Mtnsunshine]

Happy Friday to you, too! 🎉 And Happy Solstice tomorrow! 🌞

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Astrid! I hope it's the start of a beautiful day for you today!

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

Happy Friday!

[@RoninXDarknight]

And these are the clowns half the people of this country decided were better than the party that oversaw an unprecedented period of economic growth.

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

“Half the people of this country” did not vote for trumpy; a massive chunk of voters threw a tantrum and sat this one out.

[@kathyq6167]

​@WhatIsThatAvi It's pretty sad how it seems only 1/3 of our nation has a brain AND a heart. 🤦🏼‍♀️🤷🏼‍♀️.

[@pattonmoore]

... trump received roughly the same amount of votes as 2020... a bunch of people who voted for Biden didn't vote for Harris... probably the same treasonous chuckleheads who just couldn't vote for Hillary... "butbutbutbutbutbutbutbutbutwhabout her emails?!?!?"...

[@alanchristensen5735]

I'm very concerned about this situation. I'm a retired disabled veteran on a fixed income. I rely on the VA and my pension for economic stability. This sucks.

[@brucetifer]

There are many of us in the same situation

[@TKHaines]

I'm sorry. It's infuriating how we treat veterans. It's even more infuriating that the politicians causing these problems will still get their paychecks during shutdowns. Of course they managed to pass a bill to do that.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you for your service!!! You're not a sucker or a loser!!!

[@TheQueenRulesAll]

A country is measured by how it takes care of those struggling and suffering....the gop is disgusting and has not ever shown any concern, even for their own constituents.

[@nevarmaor]

When billionaires prone to writing off losses meddle in the financial circumstances of common Americans who can't ...

[@jiminness6799]

Back when I was in junior high in the 1950s, we had social studies and economics classes. We watched a film (remember, if you are old enough, there were reals of film shown on a projector) about economics. I'm paraphrasing. In it, Johnny owed Sally $20 for tutoring and paid her; she used it to buy a dress at the local store, the owner of the store paid the cab driver for a ride home, the cab driver paid Johnny $20 for mowing his yard. Economy is money spending public or governmental and circulation.

[@jeffengel2607]

And you can count on people _who need things_ to spend money most quickly and consistently if they have it. People who do NOT need much are the _worst_ people to have it for economic activity. Redistribution is the key to economic health and cool stuff like children living and growing.

[@k.k.9897]

I remember. I also remember civics classes

[@sherrieludwig508]

Economists call this process the velocity of money. Money laid up in a vault does not help the economy, but money circulating is the fuel that keeps the economy running.

[@carolynchristy]

I remember those films.

[@davidsantor1760]

Milk as an analogy , fat or cream rises to the top. The real economy is the side ways movement of money. The oligarchy ought to only be able to skim the cream / profits. Not be a part of the government and supress the real economy.

[@StarShipGray]

Merry Christmas at the food bank to any member of the armed forces or federal government employee that voted Republican.

[@befayedocrimes4751]

Any member of the Armed Forces current or prior that voted for the guy who told us we were all losers and suckers for our service, defiled Arlington National Cemetery and talked shit on a laundry list of our highest military honors, in blatant disregard of just about every sitting or retired competent military senior official who BEGGED people not to elect him, gets no sympathy from this vet.

[@jeffengel2607]

Funnily enough, these would be the people upon whom Trump would be relying for another self-coup.

[@crimson7572]

It won't matter who they voted for. They will all have similar circumstances.

[@artiefakt4402]

@@crimson7572 Not everyone of them will have the right to complain though

[@donaldwert7137]

@@befayedocrimes4751 And don't forget his totally made-up "medal" that he says is better than the Medal of Honor.

[@michaelprozonic]

you mean Musk’s first 100 days. Trump is already a lame duck and he hasn’t been inaugurated yet

[@freshspiritworks4535]

The biggest point is, the guy who isn't even president yet and he sends an idiot, who isn't even a citizen to "make it happen". The clown car has rolled out of the garage! Thank you - you're great, Belle

[@keepscats7936]

Unfortunately, Musk became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 2002. He has South African citizenship through his father and by birth. He also has Canadian citizenship through his Canadian mother.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

This is what I just said a second ago!!!

[@gmun2248]

​@@keepscats7936 You can't have citizenship of more than 2 countries. He has to have given up either Canadian or South African citizenship when he got his US citizenship.

[@keepscats7936]

@@gmun2248 As of 1967 dual citizenship is allowed for US citizens. It is my understanding that both Canada and South Africa allow dual citizenship as well. There are countries that prohibit dual citizenship.

[@gmun2248]

@keepscats7936 Dual citizenship refers to 2. Multi-citizenship/ 'triple citizenship' refers to more. I was under the impression you couldn't hold more than 2, as I know Brits & Americans with dual citizenship who have opted to give up, e.g. Canadian citizenship to become a dual US-British citizen, but I just double checked and some countries, including the US, do allow for multi-citizenship. My guess would be then (mainly through family experiences) that it's not generally beneficial to hold more than 2. Dual citizenship are [can be, under normal circumstances] liable for taxes in both countries. Also if you get, e.g. a US pension and a British pension, there's an agreement between governments wrt how much of each you can be paid, depending on which country you reside in, and different taxes apply in each country. I imagine (for normal people, not billionaires), adding extra countries would just complicate tax bills further, and you wouldn't really get the benefit from multiple countries, so my guess is that's why it's not especially common. According to Google, musk does have citizenship in all 3 countries still. My mistake.

[@daviddies6801]

More Fiery, and more Dumperstery - I'm going to have to find a way to work that into conversation soon! Great job Belle!

[@chocol8milk]

Yup, preview of the next 4 years. Will be more unhinged and chaotic than Trump’s first term.

[@juliec5309]

The first 2 years will be the worst

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

I wonder if we'll get another pandemic this time?

[@befayedocrimes4751]

​@@thing_under_the_stairsBird flu developments point to yes. Strap in folks!

[@k.k.9897]

​@@juliec5309 I'm concerned about when the 4 years are up.

[@chocol8milk]

@@k.k.9897 Two things about Trump I’ve learned to trust is his projection and admissions. During campaigning, he floated the idea of staying in power more than a 2nd term if reelected and hinted at beautiful Trump Dynasty. So yea, the chaos will peak as his 2nd term nears its conclusion.

[@JoseAlfonsoContreras-g9l]

So does the shut down affect border patrol paychecks? because I know of two that voted for this, believing they would get their bonus.

[@davidbirr2718]

_Ach, die Schadenfreude._

[@k.k.9897]

Yes it does and they are required to work without pay or be fired, just like customs, border protection , TSA,and airtraffic controllers 😂. Merry Christmas suckers.

[@CreepingTerror]

I wish I could say I was surprised he was breaking things before he even got into office, but I'm not. What a clown show!

[@71suns]

That clown show will affect every single American who are ALREADY drowning in debt and struggling to make ends meet every single month. If you only do one thing make it a priority to get out of debt as soon as possible. Make that your main focus. Those who ARE and continue to PRIMARILY BENEFIT do so through THE DEBT SLAVERY OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. Literally.

[@dianneperkins9192]

Do not raise the debt ceiling for this PoS.

[@chriswilkerson4074]

It’s not for him, it’s for us. To pay our own bills and protect our own economy and credit.

[@gabrielbarraza3432]

The debt ceiling is okay until June 2025. Trump wants more debt so he can cut taxes for the wealthy again. We don't need to raise the ceiling for the government to function right now.

[@ericka77]

I agree. Johnson’s days are numbered. They can raise the debt limit next year.

[@juliec5309]

Yup he can do it during his term...he wants to blame Biden for it but they can do it afyer jan 24

[@Knutella17]

​@@chriswilkerson4074 How does that make sense, pay off debt with more debt??

[@twotrackjack2260]

Elect a bunch of clows, you end up with a circus.

[@JB-bp1vk]

No we avoided that.

[@manderly33]

@@JB-bp1vk We did not. But sounds like you’re a proud member of the Clown Party.

[@icanseeyou755]

​@@JB-bp1vk Really?!

[@JB-bp1vk]

​@icanseeyou755 no not really absolutely

[@RuSosan]

​@@JB-bp1vk No, you didn't. You got the *worst* circus possible and that's undeniable.

[@jamesspash5561]

i don't remember Musk being on the ballot.

[@backyard_expert]

President Musk and his first-lady-man Donald Trump are the de facto governing body of 'Merica.

[@singed8853]

Do you tell that to people who go out and do political protests?

[@marcia7107]

Obvious tRoll in this string, again.

[@PhantomQueenOne]

I live on SSDI and Medicare. No money and I'm screwed.

[@taljan57]

SAME

[@user-mad7max11dystopia]

Casey Stengel once asked a question when he took over the expansion New York Mets that seems appropriate today. “Can’t anybody here play this game?”

[@Ron_Lockwood]

Thank you,Belle.😎🇺🇸💙

[@markrenfrow9873]

Good morning Ms. Belle and internet folks. If They can get together today and agree on a bill I will believe in Christmas Miracles and Santa again.

[@dominomasked]

Have a good one!

[@MBMCincy63]

👋🏻🌨️

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

🖐🌞

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Mark! Imagine if all the lawmakers get stuck in Washington for the holidays without TSA. That would be hilarious!

[@kathyq6167]

My Christmas miracle would be they ALL became considerate, decent, responsible human beings. But I know, wish in 1 hand, spit in the other...🤦🏼‍♀️. ✌️💙🇺🇲

[@robertgow9462]

Members still get paid, workers don't.

[@SchoolforHackers]

“Member” has more than one meaning, and I’m imagining one that’s particularly appropriate.

[@karmachameleon326]

Thank goodness we’re going to get cheaper eggs, though, right? Right?

[@njosborne6152]

After the bird flu passes 👍🏾

[@jeffengel2607]

@@njosborne6152 Oh, we'll just get eggs with bird flu. No extra charge! Inspectors for food safety are just government waste, after all, and the bird flu is some hoax. /s, because this is 2024 and the internet

[@kathyq6167]

​@njosborne6152 We've already had human illness from H5N1, in '97, '98. I recall in the ER, all our "prep" work for an outbreak. Then a few years later, extensive preparation for the Ebola threat. That shit was frightening-IF it came to our 'neck of the woods', NOBODY, was going to go home to their family's till quarantining was complete. And ppl were all twitterpated over C19, there's a whole bunch of bad stuff that can do us little humans in. Just wait till the permafrost is done thawing. 😮🤷🏼‍♀️. ✌️💙🇺🇲

[@njosborne6152]

@ and people can’t travel easily ‼️

[@RiiDii]

To try to primary 30+ Republicans significantly risks losing too many seats to Dems. The threat is hollow, much like Trump’s plans, when the numbers are against him.

[@MafGeek]

🎯🎯🎯

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Thank you!!!

[@courteouscarpenter7811]

This used to be big news. The government almost shutting down, but it's every 2 Frick and months. It's feels like. America this is not normal

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

This is America: Adolescent, Arrogant, Belligerent, Uneducated and Ignorant!!!

[@kellybannasch505]

Belle, I am really enjoying your videos. You are knowledgeable, informative, and very funny. Happy holidays and heathy and safe new year to you and yours!

[@PetAllDogs]

In a weird way this gives me some hope. The entire GOP isn't in lockstep with Trump. This is a good sign in stopping some of the worst bits of his agenda.

[@jeffmacdonald9863]

If I'm reading this right though, that's not quite what we see here. This is infighting between Musk and Trump and Musk is winning. That might not be good.

[@k.k.9897]

It is not good

[@PetAllDogs]

@@jeffmacdonald9863 I didn't say it was good, more that it's better that the republicans are infighting rather than being unified. I don't want either Trump or Elon's futures, hopefully their fighting prevents either. And with a little luck maybe the republicans lose congress in '26.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

I hope that the Sane Republicans keep it coming!!! I will not be silent!!! I will not go away!!! I AM THE EFFIN' RESISTANCE!!!!!

[@robbybevard8034]

@@jeffmacdonald9863 Nah, that's fine. If enough people start giving Musk credit for things and call him President Musk, Trump will get rid of him. Trump needs his money, but his ego is too big, he won't deal with having that guy around too long.

[@ScooterGecko]

Tnx for the news Belle and the Team. Keep up the good work :)

[@Elaine-m8j]

Thank you for my daily dose of calm and factual news. Appreciate you!

[@donk026]

If the Federal government shutdown happens,who will be setting up the Capital for inauguration ceremonies? If I wasn't getting paid I wouldn't be doing the work.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

I don't care because I'm boycotting the Inauguration!!! I'll be celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday, instead!!!!

[@brendalong3852]

That has been this house since they got in office-wait till the last minute then please no one with the result.

[@bobsnow4890]

Not even in office yet and he is already causing chaos and lowering the already basement-levels of productivity in government.

[@joeadler179]

A question for anyone... how does a shutdown affect trumps inauguration since government (our) money is needed ?

[@davidellis4084]

Realistically, they are going to keep going and have it regardless of the status of the spending bills. However, GSA and NPS should not be spending money on the event as it involves discretionary spending and non-essential personnel.

[@Struthio_Camelus]

The essential parts are already in the budget. Chief Justice is already bought and paid for, Trump's Bible is on overstock, and Fox's cameras are always available.

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

Maybe President Elect Musk could foot the bill for the spectacle.

[@katboss4886]

Yah, 50 million was budgeted for it

[@MafGeek]

He’s got the oligarchs donating/buy positions & paying millions directly to his inauguration fund ie his own pockets. Sosdd

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Whenever it is wherever you are, I hope it's a good time for you!

[@MBMCincy63]

👋🏻🌨️🥰

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

🖐🌞🤗

[@donaldrambo5150]

Good morning.

[@markrenfrow9873]

and to you VP!

[@katboss4886]

Morning Victoria. Opening the office again. Hope you have a great day in the Midwest

[@OpenHeartPath]

Belle, I so appreciate this channel and how you and Beau and the rest of your crew continue to provide clear and concise info w/o all the hype and pearl clutching. This is the only channel I watch for those very reasons!! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

[@erikbarkefors2441]

In Sweden we have an old saying: The state's cake is small but safe. It is clear that the Republicans are happy to prove that it is the opposite in the US. This means that competent employees will seek their way away from government services and maybe that is what Trump wants?

[@Redleaf999]

Belle, you have really come into your own. At first, you were kind of like a female substitute version of Beau and covered by a cap. Now you're out and confident and beautiful! I admire your courage in stepping into those big farmer boots of Beau's, and look for your podcasts every day to enjoy with my morning ☕️. Keep on keepin' on, girl.

[@shepberryhill4912]

These incompetent idiots haven't produced an actual budget, their primary job, in the entire two years since they've been elected. Why are they still there? Why do y'all keep reelecting them?

[@jeffengel2607]

They run on how dysfunctional government is and how we need less of it. They then go assure that it is dysfunctional and repeat the electoral appeal. Their voters do not catch the sabotage part, because their "news" sources conceal it and they don't want to know. Party identity is, for many conservatives, as dear as religious identity and breaking out of that is hard.

[@stephencullum8255]

The new Trump the same as the old Trump. He is the king of chaos . I do expect the economy to be messed up. It seems to be the pattern with Republican Administrations. I do not expect Trump to buck that pattern.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

Jesus will have the last word on Trump!!!

[@stephencullum8255]

@@HenriettaHudson-we4wv Yep. Indeed on all of us. The dude has evaded responsibility for his actions so far on earth. But many places scriptures tells us when that happens judgement always comes after death. You are either under the wrath of God or the Blood. Pray for his salvation, looking at his fruit you know he does not know God.

[@Allastrology]

Thank you very much for the update on this mess Belle!!

[@dankolar6066]

What could possibly go wrong?

[@lose999]

What a dumpster fire!!! Omg.

[@AprilB-vy6uq]

Deny, Delay & Depose.

[@scubaval08]

GOP’s insurance policy

[@amandagray4913]

Belle, I really appreciate the calm, reasoned delivery of factual information. You're the one news source I go to every single day. That said, I feel I must comment that neither President Musk nor Presidential Sidekick Trump actually care in the least about the "look" of a government shutdown. It won't affect their personal wealth, so let the commoners die, their only purpose is to serve, anyway.

[@gdroege44]

Welcome to the GOP circus. 🤪

[@to-ree-neewolf1742]

Good morning Belle, thank you again for such thoughtful, even commentary. I like your use of the scientific term "dumpstery." It is most apropos. ( I be loving the well deserved snark.)

[@donaldmrambojr5695]

In Trump you trusted...now you're busted ! 💙

[@kathyq6167]

LOL, that's a good one 👍 🤣

[@donaldmrambojr5695]

xxx

[@marilynmurray3041]

Thank you Belle.

[@randallthomas5207]

We need a constitutional amendment requiring Congress to pass a budget, as their first order of business, before they can even discuss other issues. And if they don’t have a budget in place, by June 15th, they shall remain in emergency session 12-hours per day, 7-days per week, without break until, there is a budget in place. And that any member absent for 3-consecutive days during the emergency session, shall be deemed to have resigned, and not be replaceable until after the emergency session. Let’s treat them like the low skill workers they are.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

I agree!!! Thank you!!!

[@chrisoneill3999]

So the Grinch is going to steal Christmas again!

[@markrenfrow9873]

But sadly his heart will not grow 3 sizes.

[@WhatIsThatAvi]

@@markrenfrow9873 But he has a heart of gold; small, hard, and yellow.

[@MBMCincy63]

Belle O'clock Ranchhands good morning ❄️🌨️☔👋🏻 I am glad the magaphiles are getting their wishes, but I feel for the employees that won't have income during the shutdown 😕

[@donaldrambo5150]

Good morning, Mary Beth ! Hoping this Friday will be a good one for you ! 😊🥰😉

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Mary Beth! When the powerful people throw a hissy fit, the little folks are going to suffer.

[@stacig6652]

We haven't even gotten to day one yet. 😢

[@Mtnsunshine]

Thank you, Belle. My thought is that this kind of chaos is exactly what Old 45 wants. Why? I don’t know, other than he just likes seeing people fight. Examples: January 6 and his fascination with his wrestling friends.

[@MafGeek]

He wants to be a dictator. He wants to deconstruct our country entirely. It’s being given to the oligarchs. He wants to burn it/everyone down, that’s what malignant narcissistic sociopaths do.

[@MafGeek]

It’s also one huge global grift. Everything is part of his/cronies grift. They will bleed us dry.

[@Erin-Thor]

Good Morning ☀️ all Y’all Belle Ranch hands! This chaos is expected, it’s the Trump norm. 😳🤣 👋🏽🤠

[@MBMCincy63]

👋🏻🌨️, The chaos circus ensemble!

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

🖐🌞🤗

[@markrenfrow9873]

'Morning ET.

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Erin-Thor! Drumph obviously doesn't have to be in office yet to start shutting the country down.

[@kathyq6167]

​@@victoriajohnson-parratt6975 Yeah, he can fuck it up just fine from the side lines 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@treeeva]

So, with just my memory to go on, Maya Angelo's quote gets sited a lot, but few ever take action as perhaps we should: "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time."

[@AndrewAMartin]

*cited, just FYI...

[@jannegrey]

Hello Everyone! Stay Safe.

[@MBMCincy63]

👋🏻🌨️

[@jannegrey]

@@MBMCincy63 👍

[@deanvaillancourt2881]

🖐🌞🤗

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good afternoon Jan! So good to see you today! I was starting to worry about you. Everybody doing okay in your house?

[@jannegrey]

@@victoriajohnson-parratt6975 Sorry My Computer was dismantled a bit. So it took 22 hours to get it into working condition.

[@kathyq6167]

Thank you Belle, Beau and Crew for ALL your hard work.🙏🏻 Ever so grateful. 💐💐

[@ornametalsmith]

Hidy Ho, Belle 👋

[@jollyjackass]

All hail president musk. I honestly couldn’t think of a better way for them to start the 4yr joke. Gallows humor will be in full swing for sure.

[@MBMCincy63]

@@jollyjackass 👍🏻if only we can put trump, and musk on the gallows .. 🤔

[@singed8853]

To replace President blinken.

[@kathyq6167]

Good morning🌅🌄🌆 to all you Phenomenal Internet People, may you have a good (& safe) weekend. ✌️🫶💙🇺🇲

[@shawnr771]

Good morning to you also.

[@phaedrussocrates7636]

Thank you

[@Lumi_Lumi13]

The less legislation that the republicvnt congress can get passed, the safer Americans will be.

[@MafGeek]

Except for shutting down the govt.

[@shawnr771]

Except Chump is going to use that as an excuse for emergency powers .

[@mistimills7318]

How have we gotten into drumpf's term without the inauguration? I don't remember any presidency beginning like this, before his actual term.

[@k.k.9897]

He's been doing it since he left office the first time

[@jimthompson6488]

So the co-consirator ... I mean co-presidents stepped in it, and now smell like it. There's a shock. I'm sure the MAGA voters are glad they voted for this Trumpster fire. Just a thought.

[@edg3048]

we need to start referring to ELON as President Musk... His beta will get rid of him....

[@ruthhofwolt685]

We need to be prepared to organize people as things get worse. The only way we will be able to get systematic change for our benefit is through a mass grassroots movement.

[@k.k.9897]

Yes, I only hope people have the stomach for it.

[@HenriettaHudson-we4wv]

I will not be silent!!! I will not go away!!! I AM THE EFFIN' RESISTANCE!!!

[@gmun2248]

Like a strike... No pay = no work. That's how it works. That's how other countries have done it. If everyone was on the same side, it would only happen once, and then it would never be a problem again.

[@drewncarolina6381]

One of the very few things I agree with McConnell on, yes it's going to be chaotic for the upcoming years.

[@davidellis4084]

If I were in Vegas and betting, I would bet on a shutdown until January 20 or later.

[@eliscanfield3913]

Certainly *my* family's economy will be in a tailspin from a long shutdown. You're not supposed to be at the soup kitchen when you are a salaried, career-perm employee of the gov't, yet we've been there before.

[@kathleenjett9812]

There was 100billion of disaster relief in that bill... all those people in the south living in tents who voted for Trump (Elon), you should get comfortable and hope it doesn't snow. Merry Christmas!

[@shawnr771]

All those people who have whined that we spent previously allocated money in Ukraine but not disaster relief. To include Chump himself.

[@lynnettereede6887]

All of this chaos explains why tantrump didn’t want to sign the ethics agreement.

[@dirtydish6642]

Yo! What up, Belle?! Give Beau's beard a pluck for us.

[@traymuse]

How did that whole "Let them eat cake" thing work for the first person who tried it, eh?

[@gmun2248]

They didn't vote for that though.

[@juliegolick]

As a non-American, the idea that the government can literally shut down if certain bills don't get passed is bonkers to me

[@gmun2248]

As a Brit, I agree entirely. If that happened across here, or on the continent, everyone would strike, nobody would go to work for nothing while politicians were not working, and getting paid. I was in the US when the government shut down under trump, around this time of year, and it blew my mind that people just kept going to work. This seems like a great opportunity to strike en masse and give more control to workers.

[@k.k.9897]

​@@gmun2248It needs to happen. We need to be the ones that shut it down. Unfortunately people here expect someone else to solve their problems

[@jhwheuer]

This dumpster has barely been lit and it is already to hot to stand next to.

[@Sparklfoot]

Lord have mercy.

[@OutdoorLonghair]

👋 mornin' all hope you have a wonderful day

[@victoriajohnson-parratt6975]

Good morning Longhair! I hope you have a pleasant and peaceful day today!