The Left's Secret Election Playbook: Fast-Track Protest Permits & Repeal Resisting-Arrest Laws

A recent report reveals strategies by a progressive network aimed at influencing the 2026 midterm elections, particularly around organizing protests and managing public demonstrations.

Protest Management: The Local Progress Impact Lab recommends local officials fast-track permits for protests and prepare designated areas near polling places for demonstrations.

Legal Changes: Calls for repealing local laws that prohibit loitering and resisting arrest, and for limiting police responses to public assemblies, including banning tear gas and rubber bullets.

Political Messaging: A messaging guide suggests labeling opponents as “election traitors” instead of “election deniers” to convey a stronger moral stance.

Business Engagement: The network encourages businesses to sign a “Business for Democracy” pledge, opposing voting restrictions, and commit to supporting democratic processes.

Financial Support: Local Progress has funding and backing from various notable board members and has reported significant revenue, indicating a solid financial foundation for its initiatives.

Upcoming Events: A webinar is planned for September 23 to provide guidance on election messaging for members of Local Progress.

The strategies outlined in the bulletin aim to prepare officials and communities for increased public demonstrations during elections, while shifting political language to undermine opposition. The effectiveness of these strategies will become clearer as jurisdictions respond to this guidance. 

https://nataliegwinters.substack.com/p/the-lefts-secret-election-playbook?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3382126&post_id=216787715&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=6dl2nb&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email

Anthony Fauci’s Darkest Hours

The diaries of Anthony Fauci from December 2021 to May 2022 reveal the turmoil and challenges faced during the darkest months of the Covid pandemic. As the virus's origins and vaccine effectiveness came under scrutiny, Fauci grappled with mounting public dissatisfaction and his internal conflicts.

1. Growing Doubts About the Virus's Origin: Confidence was increasing that Covid-19 originated from a lab, raising concerns about Fauci's role in managing the crisis.

2. Imperfect Vaccination Strategy: Vaccination campaigns did not effectively prevent infections or transmission rates, with reports of serious side effects complicating public trust.

3. Political Dynamics: Fauci maintained strong ties with the Biden administration but faced pressures from rising opposition to lockdowns and vaccine mandates.

4. Public Opposition: A rally led by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. drew significant attention against Fauci’s approach, hinting at a growing anti-vaccination sentiment in the public.

5. Struggles with Efficacy: As variants like Delta and Omicron emerged, the vaccines became less effective, leading Fauci to question the efficacy of the strategies employed.

6. Mental Health and Paranoia: Fauci's fear of contracting Covid became a predominant concern, driving him to avoid crowds and public events, leading to increased self-isolation and anxiety.

7. Denial of Public Responsibility: Despite widespread trauma caused by the pandemic management, Fauci refused to accept responsibility for the fallout and continued to promote his public image.

8. Career Consequences: Concerns over his diminishing credibility and the overall failure of vaccination goals led to Fauci eventually being sidelined from his position, although he transitioned to a role at Georgetown University.

Fauci's diary entries depict a man increasingly caught in a web of fear, denial, and public discontent. His attempts to wash away the burdens of responsibility echo Lady Macbeth's struggles with guilt, highlighting how his fame offered little solace against the mounting crisis. As of now, Fauci tends to avoid speaking publicly, illustrating his retreat from the consequences of his actions during the pandemic. The narrative suggests a legacy tarnished by fear and uncertainty, impacting both his career and public perception. 

https://brownstone.org/articles/anthony-faucis-darkest-hours/

America’s Education Crisis: All Expense, No Excellence

The significant challenges facing America's education system, highlighting a mismatch between increasing spending and declining student performance.

1. High Spending and Low Achievement:

The United States is experiencing high deficits while spending record amounts on public education, yet students are underperforming. Recent data shows American 15-year-olds scored the lowest in math and reading in over a generation.

2. International Comparisons:

Scores from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) indicate that U.S. students’ scores have been declining annually, while Chinese students have shown improvement. There is a stark contrast in high performers, with only 8% of U.S. students excelling in math compared to 54% in China.

3. Impact of Environmental Factors:

The decline in education has coincided with the rise of smartphones and social media, suggesting a possible link to decreased student achievement. Teachers’ unions focusing more on political agendas than on education quality is highlighted as part of the problem.

4. Proposed Solutions:

A significant proposed solution is the Education Freedom Tax Credit introduced by the “Big Beautiful Bill,” allowing for federally supported education scholarships for homeschooled and private school students, starting in 2027. This initiative aims to increase educational choices beyond just public schools.

5. Public Support for Changes:

Polls indicate strong public support for educational reform initiatives that empower families and enhance student competitiveness globally.

The education system’s current trajectory poses a threat to America’s future innovation capabilities, particularly in high-demand fields. A call to action for Pennsylvania residents is included, urging them to advocate for necessary reforms during the upcoming election. 

https://spectator.org/americas-education-crisis-all-expense-no-excellence/

No to the “Common Good” Economy

Samuel Gregg critiques Mariana Mazzucato's vision of the "Common Good Economy" in his review of her book. He argues that her proposals for state intervention and management of the economy risk stifling individual freedoms and lead to negative economic consequences.

1. Background of State Intervention:

There has been a growing trend in developed economies towards increased state intervention and industrial policy.

Mazzucato promotes a shift in economic focus towards achieving the "common good".

2. Mazzucato's Viewpoint:

Mazzucato suggests that economic policies should center around "collective value" rather than on principles like liberty and free markets.

She believes the state should be the primary force in directing economic activity and creating public value.

3. Role of Global Institutions:

Mazzucato calls for global entities, such as the World Bank, to have a stronger role in managing resources and finance at a global level.

Even while acknowledging their past failures, she suggests enhancing their power for collective action.

4. Philosophical Foundations:

The book discusses historical notions of the common good, citing philosophers like Aristotle and Aquinas, yet Greg critiques her interpretations and perceived omissions.

Gregg argues that her view lacks recognition of the importance of individual free choice, which should limit state power.

5. Economic Implications:

Mazzucato’s approach implies a top-down control of the economy that may lead to stagnation rather than innovation.

Gregg warns that her vision may replicate the financial and bureaucratic challenges currently seen in countries with heavy state involvement.

6. Human Behavior and Economics:

Gregg stresses that economic activities motivate individuals primarily for self-interest, not necessarily for moral incentives.

He emphasizes that economic prosperity often comes from individuals pursuing personal goals rather than from a desire to foster collective good.

7. Conclusion:

Gregg concludes that adopting Mazzucato's common-good economy would exacerbate current issues faced by several nations, including entitlement spending and slow growth.

He advocates for rejecting her approach in favor of preserving individual freedoms and market principles.

Samuel Gregg's critique serves as a warning against embracing a centrally directed economy, arguing for the importance of individual choice and free-market principles over state-controlled initiatives. 

https://www.city-journal.org/article/common-good-economy-mariana-mazzucato

U.S. Blockade Cripples Iran’s Economy, Cuts Off $25 Billion in Oil Revenue

The U.S. military and economic campaign against Iran has significantly impacted its economy, particularly its oil revenue.

President Donald Trump's policies have resulted in a loss of at least $25 billion in oil revenue for Iran, according to U.S. Central Command.

U.S. measures, including a naval blockade and financial restrictions, have created severe financial difficulties for the Iranian military, specifically the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper remarked that the U.S. actions have cost the IRGC tremendously, leading to delays in salaries and benefits for Iranian military personnel.

Approximately $350 million in Iranian cryptocurrency assets have also been frozen, limiting the regime’s financial capacity to support terrorism or military operations.

Secretary of the Treasury, Scott Bessent, referred to the situation as an "unprecedented economic isolation campaign."

The U.S. maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, facilitating commercial shipping while Iran's oil exports are blocked.

Despite Iran’s denials, U.S. officials claim that economic pressure is weakening the Iranian regime and increasing desperation within its military ranks.

The blockade and economic sanctions imposed by the United States have inflicted severe damage on Iran’s economy and military capabilities, suggesting a strategic impact as tensions in the region continue. 

https://amgreatness.com/2026/10/17/u-s-blockade-cripples-irans-economy-cuts-off-25-billion-in-oil-revenue/

FBI: Accused fraudster returned to U.S. to face justice for alleged $600K SNAP fraud after fleeing to India

The FBI has successfully retrieved Manjit Singh Bedi from India to face charges for wire fraud related to a food stamp fraud scheme in the U.S. This apprehension is part of a broader initiative to address fraud effectively by capturing individuals listed as the most wanted.

Background of Bedi:

Manjit Singh Bedi, 64, originally from India, was a naturalized U.S. citizen living in Kent, Washington. He was added to the FBI’s "Most Wanted Fraudsters" list in September 2023 with a reward of up to $150,000.

Allegations Against Bedi:

Bedi is accused of defrauding the U.S. government of more than $600,000 from March 2024 to June 2025. He operated a business, Asian Grocery Store, which falsely claimed to sell food to SNAP participants but instead gave them cash for their benefit cards, keeping half the money for himself.

Legal Proceedings:

Bedi pleaded not guilty to charges of wire fraud and SNAP benefit fraud in April 2023. After failing to adhere to court orders—such as surrendering his passport—he fled to Canada and then to India shortly after.

FBI Action and Capture:

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Bedi in May 2026, leading to his quick detention by Indian authorities and eventual handover to U.S. federal agents on Wednesday night. The officials expressed gratitude to both the FBI and international partners for their roles in his capture.

Comments by Officials:

Acting U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd emphasized the importance of holding fraudsters accountable, while the FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted this case as part of the successful "Most Wanted Fraudsters" program. Over 260 high-value targets have been returned to the U.S. in the past 20 months.

Statements from Law Enforcement:

USDA Inspector General John Walk condemned the theft of SNAP benefits, stressing the commitment to pursue all perpetrators, regardless of their location. FBI officials reinforced that fleeing abroad does not exempt individuals from facing justice in the U.S.

Manjit Singh Bedi’s return to the U.S. marks a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies in combating fraud. The FBI's ongoing efforts demonstrate that they will pursue fugitives who believe they can escape justice by fleeing overseas, emphasizing their commitment to protect American taxpayers and aid the vulnerable. 

https://www.oann.com/newsroom/fbi-accused-fraudster-returned-to-u-s-to-face-justice-for-alleged-600k-snap-fraud-after-fleeing-to-india/

Work Together To Save The Country

The need for cooperation between different generations to address the challenges posed by far-left political movements in the United States. It emphasizes the importance of empathy and collaboration between younger and older voters to effectively navigate current political issues.

The Republican base has shown discontent with the party’s inaction, particularly regarding election security measures.

Young adults are frustrated with the lack of substantial change from Republican leaders despite their initial support.

Generational resentment is heightened by social media, impacting the ability to communicate and collaborate.

Generalizations about generations can help identify trends, but sensitivity around these topics can hinder political discussions.

Socialism is gaining popularity among younger voters, while older generations often dismiss them as entitled.

Economic challenges, job market conditions, and societal factors have made success harder for younger individuals compared to previous generations.

Younger voters tend to blame older generations for political decisions that have affected their opportunities.

The article critiques both generations: older voters often lecture younger people, while younger voters may resist advice to change their circumstances.

Emphasizing empathy is crucial in fostering dialogue and understanding between generations.

The article warns against allowing resentment to disrupt political unity, stressing that both experience and energy are necessary for successful political change.

The article argues that to effectively combat rising far-left ideologies, both younger and older generations must work together, leveraging their respective strengths. A united front is essential for addressing the pressing issues facing the country, and fostering mutual understanding will help bridge the divides that currently exist. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/10/work-together-to-save-the-country/