Saturday, May 23, 2026

The left doesn’t like it when minorities think for themselves

The limitations and criticisms of identity politics, particularly how it impacts minority conservatives. It highlights the notion that minority success is often only celebrated when it aligns with leftist political agendas.

1. Personal Experience:

• The author recounts a personal incident in law school where expressing conservative views led to accusations of being a "traitor" to his race.

• He argues that minorities are often expected to conform to specific political ideologies to be accepted.

2. Selective Celebration of Success:

• Minority achievements are praised only when they support progressive causes.

• For instance, the author points out that Asian individuals often face discrimination under affirmative action policies, while their success is overlooked when it does not fit the narrative.

3. Critique of Liberal Ideology:

• The article argues that minoritized groups face ideological tests, where expressing conservative beliefs leads to personal attacks.

• Prominent minorities, such as Justice Clarence Thomas and other Asian-American figures, are often ridiculed for their conservative viewpoints rather than engaging with their ideas.

4. Identity Politics’ Divisive Nature:

• The focus on racial or ethnic identity over individual merit and character has led to more divisions among people.

• The response of Democratic politicians to specific cases, like race-based admissions, illustrates their inconsistent commitment to fighting discrimination when it does not align with their agenda.

5. Need for True Equality:

• The author advocates for a shift away from identity politics towards a merit-based evaluation of individuals, which would promote genuine equality.

Identity politics, as portrayed in the article, fosters division and hinders authentic discourse regarding race and success. Minorities should be evaluated on their individual merits and principles, rather than their adherence to group-based ideologies. 

https://www.theblaze.com/columns/opinion/the-left-doesnt-like-it-when-minorities-think-for-themselves

Democrats Desperately Want To Create More Dependent Americans

 The divide in American society regarding individualism and dependence, focusing on how government policies over time have shaped these views.

1. Three Groups in America:

• Dependents: Prioritize the collective needs over individualism, embodying a community-oriented mindset.

• Individualists: Emphasize personal responsibility and self-improvement through personal choices and actions.

• Amoral Pragmatists: Operate based on convenience and emotions rather than principles, often swaying elections.

2. Government Policies and Social Safety Nets:

• Over generations, government programs have expanded, leading many, especially pragmatists, to depend on these safety nets instead of self-sufficiency.

• This growth of dependence contrasts with the historical American values of independence and self-governance, which lacked welfare systems.

3. Impact of Geography:

• Regions like the South and Southwest tend to support individualism, while the North and West Coast are more reliant on government support.

4. Historical Context of Dependence:

• Historically, America was founded on values that did not envision a dependent class. Major government safety nets began to emerge in the late 19th century, culminating in the New Deal era.

5. Role of Immigration:

• Immigration has been linked to the rise of dependence, with newcomers often holding cultural views that conflict with traditional American individualism.

6. Political Landscape:

• Future political outcomes could hinge on the balance between dependents and individualists. The article warns of potential shifts toward a more dependent society if current progressive tactics continue.

The article emphasizes the need to address the growing dependency in America and encourages strategizing to resonate with the persuadable voters amid a looming political challenge. The question posed is how to counteract the increasing reliance on government support.

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/05/democrats_desperately_want_to_create_more_dependent_americans.html

America Is A Nation Of Settlers, Not Immigrants

 The proposal by Rep. Nancy Mace to prevent foreign-born U. S. citizens from serving in Congress and other key government positions. It presents arguments about American identity and challenges the notion that the U. S. is solely a "nation of immigrants. "

• Proposal Details: Rep. Nancy Mace has introduced a resolution aimed at barring foreign-born citizens from serving in high government positions, arguing that unchecked foreign influence leads to divided loyalties. This includes prominent figures from the Democratic Party whom she targets.

• Constitutional Context: The U. S. Constitution already prohibits foreign-born individuals from becoming president or vice president. Mace's proposal extends this exclusion, though it faces significant legislative hurdles.

• Historical Misconceptions: The article critiques the narrative that America's founding is rooted in immigration. It notes that the Founding Fathers were largely born in the American colonies and identifies them as colonizers rather than immigrants. This distinction emphasizes a view of America based on cultural heritage rather than just legal status.

• Cultural Identity: The piece argues that American identity has often been misrepresented as merely a set of ideas (creedal nationalism) instead of a distinct people with shared cultural and historical ties. The author stresses that assimilation involves adopting American culture, which includes embracing a Christian worldview that underpins American ideals of equality and rights.

• Importance of Assimilation: The author posits that the concept of American identity requires a transformation whereby immigrants must leave behind their original cultures to fully integrate into American society. This belief raises concerns about whether current immigration policies support proper assimilation.

• Criticism of Current Immigration Philosophy: The article critiques the view that America’s identity can be purely civic. Instead, it argues that genuine identity stems from a common cultural heritage. This claim is presented in opposition to modern immigration practices that may not encourage assimilation.

• Conclusion on American Identity: The argument concludes by reiterating that America's essence is not just a creed or a set of principles but a specific people with a unique heritage. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, it must reaffirm its identity as derived not just from legal status but from cultural and historical lineage.

The article advocates for a reevaluation of how American identity is defined, challenging the dominant narrative that equates citizenship with mere residency. It suggests a need to consider the implications of mass immigration on the fabric of American society and questions the ability of newcomers to assimilate into a distinct culture that is deeply rooted in shared history and ideals.

https://thefederalist.com/2026/05/22/america-is-a-nation-of-settlers-not-immigrants/

Willingness to circumvent will of voters, even by cheating, most pervasive among Dem elites: Survey

A recent survey reveals troubling sentiments among Democratic Party elites regarding the willingness to bypass voter intentions, with significant implications for electoral politics.

1. Embracing Controversial Rhetoric:

Following close elections, Democratic leaders have shown increasing contempt for the electoral process. For instance, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated, "Either MAGA extremists are gonna break the country or we are gonna break them," implying a readiness to prioritize victory over democratic values.

2. Survey Findings:

A Napolitan Institute/RMG Research survey indicates that the desire to circumvent voter intentions, even through cheating, is prevalent among a subset of Democratic elites. Only 7% of the general public would support cheating. In contrast, 35% of a group labeled the "Elite 1%"—predominantly Democrats—believed cheating might be acceptable to win elections.

3. Political Divide:

The survey highlights a stark contrast between average voters and politically active elites, particularly regarding individual freedoms. A significant percentage of elite respondents feel the U. S. has "far too much" individual freedom compared to a negligible percentage of the general voting population.

4. Impact on Democratic Candidates:

Comments from Democratic candidates, like State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, demonstrate how dismissive attitudes towards the average voter can lead to political backlash. McMorrow faced criticism for previous disparaging remarks about voters outside her state.

5. Redistricting Criticism:

The recent redistricting efforts in Virginia were met with accusations of undermining democracy, as they appeared to favor Democratic candidates. Although Republicans have faced similar allegations, these claims highlight a growing concern over political elitism in both major parties.

Both the survey data and public commentary illustrate a troubling trend among top Democratic elites who may favor undemocratic methods to maintain power. This perception could erode public trust and complicate the party’s message of representing the common citizen. As these attitudes become more pronounced, they pose significant challenges for the Democratic Party in the upcoming elections. 

https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/wkdas-electorate-frustrates-elite-ambitions-contempt-voter-rising-among-dems

Driving Up The Cost Of Energy While Claiming To Promote "Affordability"

Francis Menton criticizes political leaders in Northeastern states who claim to support affordable energy while electricity prices remain high. He highlights the discrepancy between their pledges and the actual cost experienced by consumers, examining the factors driving these prices up.

1. Political Spin: Many politicians engage in exaggeration or misleading claims about energy affordability. Recent campaigns by Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill for governorships in Virginia and New Jersey leverage this theme.

2. High Electricity Costs: The Northeastern states have some of the highest electricity rates in the U. S., with rates nearly double or significantly above the national average. For example, residential rates are:

• New York: 29.99 cents/kWh

• Connecticut: 30.77 cents/kWh

• Massachusetts: 30.46 cents/kWh

3. Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI): This initiative involves states like Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York, aiming to cap and reduce CO2 emissions from power plants. It requires fossil fuel plants to buy allowances equivalent to their emissions, increasing operational costs.

4. Impact of RGGI on Prices: RGGI's structure intentionally drives up electricity prices, with fewer allowances made available over time. The rising prices for these allowances directly contribute to growing consumer electricity bills.

5. Economic Analysis: Estimates suggest that RGGI allowances currently add about 2.5 cents per kWh to consumer bills, translating to a potential increase of over 10-15%. This impact is expected to worsen as supply decreases.

6. Lack of Consumer Benefits: The article argues that consumers receive no tangible benefits from the increased costs tied to RGGI, creating a situation where higher electricity prices are imposed without justification.

The article underscores the inconsistencies between politicians’ claims of promoting energy affordability and the reality of rising costs in Northeastern states. The RGGI not only contributes to this issue but does so in a way that is less transparent to consumers. Menton warns readers to be skeptical of political promises regarding energy affordability amidst these increasing financial burdens.

https://www.manhattancontrarian.com/blog/2026-5-20-driving-up-the-cost-of-energy-while-claiming-to-promote-affordability

Mises’s Theory of Nations Applied to Immigration and Borders

 Ludwig von Mises offered significant insights into immigration and national identity in his work, particularly in "Nation, State, and Economy. " This summary outlines his definitions of a nation versus a state, the economic implications of immigration, and the conflicts that can arise from these dynamics.

1. Definition of Nation vs. State:

• Mises defines a nation as a group of people who share a common language, history, and culture, creating a national identity.

• He distinguishes between a nation (a self-aware community) and a state (a governing entity).

• His perspective was influenced by his experience in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, where language and national identity were closely related.

2. Nations in the United States:

• In the U. S., multiple nations co-exist under a federal system, with identity markers including accents, food, political beliefs, and cultural practices.

• Unlike some other countries, the U. S. does not have clearly defined national borders but rather a complex interplay of diverse identities.

3. Economic Benefits of Immigration:

• Mises argues that immigration can enhance economic efficiency by transferring labor from nations with job surpluses to those with deficits.

• This notion of migration assumes that one nation has full employment, which is rarely the case today.

• Immigration might negatively impact certain unemployed groups in the host nation, particularly those with similar skill sets as incoming migrants.

4. Potential Conflicts:

• When different nations exist within a single state, immigration can shift power dynamics. Each national group can influence political outcomes based on their size.

• Mises notes that minority nations may feel oppressed by the majority in a democratic system, leading to conflicts and a push for political power.

5. Impact of Government Regulation:

• Increased government control can exacerbate tensions between different national groups.

• Mises warns that as minority nations seek to gain political power, it may result in violent conflicts or authoritarian measures from the majority to maintain control.

6. Reluctance Towards Assimilation:

• Immigrants may struggle to assimilate into the culture of the host nation, leading some majorities to feel threatened and advocate for limited immigration.

• In highly diverse or polyglot territories, there are recurring issues of integration and dominance among different cultural groups.

7. Options for Minority Nations:

• Mises suggests that for oppressed nations, secession may be the best option to form a uni-national state and reduce inter-ethnic conflict.

• Secession could simplify national issues by delineating clear territorial boundaries for each nationality.

8. Maintaining Borders Post-Secession:

• If a nation successfully secedes, it also has the right to enforce its borders to safeguard its interests.

• The idea underlines that the right to self-determination includes the maintenance of political and geographic integrity.

Ludwig von Mises’s analysis of nations and immigration highlights the complex relationship between different national identities within a state and the economic implications of immigration. While he recognizes the potential benefits of immigration, he also addresses the conflicts that can arise from cultural diversity and the struggles of minority nations. His recommendations, such as the potential for secession, present solutions to manage national interests effectively while maintaining social peace.

https://mises.org/mises-wire/misess-theory-nations-applied-immigration-and-borders

In-hiding Eric Swalwell quietly pays lawyer mega money from campaign donations to fight sex assault claims

Eric Swalwell, a former congressman, is currently facing serious allegations of sexual misconduct and has been spending significant amounts of campaign funds on legal defense.

• Legal Fees: Swalwell has paid over $313,000 to a New York law firm, Sara Azari, to handle his sexual misconduct claims. His latest campaign finance disclosure reveals payments of $250,000 and $23,251 for "campaign legal compliance," in addition to an earlier $40,000 for public defense.

• Resignation and Campaign Status: Swalwell resigned from Congress and dropped out of the governor's race due to these allegations. However, his name will still appear on the primary ballot scheduled for June 2, reminding voters of his brief gubernatorial candidacy.

• Defense Claims: Azari, his attorney, argues that the allegations against Swalwell do not equate to rape, suggesting that the alleged victims may regret their interactions with him but that this does not constitute misconduct.

• Personal Impact: The allegations have affected Swalwell's personal life, including the visible absence of his wife, Brittany's wedding ring, indicating potential strain in their relationship.

• Public Communication: Swalwell last publicly addressed the allegations in a social media video on April 10, where he denied the claims.

Eric Swalwell’s legal battles are drawing attention due to substantial campaign fund expenditures and their impact on his political career and personal life. His situation is ongoing, with significant implications both legally and personally as he faces public scrutiny during the upcoming election cycle. 

https://nypost.com/2026/05/22/us-news/in-hiding-eric-swalwell-quietly-pays-lawyer-mega-money-from-campaign-donations-to-fight-sex-assault-claims/