Thank you Adam, for being a voice of reason in a wilderness of insanity.
The 'causal' link to a policy wrongly described as 'open borders' is particularly disturbing. It is in large part our immigrants who will rebuild the bridge. And who do so much of the necessary work to keep our country functioning for the rest of us.
I'd like to send MTG and all the other nuts out to repair our potholes, and give hard-working immigrants a stint in Congress to perhaps get some work done.
Every American should remember that this country was built on the shoulders of immigrants- all of us, whether or not we came over on the Mayflower, or any other way over the centuries - were immigrants.
Thank you Adam for bringing all of this up!!The workers on the bridge were people trying to support their families!!I’m getting tired of the MAGA Republicans and their conspiracy theories -These poor families that lost their loved ones because of this tragedy deserve our respect and our prayers!!I’m glad to see that the Democrats understand how important that bridge and the Baltimore port are!!
What a bunch of sick people. What a difference between when Bush was in office with the former bridge collapse where as Americans we came together in the face of disaster. God help us to end this bitterness somehow.
Unfortunately, the Republicans in Congress follow their "leader" and view everything good or Democratic with spite and malice. On principle. They refuse to even speak to the Democrats. Block all motions that solve problems or benefit Americans and cause hardship. Their "leader" needs hardship to campaign on.
The workers who lost their lives were immigrants. The GOP "leader" had nothing to say about them. They came to America with the dream of working hard and being able to send money to their families in Central or South America. Ronald Reagan praised our nation of immigrants in a speech. Thankfully, the national news has honored them by telling their stories.
If this so-called "leader" makes it to the finish line, there will be only a very few supporters there to greet him.
AMEN Adam! It is always so refreshing to hear an accurate analysis from a sane and reasonable LEADER! I can't wait for the maggat madness to fade into obscurity! This is why evey voter must vote against every one of them from Trump on down in November.
Adam you are correct to point out that our performative idiots would rather blame and complain. I have a couple of concerns that would go beyond the necessary funding of yet another bridge collapse. This is the third time in 10 years, the I-95 corridor has been closed because of collapsed bridges/overpasses (Wilmington, Philadelphia, Baltimore). All accidents, involving large vehicles. Fantasy land wish: Wouldn't it be great to have a functional government that concerned itself with preventable disasters. Also why doesn't a supper size ship built 9 years ago, have a battery backup system for a loss of power. So many rational questions, so many performative idiots.
A good post by Adam Kinzinger. I normally agree with Adam's views, they are often close to my own. But I think that DEI itself is a good idea, but like in everything we do, it isn't implemented perfectly. Part of that, in my opinion, is due to politics. Part of it is due to the natural resistance to change. The rest, in my opinion once again, is a matter of trying to force it instead of guiding it.
Everything that I have seen involving this incident falls on the company that manages the ship "DALI". They have a history of issues. But I do think that port regulations need to be fixed, as well. Because of the size and level of commercial shipping traffic, that port is in full operation 24 hours a day, every day.
Tug boats are limited, harbor pilots are not always local even if they did get certified in the past for that port.
There was a time when nearly every ship of such size had a local harbor pilot that came aboard and guided the ship, and tugs remained with the ship until the ship was safely out of the port and into open waters.
If there is any US blame for this incident, I feel that it falls on the lawmakers, past and present. Both Federal and State for this topic. It is, sadly, the only way to ensure that things are done correctly and safely, with a set of laws that ensures proper action is taken when those laws are broken. The honor system does not work when it involves big companies and big profits.
Just look at Trump's business history if you have questions.
Ironically, Republicans who attest regulation are arguing the lack of regulation caused the accident. Given a chance to approve new regulations or laws "next week", they will probably vote against it arguing government over-reach!
Thanks, Adam. You’re a voice of reason in a storm of insanity.
OF COURSE the feds should rebuild the bridge, and OF COURSE the republicans are against it solely because a democrat is in the White House.
What happened to them? It isn’t just trump, because this has been going on since Clinton. Would New Orleans have gotten a nickel if Bush wasn’t president? How about New York after 9/11? Yet democrats were there for Florida after their hurricanes. We have ceased being a nation and, at least on the right, are a collection of angry tribes.
Adam, you state the reasons well for government assistance in rebuilding the bridge. Also, how does normal man get to work now? I am a little late responding to your last post— Fox News is certainly the king of disinformation. I’ve often wondered what Trump has on Murdock( or his sons). I would boycott all big business donors, if I knew who they were. A bit out of topic, but within my own family, the young 20’s, 30’s- do not watch cable news, network news, do not have news apps on their phones. Hope your young people with Country First, can guide vote blue messages, to the platforms that that age group, does use. Environment and women’s rights, the best issues to address. Can we get Mike Gallagher to join us? Glad to read that negative Trump billboards popping up in Georgia and North Carolina ( with Epstein). There is certainly more to that relationship, than ever got out yet- even MAGAS have young daughters, right? Thanks for all you and your team do!
Would any of the MAGAs bleating their hatred of immigrants and President Biden be willing to get up on a bridge in the wee hours of the morning to work like these immigrants did? So often, immigrants do the kinds of jobs that the native born won’t consider. And would the elected Republicans griping about spending federal money prefer that the port be shut down, affecting the livelihoods of many Americans? Sadly, they no longer care about the lives of everyday citizens. It is all about performance in the culture war kabuki of the right. Never mind doing actual work…of any kind.
Has our educational system failed us? Or has a segment of society become so extremely self-centered that critical thought is not an option for the GQP/Magas? Has technology been dumbing people down? Well........it's contributed enough to do so.
My tolerance for this mindless manure is extremely close to hitting the wall. So, much so that I have investigated what it will take for my family to emigrate to Canada. My distant relatives fled Germany prior to WWI to avoid what they thought was, and did, happen. So much so that my great uncle, who trained in the German air force, went back to France and flew for their nation against his heritage. I may have to do the same.
Ridiculous. This 2024, not the start of the 20th Century. We are devolving, and the rise of Maga substantiates my feelings.
Marty, I have often had the same thought about our society going backwards. Think about the strides that have been made in fair voting for all eligible citizens, strides in women’s standing in our society pay equity, breaking the glass ceiling (there is still much more to do make women on more equal footing). But it seems that the far right wants to send us back to when women were expected to be at home, not receiving pay for the work they did in the home. I’m not against that if it’s a woman’s choice but that’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Banning books is so 50, 60 years ago. The far right is looking into possibly banning birth control nationwide. This is CRAZY.
I live in Minnesota. Went to university for a while in Bemidji. Coors was not available in Mn then but was in Iowa. I grew up 10 miles from Iowa. I'd trade the Coors for Molson. I thought I got the better deal and made money.
As today is Good Friday and almost Easter, that many of us celebrate, it should be a time to bridge our differences! Instead, the evil-political leaders, are setting out to cash-in on this tragedy. As the Baltimore bridge now divides the river in two, so do the right -wing use this to create more lies and conspiracy theories. How dare they use the loss of those hard-working, long-time immigrant workers' deaths to even bring up DEI!!
Thank you Adam, for sharing the truth about what is going on. Many of us cannot stomach to watch far-right wing media to preserve our mental health. We appreciate you showing both sides.
Regardless of the outcome of the 2024 election, the Republican brand is irreparably damaged. How and when will you return to politics and provide a sane leadership choice?
I believe and hope when and if the time is right, he will be back! However, I see him as being more powerful writing Renegade, TV appearances, Country First and contributing to this Substack then being caught in the current government battle.
Thank you Adam, for being a voice of reason in a wilderness of insanity.
The 'causal' link to a policy wrongly described as 'open borders' is particularly disturbing. It is in large part our immigrants who will rebuild the bridge. And who do so much of the necessary work to keep our country functioning for the rest of us.
I'd like to send MTG and all the other nuts out to repair our potholes, and give hard-working immigrants a stint in Congress to perhaps get some work done.
And, yes, the 8 person crew repairing potholes on the bridge in the middle of the night WERE IMMIGRANTS!
Yes, and I think more needs to be said about the important role migrants play in our economy!
Yes, who else would do that job?
Great idea! I remember in the "olden days" when some companies would have employee/employer(s) change places for a short term! A great learning tool!!
Every American should remember that this country was built on the shoulders of immigrants- all of us, whether or not we came over on the Mayflower, or any other way over the centuries - were immigrants.
Ignorance for some, is truly bliss.
Absolutely 💯
Thank you Adam for bringing all of this up!!The workers on the bridge were people trying to support their families!!I’m getting tired of the MAGA Republicans and their conspiracy theories -These poor families that lost their loved ones because of this tragedy deserve our respect and our prayers!!I’m glad to see that the Democrats understand how important that bridge and the Baltimore port are!!
Your honesty about your former colleagues' spitefulness and political grandstanding is very much appreciated.
Yes it is! Like a cry by rescuers to a lost and injured person hearing their cry.
What a bunch of sick people. What a difference between when Bush was in office with the former bridge collapse where as Americans we came together in the face of disaster. God help us to end this bitterness somehow.
Unfortunately, the Republicans in Congress follow their "leader" and view everything good or Democratic with spite and malice. On principle. They refuse to even speak to the Democrats. Block all motions that solve problems or benefit Americans and cause hardship. Their "leader" needs hardship to campaign on.
The workers who lost their lives were immigrants. The GOP "leader" had nothing to say about them. They came to America with the dream of working hard and being able to send money to their families in Central or South America. Ronald Reagan praised our nation of immigrants in a speech. Thankfully, the national news has honored them by telling their stories.
If this so-called "leader" makes it to the finish line, there will be only a very few supporters there to greet him.
I am so tired of the far right’s bull💩. People died, but it’s DEI’s fault. Can anything be more stupid?
AMEN Adam! It is always so refreshing to hear an accurate analysis from a sane and reasonable LEADER! I can't wait for the maggat madness to fade into obscurity! This is why evey voter must vote against every one of them from Trump on down in November.
Adam you are correct to point out that our performative idiots would rather blame and complain. I have a couple of concerns that would go beyond the necessary funding of yet another bridge collapse. This is the third time in 10 years, the I-95 corridor has been closed because of collapsed bridges/overpasses (Wilmington, Philadelphia, Baltimore). All accidents, involving large vehicles. Fantasy land wish: Wouldn't it be great to have a functional government that concerned itself with preventable disasters. Also why doesn't a supper size ship built 9 years ago, have a battery backup system for a loss of power. So many rational questions, so many performative idiots.
Money
Get back
I'm alright, Jack, keep your hands off of my stack
Money
It's a hit
Don't give me that do goody good bullshit
I'm in the high-fidelity first-class traveling section
And I think I need a Lear jet
Money
It's a crime
Share it fairly, but don't take a slice of my pie
Money
So they say
Is the root of all evil today
But if you ask for a rise
It's no surprise that they're giving none away
Songwriter: George Roger Waters of Pink Floyd
It's a great song. However:
Roger Waters has repeatedly expressed fondness for authoritarian leadership. E.g.: he's an outspoken admirer of Vladimir Putin.
Roger W is a wealthy man. He certainly knows whatever a person needs to know about having a slice of the pie.
I have to give credit where credit is due. I like their music and pay no attention to musicians/actors and their opinions.
That's all well. Just wondering; were you aware of Mr Waters' admiration for authoritarianism?
Is he the right guy to scold rich greedy people -- considering his massive wealth...?
Did you know about his weird view of the world -- or did my humble comment open your eyes?
All the best to you. Have a nice day.
Like he is the only person wacked on this planet or even in a 1 mile radius from you or me?
Yes! And part of the problem is that a whistle blower said there were problems with the boat that weren't being fixed
Can't we fix the bridge and worry about who to sue later? I'm sure there is a lot of blame to go around.
A good post by Adam Kinzinger. I normally agree with Adam's views, they are often close to my own. But I think that DEI itself is a good idea, but like in everything we do, it isn't implemented perfectly. Part of that, in my opinion, is due to politics. Part of it is due to the natural resistance to change. The rest, in my opinion once again, is a matter of trying to force it instead of guiding it.
Everything that I have seen involving this incident falls on the company that manages the ship "DALI". They have a history of issues. But I do think that port regulations need to be fixed, as well. Because of the size and level of commercial shipping traffic, that port is in full operation 24 hours a day, every day.
Tug boats are limited, harbor pilots are not always local even if they did get certified in the past for that port.
There was a time when nearly every ship of such size had a local harbor pilot that came aboard and guided the ship, and tugs remained with the ship until the ship was safely out of the port and into open waters.
If there is any US blame for this incident, I feel that it falls on the lawmakers, past and present. Both Federal and State for this topic. It is, sadly, the only way to ensure that things are done correctly and safely, with a set of laws that ensures proper action is taken when those laws are broken. The honor system does not work when it involves big companies and big profits.
Just look at Trump's business history if you have questions.
Ironically, Republicans who attest regulation are arguing the lack of regulation caused the accident. Given a chance to approve new regulations or laws "next week", they will probably vote against it arguing government over-reach!
Thanks, Adam. You’re a voice of reason in a storm of insanity.
OF COURSE the feds should rebuild the bridge, and OF COURSE the republicans are against it solely because a democrat is in the White House.
What happened to them? It isn’t just trump, because this has been going on since Clinton. Would New Orleans have gotten a nickel if Bush wasn’t president? How about New York after 9/11? Yet democrats were there for Florida after their hurricanes. We have ceased being a nation and, at least on the right, are a collection of angry tribes.
Adam, you state the reasons well for government assistance in rebuilding the bridge. Also, how does normal man get to work now? I am a little late responding to your last post— Fox News is certainly the king of disinformation. I’ve often wondered what Trump has on Murdock( or his sons). I would boycott all big business donors, if I knew who they were. A bit out of topic, but within my own family, the young 20’s, 30’s- do not watch cable news, network news, do not have news apps on their phones. Hope your young people with Country First, can guide vote blue messages, to the platforms that that age group, does use. Environment and women’s rights, the best issues to address. Can we get Mike Gallagher to join us? Glad to read that negative Trump billboards popping up in Georgia and North Carolina ( with Epstein). There is certainly more to that relationship, than ever got out yet- even MAGAS have young daughters, right? Thanks for all you and your team do!
Would any of the MAGAs bleating their hatred of immigrants and President Biden be willing to get up on a bridge in the wee hours of the morning to work like these immigrants did? So often, immigrants do the kinds of jobs that the native born won’t consider. And would the elected Republicans griping about spending federal money prefer that the port be shut down, affecting the livelihoods of many Americans? Sadly, they no longer care about the lives of everyday citizens. It is all about performance in the culture war kabuki of the right. Never mind doing actual work…of any kind.
Has our educational system failed us? Or has a segment of society become so extremely self-centered that critical thought is not an option for the GQP/Magas? Has technology been dumbing people down? Well........it's contributed enough to do so.
My tolerance for this mindless manure is extremely close to hitting the wall. So, much so that I have investigated what it will take for my family to emigrate to Canada. My distant relatives fled Germany prior to WWI to avoid what they thought was, and did, happen. So much so that my great uncle, who trained in the German air force, went back to France and flew for their nation against his heritage. I may have to do the same.
Ridiculous. This 2024, not the start of the 20th Century. We are devolving, and the rise of Maga substantiates my feelings.
Have a great weekend to all!
Marty, I have often had the same thought about our society going backwards. Think about the strides that have been made in fair voting for all eligible citizens, strides in women’s standing in our society pay equity, breaking the glass ceiling (there is still much more to do make women on more equal footing). But it seems that the far right wants to send us back to when women were expected to be at home, not receiving pay for the work they did in the home. I’m not against that if it’s a woman’s choice but that’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Banning books is so 50, 60 years ago. The far right is looking into possibly banning birth control nationwide. This is CRAZY.
I live 6 miles from Canada. People are friendly. You MUST like ice hockey. Beer is FABULOUS. Winters are BAD.
I live in Minnesota. Went to university for a while in Bemidji. Coors was not available in Mn then but was in Iowa. I grew up 10 miles from Iowa. I'd trade the Coors for Molson. I thought I got the better deal and made money.
If it was Canadian Molson, you made out like a thief in the night.
As today is Good Friday and almost Easter, that many of us celebrate, it should be a time to bridge our differences! Instead, the evil-political leaders, are setting out to cash-in on this tragedy. As the Baltimore bridge now divides the river in two, so do the right -wing use this to create more lies and conspiracy theories. How dare they use the loss of those hard-working, long-time immigrant workers' deaths to even bring up DEI!!
Thank you Adam, for sharing the truth about what is going on. Many of us cannot stomach to watch far-right wing media to preserve our mental health. We appreciate you showing both sides.
Happy Easter to you and your family!
Regardless of the outcome of the 2024 election, the Republican brand is irreparably damaged. How and when will you return to politics and provide a sane leadership choice?
Steve, you are right. We need people like Adam in government.
We need people who will investigate to find the true causes of the collapse, and then work to prevent it happening again.
DEI NO!
COVID NO!
TERRORIST ATTACK NO!
Ship not sea worthy? maybe
Bridge protection structures too small? maybe
I believe and hope when and if the time is right, he will be back! However, I see him as being more powerful writing Renegade, TV appearances, Country First and contributing to this Substack then being caught in the current government battle.