Dem
47
GOP
53
Multiple groups are planning anti-Trump protests today, all over the country. The focus is blue cities, even in red states. Here is a map showing where they will be:
There are at least 200 events planned, as many as on "No Kings Day." The Women's March is one of the biggest organizers, but there are more. The protests are about freeing the United States from rule by and for billionaires. Clearly, the protesters guessed (correctly) that Donald Trump would get the big, beautiful budget bill on his desk by today, the deadline he demanded.
If we may be so bold, allow us to remind readers of our advice for would-be protesters. First, try to remain positive. Protesters with upbeat expressions on their faces are much more compelling and sympathetic, both to in-person witnesses and to cameras. Second, tell someone where you are going, and arrange with them to check in when you return home. This is a government that disappears people. Third, if you are not white or are not a natural-born citizen, think very carefully about whether it's worth the risk. Fourth, and finally, take some water. Protesting is a thirsty business, and often there is no water available (or, if it is available, it's at abusive prices). Of course, for those who do protest, we are always interested to receive reports and/or photos at comments@electoral-vote.com.
Given that today is a holiday that asks us to contemplate the meaning of America, and what it means to be an American, we are going to have protest as a theme that runs through the entire posting today. The right to speak out, to question the nation's leaders, to seek redress of grievances may be the single most important element of the American system of government. Certainly, it is the thing that most clearly distinguishes the American system from the absolutist/monarchial systems that came before. (Z & V)