Thank you for posting the video of this informative discussion. I have several thoughts on points that were made.
First, I am heartened by the way the Indivisible movement is growing. In 2016, I took part in the Women's March in the city in which I then lived. I was impressed that people were being registered to vote at the gathering, so that there was movement beyond that specific day. Sadly, the national Women's March organization deteriorated due to lack of clear goals and infighting. I unsubscribed from their emails. The Indivisible Movement seems to be avoiding those errors, particularly by emphasizing the big tent.
Second, while I want accountability when the Democrats regain control, it is going to be necessary to rebuild the broken institutions, such as the Department of Justice. That is a much heavier lift than in 2021. We also will have to reverse the destruction of government agencies and remove the people who subverted them. The tasks will feel overwhelming, so we need to plan how we will again create a government that functions for the people.
Third, I agree that there will be no single event that will turn the tide; while it sometimes happens in life, it is mostly a construct of fiction or fictionalized history when that is the case.. I truly thought, and I was clearly naive, that Trump's attempt to shake down Zelinsky and Ukraine to force an investigation into Biden would result in conviction or at least censure. As I watched and listened to the testimony, I realized that facts meant nothing to people with a desire to hang on to political power. Thus, as I was sitting at my computer on January 6, 2021, watching the attack on Congress and insurrection, and weeping, I knew that it would not change anything for most Republicans. When Mitch McConnell blocked the impeachment that should have happened IMMEDIATELY, then claimed after Trump left office, that it was too late, I was not shocked. Events had merely played out as I expected. I knew most Republicans would shamelessly choose power and party over democracy and the United States of America.
Excellent interview, Steven! Ezra and Leah are true leaders and what we really need in the Dem Party. They certainly have the insight and promoting over 1800 demonstrations in almost every state is nothing less than spectacular! I mentioned this in the chat but want to reiterate its importance here and that is the intense investigations by Greg Palast conducted for the ACLU. He has revealed how the KKK and the Repubs, over decades, have duped Americans. Black Americans have been stomped on repeatedly, as we know, but we didn’t know exactly how. I usually do not post a lot of other authors suggestions but I found this to be very credible: https://www.gregpalast.com/trump-lost-vote-suppression-won/Trump Lost. Vote Suppression Won. - Greg Palast
Steve: I have been in the fight for many years, mostly in Virginia where I was in the Leg five decades ago and ran statewide for LtGov (beat by Chuck Robb). I would appreciate an opportunity to share with you the list of about 25 House contests that are "truly competitive" based exclusively on the margin of victory or loss in 2024 and previously. I have worked for the last three years as a volunteer promoting the excellent work of former Harvard students across the country in www.Turn.Up.US (a C3) in registering and turning out mostly young women and men of color in key races. I hope you are interested and can share a few minutes on a call? IraLechner@yahoo.com
What a wonderful discussion inviting others to join us supporting democracy on June 14th and FORWARD! We, the people can call out the Trump regime that is now threatening all Americans with military presence.
So heartened by the energy, articulation and smarts Ezra brings to this movement. I have absolute faith that we will rid the world of Trump's regime soon and restore the America we and the rest of the world knew before.
hadow Cabinet of Conscience: A Democratic Counterweight for an Unstable Era. This proposal is intended to promote new thinking—not to distract, but to clarify the stakes and possibilities.
ATTN: Glenn Kessler: For the record, my discussion below is intended as a form of “sarcasm,” meant to inject some dry humor into an otherwise serious proposal.
As the Trump Administration accelerates its authoritarian drift, Americans need more than scattered voices of dissent—they need a clear, competent, and coordinated civic alternative.
Inspired by the British concept of a shadow cabinet, this proposal envisions a coalition of respected former officials, retired judges, and nonpartisan experts who could serve as a Shadow Cabinet of Conscience. This would not be a political stunt, but a public service—an embodiment of democratic values, constitutional governance, and policy clarity.
________________________________________
⚖️ Why It’s Needed — And Why It’s Hard to Carry Out
Unlike the United Kingdom or Canada, the United States does not operate under a parliamentary system. There is no formal opposition role, and several structural factors work against the formation of a shadow cabinet:
• No Institutional Framework: The U.S. Constitution provides no legal or procedural mechanism for an opposition cabinet.
• Decentralized Opposition: Democrats, progressives, and independents lack a unified ideological center or leadership structure.
• Political Risk: Assembling a shadow cabinet might be seen as undermining current Democratic officeholders or presidential candidates.
• Fragmented Media Landscape: Without anything like the BBC’s structured coverage of opposition leaders, U.S. media may ignore or marginalize such an initiative.
• Elite Perception: Even with bipartisan and credentialed figures, critics may dismiss it as a “liberal elite” exercise.
Still, the stakes are too high not to act. A Shadow Cabinet could offer more than critique—it could project vision, restore a language of competence and accountability, and model the integrity that current governance lacks.
________________________________________
📡 Dissemination and Global Visibility
A Shadow Cabinet should be assembled as soon as practicable and should disseminate its message through both independent and traditional media platforms, including:
• Independent Media: Substack, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, WhatsApp, etc.
• Traditional Media: NPR, PBS, MSNBC, CNN, etc.
• Foreign Press (to the extent possible): BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio France Internationale, CBC/Radio-Canada, Deutsche Welle, etc.
The inclusion of international media is not an act of theatricality, but a necessary countermeasure to the Trump Administration’s own willingness to interfere in the domestic affairs of allied democracies—a pattern that includes:
• Praise of Karol Nawrocki, who narrowly won Poland’s presidency under contentious circumstances
• Outreach to Germany’s far-right AfD (Alternative für Deutschland)
• Embrace of Nigel Farage and destabilizing rhetoric in the United Kingdom
Such moves are strikingly reminiscent of Vladimir Putin’s interference in European democracies—an effort to fracture alliances, weaken pluralist institutions, and embolden authoritarian actors. It is therefore both strategic and principled to treat democratic solidarity across borders as a strength, not a vulnerability.
🌍 Historical Parallel: WWII Governments-in-Exile — I apologize for my European focus, but my historical knowledge tends to be geographically limited.
When Nazi Germany occupied much of Europe, democratic leaders who fled abroad did not relinquish legitimacy—they rebuilt it. These governments-in-exile, often operating from London or Algiers, preserved national continuity, organized resistance, and coordinated with the Allies. Their courage and foresight are instructive today.
A Shadow Cabinet would speak not just to Washington insiders, but to teachers, nurses, veterans, scientists, small business owners, and working-class communities—to all those who remember what competent, lawful, and decent government looks like.
Importantly, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s term ends in early 2026, at which point he could step into a "Prime Ministerial" leadership role for such a body, bringing executive experience and national stature. Until then, a well-known and civic-minded public figure—perhaps George Clooney—might be willing to serve as a symbolic placeholder, helping to draw global attention while the day-to-day leadership remains in the hands of policy experts and institutional stewards.
Across the U.S. and around the world, thousands will gather to say: "No man is above the law. No king rules this republic."
Today, over 200 major events are planned across the U.S., with companion observances in 15+ countries, including Canada, Germany, Argentina, and South Korea. Organizers include grassroots coalitions such as Democracy Defenders United, Lawyers Against Tyranny, Students for Constitutional Accountability, and allied community arts programs.
🔥 Because real patriots don’t bow to tyrants.
“Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.”
— Samuel Johnson, April 7, 1775
Thanks for reading The past is the present, isn't it? It's the future, too! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Johnson reminds us that the most corrupt often seek moral cover in nationalistic rhetoric. He wasn’t condemning patriotism itself—but rather its cynical abuse by those who seek to exploit it when all else fails. Think of it as a moral smokescreen: when the truth gets too dangerous, they wrap themselves in the flag.
🔥 Orwell in “Notes on Nationalism” Warned about the Misuse of Patriotism
Orwell described how nationalism, unlike patriotism, is obsessive, exclusionary, and manipulative. He observed that “Nationalism is power-hunger tempered by self-deception.”
🔥 Dictators and Kings Equate Self with Nation
Authoritarians often present themselves as synonymous with the nation.
> Criticism of them = Criticism of America.
This tactic is deeply anti-democratic—and deeply un-American.
🔥Hiding Corruption and Abuse
> Wearing a cross prominently or a flag on a lapel does not absolve criminality.
> Flag-waving is often used to divert attention from scandals, cover-ups, and abuses of power. It’s political theater—emotion over accountability.
🔔 True Patriotism Involves
- Upholding constitutional principles, not personalities.
- Defending the rule of law, not selective immunity.
- Supporting truth and transparency, not propaganda.
“And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.”
— Samwise Gamgee, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
🎵 Resistance Songs Playlist
Classic Protest Anthems
- Fortunate Son – CCR:
- A Change is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke:
- We Shall Overcome – Pete Seeger / Joan Baez:
- Imagine – John Lennon:
- One – U2:
- Where is the Love? – Black Eyed Peas:
🏛️ Speeches That Shaped Democracy
FDR:
JFK:
MLK:
Churchill:
Mr Churchill On Victory (1942)
Now, this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning".
🎬 Iconic Scenes of Cinematic Resistance
- The Great Dictator:
- Network:
🔗 Read More on Substack »
The past is the present, isn't it? It's the future, too
This Substack's title is taken from Eugene O'Neil's "Long Day's Journey into Night; I use it to share my "meditations" on contemporary events, influenced as they are by history. world affairs, and мелоч ["small change" or trifles].
Great chat, found it very informative - especially with June 14 coming up
Good to hear, Patricia!
Thanks for this great, informative conversation! ☀️👍⚖️🗽📣📣📣
Thank you for posting the video of this informative discussion. I have several thoughts on points that were made.
First, I am heartened by the way the Indivisible movement is growing. In 2016, I took part in the Women's March in the city in which I then lived. I was impressed that people were being registered to vote at the gathering, so that there was movement beyond that specific day. Sadly, the national Women's March organization deteriorated due to lack of clear goals and infighting. I unsubscribed from their emails. The Indivisible Movement seems to be avoiding those errors, particularly by emphasizing the big tent.
Second, while I want accountability when the Democrats regain control, it is going to be necessary to rebuild the broken institutions, such as the Department of Justice. That is a much heavier lift than in 2021. We also will have to reverse the destruction of government agencies and remove the people who subverted them. The tasks will feel overwhelming, so we need to plan how we will again create a government that functions for the people.
Third, I agree that there will be no single event that will turn the tide; while it sometimes happens in life, it is mostly a construct of fiction or fictionalized history when that is the case.. I truly thought, and I was clearly naive, that Trump's attempt to shake down Zelinsky and Ukraine to force an investigation into Biden would result in conviction or at least censure. As I watched and listened to the testimony, I realized that facts meant nothing to people with a desire to hang on to political power. Thus, as I was sitting at my computer on January 6, 2021, watching the attack on Congress and insurrection, and weeping, I knew that it would not change anything for most Republicans. When Mitch McConnell blocked the impeachment that should have happened IMMEDIATELY, then claimed after Trump left office, that it was too late, I was not shocked. Events had merely played out as I expected. I knew most Republicans would shamelessly choose power and party over democracy and the United States of America.
Thanks for your thoughtful remarks, Marliss.
Excellent interview, Steven! Ezra and Leah are true leaders and what we really need in the Dem Party. They certainly have the insight and promoting over 1800 demonstrations in almost every state is nothing less than spectacular! I mentioned this in the chat but want to reiterate its importance here and that is the intense investigations by Greg Palast conducted for the ACLU. He has revealed how the KKK and the Repubs, over decades, have duped Americans. Black Americans have been stomped on repeatedly, as we know, but we didn’t know exactly how. I usually do not post a lot of other authors suggestions but I found this to be very credible: https://www.gregpalast.com/trump-lost-vote-suppression-won/Trump Lost. Vote Suppression Won. - Greg Palast
Thank you, Marlene.
Steve: I have been in the fight for many years, mostly in Virginia where I was in the Leg five decades ago and ran statewide for LtGov (beat by Chuck Robb). I would appreciate an opportunity to share with you the list of about 25 House contests that are "truly competitive" based exclusively on the margin of victory or loss in 2024 and previously. I have worked for the last three years as a volunteer promoting the excellent work of former Harvard students across the country in www.Turn.Up.US (a C3) in registering and turning out mostly young women and men of color in key races. I hope you are interested and can share a few minutes on a call? IraLechner@yahoo.com
What a wonderful discussion inviting others to join us supporting democracy on June 14th and FORWARD! We, the people can call out the Trump regime that is now threatening all Americans with military presence.
This is an article from a substance called “big think” which has a lot of good contributors
The title of this article which is written by a professor at Columbia, I believe
“To overthrow a tyrant, try the 3.5 percent solution “
https://bigthink.com/the-present/the-3-5-percent-solution/
So heartened by the energy, articulation and smarts Ezra brings to this movement. I have absolute faith that we will rid the world of Trump's regime soon and restore the America we and the rest of the world knew before.
Thanks for the information and emphasis on J14. No kings! No fascist!
Three words - Stephen Miller's fingerprints are all over this agressive havoc in CA.
Yes, the 3 words are Stephen Miller's fingerprints. 😎
hadow Cabinet of Conscience: A Democratic Counterweight for an Unstable Era. This proposal is intended to promote new thinking—not to distract, but to clarify the stakes and possibilities.
ATTN: Glenn Kessler: For the record, my discussion below is intended as a form of “sarcasm,” meant to inject some dry humor into an otherwise serious proposal.
{This post is an excerpted from the original piece, at https://ethansburger.substack.com/p/shadow-cabinet-of-conscience-a-democratic}
As the Trump Administration accelerates its authoritarian drift, Americans need more than scattered voices of dissent—they need a clear, competent, and coordinated civic alternative.
Inspired by the British concept of a shadow cabinet, this proposal envisions a coalition of respected former officials, retired judges, and nonpartisan experts who could serve as a Shadow Cabinet of Conscience. This would not be a political stunt, but a public service—an embodiment of democratic values, constitutional governance, and policy clarity.
________________________________________
⚖️ Why It’s Needed — And Why It’s Hard to Carry Out
Unlike the United Kingdom or Canada, the United States does not operate under a parliamentary system. There is no formal opposition role, and several structural factors work against the formation of a shadow cabinet:
• No Institutional Framework: The U.S. Constitution provides no legal or procedural mechanism for an opposition cabinet.
• Decentralized Opposition: Democrats, progressives, and independents lack a unified ideological center or leadership structure.
• Political Risk: Assembling a shadow cabinet might be seen as undermining current Democratic officeholders or presidential candidates.
• Fragmented Media Landscape: Without anything like the BBC’s structured coverage of opposition leaders, U.S. media may ignore or marginalize such an initiative.
• Elite Perception: Even with bipartisan and credentialed figures, critics may dismiss it as a “liberal elite” exercise.
Still, the stakes are too high not to act. A Shadow Cabinet could offer more than critique—it could project vision, restore a language of competence and accountability, and model the integrity that current governance lacks.
________________________________________
📡 Dissemination and Global Visibility
A Shadow Cabinet should be assembled as soon as practicable and should disseminate its message through both independent and traditional media platforms, including:
• Independent Media: Substack, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, WhatsApp, etc.
• Traditional Media: NPR, PBS, MSNBC, CNN, etc.
• Foreign Press (to the extent possible): BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio France Internationale, CBC/Radio-Canada, Deutsche Welle, etc.
The inclusion of international media is not an act of theatricality, but a necessary countermeasure to the Trump Administration’s own willingness to interfere in the domestic affairs of allied democracies—a pattern that includes:
• Praise of Karol Nawrocki, who narrowly won Poland’s presidency under contentious circumstances
• Outreach to Germany’s far-right AfD (Alternative für Deutschland)
• Embrace of Nigel Farage and destabilizing rhetoric in the United Kingdom
Such moves are strikingly reminiscent of Vladimir Putin’s interference in European democracies—an effort to fracture alliances, weaken pluralist institutions, and embolden authoritarian actors. It is therefore both strategic and principled to treat democratic solidarity across borders as a strength, not a vulnerability.
{For the full proposed Shadow Cabinet see https://ethansburger.substack.com/p/shadow-cabinet-of-conscience-a-democratic}
________________________________________
🌍 Historical Parallel: WWII Governments-in-Exile — I apologize for my European focus, but my historical knowledge tends to be geographically limited.
When Nazi Germany occupied much of Europe, democratic leaders who fled abroad did not relinquish legitimacy—they rebuilt it. These governments-in-exile, often operating from London or Algiers, preserved national continuity, organized resistance, and coordinated with the Allies. Their courage and foresight are instructive today.
Country, Exile Base, Significance
{For the full List of Countries with Government in Exile During WW II see https://ethansburger.substack.com/p/shadow-cabinet-of-conscience-a-democratic}
******************************************************************************
🧭 A Parting Thought
A Shadow Cabinet would speak not just to Washington insiders, but to teachers, nurses, veterans, scientists, small business owners, and working-class communities—to all those who remember what competent, lawful, and decent government looks like.
Importantly, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s term ends in early 2026, at which point he could step into a "Prime Ministerial" leadership role for such a body, bringing executive experience and national stature. Until then, a well-known and civic-minded public figure—perhaps George Clooney—might be willing to serve as a symbolic placeholder, helping to draw global attention while the day-to-day leadership remains in the hands of policy experts and institutional stewards.
Inspiration for Resisters on No Kings Day June 14, 2025
The complete post is at https://ethansburger.substack.com/p/inspiration-for-resisters-on-no-kings
Across the U.S. and around the world, thousands will gather to say: "No man is above the law. No king rules this republic."
Today, over 200 major events are planned across the U.S., with companion observances in 15+ countries, including Canada, Germany, Argentina, and South Korea. Organizers include grassroots coalitions such as Democracy Defenders United, Lawyers Against Tyranny, Students for Constitutional Accountability, and allied community arts programs.
🔥 Because real patriots don’t bow to tyrants.
“Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.”
— Samuel Johnson, April 7, 1775
Thanks for reading The past is the present, isn't it? It's the future, too! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Johnson reminds us that the most corrupt often seek moral cover in nationalistic rhetoric. He wasn’t condemning patriotism itself—but rather its cynical abuse by those who seek to exploit it when all else fails. Think of it as a moral smokescreen: when the truth gets too dangerous, they wrap themselves in the flag.
🔥 Orwell in “Notes on Nationalism” Warned about the Misuse of Patriotism
Orwell described how nationalism, unlike patriotism, is obsessive, exclusionary, and manipulative. He observed that “Nationalism is power-hunger tempered by self-deception.”
🔥 Dictators and Kings Equate Self with Nation
Authoritarians often present themselves as synonymous with the nation.
> Criticism of them = Criticism of America.
This tactic is deeply anti-democratic—and deeply un-American.
🔥Hiding Corruption and Abuse
> Wearing a cross prominently or a flag on a lapel does not absolve criminality.
> Flag-waving is often used to divert attention from scandals, cover-ups, and abuses of power. It’s political theater—emotion over accountability.
🔔 True Patriotism Involves
- Upholding constitutional principles, not personalities.
- Defending the rule of law, not selective immunity.
- Supporting truth and transparency, not propaganda.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Even darkness must pass. A new day will come…”
“And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.”
— Samwise Gamgee, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
🎵 Resistance Songs Playlist
Classic Protest Anthems
- Fortunate Son – CCR:
- A Change is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke:
- We Shall Overcome – Pete Seeger / Joan Baez:
- Imagine – John Lennon:
- One – U2:
- Where is the Love? – Black Eyed Peas:
🏛️ Speeches That Shaped Democracy
FDR:
JFK:
MLK:
Churchill:
Mr Churchill On Victory (1942)
Now, this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning".
🎬 Iconic Scenes of Cinematic Resistance
- The Great Dictator:
- Network:
🔗 Read More on Substack »
The past is the present, isn't it? It's the future, too
This Substack's title is taken from Eugene O'Neil's "Long Day's Journey into Night; I use it to share my "meditations" on contemporary events, influenced as they are by history. world affairs, and мелоч ["small change" or trifles].
This is outrageous at the white supremacist group The proud boys is filing a lawsuit claiming their rights were violated!!
https://open.substack.com/pub/radicalreports/p/pardon-tracker-proud-boys-file-lawsuit?r=eit6y&utm_medium=ios
Thank you for this
Turn our backs....Silence is deafening