#FLASH - Defense chief Mattis to leave as of Jan 1, not the end of Feb as previously stated, Trump to name deputy Shanahan as acting secretary.

It's the anniversary of the GOP tax bill. The President called it “a bill for the middle class.”

So how's it going?

U.S. companies announced over $400bn in stock buybacks.

The Dow is down 2000 points.

GM is laying off 14,000 workers.

And your pay raise was lost in the mail.

Winning yet?

There was an earthquake and Tsunami last night in Indonesia. Here's the US Embassy's notice to US citizens over there, and those looking to get status of relatives along with the last information from the place they send you to. #TrumpShutdown

~

My sister sent this to me, very early this morning, with her usual uncanny sense for what I need to hear.

Sometimes, the most precious gift we can offer someone is ourselves—our quiet presence...just being there.

💙

BREAKING: Video appears to show tsunami slamming into concert venue in Indonesia; dozens are reported dead.

@Anemone @th3j35t3r

Let me paint a picture:

It's Saturday night before xmas. The stock market tanked this week. His Sec of Defense resigned. And his Chief of staff shortly before that.

The WH is almost empty. GOP Senators are seething cos they can't completely leave DC of the break.

His staff is mostly away. He can't leave for his Florida mansion.

He's trapped and he's got to pretend he's doing all of this because of his.....

"principles."'

😑

😂 😂 🤣 🙃 🤣🤣

It's time. #25A.

@Sixandseven8ths @XSGeek Understanding business is important so I don't disagree, but understanding the difference between leading a business and leading government (business vs. public administration) is a critical skill. Trump is used to leading by fiat. Governing is leading by rule of law. Having administered elections, I feel the importance can't be understated.

Captures it.

I typed into google image search "reptile slit eye" and it comes up with politicians and people in positions of power... I add the modifier of "-tinfoil hat" and I get pics of reptiles.

@Aja they've gone the way of the Dodo because starting with Reagan, the Religious and Far Right have been laser focused on packing and getting control of local School Boards and getting Home School and Vouchers put above a public option.

That's why the Far-Reich hates the Department of Education and Devos is attempting to tear it down, they DON'T want a Citizenship that will question what it's government is doing. That's sorta the key idea behind a theocracy.
@Jsabinas @Sixandseven8ths