The Ballad of Coach Tim Walz. The Minnesota governor’s football coaching helps the Democratic ticket because, unlike Trump’s shtick, the relatable, down-to-earth terminology of sports is a patois that never dies.
“Hillbilly Elegy” Elegy
Also, Trump’s disparagement of Native Americans, and RFK Jr.’s bear incident, all in the August 8, 2024 newsletter.
When Vance Told Appalachians to Leave Appalachia
When Vance Told Appalachians to Leave Appalachia: A decade ago, Vance wrote that the Appalachian poor should abandon their “destructive” communities and stop blaming others for their misery. Now, all he does is blame.
Trump’s Slur of Harris—“Is She Indian or Is She Black?”—Echoes a Creepy Episode From His Past
Trump’s Slur of Harris—“Is She Indian or Is She Black?”—Echoes a Creepy Episode From His Past. Before he ran for office, Trump questioned the ethnicity of Native Americans to thwart their casinos.
Law & Order: Bear Victims Unit
Ripped from the headlines, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr’s shaggy bear story is ripe for the Dick Wolf treatment.
Walz Had One Line On His Resume No One Else Could Offer
Also, why the “weird” attack works, and an interview with Joe Conason—all in the August 6, 2024 newsletter.
Why the “Weird” Charge From Governor Tim Walz Against Republicans Works
Why the “Weird” Charge Against Republicans Works. It gets at the crisis in masculinity that the GOP has exploited expertly—until now.
Joe Conason on How Grifters, Swindlers, and Frauds Hijacked Conservatism
Joe Conason on How Grifters, Swindlers. and Frauds Hijacked Conservatism. In his new book, the journalist explains how cons from Trump University to the Build-the-Wall ripoff became central to the MAGA creed. A conversation.
The Lost Lincoln-Douglas Debate at the Trump Saloon!
The Washington Monthly unearths the unknown 1858 debate in which the very nasty–and, frankly, very rude–press corps is totally unfair to Mr. Lincoln, our second greatest president after Donald J. Trump.
J.D. Vance, “Cat People,” and the “Childless” Presidents
The Republican vice presidential nominee has some odd notions about having kids and government service. He should learn a little bit about George Washington, Andrew Jackson, and other presidents.