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    11Oct, 2025
    ROD Site Update

    Sometimes You Have to Admit You’re Only Human

    The latest ROD site update:

    Well, folks, it’s official: the Events section of Rescue Our Democracy has been retired. We didn’t want to do it, but let’s be real—it takes a small army to keep that thing current. Right now, that “army” looks a lot like one tired person with a keyboard, a caffeine habit, and a questionable sense of time.

    Oh, and about that “vision”? Yeah. That’s funny, because I can barely see straight these days—literally. But even with blurry eyes, I can still see the big picture. This work matters, and it’s worth doing right.

    What are you getting at?

    Between maintaining the website, writing articles, tracking political chaos (sorry, “current events”), building state-by-state district tables, creating educational PDFs, and designing all the graphics—it’s a lot. Even democracy has limits, and apparently, so do I.

    Until we grow our team of contributors, editors, and volunteers, Rescue Our Democracy will focus on what it does best: education and editorials grounded in fact. We’ll keep breaking down complex issues, connecting the dots others ignore, and keeping the conversation real.

    Ok…so what’s this mean?

    This doesn’t mean we’ve given up on events forever. It just means we’re putting our energy where it makes the biggest impact for now. When more hands join the work (hint, hint—yours could be one), we’ll expand again.

    For now, Rescue Our Democracy remains a home for truth-tellers, learners, and doers who believe that facts still matter—and that democracy is still worth fighting for. Preferably without losing our collective sanity in the process.

    So stay tuned, stay active, and maybe send Dr Pepper.

    — Rescue Our Democracy Team

    29Sep, 2025
    Shutdown Theater

    Republicans Have the Keys, But the Lights Still Go Out


    Goodnight, Sweetheart
    Well, it’s time to close
    Goodnight, Sweetheart
    Lock the doors, I suppose
    We hate to leave you, but we just won’t pay
    Oh, goodnight, Sweetheart, goodnight

    Parody lyrics by Judy T.

    It’s September 29, and Washington is once again dangling over the edge of a government shutdown. By October 1, the lights may flicker off across federal agencies, leaving millions of Americans wondering why the most powerful government in the world can’t even pay its own bills.

    And here’s the kicker: Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. They have the votes. They have the keys. And yet, they’re acting like someone else has their hands on the wheel. It’s like giving someone the car keys — and then watching them refuse to drive.

    How We Got Here: A Timeline of Dysfunction

    To understand why this mess keeps happening, let’s rewind.

    • Spring 2025: House Republicans put forward a temporary funding bill, but it came loaded with cuts Democrats refused to swallow.
    • Summer 2025: With the clock ticking, both parties played chicken. Republicans demanded stripped-down funding; Democrats pushed for subsidies to stay. Neither blinked.
    • September 2025: The White House called leaders together. Talks collapsed in a haze of finger-pointing. Senate Republicans declared Democrats’ proposals “totally unserious.” Democrats accused Republicans of steering straight toward a shutdown on purpose.

    Now, with less than 48 hours to go, Republicans are still holding the votes — but not using them.

    Why a Shutdown With One-Party Rule?

    This is the absurd part. Normally, gridlock happens when government is divided. But today? One party holds it all. So why would Republicans allow a shutdown anyway?

    First, there are fractures inside their own caucus. Some Republicans see a shutdown as leverage to push deeper spending cuts. Others are terrified of being primaried if they “compromise.” So they let the extremists hold the wheel, while the rest of us brace for impact.

    Second, there’s politics. A shutdown creates chaos — and chaos can be spun. If Republicans can convince voters to blame Democrats, it doesn’t matter that they were the ones holding the pen when the funding bill sat unsigned.

    Finally, there’s the culture of outrage. Governing is boring. Crisis gets headlines. And some Republicans seem addicted to the theater of shutting the government down, no matter the cost.

    It’s like having the keys to the house and deciding the best option is to set off the smoke alarm.

    What It Means for Everyday Americans

    For most people, this isn’t about political games. It’s about paychecks, services, and stability. Federal workers could be furloughed or even laid off. Small business loans stall. Inspections freeze. National parks close. And let’s not forget — the courts have warned they may run out of cash to keep their doors open after October 3.

    It’s as if the most powerful government in the world is declaring, “Sorry, we’re out to lunch. Indefinitely.”

    The Ridiculousness of Shutdown Theater

    Starting to think a certain someone likes to scorpion, and not just on stairs.

    We’ve been here before, and the pattern is painfully familiar. Both parties point fingers, but history shows the public usually blames the side in charge. And this time, Republicans are squarely in the driver’s seat.

    Yet instead of steering us clear of disaster, they’re swerving closer to it — almost as if the crash is the point. It’s political theater dressed up as fiscal responsibility.

    So when October 1 rolls around, remember this: the government didn’t shut down because there were no votes. It shut down because the people who had the votes refused to use them. That’s not governance. That’s sabotage with a smile.

    It’s like having the power to flip the light switch and choosing instead to sit in the dark, complaining about the electricity bill.

    In Closing

    If the government does slam shut on October 1, don’t let the spin fool you. This isn’t “both sides” refusing to cooperate. This is one party with every tool at its disposal choosing chaos over compromise. Republicans hold the House, the Senate, and the White House — yet they’re letting the lights go out anyway. It’s like having the keys to the car, the gas tank full, the road clear — and still deciding to sit on the curb, arguing over who gets to drive. That’s not leadership. That’s reckless theater, and the rest of us are stuck paying for the tickets.

    Parting Thought

    And here’s the piece nobody wants to say out loud: what happens if the courts themselves have to shut down? Justice stops. Alleged criminals never see a courtroom. Cases pile up. Victims wait, defendants linger, and the system groans to a halt. That’s not just inconvenient — that’s chaos. And chaos, history tells us, is the perfect stage for more dangerous plays. If the legal system is paralyzed, it hands Trump exactly the excuse he’s been itching for: a chance to argue that only military power can restore order. That’s not fiscal conservatism. That’s a road straight into authoritarian rule, paved by something as absurd as refusing to keep the lights on.

    He’s creating reasons to stay in charge, using military force.

    How many reasons do you need to help stop him?

    Head Guerilla, Judy T.

    Resources:

    29Sep, 2025
    Coal Leasing on Federal Lands

    Selling America’s Backyard for a Quick Buck

    “Oh, Coal-Scarred Land of Plenty” Lyrics by Judy T. Song created by Suno.

    Release of new coal leases on federal lands is more than bad energy policy. The consequences extend beyond energy, threatening rivers, mountains, and wide-open spaces that belong to everyone. Epstein connections may dominate other headlines, but the files here reveal political favoritism benefiting coal companies. Files obtained from public records show millions of acres handed to corporations with close ties to the administration. This is not patriotism — it is a sell-off of America’s future.

    Coal leasing is a step backward for the nation

    For decades, the U.S. made steady progress toward cleaner, more affordable energy. That progress reduced pollution, created jobs, and built stronger local economies. Now the White House is pushing us in reverse. By reopening 13 million acres for coal leasing, green-lighting massive mine expansions like Montana’s Rosebud Mine, and scheduling new lease sales across Alabama, Utah, and the Powder River Basin, leaders are locking communities into pollution and decline until 2039 and beyond.

    This push is not about reliable energy. Markets already moved past coal because renewable power and natural gas are cheaper. Instead, this is a bailout for a dying industry, funded with taxpayer dollars and taxpayer land.

    Source: The Guardian

    Why every American should care

    Coal mining does not just scar landscapes. It scars communities. The jobs promised today often disappear tomorrow, while the damage lasts for decades. Families are left with polluted water, rising health costs, and fewer opportunities in industries like tourism and clean energy.

    Meanwhile, corporations profit from land that belongs to the American people. Conservatives and progressives alike should see the problem: stewardship matters. Leaving something better for the next generation is not partisan. It is a core American value.

    What we stand to lose

    • Powder River Basin (WY/MT): New leases could unleash massive new coal tonnage.
    • Rosebud Mine (MT): A major expansion adds 33.75 million tons of federal coal and extends operations until 2039.
    • Lease sales in Alabama, Utah, Montana: Thousands of acres pushed to auction.
    • Federal protections revoked: Barriers once blocking mining near sensitive areas are being stripped away.

    Every one of these moves takes public wealth and hands it to private interests.

    A betrayal disguised as leadership

    Coal’s decline is not about politics. It is about economics. Energy markets rejected coal years ago. Propping it up now is not leadership — it is looting. It is giving away America’s future for a short-term headline and a campaign talking point.

    This betrayal should matter to anyone who values jobs, water, or land. If you have ever believed in conserving what is good about America — from the family farm to the national park — this fight belongs to you.

    What you can do right now

    • Stay informed: Follow public notices from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Department of the Interior (DOI) about lease sales.
    • Speak up: Submit comments during lease review periods, attend local hearings, and share verified information with your community.
    • Build bridges: Talk with neighbors across party lines. Stress shared values like clean water, healthy land, and jobs that last.
    • Demand accountability: Ask local representatives to oppose giveaways of public lands for coal leasing.

    Closing: A choice about America’s future

    The fight over coal leasing on federal lands is not about nostalgia for the past. It is about who controls America’s future. Do we leave our children polluted rivers and gutted landscapes, or do we hand them thriving communities built on clean, lasting energy?

    The White House has made its choice. Now it is up to us to make ours.

    Head Guerilla, Judy T.

    P.S. In case you missed it, Release the Epstein Files!

    Resources:

    28Sep, 2025
    Des Moines Superintendent: On ICE

    They call it “On ICE.” But this isn’t family entertainment — it’s state-sanctioned cruelty.

    Des Moines Superintendent Arrested by ICE

    Date Updated: October 14, 2025

    Location: Des Moines, Iowa

    This article was originally critical of Ian Roberts’ arrest, primarily reflecting community shock. However, since then, verified facts have come to light that require correction. Therefore, the content below has been updated to reflect accurate information regarding his deportation, credentials, and legal circumstances. As a result, please disregard any previous calls to free him based on the original version. At the same time, while evidence suggests he may have been targeted as a person of color, his criminal record remains a significant factor in this case.

    Overview

    Ian Roberts, former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS), was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on September 26, 2025. Subsequently, recent investigations revealed that Roberts was living in the United States illegally and had falsified key elements of his professional credentials.

    Therefore, this article has been updated to reflect verified, accurate information about his deportation status, educational background, and related legal matters. Importantly, readers can now review the facts directly.

    Immigration Status

    Roberts entered the United States on a student visa in 1999. Later, in May 2024, an immigration judge issued a final order of removal. As a result, Roberts was considered in the U.S. illegally at the time of his arrest. Additionally, these developments highlight broader challenges in immigration oversight and compliance.

    Educational Credentials

    Ultimately, investigations confirmed that Roberts misrepresented his academic achievements. He claimed to have earned a doctorate from Morgan State University, but the university confirmed that he did not hold that degree. Furthermore, other claimed credentials could not be verified. Consequently, the district has updated official records and revoked his professional license. Thus, the accuracy of public records is reinforced.

    Criminal and Safety Considerations

    Roberts has an extensive criminal record, including previous arrests for narcotics and firearms possession. Moreover, during the ICE arrest, authorities found a loaded handgun, a fixed-blade hunting knife, and approximately $3,000 in cash. Together, these facts clarify the legal context surrounding his detention. In addition, they underscore why authorities acted when they did.

    District Response

    Since the arrest, the Des Moines Public Schools board has faced criticism for inadequate vetting during the hiring process. Therefore, they are reviewing procedures and may face legal action regarding Roberts’ employment. In the meantime, the district is also evaluating ways to improve future hiring practices.

    Community and Education Impact

    Roberts had worked in education for over two decades. Consequently, his arrest highlights the challenges school districts face when verifying employment credentials and legal status. As a result, the community is examining policies to strengthen oversight and ensure the safety and stability of educational leadership. Additionally, parents and staff are seeking reassurance that schools remain safe and well-managed.

    Correction Notice

    As a result, this article has been updated on October 14, 2025, to include verified details about Ian Roberts’ deportation, falsified credentials, and related legal proceedings. In addition, we are committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information for our readers. Finally, this notice clarifies any previous statements made in the original version.

    Head Guerilla, Judy T.

    References

    PS. We haven’t forgotten the Epstein Files. Release them now.

    P.P.S. Honestly, still the greatest piece of modern art to date!

    P.P.P.S. This was originally posted on 9.27.2025, due to a need for a backup installation, it had to be reposted.

    Original References:

    1. Des Moines Public Schools. (2025, September 26). Ian Roberts detained by ICE. Retrieved from https://www.dmschools.org/2025/09/announcements-on-detention-of-dr-ian-roberts/
    2. KCCI. (2025, September 26). Des Moines superintendent detained by ICE. Retrieved from https://www.kcci.com/article/ian-roberts-des-moines-public-schools-superintendent-bio/68081908
    3. Iowa Public Radio. (2025, September 26). Des Moines superintendent Ian Roberts detained by ICE. Retrieved from https://www.iowapublicradio.org/ipr-news/2025-09-26/des-moines-public-schools-superintendent-ian-roberts-detained-by-ice-immigration-agents
    4. Ferghana Partners. (n.d.). Ian Roberts. Retrieved from https://ferghanapartners.com/staff-member/dr-ian-roberts/
    5. University of Warwick. (n.d.). Dr. Ian Roberts. Retrieved from https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/arts/modernlanguages/academic/ianroberts/
    6. Des Moines Register. (2025, September 26). Who is Dr. Ian Roberts? A closer look at the Des Moines Public Schools superintendent. Retrieved from https://www.desmoinesregister.com/videos/news/2025/09/26/who-is-dr-ian-roberts-iowa-a-look-at-the-des-moines-public-schools-superintendent-dmps/86375017007/
    7. The British Academy. (n.d.). Professor Ian Roberts FBA. Retrieved from https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/fellows/profiles/ian-roberts-FBA/
    27Sep, 2025
    We Will Not Be Intimidated: Rescue Our Democracy Responds to Rumor-Based Attacks

    At Rescue Our Democracy, we stand firm in our commitment to facts, truth, and open dialogue. Recently, due to a technical issue, our website had to be restored from a backup. Unfortunately, that rollback caused a few comments and responses to disappear, along with some pages and posts. Among them was a comment filled with rumor-based accusations directed at President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

    Let’s be clear: we welcome discussion, debate, and dialogue when it is rooted in fact. Democracy thrives when people can exchange ideas openly and honestly. What we will not do is give credibility to baseless claims designed to distract, divide, or intimidate.

    We will not be intimidated.

    When commenters rely on falsehoods or rumors, we will not treat that as serious debate. Instead, we will call it out for what it is—and refuse to let misinformation set the terms of the conversation. Rescue Our Democracy exists to build bridges, strengthen civic engagement, and focus on the real issues that matter to everyday Americans.

    Our message is simple: if you bring facts, we’ll listen. If you bring only rumors, we won’t be shaken. We will keep moving forward, because the fight for democracy requires courage, clarity, and resilience.

    Our post tomorrow, will be a repeat of today’s post, along with the extra pages we have already done.

    18Sep, 2025
    Matthew Kargol: Seeking Contact

    Iowa art teacher Matthew Kargol recently lost his job after a social media post. In that post, he called Charlie Kirk a Nazi. He shared it on a private account, outside of his teaching role, and without naming his school.

    At Rescue Our Democracy, we defend free speech and open dialogue. Political rhetoric shapes communities, and people deserve a chance to discuss its impact. We want to speak directly with Matthew Kargol. He deserves the opportunity to explain his side of the story.

    We would be honored to help share that and create dialogue with our viewers.

    If you know how to reach him—or if Mr. Kargol sees this—we invite him to contact us. He can write us at info@rescueourdemocracy.com

    16Sep, 2025
    Cancellation Notice: Bake-Off for No Kings 2 Day of Action

    Rescue Our Democracy’s Bake-Off for NO KINGS 2 is cancelled

    Friends, we want to let you know that Rescue Our Democracy will no longer be hosting the Bake-Off we had planned for October 28th as part of the No Kings 2 Day of Action.

    While we were excited to organize this event across three cities in two states, a scheduling conflict has made it impossible for us to move forward.

    We remain committed to supporting democracy and our community in ways that align with our mission. Thank you for understanding, and for continuing to lend your voice to the cause.

    Together, we rise.