Thomas Reports was created in 2006. For over 30 years Fred Thomas, III developed a successful career in real estate financing, focused on consumer lending. He is a licensed broker (DRE 01097630) and has managed over two-thousand closed transactions. ThomasReports was created to weave writings and passions under one platform; Real Estate, History, Travel & Culture, Politics and Technology. In today's social media demands, Thomas' voice has been recognized as an official Influencer, Tester and Reviewer for international marketing organizations.
This post is geared towards the traveler who is a citizen
of the United States.
However, because it is general in scope and may be used by others.
The above caption is the character Wi-Fi which has become quite popular in Cuba
Most do not come to Cuba with the goal is surfing the web all day or just laying on the internet. However, communication with family and friends is important so yes, even in Cuba you will rely on the internet to stay connected. Ditch all of the negative information you may have heard about how bad the internet is. While the speeds may not be as robust as some countries, it is acceptable in allowing you to connect.
At various times during my treks to Cuba at one time or another I have had many of the major carriers (Verizon, Sprint & T-Mobile). As technology has improved they have gotten better in offering special pricing to places like Cuba. This surely beats the old-fashioned way of having to purchase a phone or device that only works during your stay.
My current carrier, Consumer Cellular offered special pricing but I decided to opt against it….and I am glad I did.
YOU CAN USE YOUR DEVICE IN CUBA.
All you need to do is purchase an internet card.
ETESCA is the communication company in CUBA. They have offices all over the island. Simply look for the blue buildings. Once you arrive in Cuba you will see folk of all kind on the internet. Usually they are at designated hotspots, which are plenty. The trick is finding one that is close to where you will be staying or during your travels.
BE CAREFUL AS PRICING VARIES
The cards vary in denomination. Usually there are $1 CUC cards good for 1 hour and $5CUC cards good for 5 hours. However, the cards can be a bit tricky as after use YOU MUST TAKE CAUTION TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMPLETELY LOGGED OFF. Otherwise, you might think your session is over and when you attempt to access the card, you will find there is NO TIME REMAINING.
They are also available from street vendors. While it may appear to make sense – buyer beware and use common sense. I have never had this experience and simply conform to the basic way of obtaining. I guess I am just too chicken to purchase a card on the street only to find there is no time remaining or less that what I thought I had purchased…….plus, the seller is long gone!!!! Two common places where you can obtain are:
Etesca offices – expect lines and a little wait or if you are lucky and approach the guard and have exact money, he may do you a favor and go inside to grab your card.
Once inside, simply ask for the denomination you wish.
Present your passport to the clerk.
Your card will be registered via the computer and you will be handed the card and a receipt.
Instructions on how to use the card listed, so read and get a good understanding on how to use.
To access the internet, you will need to go to a hotspot (just ask someone or wherever you see lots of folk accessing their devices).
Larger hotels
Most hotels also use the Etesca card but do not be surprised if you need to purchase yet another card for that location (Nacional Hotel of Cuba).
The cost at the hotels are usually $4.50 per hour but be gladly surprised if the cost is lower. At one hotel in Trinidad the cost was $1.50 for 1 hour.
Some hotels will sell you a card but insist you purchase something before you can use your card.
This post is geared towards the traveler who is a citizen
of the United States.
However, some of it is general in scope and may be used by others.
Many have the fascination of going to Cuba. There is so much information; some good, some bad, some outdated. So, this post provides an updated experience from my recent trek.
Going to Cuba is not something you do on a lark, as planning must be detailed. The question you might want to ask is why are you going to Cuba? Going as a general tourist or going to get some cigars, sip on mojitos, or take in the beautiful beaches should not be your answer (although you are allowed as long as you go with a licensed tour group)!
Although it is rare, it can be nothing worse than to be in another country whose relationship with the United States is tenuous at best and where there is still an effective embargo, and run into a situation where you need immediate assistance (need money, medical care, lose your travel visa, etc.).
Even though President Obama improved relationships with Cuba in December 2015 through an Executive Order which resulted in Americans having better access to Cuba and vice versa, President Trump reversed course and there are specific updates you must factor into your planning, so that you are not in violation of Federal law.
Admittedly, during my treks I have come across American’s who were willing to take a chance and are roaming the countryside as “tourist.” That is a person’s personal prerogative and even though I have never been stopped by authorities questioning my visits, for me the risk is too high, as it is easier to comply.
Here are the updated steps:
PREPARATION
READ AND UNDERSTAND the guidance from the Treasury Department. In my case, I am OK because I use my journalist license and have a thorough itinerary to address the reason I am there.
When you purchase your air travel, your carrier will have a brief questionnaire (online) that acknowledges you meet approved guidelines to enter Cuba.
Days before your travel, it is suggested you register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (U.S. Department of State).
You may have read that health insurance is required as well as a departure tax? That has changed and most carriers add those cost as part of your travel fare. Once purchased you will be able to see the itemized portion on your ticket.
If not already enrolled, I would recommend you signing up for TSA Pre as this will save you some time.
In preparation for your return, I would recommend you download the “My Mobile Passport” app as this will help you breeze through U.S. Customs.
It is not totally necessary but I would recommend you coordinate taxi pickup. You can contact direct or have your host (casa particulares) coordinate. A typical cost is $25 CUCS (general Havana which is about 12 miles from airport). Again, if you decide against doing this, NO PROBLEM as there are many taxis once you get outside of the airport.
This is my taxi chofer – Lazaro (53) 52947497
DEPARTING
To enter CUBA, you need a valid passport BUT MORE IMPORTANT you need a Travel Visa. The prices range based on your departure city/country. As an example, from Cancun the fee is $25. However, from the U.S. expect $50 – $100. You can purchase in advance (Cuba Travel Services) but relax as your carrier will have an agent adjacent your check-in who will handle the transaction (credit cards are accepted).
IN-FLIGHT
Once you depart and about an hour before landing there will be an announcement alerting you to complete supplemental documents which must be presenting upon arrival and going through Cuba customs. Relax, don’t overthink the process.
ARRIVAL
Most flights from the U.S. are “international flights” so you will be landing in TERMINAL 2.
Once you pick up your luggage, you will proceed to the Customs clerk. They will have you remove your cap and glasses (if appropriate) as they will take a head-shot. THEY WILL STAMP YOUR TRAVEL VISA AND THIS MUST REMAIN IN YOUR POSSESSION AT ALL TIMES DURING YOUR STAY. If you have the misfortune of losing it, DON’T PANIC…. on your departure you just have to plan on getting to the airport early to explain your situation. Be prepared for an interrogation of how/why it was lost and don’t be surprised if you are charged for a replacement.
Once you pass through Customs you will see a “Declaration area.” FOR MOST U.S. TRAVELERS simply proceed to the NON-DECLARATION AREA (as for the most part you are not bringing anything into the country of significant value). The clerk will complete a cursory review of your personal luggage and pass you through.
Your next step is to convert your U.S. Dollars into Cuban CUCS. If you don’t see the window, simply ask someone. Again, I know there is some discussion on the internet that you might want to do this while in the U.S., such as converting your dollars to Euros, etc. but from my experience IT IS NOT WORTH IT. Just be prepared to have the tax/fee come out of your change (i.e., $100-$13=$87).
This is a CUC – Convertible pesos and the value is $1 CUC to $1USD
This is a CUP or Pesos. Value is 24:1 so this $3 CUC is worth .125 USD cents. However, because it is the currency used by locals the best place to purchase is at CADECA’s.
THAT’S IT. Go outside and grab your taxi and enjoy your time in CUBA.
COMING BACK HOME –
Remember the new guidelines allow for unrestricted purchase of cigars/rum, however most are restricted due to weight of luggage, so depending on your budget it may be a good idea to pack up to your weight (as an example, rum is bottled and can be heavy and in my garment bag I was able to pack 6 bottles and still stay within the weight limit). You can always purchase more in the duty-free area of which you will be bringing on your flight as a carry-on.
DEPARTING
Make sure you check-in online and pay any luggage fees (remember for the most part you won’t be able to use your credit cards at the airport and paying at the check-in may result in higher fees).
Make sure you verify where which terminal your flight is departing. The last thing you want to do is be at the wrong terminal and have to hustle to get a taxi to the correct one which will result in unnecessary taxi fees as well as personal stress.
The airport is busy but pretty organized, so give yourself enough time for unforeseen issues.
When you go through Cuba customs they will once again take a head-shot. The officer will take your stamped travel visa and file. YOUR PASSPORT WILL BE STAMPED.
You will see a duty-free area for last minute souvenirs. It’s actually pretty affordable and can be a good option to get rid of your Cuban money (CUCS/CUPS). As part of my planning I bring a knapsack or bag so that I can handle any duty-free purchases. This will minimize breakage or trying to figure out how to lug the items around.
Upon arriving back into the United States, you will go through customs. THIS IS WHERE YOU MY MOBILE PASSPORT COMES IN HANDY, as you complete your declarations via the app. You will see throngs of folk who didn’t pay attention and are snaked in long lines getting through customs. The mobile line is usually short.
Once through Customs you will be directed to pick-up your luggage and drop off for your final destination flight.
You will proceed through the other part of customs for final bag check. Your duty-free items will be inspected so don’t be surprised if the bag is opened. Once cleared, head to your gate.
cartoon courtesy of David Brown studios (Los Angeles Sentinel)
“After two years and millions of pages of documents (and a cost of over $30 million) no collusion!” Donald Trump – Dec. 7, 2018
“If the President puts Russian salad dressing on his salad tonight, somehow that’s a Russia connection,” the White House spokesman insisted during a contentious exchange with reporters.
He said every official that’s been briefed on the matter has said there’s no sign of “collusion” between the Trump campaign and Russia.” Sean Spicer March 2017
“from what we know on the public record, Mueller has failed to prove the Trump-Russia collusion that he was appointed to investigate 19 months ago.” Fox News
“I have nothing to do with Russia. I have no investments in Russia, none whatsoever. I don’t have property in Russia. A lot of people thought I owned office buildings in Moscow. I don’t have property in Russia … I built a great company, but I’m not involved with Russia. I have had dealings with them over the years where I sold a house to a very wealthy Russian many years ago. I had the Miss Universe pageant which I owned for quite a while. I had it in Moscow a long time ago, but other than that, I have nothing to do with Russia.” Donald Trump
[Postscript] This was a critical week for a few of Donald Trump’s close allies who have pled guilty and simply are waiting for their sentencing. The filings regarding Paul Manafort, Michael Flynn and Michael Cohen provide the public a better picture of what occurred during the 2016 presidential campaign. Despite emphatic communication from Trump supporters, their claim is despite the filings no crime has been committed and proves people are out to get Donald Trump simply because he won the election!
In the meantime, those who swore the SC investigation is a witch-hunt or it would end in a few days……might want to wake up and stop their prognostication.
Above photo caption. Phil Carlos Wilson took this photo of Claudia Bivins wearing the flag. "As I laid the rebel flag down across Vernon's grave, I told my grandson what it represents -- our hope that racism and hatred would die," Bivins said. "That it would be killed at the root of our hearts, minds and souls."
Click HERE to read more about Bivins tribute to Vernon Dahmer
Ballot Box – Election – MISSISSIPPI, USA
The final tally is pending official certification but this past Tuesday Republican candidate Cindy Hyde-Smith beat her opponent, Democratic candidate Mike Espy: 473,109 to 404,640. While a victory is a victory the margin is yet another warning bell for the GOP (Grand Old Party) and President Donald Trump’s waning popularity.
People protest and march against US President Donald Trump’s alleged interference in Robert Mueller’s investigation in New York City on November 8, 2018. – President Donald Trump was accused on November 8, 2018, of pushing America toward a constitutional crisis after his firing of the attorney general cast doubt over the future of an explosive probe into election collusion with Russian agents. (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP/Getty Images)
In a state where voting is polarized among ethnic and party lines, in a normal environment voting experts felt the race should not have been close. Even though Hyde-Park will remain in Washington, DC as Mississippi’s second Senator, she was not viewed as a strong candidate. In the run-off with Espy two blunders cost her more than a few votes that reminded people of Mississippi’s past. Many voters voiced consternation about having to vote for Hyde-Smith but felt their loyalty to the GOP was more important to the state’s legacy.
Vestiges of Slavery
For some slavery is a thing of the past. Not every White person owned slaves and not every African-American was a slave, although a good many were. Fast forward to 2018, data shows our society is more congenial than ever. However, there is still an attitude that persist with many Whites that African-American’s can never be their equal. It will be denied but simply look at the social fabric of the United States and inequality remains a persistent thorn in our image. That attitude is a direct result of the legacy of slavery and racism where one race was dominant over the others.
“If you can convince the lowest white man he’s better than the best colored man, he won’t notice you’re picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he’ll empty his pockets for you.” Lyndon Baines Johnson, 36th President
Segregation Academies
Brown v Board of Education was a landmark case in a pivotal time for the United States. Shortly after the Supreme Court ruling public schools across the nation were ordered to end the practice of segregating students based on race.
While some accepted the ruling as the “law of the land” there were just a many who resisted. The resistance came in many forms and the basis was race. Many Whites who were part of that population didn’t necessarily define themselves as racist but through their ancestral inheritance they could never fathom direct association with African-Americans, let alone attend the same school with them.
Year after year, resistance took many forms. Across the nation and specifically in Mississippi leaders developed a plan to thwart the ruling. Rather than open their schools to all ethnicities they abandoned them and set-up private schools known as segregation academies. The result was the assurance those with financial resources could opt out of public education and not have to attend classes with non-Whites.
In 1975, Cindy Hyde-Smith was a minor and she attended Lawrence Academy, which was a segregated academy founded in 1970. More than likely the decision was made by her parents. It’s one thing to aspire for a quality education but it is another to do so while minimizing your socialization with other groups? Apparently Hyde-Smith enjoyed her school experience because to maintain the tradition, as an adult she enrolled her daughter in the same environment.
Creatures of habit
Some may think what is the big deal of wanting to attend a school with people like you? The problem arises when you claim to want to represent a state made up of all types of people. One’s socialization is in the spotlight of how you communicate with others. In Hyde-Smith’s case, her past sheds light of some of her comments during the campaign where she appears to favor one group over the other, while claiming to be the representative for all!
The Ghost
Many Mississippians acknowledge their past history. Since its opening in December 2017, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum has become a destination for locals and visitors to the state. It showcases the resilience of the African-American experience in Mississippi but it also puts a spotlight on the injustices they had to deal with. Part of the exhibit is the state’s history of lynching.
People from all walks of life make comments which may be viewed as racially insensitive. Certain topics are taboo or better left unspoken. One of those topics is any mention of lynching’s. It conjures up all types of negative feelings and emotions. For African-Americans who were oftentimes the victims, especially in Mississippi one would assume any comments would be held privately, let alone those who hold public office.
Hyde-Smith attempted to minimize her comment about lynching, instead employing the typical strategy of blaming those who brought her remarks up, as having some ulterior motive against her, instead of simply accepting the fact the remarks came out of her mouth?
The lynching comment and the fact of her likeness to segregated schools give pause to her mandate of successfully and equally represented all who claim Mississippi as their home state.
More perplexing is Hyde-Smith’s comments during the run-off debate on November 21st
Mississippi acknowledges its past racial history. Indeed, through the years it has made progress. Hyde-Smith’s challenge will be her allegiance to all Mississippians, not just those who espouse the Conservative values she emits. She also must reconcile her attitude for using lynching as a reference to someone she has affinity for. Then, she must use her power to deal with the education schism the state is known for and one which her parents and she perpetuated by being active participants.
In the meantime, those who voted now can take a break and ponder if they are willing to adjust their own racial bias.
above photo Mel Watt, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), from left, Jerome Powell, chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, Steven Mnuchin, U.S. Treasury secretary, and Jay Clayton, chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), listen during a Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) meeting at the U.S. Treasury in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018. Powell said at the meeting he is worried about a spillover from hard Brexit, but stocks and Treasuries showed little reaction. Photographer: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Today, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced conforming loan limits would increase from $453,100 to $484,350. For higher cost areas (see map below) the new limit will be $726,525. FHFA was created as the umbrella agency for the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac).
Fannie Mae Headquarters, Washington, DC (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)Freddie Mac Headquarters, McLean, VA (Photo credit should read PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)
They purchase home loans from a network of lenders across the nation. The lenders originate the loans from consumers who are seeking to finance their home purchase or to refinance their existing mortgage. The lenders also work with mortgage brokers, credit unions and other organizations who have direct contact with consumers.
Once the loans are funded, they are packaged and sent to respective investors (i.e., Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) and sold as securities, which are backed or collateralized from the property.
The Impact
Nationally the average loan amount is $229,000. The new guidelines take effect for mortgages that originate starting January 1, 2019. The increase will help those who see home prices continue to rise.
Conforming loans are those where the loan amount is $484,350 OR LESS. Any loan amount in excess of that loan is defined as a “Non-Conforming” loan. For borrowers the impact is typically ½ point or 50 basis points on the interest rate.
As an example based on current limits
Loan Amount
Rate
Payment
Mo. Difference
$453,100.00
4.81%
$1,816.00
-$188.00
$453,101.00
5.31%
$2,004.00
The bottom line difference could be approximately $190 each month. So, while the monthly payment is crucial, the move also provides those with higher loan amounts an additional $31,250 to deal higher prices, while being able to obtain more affordable interest rates.
Post-election canvass activity is continuous through the weekend in #LACounty. Care is taken to ensure all valid ballots are processed and counted. Election results will be updated Tuesday afternoon and again on Friday. #Election2018pic.twitter.com/Nyhf3I1Y3L
The mid-term election was on November 6, 2018. Nearly five days later there are still many votes left that need to be counted or in the words of Democratic Nominee for Governor of Florida, Andrew Gilliam, “we must ensure every vote cast is properly recorded.”
Higher turnout
Although interest in this year’s mid-terms was historic, turnout came in at approximately 50%, which is higher than normal but embarrassingly low for a nation that prides itself on democracy. Many countries, even some which the United States mocks has turnout at 75-90 percent, far greater than the U.S.
The large numbers of votes yet to be counted is another issue. No doubt millions were properly recorded but due to advances in the election process vote-by-mail and provisional ballots has increased year after year.
Too close to call
A greater concern regarding counting the outstanding balance is the large number of races which are considered, “too close to call.” That number increased drastically during this cycle. Some point to the interest as a response to Donald Trump’s antics. Whatever the reason, democracy works best when more people take the time to vote.
As of latest report California has a little over 4 MILLION VOTES TO COUNT.
Now that the much talked-about mid-term elections have come and gone, many who took time to engage can get back to their daily routine.
(Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
A part of Donald Trump’s political ascendance was his ability to target his opponents and mock them in a way to make them irrelevant or plucking away any political favorability they had.
It’s the House fool
As the mid-terms came many political pontificator’s were nervous in wiping Trump’s success off the table or declaring many of his missteps were self-inflicted. After all his rallies were huge hits, packed to the brim with supporters? Many assumed his magic would last forever and that he was untouchable? A good many more bought into the notion of his celebrity and the new-found Republican party he had developed. The economy was booming. Tax cuts were rolling in. The wall would be built, absent of any money from Mexico. Ending his second year as president, Trump was feeling a bit giddy. His tone was who in their right mind would vote against what was achieved?
The IQ Factor
From “low-energy Jeb” to “lyin’ Ted Cruz” to “dishonest Hillary” on and on, Trump had created a line that many supporters came to adore which was about the House of Representative from the 43rd district of California named Maxine Waters. He declaredly labeled her as “Low IQ” Maxine.” The name stuck with his supporters and he took glee and great pleasure in admonishing her. The fact he has created a history of marginalizing or mocking those who are non-white, intimating them as lazy, stupid, criminalistic or other negative attributes was not seen as racist behavior. To his supporters he was simply telling it like it is!!! And, after all he was making their lives better, not to mention giving them their country back?
The result of losing the house
For two years Trump and his administration has held the wild card of controlling all three branches of the government. Yesterday, they received a public rebuke as they lost the House of Representatives. While some will dismiss this fact, it is critical and may provide a glimpse of what Trump and his supporters must deal with. The win provides the Democratic party with the coveted power of being transformed into chairs of the many committees. It also provides them with power of the subpoena.
Attendees react as election results are displayed on a screen during an election night rally for State Senator Jennifer Wexton, a Democrat from Virginia and U.S. Representative candidate, in Dulles, Virginia, U.S., on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Wexton defeated two-term Republican incumbent Barbara Comstock, ousting a Republican in a northern Virginia district that was arguably the top target for Democrats in their effort to take back the House majority, according to projections from NBC and CNN. Photographer: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images
One chair swap that will take place in January 2019 is the Financial Services Committee. Despite Trump labeling her as a “low IQ” individual, Maxine Waters is in line to be selected as chair. Those who know her define her not by an IQ issue but brilliant in being an advocate against the powerful, specifically personalities such as Trump. They applaud her resilience and track record of getting the job done. Whatever motivated Trump from creating the moniker he assigned her, he may come to regret it as she becomes laser focused on all of his alleged corruption and mis-dealings, including releasing to the public his long-promised tax returns.
Photographer: Joshua Roberts/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Some will dismiss her strategy as “what’s the big deal?” They may be blind of not understanding what transparency is all about? Or, perhaps like some have stated, they may fear the exposure of his financial entanglements which perhaps could be a reason of his behavior, not necessarily just the Mueller special investigation? In the meantime, yes, the economy is moving and consumer confidence is up but the core reality is many view the president as untrustworthy and the likes of Waters and others in the house now have the ability to put a spotlight of what they have been prevented from uncovering or at least obtaining an honest answer for the people they represent.
The Trump and Waters soliloquy will be an interesting dance. One might assume Trump felt he would never lose the house to allow Waters to be unleashed? The voters decided that reality.
BEFORE WE GO…..ICYMI
Many of you recall the tragic murder of Trayvon Martin? The again, some of you are aware of the Women’s Movement which mushroomed the day after Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th president? But how many remember the killing of Jordan Davis who was gunned down by Michael Dunn in Jacksonville, FL? Unlike George Zimmerman the killer of Martin who was found not guilty, Michael Dunn was found guilty of Davis’ death and is now in prison. Like the parents of so many who have been found their plight by the end of a gun, Davis’ mother found the energy to raise her voice and become a political voice.
Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images
Yesterday, Lucy McBath was one of those women who threw their hat in the political ring and won their election (although the results are within the range of an automatic recount). If she is ultimately successful, her victory is a sign of how democracy works – at the local level.
Lucy McBath declares victory in Georgia’s 6th District race
cover photo. courtesy of CAAM and Harry Adams collection
Exhibit handout. Courtesy of CAAM
The United States civil rights movement escalated with the 1955 murder of young Emmett Till. It was during that time the Rev., Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. became the leader. Fast forward to 1963 as the iconic March on Washington earned its place in the annals of world history. Through that event Dr. King’s reputation became cemented as he displayed his oratorical gift.
May 26, 1963
As great as the March on Washington was you must go back to May 26, 1963 to understand a cornerstone of how a rally in Los Angeles generated the success it did. Through the California African-American Museum (CAAM), historians and curators Tyree Boyd-Pates and Taylor Bythewood-Porter have created a “must-see” exhibit that underscores the little-known fact of how it was a critical complement to the March on Washington and why that date has historical significance.
Wrigley Field, Los Angeles
Titled, “Los Angeles Freedom Rally, 1963 “the exhibit highlights how Dr. King came to Wrigley Field in Los Angeles and stirred the crowd of 35,000 who came to hear him share why the movement needed their support. 1963 was a critical year. In Birmingham, AL Safety Commissioner Eugene “Bull” Connor had unleashed a direct assault against the movement. Peaceful protestor’s were being locked up and given unreasonable bail amounts. Contrary to history, some have accepted the notion about Dr. King not being willing to go the jail? However, the facts are much different as it was agreed Dr. King could do more out of jail, than in jail. Thus, his time was spent traveling to various cities to raise funds needed to combat the malicious bail amounts rendered by the likes of Connor. It was that reason Los Angeles was a target for him to visit and make an appeal. The residents of Los Angeles responded and the rest is history as their support helped fuel the issue of providing money to get folk out of jail, and also helped undergird the funding needed for the eventual March on Washington.
Boyd-Pates and Bythewood-Porter have assembled a must-see exhibit. It runs through runs until March 3, 2019. Click BELOW to obtain the handout
Today the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its jobs report which surpassed expectations. 250,000 new jobs were reported for October. In the political world that is good news. You would think with employment, the economy and other measures Donald Trump and the GOP (Republican party) brag about, they would be hard pressed for both houses of the chamber (Congress) to be in jeopardy?
A woman walks to cast her vote while other people fill out ballots during early voting October 25, 2018 in Potomac, Maryland, two weeks ahead of the key US midterm polls. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP) (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images)
The mid-term vote is just days away. Surely you would think the positive jobs report might be the fuel needed to keep the chamber. Unfortunately, Trump has communicated very little to voters about the economy. Perhaps in doing so and if they are honest, he and his supporters feel they would have to credit the Obama administration with establishing a positive foundation for them being able to reap the benefits they are achieving? In the world of Trump, that is a no…no.
The snakebite effect
Instead of the economy, Trump feels he must feed his base one dish; Immigration. He feels that subject will be enough for his base to out vote the Democrats and opposition voters to keep the chamber. Some in the GOP aisle are frustrated that he has blown the opportunity gained in 2016 and feel he has been snakebit. They point to his antics and bombastic behavior that will lead many voters to insist a change is the best option to end the polarization he has created.
As it stands right now, despite the jobs report and other economic news, when Trump wakes up next Wednesday the Democrats, who need 23 seats to claim control of the House of Representatives, might wind up with approximately 35. The Senate is expected to remain in GOP control. The result will be voters have recognized that a check or balance on the Executive is needed versus having one party controlling all three branches? At the same time, it must be noted Trump and his supporters are hoping for the same “shocking” result they achieved in 2016, when they faced long odds of winning, yet came out ahead.
Democratic congressional candidate the Midterm elections, Ilhan Omar, speaks to a group of volunteers in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on October 13, 2018. – Somali-American state legislator Ilhan Omar claimed victory in her primary in Minnesota in August, putting her on track to become one of the first female Muslim members of the US House of Representatives. (Photo by Kerem YUCEL / AFP) (Photo credit should read KEREM YUCEL/AFP/Getty Images)
**MORE HISTORIC VOTING NEWS**
Political history is being made in Harris County as a record 19 Black women are running for judge in the upcoming Nov. 6 election. It also marks the first time in history that 19 Black women are running for judicial seats in one county, which happens to be the third largest county in the United States. Courtesy of Defender.com
Thomas Reports 