Balloon Juice - Open Threads Archives

Late Night Open Thread: Extinction Burst?

by Anne Laurie| September 21, 20251:16 am| 66 Comments

This post is in: Open Threads, Republicans in Disarray!, Show Us on the Doll Where the Invisible Hand Touched You, Trumpery, Lock Him Up...Lock Them All Up

this is the stuff fox actually aired. imagine what's on the cutting room floor from that interview

— Bondi Buddy (@canderaid) September 19, 2025

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Trump administration cuts SNAP to pay for upper-class tax cut, proposes remedy of stopping studies of food insecurity
www.lawyersgunsmoneyblog.com/2025/09/trum…

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— Scott Lemieux (@lemieuxlgm.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 4:02 PM

This is not a coalition that feels secure in its ascendancy. Per Lawyers, Guns & Money:

One of the core policies of the second Trump administration is to cut SNAP in order to provide more upper-class tax cuts. But don’t worry, they have a solution — don’t measure the resulting increases in hunger:

The Trump administration is canceling an annual government effort to gather data on how many Americans struggle to get enough food.

The data, which is collected each December and analyzed by the U.S. Agriculture Department, measures food insecurity across states and demographic groups.

The data has been collected every year since the mid-1990s, and is widely used by federal, state and local policymakers to make funding decisions for food-assistance programs, and to evaluate how well those programs work…

In related news:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics on Friday postponed the release of a key annual report central to future inflation data.

Why it matters: The BLS — charged with collecting critical data on employment, prices and more — did not explain the reasoning for the delay or when it might ultimately be released.

Well, checkmate — people definitely won’t notice that they’re paying more for things now.

Late Night Open Thread: Extinction Burst?Post + Comments (66)

War for Ukraine Day 1,304: The Russian Butcher’s Bill From Last Night’s Attack on Ukraine

by Adam L Silverman| September 20, 20258:53 pm| 28 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

As was all too likely when I was drafting last night’s update, Russia did launch a missile attack on Ukraine as late night gave way to early morning.

Last night, Ukraine was under a massive combined drone and missile attack again.

What has changed since the last big combined attack? russia sent 20 drones to attack Poland last week and three jets violated Estonia’s airspace yesterday.

Unpunished evil always grows.
Always!

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 1:37 AM

To stop the war, arm democratic Ukraine to the teeth, and savagely sanction fascist Russia: This has been Ukrainian government’s message since Day One of the full-scale Russian invasion.

Well over three years on, the West still hasn’t done it, and the war is escalating.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 2:43 PM

Russia’s overnight attack on Ukraine was relentless: 40 missiles, both cruise and ballistic, and nearly 580 drones of various types were launched.

Dnipro and its surrounding region, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, and communities across Poltava, Kyiv, Odesa, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:24 AM

The targets were clear: infrastructure, residential neighborhoods, and civilian enterprises. In Dnipro Russian missile struck an apartment building directly. At least three people were killed in the attack.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:24 AM

Ukraine’s Air Force responded during Russia’s large missile strike on 20 September. The footage shows air defense systems, mobile fire teams, and F-16s in action. Most of today’s downed Kh-101s were hit by Ukrainian Fighting Falcons.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 1:26 PM

Interception of Russian cruise missiles by Ukrainian F-16 pilots during today’s Russian mass attack. It is noted that the absolute majority of downed Russian cruise missiles today are the result of the work of F-16 crews.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 1:33 PM

Here is Ukraine’s air defense tally from last night/this morning:

Another huge attack on Ukraine – though not a record so not likely to get much attention abroad: 579 drones, 40 missiles – 94.2% shoot-down rate, missile or drone hits in 10 locations, damage from shoot-down debris in another 10 locations.

Air alert still on in north-center.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:33 AM

This is the key point about Turkey’s response to Russia’s incursions back in 2015:

In response to Russia’s airspace violation over Estonia, Turkish journalist Ragıp Soylu recalled why Turkey shot down a Russian jet in 2015. After at least five such incidents in October that year, Ankara warned Moscow it had changed its engagement rules — and then took action.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 11:54 AM

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

This Week Has Brought Us Closer to Finalizing the 19th Sanctions Package; We Expect Its Approval Soon and Will Quickly Synchronize the Package in Ukraine – Address by the President

20 September 2025 – 18:28

I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians!

Right now, I am at our magnificent Saint Sophia’s Cathedral. And it is here that our new yet already established tradition has taken root – receiving letters of credence. Ambassadors who come to Ukraine, who begin their path here – they officially start it right here. And that’s how it has been since 2022. It’s a special rule, so that everyone who works with Ukraine sees and knows what kind of country we are, what history we have, how much depends on Ukraine, and what that means. And that Russia can never steal it. Today, I accepted the letters of credence from the Ambassadors of Germany, Norway, and the Czech Republic. They are our strong partners. We spoke. I thanked them for their clear support of Ukraine, of our independence, of our sovereignty. Europe’s positions are growing stronger, and each year we enhance Europe’s capabilities. All of us, contributing together. Due to our unity, due to our joint projects. I thank every partner.

This week has brought us closer to finalizing the 19th sanctions package against Russian aggression; we expect its approval soon. We will quickly synchronize the package in Ukraine. Russia’s energy resources are being restricted. As well as the infrastructure of the shadow fleet – it will face new pressure. Cryptocurrency schemes used by Russia specifically to bypass sanctions will also be countered by Europe. Thank you.

I am grateful that many of Ukraine’s proposals have been taken into account in the EU sanctions package. We are constantly working on this with every one of our partners, and of course, above all with the European Union and the Group of Seven. We now expect strong sanction steps from the United States as well – Europe is doing its part.

Today, I also signed decrees imposing new Ukrainian sanctions. Three packages were signed. In particular, against propagandists helping Russia; against individuals doing business in occupied territories and feeding Russia’s budget, sustaining this system of evil; and against those destabilizing Moldova in Moscow’s interest. Ukraine is helping Moldova, and we are invested in the stability of our neighbor – in Moldova’s success.

A few more things. Today, the Office of the President sent to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine a law with my signature on the Cross of Military Merit – on the strong status of this award, our combat award. This also means state guarantees and respect for our fallen warriors. Since this award was founded, 331 Ukrainian warriors have been recognized with the Cross of Military Merit. Strong warriors. Thank you.

I want to thank today our defenders of the sky. There was another massive Russian strike: nearly 580 drones, mostly “shaheds,” and 40 missiles. Many were shot down. Drone interceptors performed well today, as did mobile fire groups, aviation – our F-16s and our army aviation. I thank you all. All of you did great. Thank you for every downed target. But there were still hits. Dnipro, Pavlohrad and other communities in the Dnipro region were among Russia’s targets. We still need to strengthen our air defense system, and this depends heavily on partners. And many of them have this power – the power that must protect lives. It should be used.

Everyone can now see Russian interference against Poland, and yesterday against Estonia. And these are not accidental incidents. The Russians will continue trying to spread their aggression, their destabilization, and their interference. That is their system. This must be countered, also systemically, and together.

I thank everyone who is helping. I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine. And we are already preparing for important meetings next week – including with the President of the United States. Russia must feel the consequences of its actions.

Glory to Ukraine!

Georgia:

Rustaveli Avenue blocked for the 297th day in a row. Protests continue in 8+ cities across Georgia. 🇬🇪

The illegitimate, repressive, pro-Russian regime must end.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 1:28 PM

GD has ties, and potentially physical reinforcement, from Ramzan Kadyrov’s thugs.

This is further reinforced by Tbilisi Mayor Kaladze’s recent hosting of Chechen MMA champion and Kadyrov’s friend Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev also got a Ferrari. 1/2

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:19 AM

Later, Chimaev couldn’t comment to a journalist about Georgia’s territorial integrity. But GD couldn’t care less. 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:19 AM

🟥Media founder and prominent 🇬🇪journalist Mzia Amaglobeli has been unlawfully imprisoned for 252 days.
💢She is the first journalist in #Georgia to be recognized as a prisoner of conscience since the end of Soviet times.
www.freemzia.com
#Journalismisnotacrime
#FreeMzia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) September 20, 2025 at 8:25 AM

Poland:

Poland mobilized all its resources this night after Russia struck Ukrainian cities. Fighter jets took off, and air defense and radar units were put on high alert.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:36 AM

The EU and NATO:

It took them 3 years to figure out that they should do basic self-preservation, which is actually pretty quick for Poles but shameful for Romania.

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— Bill McKay (@mckay4senate.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 4:25 PM

Lithuania and the Czech Republic:

Czech President Petr Pavel and Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Šakalienė called for Russian military aircraft violating NATO airspace to be shot down. Pavel called such incursions “grounds for activation of defence mechanisms”, while Šakalienė reminded that Turkey did exactly that in 2015.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 12:01 PM

The US:

Putin has concluded that military escalation is the best way to force Ukraine into talks on his terms and that Donald Trump is unlikely to do much to bolster Kyiv’s defenses – Bloomberg

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:08 AM

From Bloomberg:

President Vladimir Putin has concluded that military escalation is the best way to force Ukraine into talks on his terms and that Donald Trump is unlikely to do much to bolster Kyiv’s defenses, according to people close to the Kremlin.

Russian forces have already stepped up their attacks on military and civilian targets in Ukraine since the two leaders met in Anchorage last month and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected Putin’s demand to give up more territory in eastern Ukraine. Putin intends to continue targeting Kyiv’s energy network and other infrastructure, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing sensitive information.

The talks in Alaska left Putin convinced that Trump has no interest in intervening in the conflict, they added.

In response to Russia’s increased aggression, Trump has this week voiced his frustration with Putin’s approach and floated the idea of tougher sanctions on Moscow and its allies to shut off Russia’s oil revenue. But at the same time, he’s insisting that Kyiv’s European allies take difficult measures before the US makes a move.

Moscow’s recent tactics underscore the extent to which signs of restraint out of Washington are emboldening the Kremlin as it presses ahead with a war of attrition aimed at forcing Ukrainian concessions. Russian officials see the strategy potentially sapping Kyiv’s defenses and also shaping the ground for future negotiations.

“It is important for Putin to show Trump and Europeans that he can still afford to escalate the situation,” said Vita Spivak, a Russia analyst from the London-based consultancy Gatehouse Advisory Partners. “Putin is trying to increase his leverage for the next round of negotiations about Ukraine whenever it happens.”

In Anchorage, Putin offered to halt the fighting and freeze the line of contact in southern Ukraine if Kyiv agreed to cede unconquered territory in two eastern regions. He has previously demanded that Ukraine limit the size of its armed forces and abandon its goal of joining NATO.

Ukraine has rejected those terms and Putin believes that justifies his escalation, the people close to the Kremlin said.

More at the link.

Putin and his trusted agents have accurately assessed Trump and his senior natsec team, especially his isolationist Undersecretary of Defense for Policy (USD-P):

Always colby at the scene of the crime

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:33 PM

“Didn’t believe in the value” is crazy

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:34 PM

I can’t believe he shitposted it into reality

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:39 PM

Remember, as I included in Thursday’ night’s update, Trump just cancelled $400 million of military aide to Taiwan.

Donald Trump’s reported pause on $400m (£297m) in weapons aid to Taiwan has fuelled fears he is using US support of the island to negotiate with China.

Trump’s pause on weapons provisions, if confirmed, included orders for lethal munitions and autonomous drones, but could still be reversed, the Washington Post reported on Friday.

It came amid US efforts to negotiate a trade deal with China after a long and punishing trade war, and hours before Trump and China’s leader Xi Jinping spoke on the phone on Friday. Trump said they had made “productive” progress on issues including trade, fentanyl and TikTok. They also agreed to meet in Korea in October, and for Trump to visit next year.

But analysts noted the respective readouts of the call did not mention Taiwan, Beijing’s most sensitive issue in its foreign relations, particularly with the US. The ruling Chinese Communist party (CCP) plans to annex Taiwan as Chinese territory, by military force if necessary.

Taiwan’s government and people overwhelmingly reject the prospect of CCP rule, and the standoff has prompted an arms buildup on both sides of the Taiwan strait, with much of Taiwan’s stocks coming from the US, Taiwan’s most significant backer in its resistance.

“To avoid war and defend peace we must build defence capabilities and societal resilience through continued preparedness,” said Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, on Saturday.

During Trump’s first term, weapons sales to Taiwan soared past $10bn for the first time since the 1990s. Since 2022, US presidents have had congressional approval to send up to $1bn in US weapons stocks to Taiwan and Ukraine annually.

But in Trump’s second term there has been a significant cooling on Taiwan. He has questioned the worth of US support, mused that Taiwan should pay for US “protection”, and spurned the security aid mechanism in favour of actual sales. Taiwan has boosted its defence spend accordingly, with plans to reach 5% of GDP by 2030.

News of the pause was unexpected, and rippled through an annual defence expo in Taipei on Thursday, as arms dealers displayed the latest weaponry and tech. Staff manning one well-known multinational firm’s stand began frantically Googling when asked for their thoughts, according to one attender.

Back to Ukraine.

FRV drones with automatic targeting system attack Russian boats from infantry in the Dnipro River.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:24 PM

🇺🇦 Zelensky announced the creation of a separate branch of the Armed Forces – assault troops.

“We have assault battalions, regiments, which will certainly show good results throughout 2025. And we decided that we need to go into the legal plane.”

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 10:38 AM

Dnipro:

One of the targets of Russia’s strike on Dnipro was the warehouses of ATB.

ATB is one of Ukraine’s largest supermarket chains, with thousands of stores nationwide. Its warehouses store food and essential goods, making them a critical part of civilian supply infrastructure.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM

The reaction of people when russian Shahed drone got intercepted 🫠

Dnipro, Ukraine, this morning.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Russian cruise missile strike in Dnipro.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 11:48 PM

A Russian missile with cluster munitions hit a residential area with high-rise buildings in Dnipro this morning. Footage shows the moment of impact. One person was killed and dozens injured.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 7:34 AM

This is what the Russian munitions that struck Dnipro this morning were loaded with. People are finding these fragments scattered across the streets and stuck in the walls of their apartments.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 10:36 AM

Damage to residential building in Dnipro due to Russian attack. 3 killed, 26 injured in attacks, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Russians used cluster munitions in some missiles to maximize chance of civilian casualties.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 4:12 AM

Kyiv:

Cars on fire in western Kyiv due to fall of debris from shot-down Russian Shahed attack drone.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 11:45 PM

Russian occupied Crimea:

🙂 Situation in Crimea overnight:

🔊 Strike in Feodosiya.

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:56 AM

💥 Strike on Russian air defense position near Lake Chokrak.

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:56 AM

Kherson:

Today is the Day of Kherson.

The people of this proud city — relentlessly bombed and targeted by russian drone safaris — survived occupation and never surrendered.

Think and speak for Kherson today — and every single day until terrorussia is defeated.

Photo Ivan Antypenko.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 7:45 AM

And yet half of the international community insists we must leave our people under russian occupation.
But this is not about territories.

This is genocide.
#Ukraine #UkrainianView

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— Roman Yeremenko (@roalyr.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 10:40 PM

Chernihiv Oblast:

Russian drones targeted Chernihiv region. Local officials reported strikes on transport infrastructure with no casualties. Footage also shows an alleged hit on an oil depot in Bakhmach shared by local channels.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 11:32 AM

Dobropillia, Donetsk Oblast:

Russian milbloggers are deeply concerned about the situation near Dobropillia. The area they proudly advanced into is now at risk of becoming a pocket.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 10:21 AM

Chasiv Yar:

Footage of Ukrainian fighters from the 18th Guards Sloviansk Brigade of the National Guard hunting Russian occupiers in Chasiv Yar at night.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:19 AM

Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast:

💥 Destruction of Russian soldiers and equipment near Pokrovsk by “Phoenix” unit!

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 10:38 AM

Russian occupied Luhansk Oblast:

🇺🇦✈️💣 Ukrainian aviation struck Russian oil facility in the Luhansk region where soldiers, ammunition and equipment stationed, – Soniashnyk

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 10:23 AM

Saratov and Samara Oblasts, Russia:

❗️Saratov and Novokuybyshevsk oil refineries were struck tonight by the 14th USF Regiment, which carried out most successful attacks on Russian oil facilities over the last 1.5 months.

📌 Support them with needed gear: www.help99.co/patches/spec…

Only €2,600 left to reach the €30,000 milestone.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 3:17 AM

🔥🛢️ Novokuibyshevsk oil refinery was the second one targeted tonight. This refinery has the capacity of 7.9mln tons of oil per year.

It’s the second time it’s targeted during the new campaign of strikes on Russian refineries. Previously it was hit on 2nd of August.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 2:46 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

DOG OF WAR:

During dinner with members of The Counteroffensive’s team, this patriotically-collared pup kept a close eye on the safety of the group!

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— Tim Mak (@timkmak.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 9:56 AM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,304: The Russian Butcher’s Bill From Last Night’s Attack on UkrainePost + Comments (28)

Sending a Message, Loud and Clear

by WaterGirl| September 20, 20256:00 pm| 60 Comments

This post is in: Breathtaking Criminality and Lawlessness, Dems Fighting Back, Open Threads, Politics, The Horrors

This is the kind of language all of our elected officials should be using.

Despite refusing to coordinate with the state or city, we’re monitoring the ongoing federal deployments that are instilling fear in our communities.

Americans have a right to peaceful assembly and to make their voices heard. Even if the Trump admin won’t follow the law, we will.

— Governor JB Pritzker (@govpritzker.illinois.gov) September 20, 2025 at 2:09 PM

Unlike Donald Trump, most Americans believe in the ideals on which our nation was founded.

Now is the time to stand up for those noble ideals.

Be loud — for America.

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— Governor JB Pritzker (@govpritzker.illinois.gov) September 19, 2025 at 1:20 PM

Click for larger images if the text is too small.

Open thread.

Sending a Message, Loud and ClearPost + Comments (60)

Open Thread: On Learning to Make Good Choices

by Anne Laurie| September 20, 20253:16 pm| 116 Comments

This post is in: Excellent Links, Gun Issues, Religion

Another excellent 9-minute explainer from Sarah Taber:

Did a thing on the Charlie Kirk shooting. Some thoughts on growing up LDS & how it can prime people for any & all kinds of radicalization. And how quick the right wing was to turn on Mormons.
youtu.be/coJF2wq5BHY

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— Sarah Taber (@sarahtaber.bsky.social) September 17, 2025 at 5:14 PM

watching steve bannon & curtis yarvin try a little beef with the mormons as a treat like oh buddy. oh pal. I'm not sure if I would make that choice if it were me

— Sarah Taber (@sarahtaber.bsky.social) September 17, 2025 at 8:18 AM

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Shot, chaser (I grew up in the Catholic church):

Cardinals have to submit their resignation when they turn 75, but the pope will in some cases decline to accept the resignation & the cardinal stays in his position.
Dolan is 75.
I’m guessing Leo will accept Dolan’s resignation without hesitation.

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— Dana Houle (@danahoule.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 11:51 AM

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Oh, you say Cardinal Dolan is not just a blasphemer. he's also a pedo protector?

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— Ragnarok Lobster (@eclecticbrotha1.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 10:22 AM

Open Thread: On Learning to Make Good ChoicesPost + Comments (116)

Saturday Morning Open Thread

by WaterGirl| September 20, 202511:32 am| 112 Comments

This post is in: Open Threads

Just got home from running all my Saturday morning errands, and it looks like we could use at least an open thread.

Something with more content coming later.

Here you go!

Saturday Morning Open ThreadPost + Comments (112)

Saturday Morning Open Thread: Keep the Faith

by Anne Laurie| September 20, 20255:49 am| 240 Comments

This post is in: Open Threads, Proud to Be A Democrat, Republicans in Disarray!, Cosplay Socialists

nothing rich white guys like more than being schooled by a black man, it’s part of why we are here right now
this man of color deigned to be charming and thoughtful, no choice but to be a nazi. not my fault.

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— not an art thief (@famousartthief.bsky.social) September 20, 2025 at 12:11 AM

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Trump is not popular, and Trump’s agenda is less popular than Trump

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— Lawyers, Guns and Money (@lawgunsmoney.bsky.social) September 19, 2025 at 3:39 PM

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republicans mad that it didn’t become 2019 again

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— GOLIKEHELLMACHINE (@golikehellmachine.com) September 19, 2025 at 12:35 PM

nine months in, thirty-nine to go. half expect vaughn or vance or some other admin stooge to look straight into the camera and say “we didn’t tell you that you would enjoy it”

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— GOLIKEHELLMACHINE (@golikehellmachine.com) September 19, 2025 at 1:09 PM

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show full post on front page

Saturday Morning Open Thread: Keep the FaithPost + Comments (240)

Open Thread: You’ve Canceled Streaming, Now What?

by TaMara| September 19, 20258:52 pm| 129 Comments

This post is in: Open Threads

Photo of Nora, because I know my audience. She’s doing well, more photos of her here.

I had a triple feature this week: The Post, All The President’s Men, and Spotlight. Felt nostalgic for a free and competent press. And I enjoy all three, but Spotlight is a little more difficult to watch, they don’t pull any punches.

I own all three on DVD. Two of them I bought used for two or three bucks. If you enjoy thrift stores, there are shelves and shelves of DVD’s for two bucks a piece. Both movies and series. I got West Wing for less than $10 for the full series.

You can also get them used on Amazon, Walmart and other retail outlets that support private sellers – a lot of them are thrift stores that ship out. And physical Walmart stores have these great bins of older movies to wade through, most $5 or less.

Don’t have a DVD player? Thrift stores and even new are relatively inexpensive.

Don’t want the clutter? Guess what? Your library card will get you a buttload of streaming: series, movies, and documentaries. And there are physical DVDs for lending at most branches. Can’t beat the price.

Kanopy

Start streaming movies today with your public library card or university login

We partner with public libraries and universities to bring you ad-free films and series that can be enjoyed on your TV, mobile phone, tablet and online.

Hoopla

Your public library at your fingertips.

Borrow and enjoy audiobooks, eBooks, comics, movies, TV, magazines, or music everywhere you have a screen-your computer, your phone, your car, even your TV. All you need is a library card. hoopla syncs across all your devices, so you can stream titles immediately or whenever you’re in the mood. Most titles can also be downloaded to your phone or tablet. hoopla offers more content, in more places, than any other digital library platform and it’s all FREE thanks to your public library! Titles may vary based on library catalog.

After a conversation with Cole a few years ago, I bought the full series of Leverage, used. So glad I did. Previously, it streamed free on FreeVee, and now it’s behind a paywall at Amazon. I can watch anytime I want for less than $15.

I’m not the only one, search on DVDs vs Streaming and you’ll find a bunch of articles on why folks are making the switch

From The Verge, Emma Roth wrote about streaming fatigue:

Here I am at Walmart, elbow-deep in decades of movies as other shoppers wheel by without so much as a glance. The bin, about four feet tall, is overflowing with DVDs, to the point where I have to start piling them up on one side just to get anywhere near the center. I’m picking out the movies I’m going to indulge in over the weekend, shuffling through copies of Sonic the Hedgehog, an all-in-one Ben Affleck movie collection, Gremlins, and a hodgepodge of other flicks.

I pull out some old films I’ve never gotten around to watching, like The Ring and the Crank collection (yes, I know I’m behind), and toss them into my shopping cart. The variety in Walmart’s DVD bin is seemingly endless: and for a price of about $5 per disc that you can hang onto forever, you can’t really go wrong. (So long as you don’t care about the highest-quality viewing experience.) The movies will soon make their way into my PlayStation 4 and will hopefully save me from having to pick something out on a streaming app. Walmart isn’t the only place I’ve started looking for DVDs, either. Thrift stores, flea markets, the library, and even my local mall’s FYE have also become places I frequent to get my hands on oft-ignored discs.

After spending years reassuring myself that I don’t need physical copies of movies because of streaming, DVDs have officially reentered my life.

Read more here…

Just some ideas to help as we find more and more reasons to turn our backs on these corporations.

Anyone have any recommendations for more films or series on journalists or politicians who aren’t evil? I may need to expand my collection

Open thread

Open Thread: You’ve Canceled Streaming, Now What?Post + Comments (129)

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Dear Washington Post, you are the darkness now.

These are not very smart people, and things got out of hand.

Not loving this new fraud based economy.

Shallow, uninformed, and lacking identity

When I decide to be condescending, you won’t have to dream up a fantasy about it.

No offense, but this thread hasn’t been about you for quite a while.

Republicans: “Abortion is murder but you can take a bus to get one.” Easy peasy.

Historically it was a little unusual for the president to be an incoherent babbling moron.

Nancy smash is sick of your bullshit.

75% of people clapping liked the show!

JFC, are there no editors left at that goddamn rag?

Innocent people do not delay justice.

So very ready.

Technically true, but collectively nonsense

There are times when telling just part of the truth is effectively a lie.

Bad people in a position to do bad things will do bad things because they are bad people. End of story.

“They all knew.”

He really is that stupid.

Quote tweet friends, screenshot enemies.

Take hopelessness and turn it into resilience.

Nothing says ‘pro-life’ like letting children go hungry.

Dear media: perhaps we ought to let Donald Trump speak for himself!

One lie, alone, tears the fabric of reality.

This has so much WTF written all over it that it is hard to comprehend.