Happy Thanksgiving

 

Wishing everyone a very merry and joyful Thanksgiving Day. May there be plenty of food on your table and joy in your hearts and voices this day.. Hugs to you all.

7.5 Billion allocated for EV Charging Stations but only 7 stations created - Where's the rest of the money?

President Biden pledged to establish 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations by 2030, aiming to boost confidence in EV ownership and reduce carbon emissions. However, over two years after a $7.5 billion investment from Congress, only 7 charging stations are operational across four states. This slow progress could hinder the shift towards electric vehicles as new emissions rules emerge.  So where is the money and who is putting it in their pockets?

I think many voters are increasingly worried about the timeline, and the push for charging stations when the electric cars are going up in flames on our highways. You can’t use water to put the flames out and a few people have lost their lives due to the fires. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated $7.5 billion for EV charging, yet only seven stations have opened after two years. This raises concerns about effectively establishing a nationwide network to support electric vehicle adoption. With funding potentially supporting 20,000 charging spots, progress remains slow and the funding is dwindling due to misuse or wrongful allocation.

Twelve more states have secured contracts for EV charging station construction, while 17 states are still awaiting proposals. Last month, GOP House members expressed concern over the slow rollout of chargers in a letter to the Biden administration. They highlighted issues like delays and labor requirements. Not to mention not enough electric grid available for such charging stations. Even the electric companies across the country say that there is no real infrastructure available for such charging stations. Experts note that building an extensive national EV network is challenging but crucial for future sustainability.

EV sales are rapidly increasing in the U.S., outpacing traditional gas cars, driven by affordable options and convenient charging as part of the President’s Investing in America agenda.  However, there is no real infrastructure for Electric Vehicles since there are no real charging stations established around the country.

New chargers face higher operational standards, with mandates for 97% uptime and significant power output. The NEVI program aims to boost fast-charging capacity by 50%, alleviating range anxiety as states work on implementation.

Challenges remain due to permitting issues and infrastructure demands.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft, and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week.  

UAW President is afraid of something, why else would he file federal labor charges against Trump?

 

UAW files federal labor charges against Donald Trump and Elon Musk

Trump’s interview with Musk plagued with tech issues

The United Auto Workers Union has lodged federal labor accusations against former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, as announced recently.

In a post on X, the union claims they unlawfully tried to intimidate workers advocating for their rights during protected activities like strikes.

Musk interviewed Trump for two hours on X Spaces a few weeks back, attracting over 1 million viewers.

In a recent interview, Trump lauded Musk as the "greatest cutter," likely referencing the extensive layoffs at X (formerly Twitter). "I see what you do: 'Want to quit?' and if they strike, it's 'You're all gone,'" he remarked. UAW President Shawn Fain responded sharply, emphasizing that such actions undermine workers' rights protected under the National Labor Relations Act.

Let’s reeducate Mr. Fain on the National Labor Relations Act of 1935:

NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS ACT 29 U.S.C. §§ 151-169

[Title 29, Chapter 7, Subchapter II, United States Code]

Mr. Fain, Unions were established for the reasons listed in the following paragraph. While they aren't as important as they used to be, these days unions are nothing more than greedy organizations that like to take advantage of their members by draining their paychecks with overcharged union due that do nothing for the workers. 

 Section 1.[§151.] The denial by some employers of the right of employees to organize and the refusal by some employers to accept the procedure of collective bargaining lead to strikes and other forms of industrial strife or unrest, which have the intent or the necessary effect of burdening or obstructing commerce by (a) impairing the efficiency, safety, or operation of the instrumentalities of commerce; (b) occurring in the current of commerce; (c) materially affecting, restraining, or controlling the flow of raw materials or manufactured or processed goods from or into the channels of commerce, or the prices of such materials or goods in commerce; or (d) causing diminution of employment and wages in such volume as substantially to impair or disrupt the market for goods flowing from or into the channels of commerce. (National Labor Relations Act, 2024)

UAW Boss Shawn Fain claims that Donald Trump consistently prioritizes billionaires like Elon Musk over hardworking individuals. Fain claims that Trump wants the working class to remain silent, this could be further from the truth. In fact, Trump wants the unions to stop being so greedy and self-serving over the workers they claim to represent and to stop manipulating the members in their charge with political agendas not aligned with the American dream because their actions reflect a troubling disregard for everyday people. Fain’s claims and accusations are not only untrue, but an outright political power struggle statement to ensure union workers across the country vote Democrat on election day. Why would I say this, I’ve got over 40 years of experience in the political arena, and I know a political manipulation statement when I see one. Voters need to understand that the Unions in America were originally formed by democrats who were run by the Tammany Hall bureaucrats who were out to make money for themselves by way of bribes, corruption, and intimidation. Surprisingly enough nothing has changed within the unions in America since the Tammany Hall days of the unions. Unlike the UAW and other unions across this country, Former President Trump has been 110% behind the working citizens of America during his term in office, in fact under his Presidency, the economy was much better for working Americans because more Americans were buying American Made products over international products during his Presidency.  

Fain accused Musk of contributing more than $45 million a month to get Trump elected.  Hate to tell Mr. Fain but it’s illegal to contribute that much to any presidential campaign or even a super PAC under Federal Election Laws.

What I find funny and ironic about Fain’s statements about Mr. Trump is the utter embarrassment he is thrusting upon the Union Workers of the UAW, because his predecessors Dennis Williams and Gary Jones, both former UAW Presidents were convicted of bribery and corruption, plus misappropriation of union funds and sent to prison, who’s to say Fain won’t fall for the same lavish situations whereas he would use union funds for his own personal greed?  If I was a union member, I’d be questioning every penny of union funds spent. If those funds aren’t used for union members and their families, I’d be raising a serious stink for sure.

So, my question for Mr. Fain is this – What are you so afraid of should Former President Trump were to become elected once again? It appears you are scared of something with your political agenda you’re spewing in recent articles and interviews.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft, and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

 

 

 

As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, candidates face a critical topic: Social Security. Part 1!

 

As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, candidates face a critical topic: Social Security.  Part 1!

Voters fear proposed reforms may threaten their benefits. While polls reveal resistance to cuts and increased eligibility ages, some acknowledge looming funding challenges.

Trump suggests preserving contributions while reforming taxes; Harris advocates taxing the wealthy for stability without benefit reductions.

Why not halt overseas spending? This could rapidly address funding issues. 

During the GOP debates, former governors Christie and Haley favored raising retirement ages but lacked specifics, failing to consider constituents' struggles under their governance.

DeSantis promoted economic growth while hinting at future cuts—an alarming stance given Florida's senior population.

Ramaswamy proposed cutting federal jobs to secure funds, emphasizing no harm should come to current senior benefits—a plan that aligns with reducing government waste.

Hutchinson recommended the creation of a commission reminiscent of Reagan’s era but overlooks past miscalculations about funding sources.  

Candidates must prioritize reducing federal expenditures to bolster Social Security resources effectively by streamlining operations and ending unnecessary international commitments instead of simply increasing taxes.

 

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

 

 

 

 

Who and What makes up the US Cabinet?

 

Who and What makes up the US Cabinet?

The US Cabinet consists of key departments within the Executive Branch, designed to provide crucial advice to the President on matters specific to their areas. Each department is led by a secretary who manages activities and reports directly to the President. Appointments are made by the President but require Senate confirmation for nominees. Importantly, these appointees can be dismissed at any time without needing Senate approval.

Cabinet departments include State, Treasury, Defense, Attorney General, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, Education, Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security.

What Is the Role of the US Cabinet? 

The primary role of the US Cabinet is to counsel the President on pertinent issues related to their offices. While they lack governing power themselves; they work closely with presidential directives that address American needs.

Which Departments Comprise the US Cabinet?

Atop this influential group sits the Vice President—the highest-ranking member—followed by various secretaries overseeing federal government operations:

1. Department of State: Created by Thomas Jefferson

Initially known as the Department of Foreign Affairs, this department focuses on international relations and foreign policy for the nation. The helm is held by the Secretary of State, who ranks first in line within the Cabinet succession after the Vice President.

2. Department of Treasury: Created by Alexander Hamilton

Guided by the Secretary of the Treasury, this department oversees currency production in America. It also manages public debt and plays a crucial role in finance, taxation laws, and fiscal strategies.

3. Department of Defense:  Created by Congress to combine both Dept of Navy and War Department in 1947.

With leadership from the Secretary of Defense, this department is tasked with national security issues as well as overseeing all operations related to the United States Armed Forces.

4. Attorney General: Created by President George Washington in 1789

As head of the Justice Department, the Attorney General acts as chief legal advisor to the U.S. Government. This role includes supervising various agencies like the FBI, DEA, and Bureau of Prisons under DOJ’s umbrella

5. Department of the Interior Created by Robert James Walker while serving President Polk

The Secretary of the Interior oversees this department, which manages federal lands with a focus on conservation and natural resources like wildlife, dams, and reservoirs. It also addresses territorial issues and Native American affairs while handling responsibilities related to national parks.

6. Department of Agriculture: Created by President Lincoln

Established by Abraham Lincoln, the USDA focuses on farming, food production, and rural economic development. It's a vital resource for farmers and food manufacturers in navigating crop sales and distribution.

7. Department of Commerce: Created by President Theadore Roosevelt

Headed by the Secretary of Commerce, this department promotes economic growth through industrial standards setting and data collection for informed policymaking.

8. Department of Labor: Created by President Taft

Led by the Secretary of Labor, this department administers unemployment benefits and enforces workplace safety regulations to protect employees' rights.

9. Department of Health and Human Services: Created by President Jimmy Carter

This department is directed by its secretary to manage public health initiatives ranging from physical fitness programs to opioid prevention strategies as well as adoption services.

10. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Created by President John F Kennedy

This department is at the forefront of managing initiatives like Housing and Community Planning and Development. They are key players in crafting legislation that shapes urban development and promotes fair housing practices.

11. Department of Transportation: Created by both President Lyndon B Johnson and Najeeb Halaby

Led by the Secretary of Transportation, this department ensures that American transportation systems are both safe and up-to-date. Commonly referred to as USDOT or DOT, it orchestrates policies to keep our roads, transit, airways, and railways running smoothly.

12. Department of Energy: Created by President Jimmy Carter

The Department of Energy tackles critical issues surrounding energy production, waste management, and nuclear security. It oversees the nation’s energy supply while addressing climate change challenges through groundbreaking research across its 17 National Laboratories.

13. Department of Education: Created by President Andrew Johnson in 1867 

Led by the Secretary of Education, this department is tasked with various educational responsibilities, such as managing financial loans and grants while gathering critical data on schools to shape future policies.

14. Department of Veterans Affairs: Created By President Ronald Reagan

The Veterans Affairs Department focuses on delivering healthcare and benefits to U.S. veterans. It addresses pressing challenges like veteran homelessness and research effective policies to support those who have bravely served their country.

15. Department of Homeland Security:  Created by President George W Bush

Established by President George W. Bush in response to the September 11 attacks, the DHS stands as the third-largest Cabinet office. Its mission encompasses public security matters, including combating terrorism, preventing disasters, enhancing cybersecurity, securing borders, and overseeing immigration issues.

Other areas that are considered at the Cabinet-level include the White House Chief of Staff, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Office of Management and Budget, the United States Trade Representative, the United States Mission to the United Nations, the Council of Economic Advisers, and the Small Business Administration. While these sections are not technically their own departments, the head administrators receive Cabinet-rank status.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week.