7/28/26 - 8/1/26
Aug. 1st, 2026 11:33 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
gwydion* I barely scratched the surface on news, apologies.
* "I survived the Berlin Pride terror attack. Don’t let the right weaponize our grief:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/berlin-pride-attack-politics
* "‘A big job ahead of him’: world leaders congratulate Andy Burnham as he becomes Britain’s PM:" https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jul/21/world-leaders-congratulate-andy-burnham-becomes-britain-pm
* "Sackings, cabinet surprises and policies: Burnham's first 24 hours as PM:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gjz907pppo
* "‘Cockroach Movement’ Forces Out India’s Education Minister:" https://time.com/article/2026/07/25/cockroach-movement-forces-out-india-education-minister/
* "We used to be able to buy things in this country:" https://dannykatch.substack.com/p/we-used-to-be-able-to-buy-things
* "House Republicans pass hard-right defense bill, handing wins to Trump:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/22/house-republicans-pass-defense-bill-01008493
It endorses the US military murdering random Latin American fishermen, the Iran War, and lets ICE do what it wants with no limits or guard rails, and allows the legal violent occupation of American Cities by the National Guard on the president's whim.
This also includes the SAVE Act which aims to make it illegal for most married women and many trans people to vote as part of a scheme to fix elections.
Please contact your senators and ask them to vote NO.
These are the Democratic Quislings who sided with fascism over Freedom in the House:
Henry Cuellar of Texas,
Don Davis of North Carolina,
Jared Golden of Maine,
Vicente Gonzalez of Texas,
Adam Gray of California,
Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington.
If one of these is your representative, please tell them how you feel.
* "Democrats document staffing gaps in counterterrorism and election security:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/democrats-document-staffing-counterterrorism-election-security-01016750
* "Trump is too petty to keep America safe, Senate report accuses:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/trump-is-too-petty-to-keep-america-safe-senate-report-accuses-2509199427992
* Anthony Fauci's Show Trial: How we are treating a hero of the pandemic is another national shame.
* "Rand Paul releases Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diary notes. Here's what they tell us:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/27/nx-s1-5909531/rand-paul-anthony-fauci-coronavirus-diary-lab-leak-origin
* "Trump administration needs to stop ‘public harassment’ of Fauci and scientists, open letter says:" https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jul/28/trump-administration-fauci-scientists
* "Dr. Anthony Fauci deserved gratitude, not Rand Paul’s Republican show trial:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/rand-paul-anthony-fauci
* "Paul says Fauci will face ‘repercussions’ for taking the Fifth. That could get complicated.:" https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/29/congress/rand-paul-fauci-biden-pardon-fifth-amendment-01015150
* KEEP the Pressure ON!! "Blanche nomination hangs by a thread as Cornyn stands by settlement ultimatum:" https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/29/congress/todd-blanche-cornyn-deal-01015144
* "Senator betrayed by Trump gets payback with attorney general nomination:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/senator-betrayed-by-trump-gets-payback-with-attorney-general-nomination-2508843587547
* "Senator betrayed by Trump gets payback with attorney general nomination:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/trump-gets-in-his-own-way-as-attorney-general-pick-stalls-in-senate-2508961859926
* "Trump says he will keep Blanche in acting status if needed:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/trump-blanche-acting-nomination-01017021
* "‘Single greatest heist’: Trump would rather lose Blanche than give up your money:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/single-greatest-heist-trump-would-rather-lose-blanche-than-give-up-your-money-2509160003905
* "Senate confirms Clayton as new director of intelligence:" https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/senate-confirms-clayton-new-director-intelligence-rcna589654
* "Kentucky governor to McConnell: Prove you can serve or ‘resign’:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/kentucky-governor-to-mcconnell-prove-you-can-serve-or-resign-2508827203600
* "Do Your Phone Calls and Emails Matter? :" https://cmarmitage.substack.com/p/do-your-phone-calls-and-emails-matter
* Our until Midterms is to survive, to build grassroots resistance, to do all in our power to slow the republican Christo-fascist agenda, and to prepare for 2026 in case there is still Democracy.
"Take action with Indivisible:" https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible/
Trump 2.0 Indivisible Guide. https://indivisible.org/resource/guide
If you can't safely contact them in person, here are some other options for contacting your Congress Critters:
Five Calls to your critters: https://5calls.org/
Here is one that will send your reps a fax: https://resist.bot/
And another: https://faxzero.com/fax_senate.php
Snail Mail Campaigns: https://conuly.dreamwidth.org/3622760.html
"Congress. gov:" https://www.congress.gov/
White house (Possibly Dangerous): https://www.whitehouse.gov/
ACLU advice for writing to your Critters: https://www.aclu.org/writing-your-elected-representatives
This tracks legislation: https://www.govtrack.us/
"The Public Comment Process (+ how to write effective public comments):" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/781844516804149248?source=share
"Swing Left:" https://swingleft.org/
Run for Something: https://runforsomething.net/
"Vote Smart:" https://justfacts.votesmart.org/
* "Trump's claims of 250,000 non-U.S. citizens on voter rolls leave some states baffled:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/31/nx-s1-5906708/trump-claim-noncitizens-midterms-election-interference-voter-rolls
* "FBI Escalates Trump’s “Voter Fraud” Crusade With Disturbing Move:" https://newrepublic.com/post/213812/fbi-escalates-trump-voter-fraud-crusade-ip-address
* "Federal judge rejects DOJ attempt to obtain unredacted NJ voter rolls:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/29/judge-rejects-doj-obtain-nj-voter-rolls-01015607
* "Federal judge tosses Trump administration lawsuit seeking full access to Illinois voter rolls:" https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2026/08/01/trump-lawsuit-illinois-voter-rolls-judge-reject
* We are in primary season. States vote at different times, so I beg ALL of you to check when your state is voting. If you are in an in-person vote state, research ahead of time so you can vote for the candidate with views closest to your own. If you vote by mail, take the time to look them up when your ballot comes.
THIS is how you move the party further LEFT.
PLAN YOUR VOTE!!!
Primary schedule here:
* "2026 Statewide Primary Calendar:" https://www.270towin.com/2026-state-primary-calendar/
I don't know where you live, so I can't link this for you, but I find the Progressive Voter Guide online very helpful in narrowing down candidates in the often packed primaries where I live.
I also suggest looking at things like volunteer work and endorsements, because it really, really helps with things like sheriff and judicial elections, but can be useful in all sorts of primaries when you have multiple good options.
REMEMBER: Don't just vote for the big things like US Congress. Vote in every State and local race down to the smallest and on all the referendums.
State and local elections have a massive impact on your quality of life.
* Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Virginia, and Washington State Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 4!
Washington, remember that if you don't get your ballot, you can get one at the courthouse and vote there.
I voted in mid-July, the day my ballot came. Remember that it is a good idea to vote early if you can.
* Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Virginia, and Washington State Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 4!
* Tennessee Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 6!
* Hawaii Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 8!
* Connecticut, Minnesota, Vermont, and Wisconsin Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 11!
* Alaska, Florida, and Wyoming Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 18!
* "LGBTQ+ advocates are building a political pipeline, one D.C. neighborhood at a time:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/queering-dc-local-government
* "Maine Senate candidate Troy Jackson’s greatest political asset may be that he’s boring:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/troy-jackson-maine-boring
* "Turek builds on campaign momentum with Obama endorsement:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/turek-builds-on-campaign-momentum-with-obama-endorsement-2508983875529
* "Ohio’s Democratic candidate for governor loses top LGBTQ+ grade over anti-trans remarks:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/amy-acton-lgbtq-downgrade
* "Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate’s LGBTQ+ damage control meeting devolves into ‘shitshow’:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/amy-acton-lgbtq-meeting-shitshow
* "This Texas Nominee Keeps Peddling Fascist Conspiracy Theories. State GOP Leaders Are Silent.:" https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/bo-french-conspiracy-theories/
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse. "MAGA Rep. Allegedly Assaulted Wife, Put Gun to Her Head. Republicans Don’t Care:" https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/max-miller-allegedly-assaulted-wife-republicans-1235599334/
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse. "‘Daddy’s house is scary’: Horrifying abuse allegations surface against GOP Rep. Max Miller:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/daddy-s-house-is-scary-gop-rep-max-miller-faces-violent-allegations-2508827203778
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape."GOP senator silent as daughter accuses Republican congressman of abuse:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/gop-senator-silent-as-daughter-accuses-republican-congressman-of-abuse-2508958275810
* This is damning. CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape. "Poll: Trump’s MAGA voters would stick by a candidate through the most serious of scandals:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/maga-trump-scandal-2026-elections-01013859
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape. "GOP Rep. Max Miller’s Ex-Wife Files Restraining Order Against Him as Abuse Allegations Complicate His Reelection Bid:" https://people.com/gop-rep-max-miller-ex-wife-files-restraining-order-against-him-as-abuse-allegations-complicate-his-reelection-bid-12031362
* "Maddow flags the weirdest candidates 99 days from midterms:" https://www.ms.now/rachel-maddow/watch/crazysauce-maddow-flags-the-weirdest-candidates-99-days-from-midterms-2508718659625
* "Musk to pour millions into GOP races as his extremist posts draw new scrutiny:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/musk-to-pour-millions-into-gop-races-as-his-extremist-posts-draw-new-scrutiny-2509171779793
* "Musk, heedless of damaged image, plans midterms money dump: reports:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/musk-heedless-of-damaged-image-plans-midterms-money-dump-reports-2509187139999
* "Grandmother, 82, wins law change so she can enjoy Happy Hour at care home:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70gz5y2xpxo
* "After Gov. Abigail Spanberger trounced her in Virginia, Winsome Earle-Sears targets marriage equality:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/winsome-earle-sears-marriage-equality
* "Josh Shapiro repeals HIV law that made a diagnosis a felony enhancement in Pennsylvania:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/pennsylvania-hiv-decriminilization
I know this likely means nothing to anyone too young to remember the '80's, but I teared up.
* "North Carolina Republican lawmaker wants the state to police what transgender teachers can wear:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/north-carolina-transgender-dress-code
If you think this sort of gender policing stops with trans women, you are sorely mistaken. Throw us to the wolves and the wolves eat you next.
* "New York sculptor spent $100,000 to make a Charlie Kirk statue no one wants to buy:" https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jul/20/sculptor-charlie-kirk-statue-new-york
* I have concerns. "Waymo car delivers misbehaving teens to California police:" https://www.wpxi.com/news/trending/waymo-car-delivers-misbehaving-teens-california-police/UCOGYIJRHJG2LMHYWJQ3PH7VEY/
* "Federal court strikes down Florida’s Stop WOKE Act in higher ed:" https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2026/07/07/federal-court-strikes-down-floridas-stop-woke-act-in-higher-ed/
* "University of Alabama quietly abandons sexual orientation & gender identity nondiscrimination policy:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/alabama-university-sexual-orientation-discrimination
* CW: Rape, CSA. "Four women accuse Jared Leto of criminal sexual conduct:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7lg2nz2x2o
Even I, a person who is cut off from most celebrity gossip, has heard enough about his behavior that I have zero surprise that something like this was going on.
I think it should go without saying that I believe the women.
* CW: Rape. "Isolate, Inebriate, Intimidate, Repeat: High Rates of Sexual Force Against Women Are Reported When Young Men Given Anonymous Surveys:" https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/08862605261432630
* "MAGA men are fleeing women for all-male gyms — and somehow calling it straight:" https://www.advocate.com/news/culture/maga-men-only-gyms
* "The Right-Wing Dating App is Even Worse Than I Expected:"
* "Chappell Roan & The Impossible Standards For Queer Women:"
* "Chappell Roan vs. The Transphobes:"
* "Peer-Reviewed Study Finds Puberty Blockers Associated with Improved Mental Health Outcomes for Transgender Youth:" https://davisvanguard.org/2026/07/puberty-blockers-transyouth-mental-health/?inappexfil=true
* "An anti-trans activist lied about a trans athlete injuring cis women. Now she has to pay the price.:" https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2026/07/an-anti-trans-activist-lied-about-a-trans-athlete-injuring-cis-women-now-she-has-to-pay-the-price/
* "A Black trans teen was shot and killed in Florida. Almost no one reported it:" https://www.advocate.com/news/crime/jayla-mcgee-florida-murder
* "Anti-trans rally flops as Seattle Storm player wears ‘trans rights are human rights’ shirt:" https://www.advocate.com/news/sophie-cunningham-rally-trans
* "On the Secret Gay Mafia Behind the American Closetocracy | Trae Crowder:"
So I saw the Hunter Biden thing and was like, fuck this! I'm not covering it. Explaining the complexity of my thoughts and feelings on the matter was more than I have energy for 4 1/2 months into a (non-COVID) personal health crisis that eats all my strength.
Look, Trae Crowder is a straight cis man, and his wording is not always perfect, but he captured it pretty much exactly. It's sort of homophobia all the way down, both on the part of Republicans and on the part of people on the left attacking them this way, that the closet is not an excuse for this sort of terrible behavior, and he unpacks it really beautifully, both with the nuance I'm not up to expressing just now, an a level of emotion that is pretty much what I am feeling too.
I'm probably not going to say much, or even anything more about the Biden/Graham closetocracy thing unless I see something really compelling worth sharing.
This video does a far better job of speaking for me far better than I can at the moment.
* "A new HIV diagnosis doesn't have to be nerve-wracking. Advocates share their advice:" https://www.advocate.com/health/hiv/the-talk-new-hiv-diagnosis
* "The people who called AIDS God’s punishment for gays are helping measles make a comeback:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/measles-aids-gay-lessons
* "Measles Is Becoming So Common That Treatments May Soon Be Needed:" https://www.wired.com/story/measles-treatments-soon-needed/
* "DR Congo Ebola epidemic becomes world’s second largest outbreak:" https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/7/31/dr-congo-ebola-epidemic-becomes-worlds-second-largest-outbreak
* "Trump administration’s USDA lab closures threaten cyclospora research as parasite outbreak sickens thousands:" https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/07/17/lab-closures-threaten-cyclospora-research-as-parasite-outbreak-sickens-thousands/
* "Nurses chase Cyclospora using grocery receipts, food apps and detailed interviews:" https://www.npr.org/2026/08/01/nx-s1-5915633/cyclosporiasis-washtenaw-michigan-foodborne-illness-cdc
* "‘Extremely scary findings’ show climate crisis is supercharging Europe’s wildfire weather:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/31/wildfires-extreme-weather-europe-spain-france-climate-crisis-analysis
* "Why France and Spain may be entering a new era of giant, out-of-control fires:" https://www.nbcnews.com/science/climate-change/france-spain-fires-risk-climate-change-studies-rcna590091
* "Heatwaves and raging fires mark Europe’s ‘dystopian’ summer:" https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-02/europe-fires-fingerprints-of-climate-change/106967040
* "More than 300,000 flee wildfires in France and Spain:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7le0d53y2o
* "‘We stared into an abyss’: the men and women battling France’s megafire:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/aug/01/wildfire-france-firefighters-battling-france-megafire
* "Wildfires spread across Greece, conditions worsen in France and Spain:" https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/wildfires-rage-greece-firefighters-continue-battle-france-spain-2026-08-01/
* "‘Nightmarish’ Wildfire in Crete Kills Two Firefighters as Thousands Evacuate:" https://archive.ph/ajLBX
* "Wildfire near Sizewell nuclear plant causes ‘total devastation’ to Suffolk landscape:" https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jul/31/suffolk-wildfire-sizewell-nuclear-plant-dunwich-heath
* "Pictures show scale of drought across England as rivers dry up:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgljz92j0j0o
* "Canada issues air quality warnings over US wildfire smoke after Trump tariff threat:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/20/canada-air-quality-warnings-us-wildfire-smoke-trump-tariffs
* "Are Wildfires Getting Worse? California’s Forest-Killing Fires Now Burn 30 Times More Forest Than 40 Years Ago:" https://www.discovermagazine.com/are-wildfires-getting-worse-california-s-forest-killing-fires-now-burn-30-times-more-forest-than-40-years-ago-49412?
* "Northern Minnesota July lightning fires nearly 60 percent contained, crews watch for new starts:" https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/07/31/wildfires-nearly-60-percent-contained-in-northern-minnesota
* "DOGE delayed a grant that would have reduced fire fuels in a Minnesota forest now ablaze:" https://archive.ph/4xwmv
* "Death toll rises to 13 in Chile's severe storms:" https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260722-death-toll-rises-to-13-in-chile-s-severe-storms
* "'Cruelly hot': Japan devises new term for heatwave days:" https://web.archive.org/web/20260418040724/https://japantoday.com/category/national/'cruelly-hot'-japan-devises-new-term-for-heatwave-days
* "13 dead after powerful earthquake rocks Japan, damaging buildings and mall in south: Broadcaster:" https://abcnews.com/International/magnitude-71-earthquake-rocks-japan-tsunami-warning-issued/story?id=135143882
* "Many quake deaths may have been avoidable, report says, faulting Venezuela’s response:" https://archive.ph/CfBDC
* "Venezuela faces staggering cost to rebuild after devastating earthquakes:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/28/nx-s1-5896367/venezuela-faces-staggering-cost-to-rebuild-after-devastating-earthquakes
* "AP Exclusive: A boater’s photo may be ‘the last picture’ of group drowned in an Ohio river:" https://apnews.com/article/ohio-river-drowning-group-honduras-327dd0e5d6cd3a346dc000551eabd53e?
* "Europe turns to goats to prevent wildfires:" https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-goat-herders-fire-fighters-wildfires-spain-france/
* "AI Companies Are Buying Antique Books, Ingesting Their Contents to Train Models, and Then Destroying Them at Incredible Scale:" https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-companies-destroying-rare-books
* "Company Offering Printed Books to Train AI Stops After 404 Media Coverage:" https://www.404media.co/ai-company-training-scanning-books-database-isbndb/
Which doesn't stop AI companies buying them somewhere else.
* "OpenAI says its AI went rogue and launched 'unprecedented' cyber-attack:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3ek3gvdnj3o
* "Why did OpenAI's and Anthropic's AI models hack other companies?:" https://www.npr.org/2026/08/01/nx-s1-5914852/anthropic-openai-models-hack-cybersecurity
* "AI firms must answer for rogue bots, says boss of hacked company:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr7k49xjzzeo
* "When rogue AI launches a cyberattack, who is legally responsible?:" https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260802-when-rogue-ai-launches-a-cyberattack-who-is-legally-responsible
* "Elon Musk Melts Down Over Perfectly Normal Questions in Wild New Interview:" https://gizmodo.com/elon-musk-economist-interview-2000790016
* "Remains of King Alfred the Great found under car park, TV show claims:" https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/26261693.remains-king-alfred-great-found-car-park-tv-show-claims/
* "Medieval Medicine: Blood, Guts, Books and Herbs!:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHHbBRI7NDo
* "A Common Sense Message from Thomas Paine for America's 250th Birthday:"
* "The 40-hour Week was Meant to be Temporary:"
* There are a bunch of trigger warnings in these, which they list in the beginning of the episodes. "Frida Kahlo: Part 1:" https://queerasfact.podbean.com/e/frida-kahlo-part-1/
* There are a bunch of trigger warnings in these, which they list in the beginning of the episodes. "Frida Kahlo: Part 2:" https://queerasfact.podbean.com/e/frida-kahlo-part-2/
* "The Demon Next Door:" https://archive.ph/KRsoE
* CW: Rape. "“That Guy Is Still Out There”:" https://www.propublica.org/article/alice-sebold-anthony-broadwater-rape-exoneration-syracuse
* "Roblox is Being Sued for Child Labor:"
* "Michelin-Starred Chef Arrested for Serving Sorbet Sprinkled With Ants:" https://www.vice.com/en/article/michelin-starred-chef-arrested-for-serving-sorbet-sprinkled-with-ants/?
* "2 Goldfish Kept in Tank Outside Sushi Restaurant Are Declared ‘Sentient Beings’ in Landmark Court Ruling:" https://people.com/2-goldfish-declared-sentient-beings-in-landmark-argentina-court-ruling-12019111
* Thursday: A lot has been happening I am too tired to write about. Lots of up hills both ways in the heat, really. The up side is we are jamming all the aid hours in we can, which is strenuous in a bunch of ways, but means I have someone else changing all the litters most days.
I am convinced Claw is above 11 pounds and climbing. The last couple of weeks she's been shouldering Saffy aside for treats and the power dynamic has become complicated. Livia's still heaviest and slightly bigger, but not by much. Saffy has the most weight of personality. She's better at being in charge than the other two, but not a bully with it. (Sure, she'll try to sit where another cat is already sitting, but she's just as happy to cuddle, which works out great for Claw, but not poor Livia.) Claw is nearly as big and heavy as Livia and she loves to wrestle and play tag and attack tails, but it's for the pleasure of it. You can hear her purring from across the room the moment she starts thinking of mischief.
Clawdia completely conquered the puzzle feeder about a week ago, so it's a real competition now.
I have taken to thinking of Livia as "the Dowager Empress."
I did start the paperwork packet, but it's one of the ones where they need lots of details for all human household members, so I need to grab squirrel. And then there is the inevitable hard bits I need to grab out of the documentation folder, but I'd rather do that a different day. My eyes keep getting tired and are achy and itchy. We got the Black Death over a week ago, while I found where I'd left off, the print is so tiny, I haven't been up to it with the headache and the eye issues.
* "Leslie Jones on Right-Wing Claims That Racism Is Over & What Allyship Really Means | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Crashes Spain's World Cup Moment & Jon Examines Team Trump's “Meritocracy" | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Bombs at White House Correspondents' Dinner & Jon Stewart Offers Comedy Tips | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Rails Against Communism at Georgia Rally & Don Jr. Swears He Doesn’t Do Coke | The Daily Show:"
* "Well That Was a Surprise:"
* "AI Economics for Dummies:" https://www.mcsweeneys.net/articles/ai-economics-for-dummies
* "ADHD Has ALWAYS Been Here... | AJ Wilkerson Comedy:"
* I have HUGE respect for Emily Wilson. "An Uncomplicated Man:" https://www.lrb.co.uk/the-paper/v48/n14/emily-wilson/an-uncomplicated-man
* "ok I said I was going to do a Nolan Odyssey review so here goes:" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/823810919733854208?source=share
* "Emily Wilson Was Right About Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey:"
* ""The Odyssey" (2026) Costumes Are a Flop Unfortunately:"
* "Was There Ever an Original Version of ‘The Odyssey,’ and Do We Need to Worry About What Homer Would Think?:" https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/was-there-ever-an-original-version-of-the-odyssey-and-do-we-need-to-worry-about-what-homer-would-think-180989143/
* "The Closest Thing to "The Odyssey" is Hip Hop:"
* "11 transmasc docs, dramas, and comedies you shouldn’t overlook:" https://www.advocate.com/film/transmasc-trans-man-ftm-movies-2677278014
* "Artificial Alexandria:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DdttDjLQidU
* "Firery Friars:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/h4dKdut1CZI
* "Treacherous Tournaments:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/s2xOT8EKwN4
* "Victorious Vanity:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/90Xb7uieXLk
* "Heroic Heraldry:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/05kKQNd5CWI
* "Gallivanting Gaveston:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LJ_BGjHZvjs
* "Chaotic Chronicles:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/se--Glw9Pk4
* "Pevensie Politics (Chronicles of Narnia):" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/J8leBf7HZso
* "Auspicious Audacious Authors:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/q4LXEE-p1rA
* "Malevolent Mayhaps:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/YBMu-NJzHso
* "I talk to my cat about work meeting etiquette:"
* "When you break up with your best friend (Wuthering Heights Edition):"
*****
* Full list of Resistance and charity links has been migrated to my profile as it was getting out of hand.
The help links are at the bottom under the cut.
* It is important we flip the US Senate in November!
Here are some key Campaigns to Donate to:
If you wish to help defeat an election denier for Arizona Secretary of state, here is Adrian Fontes's fundraising page: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/friendraising-fontes
James Talrico, Texas: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/jt-tx-web
Roy Cooper, North Carolina: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/em-cgp-2025-cooper
Mary Peltola, Alaska: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dw_aksen
Josh Turek, Iowa: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dw_iasen
I am still furious at Sherrod Brown for throwing trans people under the bus last election. At the same time, we need the Senate, so I will post the donation link and leave it to the individual conscience.
Sherrod Brown, Ohio: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/subodh
* Want to help Jennifer Jenkins and Southern Progress PAC piss of Queerphobic and Misogynistic Repubblicans? https://secure.actblue.com/donate/s-partner_loc_jj_em_southernprogress
* "Transcontinental Pipeline:" https://tcpipeline.org/steps/
* "Swing Left:" https://swingleft.org/
* "2026 Statewide Primary Calendar:" https://www.270towin.com/2026-state-primary-calendar/
* "Project Salt Box:" https://projectsaltbox.substack.com/
* "When the Feds Come to Your City: Standing Up to ICE :" https://crimethinc.com/2025/12/03/when-the-feds-come-to-your-city-standing-up-to-ice-a-guide-from-chicago-organizers
* Links to Help organize in advance of ICE Occupation: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/807226885129060352?source=share
* "MASTER LIST OF WAYS TO HELP IN MINNEAPOLIS:" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/807223113540599808?source=share
* "Here are Minnesota groups that need your help organizing against ICE and DHS operations:" https://www.advocate.com/news/minnesota-mutual-aid-groups-ice
* "The List of Shame: People frequently ask us about whether their specific US state is trying to enact a social media age verification law so they can call their state representatives and yell at them about it!:" https://dw-advocacy.dreamwidth.org/1493.html
* "Keep Android Open:" https://keepandroidopen.org/
* "Taking action against AI harms:" https://www.anildash.com/2026/02/23/taking-action-ai-harms/
* "Resist and Unsubscribe:" https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/
* Suggestions for crafts a person can do in bed are in the notes: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/809534727291912192?source=share
* If you need help with chest binders:
* "Free Chest Binders:" https://www.pointofpride.org/free-chest-binders
* "Brother 2 Brother Binder Program:" https://blacktransmen.org/binder-program/
* "Morebinders:" https://www.morebinders.com/about
* "The Queer Trans Project :" https://queertransproject.org/
* "Free Gender Affirming Gear Program:" https://www.ftmessentials.com/pages/ftme-free-youth-binder-program
* CW: Suicide "These hotlines are still available for LGBTQ+ youth after Trump kills 988 services:" https://www.advocate.com/news/lgbtq-youth-hotlines-still-available
* "State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies:" https://rsa.ed.gov/about/states
* "United States Disappeared Tracker:" https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/danielleharlow/viz/UnitedStatesDisappearedTracker/Map
* "Introducing Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network:" https://aflcio.org/2025/4/16/introducing-rise-federal-workers-legal-defense-network
* Help Lambda Legal Continue their fight: https://support.lambdalegal.org/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app30130a?df_id=6680&mfc_pref=T&6680.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=D3311163DF16F06EEA5520010BAF90B5&_gl=1*n53ras*_gcl_au*MTMxNDYxNjc0LjE3MzgxODExMzg.*_ga*MTY0NDY4OTM4NC4xNzM4MTgxMTM4*_ga_290ZG8GMP3*MTczODE4MTEzOC4xLjEuMTczODE4MTIwMi41OC4wLjA.
* Glad Law is fighting for trans service members. Want to help? https://givebutter.com/donatetoglad?utm_src=webheader&_gl=1*1qhxi1q*_ga*NDM3MjM0Mzk1LjE3NDEwMDk5NDA.*_ga_PCJHHSV2G7*MTc0MTAwOTk0MC4xLjAuMTc0MTAwOTk0MC4wLjAuMA..
* "Donate to the ACLU:" https://action.aclu.org/give/now
* "Vote Smart:" https://justfacts.votesmart.org/
* "Democracy 2025:" https://www.democracy2025.org/?utm_source=df-ad&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=21912407002&utm_content=721373734297&source=df-ad-gs&gad_source=1
* "Here are 26 organizations fighting Donald Trump that you can donate to:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/anti-donald-trump-charities
* Run for Something: https://runforsomething.net/
* "LGBTQ+ Victory Fund:" https://victoryfund.org/
* What to do if you encounter an immigration official. "Know Your Rights:" https://unitedwedream.org/resources/know-your-rights/
* "ICE Raids Toolkit: Defend Against ICE Raids and Community Arrests:" https://www.immigrantdefenseproject.org/raids-toolkit/
* "Legal Services for Your Reproductive Life:" https://reprolegalhelpline.org/
* "National Abortion Hotline:" https://prochoice.org/
* "World Central Kitchen:" https://wck.org/
* Trans support organization: https://www.pointofpride.org/
* "Transanta: An opportunity to directly support trans youth:" https://thisfinecrew.dreamwidth.org/291573.html
* Links for various Palestinian Aid Organizations: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/750151174318112768?source=share
* "Black Alliance for Peace’s Atlanta Citywide Alliance:" https://linktr.ee/bapatlanta
* Map of Cop Cities planned or being built: https://isyourlifebetter.net/cop-cities-usa/
* Want to help Journalists without Borders? https://donate.rsf.org/us/donate/~my-donation
* How to donate to Doctors Without Borders: https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/secure/donate
* "The Rainbow Railroad:" https://www.rainbowrailroad.org/take-action
* "These Organizations Accept Donations To Help People in Ukraine:" https://www.snopes.com/news/2022/03/01/where-to-donate-help-ukraine/
* "Russia-Ukraine War: Info and ways to help:" https://ukrainewar.carrd.co/
* "Support OVD-Info:" https://beste-glatisant.tumblr.com/post/677388506851606528/hi-ive-donated-to-the-ukranian-refugees-and-now
* "War in Ukraine! Support LGBTQ people.:" https://secure.wayforpay.com/payment/s047412e502b6
* What to help fight for queer people in Africa? Try the Initiative Sankofa D’Afrique de l’Ouest www.ISDAO.org
* Organizations to help trans folk: https://gwydionmisha.tumblr.com/post/620857152453640195/about-us
* Indivisible Guide for Trump 2.0 "A Practical Guide to defeating MAGA:" https://indivisible.org/resource/guide
* This tracks legislation: https://www.govtrack.us/
* Have something you want to tell your Congress Critters? If you can't safely protest in person, here are some other options:
Five Calls to your critters: https://5calls.org/
Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to the representative of your choice.
Senate: https://contactsenators.com/senator-phone-numbers/
Congress in General: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member
Here is one that will send your reps a fax: https://resist.bot/
* "DONATE TO EMILY'S LIST:" https://win.emilyslist.org/a/donate-to-emily
* Want to help support all of us all here at the Cat Asylum? https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/Gwydion
* "I survived the Berlin Pride terror attack. Don’t let the right weaponize our grief:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/berlin-pride-attack-politics
* "‘A big job ahead of him’: world leaders congratulate Andy Burnham as he becomes Britain’s PM:" https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jul/21/world-leaders-congratulate-andy-burnham-becomes-britain-pm
* "Sackings, cabinet surprises and policies: Burnham's first 24 hours as PM:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gjz907pppo
* "‘Cockroach Movement’ Forces Out India’s Education Minister:" https://time.com/article/2026/07/25/cockroach-movement-forces-out-india-education-minister/
* "We used to be able to buy things in this country:" https://dannykatch.substack.com/p/we-used-to-be-able-to-buy-things
* "House Republicans pass hard-right defense bill, handing wins to Trump:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/22/house-republicans-pass-defense-bill-01008493
It endorses the US military murdering random Latin American fishermen, the Iran War, and lets ICE do what it wants with no limits or guard rails, and allows the legal violent occupation of American Cities by the National Guard on the president's whim.
This also includes the SAVE Act which aims to make it illegal for most married women and many trans people to vote as part of a scheme to fix elections.
Please contact your senators and ask them to vote NO.
These are the Democratic Quislings who sided with fascism over Freedom in the House:
Henry Cuellar of Texas,
Don Davis of North Carolina,
Jared Golden of Maine,
Vicente Gonzalez of Texas,
Adam Gray of California,
Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington.
If one of these is your representative, please tell them how you feel.
* "Democrats document staffing gaps in counterterrorism and election security:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/democrats-document-staffing-counterterrorism-election-security-01016750
* "Trump is too petty to keep America safe, Senate report accuses:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/trump-is-too-petty-to-keep-america-safe-senate-report-accuses-2509199427992
* Anthony Fauci's Show Trial: How we are treating a hero of the pandemic is another national shame.
* "Rand Paul releases Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diary notes. Here's what they tell us:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/27/nx-s1-5909531/rand-paul-anthony-fauci-coronavirus-diary-lab-leak-origin
* "Trump administration needs to stop ‘public harassment’ of Fauci and scientists, open letter says:" https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jul/28/trump-administration-fauci-scientists
* "Dr. Anthony Fauci deserved gratitude, not Rand Paul’s Republican show trial:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/rand-paul-anthony-fauci
* "Paul says Fauci will face ‘repercussions’ for taking the Fifth. That could get complicated.:" https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/29/congress/rand-paul-fauci-biden-pardon-fifth-amendment-01015150
* KEEP the Pressure ON!! "Blanche nomination hangs by a thread as Cornyn stands by settlement ultimatum:" https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/29/congress/todd-blanche-cornyn-deal-01015144
* "Senator betrayed by Trump gets payback with attorney general nomination:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/senator-betrayed-by-trump-gets-payback-with-attorney-general-nomination-2508843587547
* "Senator betrayed by Trump gets payback with attorney general nomination:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/trump-gets-in-his-own-way-as-attorney-general-pick-stalls-in-senate-2508961859926
* "Trump says he will keep Blanche in acting status if needed:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/trump-blanche-acting-nomination-01017021
* "‘Single greatest heist’: Trump would rather lose Blanche than give up your money:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/single-greatest-heist-trump-would-rather-lose-blanche-than-give-up-your-money-2509160003905
* "Senate confirms Clayton as new director of intelligence:" https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/senate-confirms-clayton-new-director-intelligence-rcna589654
* "Kentucky governor to McConnell: Prove you can serve or ‘resign’:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/kentucky-governor-to-mcconnell-prove-you-can-serve-or-resign-2508827203600
* "Do Your Phone Calls and Emails Matter? :" https://cmarmitage.substack.com/p/do-your-phone-calls-and-emails-matter
* Our until Midterms is to survive, to build grassroots resistance, to do all in our power to slow the republican Christo-fascist agenda, and to prepare for 2026 in case there is still Democracy.
"Take action with Indivisible:" https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible/
Trump 2.0 Indivisible Guide. https://indivisible.org/resource/guide
If you can't safely contact them in person, here are some other options for contacting your Congress Critters:
Five Calls to your critters: https://5calls.org/
Here is one that will send your reps a fax: https://resist.bot/
And another: https://faxzero.com/fax_senate.php
Snail Mail Campaigns: https://conuly.dreamwidth.org/3622760.html
"Congress. gov:" https://www.congress.gov/
White house (Possibly Dangerous): https://www.whitehouse.gov/
ACLU advice for writing to your Critters: https://www.aclu.org/writing-your-elected-representatives
This tracks legislation: https://www.govtrack.us/
"The Public Comment Process (+ how to write effective public comments):" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/781844516804149248?source=share
"Swing Left:" https://swingleft.org/
Run for Something: https://runforsomething.net/
"Vote Smart:" https://justfacts.votesmart.org/
* "Trump's claims of 250,000 non-U.S. citizens on voter rolls leave some states baffled:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/31/nx-s1-5906708/trump-claim-noncitizens-midterms-election-interference-voter-rolls
* "FBI Escalates Trump’s “Voter Fraud” Crusade With Disturbing Move:" https://newrepublic.com/post/213812/fbi-escalates-trump-voter-fraud-crusade-ip-address
* "Federal judge rejects DOJ attempt to obtain unredacted NJ voter rolls:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/29/judge-rejects-doj-obtain-nj-voter-rolls-01015607
* "Federal judge tosses Trump administration lawsuit seeking full access to Illinois voter rolls:" https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2026/08/01/trump-lawsuit-illinois-voter-rolls-judge-reject
* We are in primary season. States vote at different times, so I beg ALL of you to check when your state is voting. If you are in an in-person vote state, research ahead of time so you can vote for the candidate with views closest to your own. If you vote by mail, take the time to look them up when your ballot comes.
THIS is how you move the party further LEFT.
PLAN YOUR VOTE!!!
Primary schedule here:
* "2026 Statewide Primary Calendar:" https://www.270towin.com/2026-state-primary-calendar/
I don't know where you live, so I can't link this for you, but I find the Progressive Voter Guide online very helpful in narrowing down candidates in the often packed primaries where I live.
I also suggest looking at things like volunteer work and endorsements, because it really, really helps with things like sheriff and judicial elections, but can be useful in all sorts of primaries when you have multiple good options.
REMEMBER: Don't just vote for the big things like US Congress. Vote in every State and local race down to the smallest and on all the referendums.
State and local elections have a massive impact on your quality of life.
* Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Virginia, and Washington State Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 4!
Washington, remember that if you don't get your ballot, you can get one at the courthouse and vote there.
I voted in mid-July, the day my ballot came. Remember that it is a good idea to vote early if you can.
* Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Virginia, and Washington State Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 4!
* Tennessee Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 6!
* Hawaii Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 8!
* Connecticut, Minnesota, Vermont, and Wisconsin Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 11!
* Alaska, Florida, and Wyoming Primaries! Don't forget to vote by August 18!
* "LGBTQ+ advocates are building a political pipeline, one D.C. neighborhood at a time:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/queering-dc-local-government
* "Maine Senate candidate Troy Jackson’s greatest political asset may be that he’s boring:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/troy-jackson-maine-boring
* "Turek builds on campaign momentum with Obama endorsement:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/turek-builds-on-campaign-momentum-with-obama-endorsement-2508983875529
* "Ohio’s Democratic candidate for governor loses top LGBTQ+ grade over anti-trans remarks:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/amy-acton-lgbtq-downgrade
* "Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate’s LGBTQ+ damage control meeting devolves into ‘shitshow’:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/amy-acton-lgbtq-meeting-shitshow
* "This Texas Nominee Keeps Peddling Fascist Conspiracy Theories. State GOP Leaders Are Silent.:" https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/bo-french-conspiracy-theories/
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse. "MAGA Rep. Allegedly Assaulted Wife, Put Gun to Her Head. Republicans Don’t Care:" https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/max-miller-allegedly-assaulted-wife-republicans-1235599334/
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse. "‘Daddy’s house is scary’: Horrifying abuse allegations surface against GOP Rep. Max Miller:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/daddy-s-house-is-scary-gop-rep-max-miller-faces-violent-allegations-2508827203778
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape."GOP senator silent as daughter accuses Republican congressman of abuse:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/gop-senator-silent-as-daughter-accuses-republican-congressman-of-abuse-2508958275810
* This is damning. CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape. "Poll: Trump’s MAGA voters would stick by a candidate through the most serious of scandals:" https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/maga-trump-scandal-2026-elections-01013859
* CW: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Rape. "GOP Rep. Max Miller’s Ex-Wife Files Restraining Order Against Him as Abuse Allegations Complicate His Reelection Bid:" https://people.com/gop-rep-max-miller-ex-wife-files-restraining-order-against-him-as-abuse-allegations-complicate-his-reelection-bid-12031362
* "Maddow flags the weirdest candidates 99 days from midterms:" https://www.ms.now/rachel-maddow/watch/crazysauce-maddow-flags-the-weirdest-candidates-99-days-from-midterms-2508718659625
* "Musk to pour millions into GOP races as his extremist posts draw new scrutiny:" https://www.ms.now/all-in/watch/musk-to-pour-millions-into-gop-races-as-his-extremist-posts-draw-new-scrutiny-2509171779793
* "Musk, heedless of damaged image, plans midterms money dump: reports:" https://www.ms.now/the-briefing-with-jen-psaki/watch/musk-heedless-of-damaged-image-plans-midterms-money-dump-reports-2509187139999
* "Grandmother, 82, wins law change so she can enjoy Happy Hour at care home:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70gz5y2xpxo
* "After Gov. Abigail Spanberger trounced her in Virginia, Winsome Earle-Sears targets marriage equality:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/winsome-earle-sears-marriage-equality
* "Josh Shapiro repeals HIV law that made a diagnosis a felony enhancement in Pennsylvania:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/pennsylvania-hiv-decriminilization
I know this likely means nothing to anyone too young to remember the '80's, but I teared up.
* "North Carolina Republican lawmaker wants the state to police what transgender teachers can wear:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/north-carolina-transgender-dress-code
If you think this sort of gender policing stops with trans women, you are sorely mistaken. Throw us to the wolves and the wolves eat you next.
* "New York sculptor spent $100,000 to make a Charlie Kirk statue no one wants to buy:" https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jul/20/sculptor-charlie-kirk-statue-new-york
* I have concerns. "Waymo car delivers misbehaving teens to California police:" https://www.wpxi.com/news/trending/waymo-car-delivers-misbehaving-teens-california-police/UCOGYIJRHJG2LMHYWJQ3PH7VEY/
* "Federal court strikes down Florida’s Stop WOKE Act in higher ed:" https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2026/07/07/federal-court-strikes-down-floridas-stop-woke-act-in-higher-ed/
* "University of Alabama quietly abandons sexual orientation & gender identity nondiscrimination policy:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/states/alabama-university-sexual-orientation-discrimination
* CW: Rape, CSA. "Four women accuse Jared Leto of criminal sexual conduct:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7lg2nz2x2o
Even I, a person who is cut off from most celebrity gossip, has heard enough about his behavior that I have zero surprise that something like this was going on.
I think it should go without saying that I believe the women.
* CW: Rape. "Isolate, Inebriate, Intimidate, Repeat: High Rates of Sexual Force Against Women Are Reported When Young Men Given Anonymous Surveys:" https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/08862605261432630
* "MAGA men are fleeing women for all-male gyms — and somehow calling it straight:" https://www.advocate.com/news/culture/maga-men-only-gyms
* "The Right-Wing Dating App is Even Worse Than I Expected:"
* "Chappell Roan & The Impossible Standards For Queer Women:"
* "Chappell Roan vs. The Transphobes:"
* "Peer-Reviewed Study Finds Puberty Blockers Associated with Improved Mental Health Outcomes for Transgender Youth:" https://davisvanguard.org/2026/07/puberty-blockers-transyouth-mental-health/?inappexfil=true
* "An anti-trans activist lied about a trans athlete injuring cis women. Now she has to pay the price.:" https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2026/07/an-anti-trans-activist-lied-about-a-trans-athlete-injuring-cis-women-now-she-has-to-pay-the-price/
* "A Black trans teen was shot and killed in Florida. Almost no one reported it:" https://www.advocate.com/news/crime/jayla-mcgee-florida-murder
* "Anti-trans rally flops as Seattle Storm player wears ‘trans rights are human rights’ shirt:" https://www.advocate.com/news/sophie-cunningham-rally-trans
* "On the Secret Gay Mafia Behind the American Closetocracy | Trae Crowder:"
So I saw the Hunter Biden thing and was like, fuck this! I'm not covering it. Explaining the complexity of my thoughts and feelings on the matter was more than I have energy for 4 1/2 months into a (non-COVID) personal health crisis that eats all my strength.
Look, Trae Crowder is a straight cis man, and his wording is not always perfect, but he captured it pretty much exactly. It's sort of homophobia all the way down, both on the part of Republicans and on the part of people on the left attacking them this way, that the closet is not an excuse for this sort of terrible behavior, and he unpacks it really beautifully, both with the nuance I'm not up to expressing just now, an a level of emotion that is pretty much what I am feeling too.
I'm probably not going to say much, or even anything more about the Biden/Graham closetocracy thing unless I see something really compelling worth sharing.
This video does a far better job of speaking for me far better than I can at the moment.
* "A new HIV diagnosis doesn't have to be nerve-wracking. Advocates share their advice:" https://www.advocate.com/health/hiv/the-talk-new-hiv-diagnosis
* "The people who called AIDS God’s punishment for gays are helping measles make a comeback:" https://www.advocate.com/opinion/measles-aids-gay-lessons
* "Measles Is Becoming So Common That Treatments May Soon Be Needed:" https://www.wired.com/story/measles-treatments-soon-needed/
* "DR Congo Ebola epidemic becomes world’s second largest outbreak:" https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/7/31/dr-congo-ebola-epidemic-becomes-worlds-second-largest-outbreak
* "Trump administration’s USDA lab closures threaten cyclospora research as parasite outbreak sickens thousands:" https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/07/17/lab-closures-threaten-cyclospora-research-as-parasite-outbreak-sickens-thousands/
* "Nurses chase Cyclospora using grocery receipts, food apps and detailed interviews:" https://www.npr.org/2026/08/01/nx-s1-5915633/cyclosporiasis-washtenaw-michigan-foodborne-illness-cdc
* "‘Extremely scary findings’ show climate crisis is supercharging Europe’s wildfire weather:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/31/wildfires-extreme-weather-europe-spain-france-climate-crisis-analysis
* "Why France and Spain may be entering a new era of giant, out-of-control fires:" https://www.nbcnews.com/science/climate-change/france-spain-fires-risk-climate-change-studies-rcna590091
* "Heatwaves and raging fires mark Europe’s ‘dystopian’ summer:" https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-02/europe-fires-fingerprints-of-climate-change/106967040
* "More than 300,000 flee wildfires in France and Spain:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7le0d53y2o
* "‘We stared into an abyss’: the men and women battling France’s megafire:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/aug/01/wildfire-france-firefighters-battling-france-megafire
* "Wildfires spread across Greece, conditions worsen in France and Spain:" https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/wildfires-rage-greece-firefighters-continue-battle-france-spain-2026-08-01/
* "‘Nightmarish’ Wildfire in Crete Kills Two Firefighters as Thousands Evacuate:" https://archive.ph/ajLBX
* "Wildfire near Sizewell nuclear plant causes ‘total devastation’ to Suffolk landscape:" https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jul/31/suffolk-wildfire-sizewell-nuclear-plant-dunwich-heath
* "Pictures show scale of drought across England as rivers dry up:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgljz92j0j0o
* "Canada issues air quality warnings over US wildfire smoke after Trump tariff threat:" https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/20/canada-air-quality-warnings-us-wildfire-smoke-trump-tariffs
* "Are Wildfires Getting Worse? California’s Forest-Killing Fires Now Burn 30 Times More Forest Than 40 Years Ago:" https://www.discovermagazine.com/are-wildfires-getting-worse-california-s-forest-killing-fires-now-burn-30-times-more-forest-than-40-years-ago-49412?
* "Northern Minnesota July lightning fires nearly 60 percent contained, crews watch for new starts:" https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/07/31/wildfires-nearly-60-percent-contained-in-northern-minnesota
* "DOGE delayed a grant that would have reduced fire fuels in a Minnesota forest now ablaze:" https://archive.ph/4xwmv
* "Death toll rises to 13 in Chile's severe storms:" https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260722-death-toll-rises-to-13-in-chile-s-severe-storms
* "'Cruelly hot': Japan devises new term for heatwave days:" https://web.archive.org/web/20260418040724/https://japantoday.com/category/national/'cruelly-hot'-japan-devises-new-term-for-heatwave-days
* "13 dead after powerful earthquake rocks Japan, damaging buildings and mall in south: Broadcaster:" https://abcnews.com/International/magnitude-71-earthquake-rocks-japan-tsunami-warning-issued/story?id=135143882
* "Many quake deaths may have been avoidable, report says, faulting Venezuela’s response:" https://archive.ph/CfBDC
* "Venezuela faces staggering cost to rebuild after devastating earthquakes:" https://www.npr.org/2026/07/28/nx-s1-5896367/venezuela-faces-staggering-cost-to-rebuild-after-devastating-earthquakes
* "AP Exclusive: A boater’s photo may be ‘the last picture’ of group drowned in an Ohio river:" https://apnews.com/article/ohio-river-drowning-group-honduras-327dd0e5d6cd3a346dc000551eabd53e?
* "Europe turns to goats to prevent wildfires:" https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-goat-herders-fire-fighters-wildfires-spain-france/
* "AI Companies Are Buying Antique Books, Ingesting Their Contents to Train Models, and Then Destroying Them at Incredible Scale:" https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-companies-destroying-rare-books
* "Company Offering Printed Books to Train AI Stops After 404 Media Coverage:" https://www.404media.co/ai-company-training-scanning-books-database-isbndb/
Which doesn't stop AI companies buying them somewhere else.
* "OpenAI says its AI went rogue and launched 'unprecedented' cyber-attack:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3ek3gvdnj3o
* "Why did OpenAI's and Anthropic's AI models hack other companies?:" https://www.npr.org/2026/08/01/nx-s1-5914852/anthropic-openai-models-hack-cybersecurity
* "AI firms must answer for rogue bots, says boss of hacked company:" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr7k49xjzzeo
* "When rogue AI launches a cyberattack, who is legally responsible?:" https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260802-when-rogue-ai-launches-a-cyberattack-who-is-legally-responsible
* "Elon Musk Melts Down Over Perfectly Normal Questions in Wild New Interview:" https://gizmodo.com/elon-musk-economist-interview-2000790016
* "Remains of King Alfred the Great found under car park, TV show claims:" https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/26261693.remains-king-alfred-great-found-car-park-tv-show-claims/
* "Medieval Medicine: Blood, Guts, Books and Herbs!:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHHbBRI7NDo
* "A Common Sense Message from Thomas Paine for America's 250th Birthday:"
* "The 40-hour Week was Meant to be Temporary:"
* There are a bunch of trigger warnings in these, which they list in the beginning of the episodes. "Frida Kahlo: Part 1:" https://queerasfact.podbean.com/e/frida-kahlo-part-1/
* There are a bunch of trigger warnings in these, which they list in the beginning of the episodes. "Frida Kahlo: Part 2:" https://queerasfact.podbean.com/e/frida-kahlo-part-2/
* "The Demon Next Door:" https://archive.ph/KRsoE
* CW: Rape. "“That Guy Is Still Out There”:" https://www.propublica.org/article/alice-sebold-anthony-broadwater-rape-exoneration-syracuse
* "Roblox is Being Sued for Child Labor:"
* "Michelin-Starred Chef Arrested for Serving Sorbet Sprinkled With Ants:" https://www.vice.com/en/article/michelin-starred-chef-arrested-for-serving-sorbet-sprinkled-with-ants/?
* "2 Goldfish Kept in Tank Outside Sushi Restaurant Are Declared ‘Sentient Beings’ in Landmark Court Ruling:" https://people.com/2-goldfish-declared-sentient-beings-in-landmark-argentina-court-ruling-12019111
* Thursday: A lot has been happening I am too tired to write about. Lots of up hills both ways in the heat, really. The up side is we are jamming all the aid hours in we can, which is strenuous in a bunch of ways, but means I have someone else changing all the litters most days.
I am convinced Claw is above 11 pounds and climbing. The last couple of weeks she's been shouldering Saffy aside for treats and the power dynamic has become complicated. Livia's still heaviest and slightly bigger, but not by much. Saffy has the most weight of personality. She's better at being in charge than the other two, but not a bully with it. (Sure, she'll try to sit where another cat is already sitting, but she's just as happy to cuddle, which works out great for Claw, but not poor Livia.) Claw is nearly as big and heavy as Livia and she loves to wrestle and play tag and attack tails, but it's for the pleasure of it. You can hear her purring from across the room the moment she starts thinking of mischief.
Clawdia completely conquered the puzzle feeder about a week ago, so it's a real competition now.
I have taken to thinking of Livia as "the Dowager Empress."
I did start the paperwork packet, but it's one of the ones where they need lots of details for all human household members, so I need to grab squirrel. And then there is the inevitable hard bits I need to grab out of the documentation folder, but I'd rather do that a different day. My eyes keep getting tired and are achy and itchy. We got the Black Death over a week ago, while I found where I'd left off, the print is so tiny, I haven't been up to it with the headache and the eye issues.
* "Leslie Jones on Right-Wing Claims That Racism Is Over & What Allyship Really Means | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Crashes Spain's World Cup Moment & Jon Examines Team Trump's “Meritocracy" | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Bombs at White House Correspondents' Dinner & Jon Stewart Offers Comedy Tips | The Daily Show:"
* "Trump Rails Against Communism at Georgia Rally & Don Jr. Swears He Doesn’t Do Coke | The Daily Show:"
* "Well That Was a Surprise:"
* "AI Economics for Dummies:" https://www.mcsweeneys.net/articles/ai-economics-for-dummies
* "ADHD Has ALWAYS Been Here... | AJ Wilkerson Comedy:"
* I have HUGE respect for Emily Wilson. "An Uncomplicated Man:" https://www.lrb.co.uk/the-paper/v48/n14/emily-wilson/an-uncomplicated-man
* "ok I said I was going to do a Nolan Odyssey review so here goes:" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/823810919733854208?source=share
* "Emily Wilson Was Right About Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey:"
* ""The Odyssey" (2026) Costumes Are a Flop Unfortunately:"
* "Was There Ever an Original Version of ‘The Odyssey,’ and Do We Need to Worry About What Homer Would Think?:" https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/was-there-ever-an-original-version-of-the-odyssey-and-do-we-need-to-worry-about-what-homer-would-think-180989143/
* "The Closest Thing to "The Odyssey" is Hip Hop:"
* "11 transmasc docs, dramas, and comedies you shouldn’t overlook:" https://www.advocate.com/film/transmasc-trans-man-ftm-movies-2677278014
* "Artificial Alexandria:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DdttDjLQidU
* "Firery Friars:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/h4dKdut1CZI
* "Treacherous Tournaments:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/s2xOT8EKwN4
* "Victorious Vanity:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/90Xb7uieXLk
* "Heroic Heraldry:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/05kKQNd5CWI
* "Gallivanting Gaveston:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LJ_BGjHZvjs
* "Chaotic Chronicles:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/se--Glw9Pk4
* "Pevensie Politics (Chronicles of Narnia):" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/J8leBf7HZso
* "Auspicious Audacious Authors:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/q4LXEE-p1rA
* "Malevolent Mayhaps:" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/YBMu-NJzHso
* "I talk to my cat about work meeting etiquette:"
* "When you break up with your best friend (Wuthering Heights Edition):"
*****
* Full list of Resistance and charity links has been migrated to my profile as it was getting out of hand.
The help links are at the bottom under the cut.
* It is important we flip the US Senate in November!
Here are some key Campaigns to Donate to:
If you wish to help defeat an election denier for Arizona Secretary of state, here is Adrian Fontes's fundraising page: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/friendraising-fontes
James Talrico, Texas: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/jt-tx-web
Roy Cooper, North Carolina: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/em-cgp-2025-cooper
Mary Peltola, Alaska: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dw_aksen
Josh Turek, Iowa: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dw_iasen
I am still furious at Sherrod Brown for throwing trans people under the bus last election. At the same time, we need the Senate, so I will post the donation link and leave it to the individual conscience.
Sherrod Brown, Ohio: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/subodh
* Want to help Jennifer Jenkins and Southern Progress PAC piss of Queerphobic and Misogynistic Repubblicans? https://secure.actblue.com/donate/s-partner_loc_jj_em_southernprogress
* "Transcontinental Pipeline:" https://tcpipeline.org/steps/
* "Swing Left:" https://swingleft.org/
* "2026 Statewide Primary Calendar:" https://www.270towin.com/2026-state-primary-calendar/
* "Project Salt Box:" https://projectsaltbox.substack.com/
* "When the Feds Come to Your City: Standing Up to ICE :" https://crimethinc.com/2025/12/03/when-the-feds-come-to-your-city-standing-up-to-ice-a-guide-from-chicago-organizers
* Links to Help organize in advance of ICE Occupation: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/807226885129060352?source=share
* "MASTER LIST OF WAYS TO HELP IN MINNEAPOLIS:" https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/807223113540599808?source=share
* "Here are Minnesota groups that need your help organizing against ICE and DHS operations:" https://www.advocate.com/news/minnesota-mutual-aid-groups-ice
* "The List of Shame: People frequently ask us about whether their specific US state is trying to enact a social media age verification law so they can call their state representatives and yell at them about it!:" https://dw-advocacy.dreamwidth.org/1493.html
* "Keep Android Open:" https://keepandroidopen.org/
* "Taking action against AI harms:" https://www.anildash.com/2026/02/23/taking-action-ai-harms/
* "Resist and Unsubscribe:" https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/
* Suggestions for crafts a person can do in bed are in the notes: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/809534727291912192?source=share
* If you need help with chest binders:
* "Free Chest Binders:" https://www.pointofpride.org/free-chest-binders
* "Brother 2 Brother Binder Program:" https://blacktransmen.org/binder-program/
* "Morebinders:" https://www.morebinders.com/about
* "The Queer Trans Project :" https://queertransproject.org/
* "Free Gender Affirming Gear Program:" https://www.ftmessentials.com/pages/ftme-free-youth-binder-program
* CW: Suicide "These hotlines are still available for LGBTQ+ youth after Trump kills 988 services:" https://www.advocate.com/news/lgbtq-youth-hotlines-still-available
* "State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies:" https://rsa.ed.gov/about/states
* "United States Disappeared Tracker:" https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/danielleharlow/viz/UnitedStatesDisappearedTracker/Map
* "Introducing Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network:" https://aflcio.org/2025/4/16/introducing-rise-federal-workers-legal-defense-network
* Help Lambda Legal Continue their fight: https://support.lambdalegal.org/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app30130a?df_id=6680&mfc_pref=T&6680.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=D3311163DF16F06EEA5520010BAF90B5&_gl=1*n53ras*_gcl_au*MTMxNDYxNjc0LjE3MzgxODExMzg.*_ga*MTY0NDY4OTM4NC4xNzM4MTgxMTM4*_ga_290ZG8GMP3*MTczODE4MTEzOC4xLjEuMTczODE4MTIwMi41OC4wLjA.
* Glad Law is fighting for trans service members. Want to help? https://givebutter.com/donatetoglad?utm_src=webheader&_gl=1*1qhxi1q*_ga*NDM3MjM0Mzk1LjE3NDEwMDk5NDA.*_ga_PCJHHSV2G7*MTc0MTAwOTk0MC4xLjAuMTc0MTAwOTk0MC4wLjAuMA..
* "Donate to the ACLU:" https://action.aclu.org/give/now
* "Vote Smart:" https://justfacts.votesmart.org/
* "Democracy 2025:" https://www.democracy2025.org/?utm_source=df-ad&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=21912407002&utm_content=721373734297&source=df-ad-gs&gad_source=1
* "Here are 26 organizations fighting Donald Trump that you can donate to:" https://www.advocate.com/politics/anti-donald-trump-charities
* Run for Something: https://runforsomething.net/
* "LGBTQ+ Victory Fund:" https://victoryfund.org/
* What to do if you encounter an immigration official. "Know Your Rights:" https://unitedwedream.org/resources/know-your-rights/
* "ICE Raids Toolkit: Defend Against ICE Raids and Community Arrests:" https://www.immigrantdefenseproject.org/raids-toolkit/
* "Legal Services for Your Reproductive Life:" https://reprolegalhelpline.org/
* "National Abortion Hotline:" https://prochoice.org/
* "World Central Kitchen:" https://wck.org/
* Trans support organization: https://www.pointofpride.org/
* "Transanta: An opportunity to directly support trans youth:" https://thisfinecrew.dreamwidth.org/291573.html
* Links for various Palestinian Aid Organizations: https://www.tumblr.com/gwydionmisha/750151174318112768?source=share
* "Black Alliance for Peace’s Atlanta Citywide Alliance:" https://linktr.ee/bapatlanta
* Map of Cop Cities planned or being built: https://isyourlifebetter.net/cop-cities-usa/
* Want to help Journalists without Borders? https://donate.rsf.org/us/donate/~my-donation
* How to donate to Doctors Without Borders: https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/secure/donate
* "The Rainbow Railroad:" https://www.rainbowrailroad.org/take-action
* "These Organizations Accept Donations To Help People in Ukraine:" https://www.snopes.com/news/2022/03/01/where-to-donate-help-ukraine/
* "Russia-Ukraine War: Info and ways to help:" https://ukrainewar.carrd.co/
* "Support OVD-Info:" https://beste-glatisant.tumblr.com/post/677388506851606528/hi-ive-donated-to-the-ukranian-refugees-and-now
* "War in Ukraine! Support LGBTQ people.:" https://secure.wayforpay.com/payment/s047412e502b6
* What to help fight for queer people in Africa? Try the Initiative Sankofa D’Afrique de l’Ouest www.ISDAO.org
* Organizations to help trans folk: https://gwydionmisha.tumblr.com/post/620857152453640195/about-us
* Indivisible Guide for Trump 2.0 "A Practical Guide to defeating MAGA:" https://indivisible.org/resource/guide
* This tracks legislation: https://www.govtrack.us/
* Have something you want to tell your Congress Critters? If you can't safely protest in person, here are some other options:
Five Calls to your critters: https://5calls.org/
Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to the representative of your choice.
Senate: https://contactsenators.com/senator-phone-numbers/
Congress in General: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member
Here is one that will send your reps a fax: https://resist.bot/
* "DONATE TO EMILY'S LIST:" https://win.emilyslist.org/a/donate-to-emily
* Want to help support all of us all here at the Cat Asylum? https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/Gwydion