Yesterday, SCOTUS ruled that lower courts can not limit the Executive Branch's Orders (known as "universal injunctions"). That kinda puts a kink in The Resistance's ability to push back on The Regime, as your article suggests. Although SCOTUS didn't rule on birthright citizenship per se, it appears Trump will be able to implement his Order to limit the 14th Amendment...and there isn't much The Resistance can do about it from a legal perspective. If The Resistance wants to stop this administration from totally dissolving our liberal democracy, it's going to have to institute a General Strike and bring The Regime to its knees from an economic approach. Short of that...we're fu*ked. Join The People's Sick Day at: https://discord.gg/9QpahpcR
Thanks so much for your comment Robin — I really appreciate you bringing up the SCOTUS ruling. I wrote the core of the article before the ruling, and I should have updated it before publishing because you're right that it complicates things. But as you said it's a 'kink' in our ability to push back — it hasn't been closed down. Because the Resistance’s options are not limited to just court challenges and protests. A general strike, like the one you’re calling for, is a powerful idea — economic disruption has always been one of the most potent tools of mass resistance. But perhaps we can look even more broadly, seeing resistance as an ecosystem, rather than 2 or 3 tactics. It's pressure campaigns, mutual aid networks, whistleblowing, state-level legislation, local noncompliance, international alliances, disinformation countermeasures, cultural subversion — and, yes, general strikes too.
This moment calls for a strategic imagination — not just reaction, but innovation. We’ve seen resistance movements around the world find extraordinary ways to push back even when the legal system is stacked against them. We should be learning from them, adapting creatively, and building structures that don’t rely entirely on the courts or the next election cycle.
So, while it may look like we're screwed — and yes, it feels like that some days, absolutely — I'm just not willing to throw in the towel. This ain’t over ‘til the last voter’s silenced, the last court’s collapsed, and the last community’s crushed. And we’re nowhere near that. Not yet.
Meanwhile, thanks for linking to the People's Sick Day — I'll share that further.
There's an old punk rock saying I've lived my life by: Don't let the bastards grind you down! Don't worry, no one's "throwing in the towel." Regarding "resistance movements around the world," yes, there's much we can learn from them. One such thing is that revolutionary movements have succeeded when they're supported by outside third countries. Our resistance movement sure could use some help from Canada, Mexico, and/or the EU, but is anyone having those discussions? Fingers-crossed.
I think people overseas need to grasp the fact that this is not an American problem — Trump is building on a process (closing civic space, and more) that is underway in many other nations. He is also using trade and tariffs to expand and export what's happening in America. I intend to write to address this again, and again — as many times as is needed. Because we need a global grassroots response if we are to stop this, and say 'never again'.
PS. I'm in the UK, and I am 'all in'. I may be only one woman, but it only takes a single match to start a fire. We need to start these fires all across the globe. 🔥
Right! Growth of the far-right is a global concern. At least eight leaders from far-right political organizations attended Trump's inauguration...seven of them came from EU countries (and the UK), and the eighth one from Argentina. There may have been more, but they're the ones I'm familiar with. Thanks for all you do, Lori! We appreciate all the help we can get, especially that coming from abroad!
Exactly right. And that's generous of you Robin, thank you. Sometimes I wonder what gives me the right to contribute, but I feel deep in my bones that this is my fight. Injustice is a global concept, and so is love — of democracy, of equity, of one another. I'm in this for the long haul Robin.
These days, my heavy heart finds solace and actionable items in pieces like yours. I sincerely thank you for your tireless efforts. Especially for the times I feel existentially tired.
I feel the weight of your words, Sonali — and your existential tiredness. In times like these, we lean on friends to help carry us, even if it's just through their words. I’m grateful mine could offer you a little lift.
Brenda, thank you so much for bringing this good news to the table! I really appreciate the steer (and have subscribed!) as I'm sure all other readers will too.
Robin, have you read Charlie Angus/The Resistance on Substack? He is a voice leading the Canadian resistance against fascism and tyranny which is gathering momentum from coast to coast in our country this year. As Charlie says “keep kicking at the darkness until it bleeds daylight” 🇨🇦 Canadians are with you in your resistance against the tyranny of gangsters.
This article outlines the political judo recommended by strategists known to our popular culture such as Lao Tzu, being the use of an opponent's weight to overbalance and defeat. You give specifics, you put flesh on that theory. Bravo.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback, Carleton. I really appreciate you consistently showing up and sharing your insights — it means a lot. 🙏🏼
"His executive actions can end up rushed, imprecise, and full of places where those paying close attention can quietly begin to pull at the seams."
This. Exactly. In general, Trump's incompetence gives us a much clearer (relatively-speaking) way out than we would have in early Russia or Hungary, if we choose to take it. Unfortunately, SCOTUS is apparently intent on bailing Trump out as much as possible.
Zimbabweans have a beautiful phrase they use time and time again: “We’ll make a plan.” If that plan fails, they make another. And another. They are the most resilient people I know.
Sorry, I hope that didn't come across as a chastisement? I meant it as an encouragement, but sometimes words alone don't land so well.
PS. I don't even want to start venting David — I don't know if I'll be able to stop! I have to keep reminding myself "clear-eyed, grounded and steady". 😉
Lori, you have become one of my favorite writers here on Substack (in case you couldn't tell from all my 'Likes', LOL!). It is an absolute joy reading this and other articles, and seeing this vigorous discussion and reasoned debate, neither exaggerating nor understating the dangers, and what we can do about it.
And yes, learning a bit about you (and others) as well. International support is so important at times like this, but at all times, actually. It means a whole lot.
I consider Michigan my original home, but moved around as a boy and young man, was a grade school expat to Canada (Nova Scotia 4 yrs., Quebec 1 yr.). Currently in Maryland, right next door to Andrews AFB, as I've shared before. I had a tour of riot-torn Detroit the week after the city burned, when my dad was working there; I was 9 years old. 9 years old! It is not a sight you forget. Ever.
Then I was in Detroit again last week, to see a ballgame, to see Canada again from across the river (didn't cross over - this time), to let my wife see some of the city, and to head on over to my old hometown 40 miles west (all, not necessarily in order of importance).
What I didn't know was that Kristi Noem was in town the same week. Now that I know, it was an absolute pleasure being as utterly unaware and unimpressed by her presence as I'm sure most all of Detroit (a sanctuary city) was. Sometimes this resistance takes an oddly humorous turn. Didn't she *know*?!
I found this out from Charlie Angus, mentioned earlier.
My wife and I keep each other informed and prepared; for reasons I may share at another time, she has more reason to take this regime's threats more seriously than even I do, but I had to gently correct her on one thing. When she stated that the U.S. (read=the president*) was cutting off trade with Canada, I said no, it's the other way around. Canada is cutting off trade with the U.S. (see previous parens.). Of course, I support it, though it may well be costly on both sides of the border. People are going to learn the hard way: underestimate Canadians at your own risk.
I'm monitoring the gestapo (AKA, "ICE"), too, and am growing a little tired of being careful with these despicable, nameless ones, though as always praying for wisdom. Here again, the wannabe guy keeps overplaying his hand, and telegraphing his moves.
Well, there you have it...I hope I have not been too long-winded, thanks so much for listening! When I like and trust people, and have a certain sense of safety, it's difficult to hold back. There's little I *won't* tell about myself; I'd like to think if Palantir and other...people? algorithms? are really monitoring that closely, they're baffled and confused by where I'm actually coming from. As a certain famous general said, "Just so I know". And just so my friends and allies know, too.
Thank you so much for sharing this Wayne — it’s genuinely a privilege to read. I never take it lightly when someone feels safe enough to bring their story, their history, their reflections here. It’s a gift, for which I’m grateful.
You’re right, there’s something deeply strengthening about international solidarity, not just in crisis but in the steady, ordinary times that hold us upright between crises. And yes, having family in Canada myself (including Nova Scotia!), I know how Canadians are so often underestimated. But their stand at this time makes me profoundly proud — I wish the UK was doing the same. It all makes me quietly glad that you and your wife are tracking these shifts together, each bringing your own knowledge and perspective. That’s such a strong position to be in.
Your story of Detroit, from nine years old to now, holds so much. Memory has a way of anchoring us, doesn’t it? Even as things change, there’s that through-line. I’m smiling at your pointed unawareness of Kristi Noem’s visit — it’s a beautiful kind of resistance to be in a city that simply isn’t buying what she’s selling.
I love that you shared all this. Sometimes we need to speak at length to carry the full weight of what we’ve seen and how we’ve come to see. Please know this space will always hold room for that.
And I, too, suspect you’ve left more than a few algorithms scratching their heads.
And thanks right back at you, for the confirmation that I/we/ all of us are indeed having an effect. Yes, with that encouragement I'll continue to share, and hear others on here, to gain a better understanding of where each of us is coming from, and where we're at in all this.
Nova Scotia, yes! My last visit there was 1973, and I've sadly lost touch with all my old friends. So I couldn't help but wonder if we know some of the same families. I'll just fish a little here...Tudor, Hope-Simpson, and Simmons? The Tudor boy my age was born in London, but raised in Halifax - where we all were. The Hope-Simpson parents were both British; I would never have guessed by the way the mother spoke. The Simmons' were/are at least two or three generation Canadians.
So anyway, hit or miss, I thought it might be worth a try; either way, wow, a Nova Scotia connection, too!
Thank you for this analysis. I will use it's positivity to get me through one more day. I would like to stop crying. Chronic long- term depression makes all this so much harder. The extreme court is against America now. It certainly doesn't help. Who would ever have believed America could come to such an awful pass.
Yesterday, SCOTUS ruled that lower courts can not limit the Executive Branch's Orders (known as "universal injunctions"). That kinda puts a kink in The Resistance's ability to push back on The Regime, as your article suggests. Although SCOTUS didn't rule on birthright citizenship per se, it appears Trump will be able to implement his Order to limit the 14th Amendment...and there isn't much The Resistance can do about it from a legal perspective. If The Resistance wants to stop this administration from totally dissolving our liberal democracy, it's going to have to institute a General Strike and bring The Regime to its knees from an economic approach. Short of that...we're fu*ked. Join The People's Sick Day at: https://discord.gg/9QpahpcR
Thanks so much for your comment Robin — I really appreciate you bringing up the SCOTUS ruling. I wrote the core of the article before the ruling, and I should have updated it before publishing because you're right that it complicates things. But as you said it's a 'kink' in our ability to push back — it hasn't been closed down. Because the Resistance’s options are not limited to just court challenges and protests. A general strike, like the one you’re calling for, is a powerful idea — economic disruption has always been one of the most potent tools of mass resistance. But perhaps we can look even more broadly, seeing resistance as an ecosystem, rather than 2 or 3 tactics. It's pressure campaigns, mutual aid networks, whistleblowing, state-level legislation, local noncompliance, international alliances, disinformation countermeasures, cultural subversion — and, yes, general strikes too.
This moment calls for a strategic imagination — not just reaction, but innovation. We’ve seen resistance movements around the world find extraordinary ways to push back even when the legal system is stacked against them. We should be learning from them, adapting creatively, and building structures that don’t rely entirely on the courts or the next election cycle.
So, while it may look like we're screwed — and yes, it feels like that some days, absolutely — I'm just not willing to throw in the towel. This ain’t over ‘til the last voter’s silenced, the last court’s collapsed, and the last community’s crushed. And we’re nowhere near that. Not yet.
Meanwhile, thanks for linking to the People's Sick Day — I'll share that further.
Solidarity, Robin.
— Lori
There's an old punk rock saying I've lived my life by: Don't let the bastards grind you down! Don't worry, no one's "throwing in the towel." Regarding "resistance movements around the world," yes, there's much we can learn from them. One such thing is that revolutionary movements have succeeded when they're supported by outside third countries. Our resistance movement sure could use some help from Canada, Mexico, and/or the EU, but is anyone having those discussions? Fingers-crossed.
Totally agree — on all counts.
I think people overseas need to grasp the fact that this is not an American problem — Trump is building on a process (closing civic space, and more) that is underway in many other nations. He is also using trade and tariffs to expand and export what's happening in America. I intend to write to address this again, and again — as many times as is needed. Because we need a global grassroots response if we are to stop this, and say 'never again'.
PS. I'm in the UK, and I am 'all in'. I may be only one woman, but it only takes a single match to start a fire. We need to start these fires all across the globe. 🔥
Right! Growth of the far-right is a global concern. At least eight leaders from far-right political organizations attended Trump's inauguration...seven of them came from EU countries (and the UK), and the eighth one from Argentina. There may have been more, but they're the ones I'm familiar with. Thanks for all you do, Lori! We appreciate all the help we can get, especially that coming from abroad!
Exactly right. And that's generous of you Robin, thank you. Sometimes I wonder what gives me the right to contribute, but I feel deep in my bones that this is my fight. Injustice is a global concept, and so is love — of democracy, of equity, of one another. I'm in this for the long haul Robin.
These days, my heavy heart finds solace and actionable items in pieces like yours. I sincerely thank you for your tireless efforts. Especially for the times I feel existentially tired.
I feel the weight of your words, Sonali — and your existential tiredness. In times like these, we lean on friends to help carry us, even if it's just through their words. I’m grateful mine could offer you a little lift.
Please know you’re not carrying this alone.💗
I do, and it makes all the difference. Thank you .
We still have class action suit available to fight the regime.
Unfortunately, SCOTUS did away with class action lawsuits yesterday.
Check out Michael Popok and Legal AF. Class action is not the same as an injunction. Class action was filed hours after scotus decision in Maryland.
Misinterpreted the decision. My bad, thought they ruled against class actions (…in addition to injunctions).
https://michaelpopok.substack.com/p/bombshell-supreme-court-ruling-gets?r=3tiwm6&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=audio-player
Brenda, thank you so much for bringing this good news to the table! I really appreciate the steer (and have subscribed!) as I'm sure all other readers will too.
Another one of those hidden gifts. 🎁
Exactly that Brenda 😊
Robin, have you read Charlie Angus/The Resistance on Substack? He is a voice leading the Canadian resistance against fascism and tyranny which is gathering momentum from coast to coast in our country this year. As Charlie says “keep kicking at the darkness until it bleeds daylight” 🇨🇦 Canadians are with you in your resistance against the tyranny of gangsters.
Thanks for the heads-up Lynn — I'm going right across there to subscribe now! 🙏🏼
This article outlines the political judo recommended by strategists known to our popular culture such as Lao Tzu, being the use of an opponent's weight to overbalance and defeat. You give specifics, you put flesh on that theory. Bravo.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback, Carleton. I really appreciate you consistently showing up and sharing your insights — it means a lot. 🙏🏼
"His executive actions can end up rushed, imprecise, and full of places where those paying close attention can quietly begin to pull at the seams."
This. Exactly. In general, Trump's incompetence gives us a much clearer (relatively-speaking) way out than we would have in early Russia or Hungary, if we choose to take it. Unfortunately, SCOTUS is apparently intent on bailing Trump out as much as possible.
So we find another route David — we have to.
Zimbabweans have a beautiful phrase they use time and time again: “We’ll make a plan.” If that plan fails, they make another. And another. They are the most resilient people I know.
Let’s make a plan.
Agreed. Just airing out my sour grapes on that last part :)
Sorry, I hope that didn't come across as a chastisement? I meant it as an encouragement, but sometimes words alone don't land so well.
PS. I don't even want to start venting David — I don't know if I'll be able to stop! I have to keep reminding myself "clear-eyed, grounded and steady". 😉
Ha ha. No worries. The tone came across just fine. Believe me :)
A well thought out outline of practical action. Thanks for your work and I hope we can stay practical in our opposition. Peace ✌️
Thank you W.J. We can, we will (we have to!) Peace. 🙏🏼
Excellent
Thank you Susan. I'm always happy when I see your feedback here — yours is a voice I trust to give it to me straight. ☺️
Well written and so actual relief
Thank you Sheryl.
Lori, you have become one of my favorite writers here on Substack (in case you couldn't tell from all my 'Likes', LOL!). It is an absolute joy reading this and other articles, and seeing this vigorous discussion and reasoned debate, neither exaggerating nor understating the dangers, and what we can do about it.
And yes, learning a bit about you (and others) as well. International support is so important at times like this, but at all times, actually. It means a whole lot.
I consider Michigan my original home, but moved around as a boy and young man, was a grade school expat to Canada (Nova Scotia 4 yrs., Quebec 1 yr.). Currently in Maryland, right next door to Andrews AFB, as I've shared before. I had a tour of riot-torn Detroit the week after the city burned, when my dad was working there; I was 9 years old. 9 years old! It is not a sight you forget. Ever.
Then I was in Detroit again last week, to see a ballgame, to see Canada again from across the river (didn't cross over - this time), to let my wife see some of the city, and to head on over to my old hometown 40 miles west (all, not necessarily in order of importance).
What I didn't know was that Kristi Noem was in town the same week. Now that I know, it was an absolute pleasure being as utterly unaware and unimpressed by her presence as I'm sure most all of Detroit (a sanctuary city) was. Sometimes this resistance takes an oddly humorous turn. Didn't she *know*?!
I found this out from Charlie Angus, mentioned earlier.
My wife and I keep each other informed and prepared; for reasons I may share at another time, she has more reason to take this regime's threats more seriously than even I do, but I had to gently correct her on one thing. When she stated that the U.S. (read=the president*) was cutting off trade with Canada, I said no, it's the other way around. Canada is cutting off trade with the U.S. (see previous parens.). Of course, I support it, though it may well be costly on both sides of the border. People are going to learn the hard way: underestimate Canadians at your own risk.
I'm monitoring the gestapo (AKA, "ICE"), too, and am growing a little tired of being careful with these despicable, nameless ones, though as always praying for wisdom. Here again, the wannabe guy keeps overplaying his hand, and telegraphing his moves.
Well, there you have it...I hope I have not been too long-winded, thanks so much for listening! When I like and trust people, and have a certain sense of safety, it's difficult to hold back. There's little I *won't* tell about myself; I'd like to think if Palantir and other...people? algorithms? are really monitoring that closely, they're baffled and confused by where I'm actually coming from. As a certain famous general said, "Just so I know". And just so my friends and allies know, too.
Thank you so much for sharing this Wayne — it’s genuinely a privilege to read. I never take it lightly when someone feels safe enough to bring their story, their history, their reflections here. It’s a gift, for which I’m grateful.
You’re right, there’s something deeply strengthening about international solidarity, not just in crisis but in the steady, ordinary times that hold us upright between crises. And yes, having family in Canada myself (including Nova Scotia!), I know how Canadians are so often underestimated. But their stand at this time makes me profoundly proud — I wish the UK was doing the same. It all makes me quietly glad that you and your wife are tracking these shifts together, each bringing your own knowledge and perspective. That’s such a strong position to be in.
Your story of Detroit, from nine years old to now, holds so much. Memory has a way of anchoring us, doesn’t it? Even as things change, there’s that through-line. I’m smiling at your pointed unawareness of Kristi Noem’s visit — it’s a beautiful kind of resistance to be in a city that simply isn’t buying what she’s selling.
I love that you shared all this. Sometimes we need to speak at length to carry the full weight of what we’ve seen and how we’ve come to see. Please know this space will always hold room for that.
And I, too, suspect you’ve left more than a few algorithms scratching their heads.
Oh! And thank you for your kind words — they are very much appreciated.🙏🏼
And thanks right back at you, for the confirmation that I/we/ all of us are indeed having an effect. Yes, with that encouragement I'll continue to share, and hear others on here, to gain a better understanding of where each of us is coming from, and where we're at in all this.
Nova Scotia, yes! My last visit there was 1973, and I've sadly lost touch with all my old friends. So I couldn't help but wonder if we know some of the same families. I'll just fish a little here...Tudor, Hope-Simpson, and Simmons? The Tudor boy my age was born in London, but raised in Halifax - where we all were. The Hope-Simpson parents were both British; I would never have guessed by the way the mother spoke. The Simmons' were/are at least two or three generation Canadians.
So anyway, hit or miss, I thought it might be worth a try; either way, wow, a Nova Scotia connection, too!
No mutual connections in NS, I'm afraid, but connections or no, I am happy you found your way here Wayne. 😊
Its, not it's! I know where my apostrophes go!
Thank you for this analysis. I will use it's positivity to get me through one more day. I would like to stop crying. Chronic long- term depression makes all this so much harder. The extreme court is against America now. It certainly doesn't help. Who would ever have believed America could come to such an awful pass.