Idealism -- Integrity -- Independence
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NTD NEWS
August 22, 2018
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Yesterday within minutes of each other, two news bombshells dropped  on President Donald Trump's carefully coiffed head. The guilty pleas of Trump's fixer/lawyer, Michael Cohen, and the eight-count guilty verdict against Trump's former campaign manager, Paul Manafort. These developments undoubtedly mean difficult times ahead for our President.
Now, I know that every day has headlines that outrank news  of Donald Trump's latest troubles. However to me, yesterday's story didn't feel like just another entry in media's never-ending list of world woes. I'm guessing that most people who heard the Cohen-Manafort news were somewhat surprised at the clarity and finality of the trial results.
I certainly was.
 The thing is, as yesterday's news bulletins kept coming, surprise wasn't all I felt. I started getting a strong sense of déjà vu. I felt I was repeating something I'd experienced 45 years ago -- an event that jumped the news train our nation was riding onto a completely new track. Back in 1973 President Nixon's Watergate scandal was like nothing we'd ever seen.
I vividly remember choosing the then staunchly Republican (a bit better now) Chicago Tribune for my commute, so I could have the perverse pleasure of reading their reports on the crimes committed by their Republican President and his staff. As things turned out it was a turning point, of sorts, in our nation's history -- the first U.S. president ever to resign from office. The fallout from Watergate reaffirmed that the U.S. presidency was not a position of supreme power, untouchable, above the law.
We've all heard the old adage about history "repeating itself." However,  I prefer the aphorism attributed to Mark Twain: "History doesn't repeat itself, but it rhymes." So, It would be foolish for anyone to predict what specifically will develop as the Mueller investigations continue. And whether or not Democrats win control of the House of Representatives, you can be sure that what transpires in the coming months won't simply be a duplication of the Watergate scenario.
It does now appear that several of the former Trump insiders, charged with or actually convicted of crimes may begin to reveal information that incriminates President Trump in criminal acts. Facing jail time was a prospect that terrified President Nixon. His resignation avoided an impeachment trial and President Ford's blanket pardon made sure he would never be prosecuted in court.
We're still a long way from that sort of scenario. (Or, are we?) Right now, Donald Trump is traveling to the reddest parts of the U.S.,  campaigning for Republican House candidates with the appeal that their election will protect him from any impeachment proceedings. I must say, he has a valid point. --- I would also say that I believe Democratic Party strategists would be wise to not to push the impeachment appeal. It will only fire up Trump's voter base and reinforce the myth that Mueller's investigation is one big conspiracy to take away their savior.
So, what will our childish and unstable president do if things get more dangerous for him? I can only hope that there are White House people near Trump who have a tighter grasp on reality than he does, as well as an appreciation for our constitution and an honest concern for the safety of our nation.
Richard Nixon turned to heavy drinking as the investigative pressure on him reached their peak. That doesn't sound like something Trump would do. (But that isn't especially reassuring. A self-pitying drunk is a lot less volatile than a tantrum-throwing child.)
After Nixon left the presidency he kept a relatively low profile, and gradually saw his reputation somewhat rehabilitated - although I hope history will always include his (and Kissinger's) unforgiveable sabotage to peace talks that prolonged the Vietnam War for years.
In Donald Trump's case, maybe he will manage to stay in office for his full four-year term. In fact, maybe he'll find a way to remain the Republican candidate for President in 2020. I won't venture any predictions on those possibilities.
Back in 2015, I don't think Donald Trump expected to win the  Republican Primary and he may not have even wanted to win the presidency. I think he simply saw the public spotlight as a way to enhance the growth of his fortune in the future. But in the process, he became addicted to the cheers of his adoring crowds. He'd never felt such "love" in his life.
So now I will throw out this prediction. Donald thrives on the adoration of his voter base. I believe that whatever happens in the next two years, he will cling to his claim (and possibly delusional belief) that he is the victim in all of this. I can see Trump continuing to position himself as the one true hope for his most loyal followers.
Whether he is voted out of office in 2020, impeached before then,  indicted sometime in the future, thrown in jail, he will continue to woo his base with public appearances, ghost-written books, Fox News interviews. He will continue promising them lies, inflaming their prejudices, doing whatever he can to keep the applause coming.
Whatever comes out of the Mueller investigation, Donald Trump is not going to disappear quietly. I'm afraid that whatever happens, he will be a divisive presence in our society, continuing to harm our country for years to come.
Nels Howard
NTDO member since 1973
P.S. Last week I met the Democratic candidate for the 17th District Cook County Commissioner's office, Abdelnasser Rashid.
 Abdelnasser, a Harvard graduate, has been the Deputy Chief of Staff for the office of Cook County Clerk, David Orr and was also the deputy director for Bernie Sanders' presidential campaign in Illinois. He is an impressive young man who is making a strong showing in his district-wide campaigning. Incidentally, his opponent is the Chairman of the Cook County Republican Party -- and he's vulnerable. Abdelnasser is one of the promising Democratic Party leaders of our future and your support will be welcomed. Visit rashidforcook.com to learn how you can help his campaign.
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Every Thursday Night at New Trier Dems' Office
From Now Until Election Day
JB For Governor Thursday Evening Phone Bank
Thursday Nights through November, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Where
:
New Trier Democrats' Office, 800 Oak Street, Suite 112, Winnetka
What
:
A phone bank to get out the vote for JB Pritzker for Governor in this important midterm election. This phone bank will also support Kwame Raoul for Illinois Attorney General as well as other down ticket races in Illinois. You must bring a cell phone and please bring a laptop computer if you can. Training and all necessary materials will be provided
. For questions or to RSVP, call Jonathan Alter at 312-848-2925.
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Due to beach house construction at Gillson Park,
we moved this year's Annual Meeting and Picnic indoors
to the Mallinckrodt Center in Wilmette
 
New Trier Democrats'
Annual Meeting and Picnic
at Mallinckrodt Center
Saturday, September 8th
Annual Members' Meeting 1:00pm-2:00pm
Picnic for Everybody 2:00pm-4:00pm
Mallinckrodt Center, 1041 Ridge Road, Wilmette
At our Annual Members' Meeting, you'll hear what we've been up to this past year, as well as our plans for the 2018 election season and beyond. We'll also vote to elect New Trier Democrats' Officers for 2 year terms. Please note that the Annual Meeting is restricted to Members only - If you're not currently a member,
why not join right now?
Our Picnic will begin immediately after our Annual Meeting and everyone - family, friends, neighbors - are welcome to attend. Our Picnic is always a great opportunity to meet fellow Democrats and hear from some of our local elected officials and candidates. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Other events of interest:
Tomorrow Night, August 23 in Wilmette - Fundraiser for Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz
When: Thursday, August 23, 2018 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Where: Wilmette Wine Cellar, 1100 Central Avenue, Wilmette
What: Join Democrats for Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz as they unite the 17th District and rally around Jen as our next State Representative. At this special event you will get to connect, network and support one another. Together, Democrats can do anything! For more information or to register,
please visit their Facebook event page.
This Saturday and Sunday, August 25 & 26 in Highland Park - JB Pritzker for Governor Weekend of Action
When: Saturday, August 25, 2018 from 10:00am to 7:00pm - shift times begin at 10:00am, 1:00pm and 4:00pm. Sunday, August 26, 2018 from 1:00pm to 7:00pm - shift times begin at 1:00pm and 4:00pm.
Where: Highland Park provided upon RSVP
What: Join the volunteer team in Highland Park to elect Democrats up and down the ticket! Training and all necessary materials will be provided. For additional information or to RSVP, contact Hannah Amundsen at [email protected] or 847-912-3765.
This Saturday, August 25 in Highland Park - Yoga + Canvassing for State Senator Julie Morrison
When: Saturday, August 25, 2018 at 10:00am
Where: 1910 First Street, Highland Park
What: Get your "zen" on before heading out to knock on doors! The day will start with a relaxing yoga session, followed by canvassing and spreading the word about the upcoming election. Spots are limited for yoga. To RSVP,
register online
, email [email protected] or call 847-461-8792.
Saturday, August 25 in Wisconsin - Southern WI Voter I.D. Project Canvass
When: Sunday, August 19, 2018 & Saturday, August 25, 2018 - from 11:30am to 5:00pm each day
Where: Racine, WI - Materials can be picked up and dropped off at the Common Grounds coffee shop, 5159 6th Ave, Kenosha
What: Please join Indivisible Evanston for voter I.D. canvasses in Racine, WI! They will be using the model Molly McGrath of the ACLU presented last December. If you were not at the training but are interested in participating, please call Nancy Bruski with questions. Indivisible Evanston will arrange carpools or you can go on your own.
Brief training, walk packs, data sheets and a script will be provided. Materials can be picked up and dropped off at the Common Grounds coffee shop, 5159 6th Ave, in Kenosha. A representative from Indivisible Evanston will be there to hand out and collect all the materials from 11:30 - 5:00. We highly recommend you pick up packets no later than 12:30. Common Grounds is also a great spot to recharge, and grab a cup of coffee! If the weather is seriously inclement, we might need to reschedule, so check your email.
Sign up online.
Saturday, August 25 in Highland Park - Bob Morgan Meet and Greet
When: Saturday, August 25, 2018 from 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Where: The Highland Park home of Matt Pestine and Jamie Glass-Pestine, 340 Moraine Rd.
What: Talk with, ask questions and listen to Bob Morgan, candidate for State Representative of the 58th District. Friends, neighbors and friends of neighbors are all welcome. Refreshments and light apps will be served. RSVP's to [email protected] are appreciated but not necessary.
Sunday, August 26 in Wilmette - Pro-Choice Rally | Unite For Justice with NARAL & WE WILL
When: Sunday, August 26, 2018 from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Wilmette Rec Center, 3000 Glenview Road, WIlmette
What: Join NARAL and WE WILL as we Unite for Justice on this important national rally day to support our nation and state being PRO CHOICE. This is a family friendly rally to support Pro Choice Candidates and fight Brett Kavanaugh's appointment. There will be a series of speakers including
Carmen Londono, Vice President WE WILL; Dawn Koenigsknecht, Board Member NARAL; Becky Carroll, Board Member NARAL; Julie Morrison. State Senator; Jennifer Gong Gershowitz, Candidate for State Representative; Theresa Coomer, Glenview Indivisible; and Catherine Caporusso, National Organization for Women. For more information,
visit their Facebook event page.
Sunday, August 26 in Libertyville - The Stevenson Center Presents "The Electoral College"
When: Sunday, August 26, 2018 at 2:00pm
Where: The Adlai Stevenson Center on Democracy, 25200 N. St. Mary's Rd., Mettawa (Libertyville)
What: Karen Glennemeier of the League of Women Voters of Wilmette presents a brief history of the Electoral College, a discussion of its impact on our democracy, and a plan for change. Coffee and conversation will follow the presentation. For additional information or to RSVP, visit the
Center website,
register online, email [email protected] or call
773-633-5661.
Wednesday, August 29 in Deerfield - Happy Hour Supporting Sen. Julie Morrison and Bob Morgan
 When: Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Where: Warehouse Eatery, 833 Deerfield Rd., Deerfield
What: Join Personal PAC, Men4Choice, Planned Parenthood Illinois Action, and local activists who support
Senator Julie Morrison, the Democratic candidate for state Senate in the 29th District, and
Bob Morgan, the Democratic candidate for state Representative in the 58th District. For more information or to RSVP,
register online or email [email protected].
Sunday, September 16 in Deerfield - Meet and Greet with Bob Morgan
When: Sunday, September 16, 2018 from 11:00am to 1:00pm
Where: Deerfield address provided upon RSVP
What: Join Bob Morgan, candidate for State Representative, District 58, for a meet and greet in Deerfield. For additional information or to RSVP,
register online.
Sunday, September 23 in Libertyville - The Stevenson Center Presents "How To Save Constitutional Democracy"
When: Sunday, September 23, 2018 at 2:00pm
Where: The Adlai Stevenson Center on Democracy, 25200 N. St. Mary's Rd., Mettawa (Libertyville)
What: Tom Ginsburg, the Leo Spitz Professor of International Law at the University of Chicago, currently co-directs the Comparative Constitutions Project. Coffee and conversation will follow the presentation. For additional information or to RSVP, visit the
Center website,
register online, email [email protected] or call
773-633-5661.
Sunday, September 30 in Highland Park - Women For Brad Fundraiser
When: Sunday, September 30, 2018 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm
Where: Highland Park Country Club, 1201 Park Avenue West, Highland Park
What: Please join Women For Brad for an afternoon tea in support of Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) with special guest Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17).
You may register online for this event. If you have any questions please contact: Emanuela Frankel - [email protected] (312) 213-3588; or Allison Schieber - [email protected] (616) 516-0734.
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Save The Date!
2018
New Trier Democrats' Events
Saturday, September 8, 2018
New Trier Democrats' Annual Meeting and Picnic at Mallinckrodt Center
Sunday, October 14, 2018
New Trier Democrats' Annual Dinner at Maggiano's in Skokie
Thursday, December 13, 2018
New Trier Democrats' Holiday Party at Wilmette Wine Cellar
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Your Legislators:
 Democratic Legislators
who represent New Trier Township in
Washington, Springfield and Cook County
You'll be hearing a lot from these exceptional public servants. --
And they want to be hearing a lot from you.
The fact is, they need to hear from you and want to hear from you in order to represent you most effectively. So, the first thing you can do is get to know who these people are. The links below to their campaign websites are a good place to start.
Jan Schakowsky
, 9th U.S. Congressional District Representative
and Chief Deputy House Democratic Whip. The new Ninth District boundaries include all of New Trier except for Glencoe.
Brad Schneider
, 10th U.S. Congressional District Representative which includes a number of precincts in Glencoe.
Daniel Biss,
State Senator for Illinois' 9th State Senate District.The Ninth District includes all of New Trier Township.
Julie Morrison, State Senator for Illinois' 29th State Senate District. The district includes New Trier's northernmost precincts.
Robyn Gabel,
IL 18th District State Representative. The 18th District includes much of New Trier up to Hazel Avenue and Dundee Road.
Laura Fine
, IL 17th District State Representative.
The 17th District includes the East Glenview and West Wilmette areas of New Trier Township.
Scott Drury
,
IL 58th District State Representative.
The 58th District includes the northernmost precincts in Glencoe.
Larry Suffredin, Cook County 13th District Commissioner. The 13th District includes all of New Trier, Evanston and Niles Townships.
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| Dear Fellow Democrats, If you are not already an NTDO member, and enjoy our Newsletter, we hope you consider joining us as a dues-paying member. NTDO is a not-for-profit political action organization. We depend on our membership dues to support our Democratic causes and candidates. There are two options for dues payments: by check or credit card. By Check: Make check payable to NTDO and mail to our office: NTDO 800 Oak St., Suite 112 Winnetka, IL 60093 OR By Credit Card: visit our website by clicking here Click on the "Join/Contribute" button
Find the link for "contribute with ActBlue"
or go directly to ActBlue by clicking here.
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Still not a member of the New Trier Democrats? Your participation in grassroots political action will make a difference. -- Come join us.
 When you're a member of the New Trier Democratic Organization, you have an active role in affecting the political process; participating in grassroots campaigns, staying in touch with elected officials, playing a role in deciding which candidates are endorsed. You'll also gain free admission to select forums and events throughout the year.
Come be a part of New Trier's grassroots political community.
About Us:
The New Trier Democratic Organization is made up of hundreds of grassroots volunteers dedicated to advancing progressive ideals through the political process. We welcome your participation.
Sincerely,
Dean T. Maragos, Committeeman New Trier Township
We are located at 800 Oak Street, Suite 112, in Winnetka, IL. Ph: 847-446-8030
*This Internet communication paid for by the New Trier Democratic Organization and not authorized by any federal or state candidate or campaign committee. A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is available for purchase from the State Board of Elections in Springfield, Illinois.
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