Refuse Fascism Rally in DC compares Trump policies to Fascism under Hitler

By Michele Bourdieu

On March 4, 2025, preceding President Trump's address to a joint session of Congress, a crowd of protesters listen to speakers at a Refuse Fascism Rally in the Upper Senate Park in Washington, DC. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

WASHINGTON, DC -- Speakers representing the group Refuse Fascism addressed a crowd gathered at the Upper Senate Park in Washington, DC, the afternoon of March 4, 2025. The purpose of the rally was to create awareness of President Donald Trump's speech to the joint session of Congress that evening and to protest that the Trump Administration's policies recall the fascism of Adolf Hitler's Germany preceding World War II.

According to their Web site, Refuse Fascism is a national movement mobilizing people through nonviolent, mass sustained protest in order to prevent the consolidation of fascism in the United States. Founded in 2016 in response to Trump’s first election, their goal is to unite people around the pledge "In The Name of Humanity, We Refuse To Accept a Fascist America!" and adding the slogan, "Trump Must Go!" Signs and chants at the rally stated that pledge and the speakers warned that the Trump Administration's policies are leading to fascism similar to Hitler's.*

This participant in the Refuse Fascism Rally wears a royal crown critical of Trump's attitude and a sign that reads, "The insane reign of DONALD the TERRIBLE." Click on photos for larger versions. (Photos © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now unless otherwise indicated.) 

One of the first speakers was Carlos Álvarez-Aranyos, founder of American Opposition, a non-profit, non-connected political action committee created to counter the rise of fascism in the United States of America.

American Opposition "focuses on building strategic communications and community engagement campaigns in support of American democracy," according to their Web site.**

Their current project is the "'Trump Administrative Action Database' (TAAD) -- an online repository that meticulously catalogues the actions and policies of the Trump administration." The database was launched on Feb. 25, 2025.**

Álvarez-Aranyos considers the database, which will be updated continually, a means of accountability and a historical document.

"At American Opposition, we believe that accountability is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy," he said. "By making this database accessible to everyone -- from seasoned journalists to concerned citizens -- we are not only promoting accountability but also ensuring that the history of this era is preserved for future generations."**

Álvarez-Aranyos told attendees at the rally that he experienced a fascist dictator while growing up in the Dominican Republic, and he warned that Trump's anti-democratic policies are fascist.

During the March 4, 2025, Refuse Fascism protest in Washington, DC, Carlos Álvarez-Aranyos, founder of American Opposition, speaks to the audience of protesters about the Democrats' failure to stop Trump's threat to democracy. (Videos © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Álvarez-Aranyos continued with a message to Democrats.

Álvarez-Aranyos speaks to the audience of protesters about what he believes the Democrats in Congress should do in defiant opposition to President Trump, who would be addressing the joint session of Congress that evening. 

Also addressing the crowd was Sunsara Taylor, one of the founders of the Refuse Fascism movement. She compared the present fascist actions of the Trump Administration to Germany in the 1930s as Adolf Hitler took over the government with escalating abuse of human rights and increasing atrocities leading to the Holocaust.

Sunsara Taylor of Refuse Fascism, compares the present actions of the Trump Administration to the increasingly fascist Nazi government under Hitler leading up to World War II.

Taylor concludes by inviting the audience to join the Refuse Fascism movement and to contribute their own ideas and talents to defeat fascism.

Sunsara Taylor of Refuse Fascism tells the audience of supporters what needs to be done, encourages the audience to refuse to accept a fascist America, and thanks them for their participation.

The special guest speaker at the rally was Marione Ingram, a German-born, Jewish Holocaust survivor and Civil Rights activist. She began her speech to the crowd with the story of her childhood experience in Nazi Germany.

Holocaust survivor Marione Ingram addresses the crowd at the rally, comparing her experience under Nazi fascism in World War II with the present situation under the Trump Administration in the US.

Ingram continues, comparing her experience with that of the victims of Israeli aggression in Gaza.

Holocaust survivor Marione Ingram compares her childhood experience during World War II, being pursued by the Nazis, to Israel's aggression against Palestinians in Gaza, while Israel is supported by the present and past US Administrations.

Ingram was active in the Civil Rights movement in the US and was a volunteer for the 1963 March on Washington. She has protested actively against Israel's actions in Gaza, repeating that war is not the answer and calling for peace and love.***

Following the main speakers, some participants in a nearby Rally for Ukraine walked to the Refuse Fascism Rally in the park because police had asked them to leave the area near the Russell Senate building where they were meeting the same afternoon. Some stayed, displaying their signs for Ukraine.

On March 4, 2025, Ukraine supporters leave the site of their Ukraine Rally in Washington, DC, at the request of police clearing the area near the Russell Senate building. Some join the Refuse Fascism Rally nearby.

Two of the Ukraine supporters agree to an anonymous photo. 

Police on bicycles patrol near the rally in the Upper Senate Park.

The Refuse Fascism Rally was very peaceful. The group emphasizes determined, defiant, non-violent action.

Ukraine colors were present on several signs at the Refuse Fascism Rally.

From the Refuse Fascism Mission Statement for 2025:

"Refuse Fascism leads people to understand and resist Trump/MAGA fascism. We unite with people from diverse perspectives to stop the second Trump regime from consolidating power and carrying out great horrors. Through our podcast and other public programs we expose and analyze the threat we face, promote efforts to defend people targeted by the fascists, and most essentially challenge and inspire the non-fascist majority of people living in the United States, the tens of millions of people who care about humanity and hate what Trump represents, to break out of the deadly confines of politics-as-usual and engage in determined, defiant action to defeat this American Fascism."****

Editor's Notes:

* See refusefascism.org for more information on the movement.

** See https://www.americanopposition.org/about
Click here for the Trump Administrative Action Database (TAAD).

*** Read more about Marione Ingram here.

**** Click here for the full mission statement.

"Not My Presidents' Day" protest at US Capitol opposes Trump-Musk policies: Video, photo essay

By Michele Bourdieu

Participants in the Feb. 17, 2025, "Not My Presidents' Day" protest near the US Capitol in Washington, DC, listen to speakers opposing the current Administration's policies and join in chants such as, "We will not go back!" The inverted flag is a sign of distress. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photos © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now unless otherwise indicated.)

WASHINGTON, DC -- On February 17, 2025, a large crowd gathered and marched around the reflecting pool near the US Capitol building in Washington, DC, to express the need to save democracy, to oppose the current policies of President Trump and Elon Musk and to create awareness of the unjust firing of federal workers and the threats to public education, diversity and more.

The peaceful event, supported by similar protests across the United States at state capitols, was organized by the 50501 Movement, a grassroots organization opposing the recent policies and executive orders of President Donald Trump. 50501 stands for "50 protests. 50 states. 1 movement."*

Here are some photos and videos of the DC event from Keweenaw Now.

Displaying a sign that recalls a "No King" theme of the rally, this gentleman in 18th-century garb welcomed us as we arrived. 

As we joined the crowd near the reflecting pool, we recorded some of their chants.

During the Feb. 17, 2025, rally for Democracy near the US Capitol, participants gather near the reflecting pool, displaying signs and chanting. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Seated near the reflecting pool, a group of citizens display their signs to the passing crowd. The lady on the right, a retired teacher, is being interviewed about her concerns for education funding.

Signs reflect more concerns for education and cuts to federal funding that result in profits/low taxes for the rich.

Feb. 17, Presidents' Day, intended to be in honor of George Washington's and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays, is overshadowed by the un-democratic leaders pictured on this ironic sign. 

Many are concerned that this moment in history could repeat what happened in 1930s Germany, leading to WWII.

Keweenaw Now interviewed some participants in the crowd, who explained their motivation for joining the protest.

Heather, a student from Maryland, carrying a sign to demonstrate her views of the present Administration, tells Keweenaw Now why she is participating. Chatting with her are Virginia residents Barry and Joyce, who also express their views. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Many signs and chants voice the wide opposition to Elon Musk, considered the wealthiest man in the world, who did not run for any office but who appears to make decisions as if he were president -- decisions that benefit the very wealthy and threaten democratic principles.

This "jester" attracted our attention as a unique piece of artwork at the rally, so Keweenaw Now interviewed Barbara, the lady carrying him. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Barbara, who formerly worked with USAID on environmental issues, tells Keweenaw Now why she is participating. She also explains the symbolism of the "jester" she carries. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

As participants marched along the reflecting pool, they repeated chants expressing the need for unity to fight against the new Administration's overreach that threatens democracy, attacks diversity, deports immigrants, cancels crucial foreign aid, fires essential federal workers, attempts to cancel many environmental protections and efforts to address climate change, and isolates the U.S. from allies all over the world.

As they march toward a gathering place to listen to speakers, marchers sing "Solidarity Forever." (Video by Keweenaw Now)

This young man proudly displays his sign criticizing Project 2025. According to Wikipedia, Project 2025, published by the conservative Heritage Foundation in 2023, is "a political initiative to reshape the federal government of the United States and consolidate executive power in favor of right-wing policies."**

Here is another sign calling attention to Project 2025 and the two people attempting to carry out its agenda.

As we followed the crowd moving toward the speakers, we noticed a sign about Fox News and decided to interview Danielle, who was carrying it.

Local resident Danielle displays a sign referring to Trump supporter Fox News.

Danielle gives Keweenaw Now several reasons for her participation in the protest. Editor's note: The climate change text was added here without our intention or ability to removse it. Move your cursor to the right margin if you wish to remove it temporarily. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

As the crowd moved along the reflecting pool, they began another enthusiastic chant.

Participants in the rally take up the chant, "This is what Democracy looks like" as they walk toward a gathering place for speakers near the Capitol reflecting pool. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

This skeleton is not just for Halloween! Even though Feb. 17, Presidents' Day, is a national holiday and Senate and House were not in session, many signs presented strong messages to members of Congress.

Opposition to Elon Musk and his policies was evident in the participants' chants, including this one. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

The crowd listened and responded to speakers who reminded them of the many issues to be addressed in opposition to the Administration's draconian policies.

Near the Capitol, participants listen to a speaker who cites democratic freedoms achieved in the last century, from Social Security to the end of segregation. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

The speaker challenges the crowd to fight for victims of the unjust policies of the present Administration. The inverted flag is a sign of distress. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

The crowd protests, chanting "We Won't Go Back!" The slogan expresses public resistance to the policies of the present Administration that are attempting to take away hard-won freedoms such as social security, Medicare, equality, women's rights, gay rights, measures against climate change, diversity in the work place and more. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

The crowd again calls for unity, chanting, "The People, United, Will Never Be Defeated" as they walk near the reflecting pool following speeches. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

With determination, participants chant, "Power to the People!" (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Following the speeches it's "no rest for the weary" as this group of protesters continue to display their signs while they relax near the reflecting pool. Although the forecast was in the 40s with wind, chilly for DC, the sunshine made it a pleasant day for the event.***

We continued walking around the reflecting pool to the opposite side, where a group of young speakers expressed views based on their individual experiences.

As the Feb. 17, 2025, protest near the US Capitol winds down, a young woman speaks to a crowd gathered near the reflecting pool. She encourages them to be brave despite the uncertainty caused by the present political situation but also to take care of themselves as they keep up the fight. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

A young student speaks to a crowd gathered near the reflecting pool about discrimination against LGBT young people under the present Administration. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Gabriel, a young local resident, whose wife recently lost her federal job, tells the crowd gathered near the reflecting pool why people must resist the present policies of the Administration. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

A message left on the sidewalk expresses one purpose of the protest.

According to NPR (National Public Radio) thousands participated in this Feb. 17 protest at the US Capitol and many more held similar events at state capitols across the country.

Editor's Notes:

* To learn more about the 50501 Movement visit their Web site.

** See the Wikipedia article on Project 2025 for many references to articles that describe its agenda -- which seems to be an agenda for the Trump Administration -- to take over key government agencies or even eliminate them, reduce taxes for corporations, reduce environmental regulations and promote fossil fuels, arrest and deport illegal immigrants, defund important medical research and more. The article also states, "Legal experts say it would undermine the rule of law, separation of powers, separation of church and state, and civil liberties."

*** To read about the supportive protest in Houghton, Michigan, with entirely different weather, see the Feb. 19, 2025, Keweenaw Now article by Alexandra Larsen, "Concerned citizens brave bitter cold in No King's Day march for democracy, justice, integrity, accountability and more."

Letter: To US Rep. Jack Bergman from League of Women Voters of the Copper Country

HOUGHTON --Twenty of the League of Women Voters Copper Country Chapter (LWVCC) Board of Directors and members conducted a Zoom meeting with three members of Michigan First District U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman's Washington D.C. staff on Monday, Feb.24, in order to share their concerns over the current executive orders impacting the local area, all of Michigan, the entire country, and around the world. Since it was very difficult to get Rep. Bergman to hold in-person meetings locally, even during the recent Congressional break, the League's Board of Directors arranged the next best option of a zoom call. (Inset logo courtesy League of Women Voters of the Copper Country.)

During the 40-minute Zoom call, the group identified eight top concerns, invited Board members and other members to prepare 3-minute statements describing their concerns, and stated what they would like Rep. Bergman to do to address these concerns.

A letter summarizing the concerns presented and possible next steps that Rep. Bergman could take was sent to Rep. Bergman following the meeting.

In their discussion with Bergman's staffers, the LWVCC group began their letter, summarized here, by noting common ground in the following concerns:

1. Support for Ukraine: The letter asks Rep. Bergman to check the executive branch’s false statements about the war and work with Congress to continue support for Ukraine’s sovereignty against Russia’s invasion.

2. DOGE and Congress’s role in budgets for federal agencies: Noting that the First District has federal employees working in four National Parks, three National Forests, and five National Wildlife Refuges, the LWVCC group asks Bergman "to speak out to check DOGE and the executive branch to properly vet employees accessing sensitive information, and utilize Congress and agency leadership in determining workforce and national security needs before layoffs and elimination of programs."

3. Congress and the Budget: The letter states, "The budget that is before congress when it returns attempts to make permanent tax cuts for the most wealthy individuals and corporations while we are seeing threats of funding cuts to Medicaid and Social Security." The group asks Bergman and other members of Congress to consider the negative effects that budget would have on middle and working class families in rural Upper Peninsula communities.

Based on the discussion with Bergman's staffers, the letter then lists the following concerns the LWVCC group believes they disagree on:

1. The Save Act will drastically impact millions of Americans' ability to vote: This Act would increase costly barriers to voting rather than increase access to voting, which is at the heart of the League's mission. The restrictions the Act proposes would make voting more difficult for people in rural areas and married women who have changed their names to verify their voting status. LWVCC asks Bergman to oppose this legislation.

2. Line 5: The letter cites the great risk to the Great Lakes and their contribution to economy and culture, the lack of benefit from the oil pipeline in Michigan, and Enbridge's terrible environmental track record. LWVCC asks Bergman to support  relocating the pipeline to Canada.

3. Climate Change: Noting the damage from extreme weather could cost the global economy $3 trillion per year by 2050, the letter urges Rep. Bergman to support sensible policies to mitigate climate disasters and save spending billions on rebuilding and restoration.

4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): The LWVCC group reminds Rep. Bergman that, despite the equality written in the Constitution, DEI has been weaponized for political gain and made those who have historically been excluded targets of further harm. As an organization with roots in women's suffrage, LWVCC requests that Bergman and all of Congress to describe DEI related programs and activities as intergenerational efforts to reflect what the Constitution promises.

To read the entire letter sent to Rep. Bergman, CLICK HERE.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. It is fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, in principle and in practice. The League of Women Voters of the Copper Country serves the people of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw and Ontonagon counties in Michigan. For more information on the League of Women Voters of the Copper Country, visit their Web site.

Concerned citizens brave bitter cold in No King's Day march for democracy, justice, integrity, accountability and more

By Alexandra Larsen*

Braving extreme winter weather and sub-zero wind chills, some of the 60 participants in the February 17, 2025, No King's Day march display their signs as their rally to protect democracy and oppose Trump-Musk defunding begins at Bridgeview Park in Houghton, Michigan. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photos © and courtesy Alexandra Larsen)

HOUGHTON --  A determined crowd of 60 marched in harsh winter weather to assert that Monday, February 17, 2025, was Presidents' Day, not King's Day. With the temperature hovering around zero degrees Fahrenheit and the windchill making it feel like -16, the crowd joined protesters across the country in the "50501 Movement: A National Call for Justice, Integrity, and Accountability."**

The enthusiastic group assembled at Bridgeview Park in Houghton, Mich., before their march across the Lift Bridge between Houghton and Hancock.

With flags and signs, marchers assemble at Bridgeview Park near the Lift Bridge.

Protesters indicated they were concerned about a constitutional crisis, the firing of federal employees, the stopping of health research, and equal rights for all.

Houghton resident Bill Fink -- a retired, longtime federal employee with the National Park Service -- spoke of his concerns about the Trump Administration's recent unjust firing of federal workers.

Former National Park Service employee Bill Fink says he joined the march because of his concerns for federal workers both in the past and today.

Barry Fink of Houghton said, "We call on Congress to act now to stop the infringement on its legislative authority and respond to the ongoing assault on our democracy on behalf of the American people."

Marchers held signs including, "Make America Better," "Stop the Steal," "Government of/by/for the people, not by/for Billionaires," "Protect our Constitution," "Save our Democracy," "Dissent is Patriotic," and "No oligarchs."

Bundled up for the frigid weather, more marchers gather with their signs at Bridgeview Park. 

Elizabeth Benyi of Calumet said she was marching to "bring attention to the ways DOGE and King Musk are destroying the lives of citizens/taxpayers/voters." She cited the story of a devoted husband, father, and patriot who lost his job in a ruthless manner, knowing he represents many other civil servants across the country.

More participants arrive at Bridgeview Park and prepare to march across the Lift Bridge.

Catherine Paavola said she was glad to see so many people who showed up to oppose the policies of the Trump Administration, including especially the firing of federal workers, which "is going to be a terrible, terrible loss to our entire nation."

Catherine Paavola expresses her concern for government workers.

Marchers proceeded up Shelden Avenue to the bridge, where they stood holding their signs for passing cars and chanting, "Hey, hey! Ho, Ho! Trump and Musk have got to go!" and inquiring, "Where is Bergman? Louisiana?"***

Marchers display their flags and signs on Shelden Avenue in Houghton as they head for the Lift Bridge to Hancock.

Linda Belote of Houghton, who gave permission to indicate that she is 84 years old, said, "Cold and snow are no reason to be a 'no show.'  If I can do this to make a statement, lots of others can too, and I hope they do. The president has to hear that 'We The People' support our Constitution, our three-part government with checks and balances, and not government by executive officer by himself. We are not an autocracy."

Marchers head up Shelden Avenue toward the bridge. Linda Belote is pictured at left with her ski poles for good balance.

The group then crossed the bridge, held signs for honking passers-by, and returned to stand on the corner for awhile longer.

Marchers cross the Lift Bridge to Hancock and return in frigid, windy conditions -- near zero degrees F. with very cold wind chills.

Flags in the wind are evidence of even colder temperatures on the bridge.

Many age groups were represented among the participants in the No King's Day march. One of the youngest was Anna of Atlantic Mine.

Anna displays her sign and says why she is marching.

Donna Cole of Twin Lakes joined the marchers on the bridge and commented on her reasons for joining the march.

"We cannot stand by silently when we see injustice," Cole said. "We cannot allow freedoms to be taken away from those most vulnerable. Also I feel very strongly that we must support Ukraine in their fight to remain free and the Palestinians in their right to live in peace in their homeland."

During the bridge walk, Donna Cole of Twin Lakes displays a quote from Abraham Lincoln: "Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves." 

Sarah Green of Calumet, an organizer of the march, who has been speaking during public comment periods at recent local government meetings, spoke about her concerns and the need for citizens to contact their representatives about the dangers of the Trump-Musk policies of firing government employees, including veterans. She also mentions First US House District Representative Jack Bergman's failure to communicate with citizens.

Sarah Green, one of the organizers of the Feb. 17 No King's Day march, cites some reasons for the march and citizens' opposition to the policies of Elon Musk and President Trump.

Following the march, Sarah Green spoke to the group about attending local government meetings, voicing their concerns and contacting elected officials and legislators.**** She will be making comments at the following meetings:

Hancock City Council: 6 p.m. today, Wednesday, Feb. 19, in Hancock City Hall Council Chambers. Public comments are at the beginning of the meeting.

Calumet Township: 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at the Calumet Township Office, 25880 Red Jacket Road, Calumet, MI.

A Houghton County Democratic Party initiative to discuss what can be done on the local level to resist the Federal power grab. The first meeting will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the Orpheum Theater in Hancock. 

Editor's Notes:

* Guest author Alexandra Larsen, of Atlantic Mine, has worked as an Integrated Marketing Communication Specialist/Editor for Michigan Tech and enjoys writing. While her background is in business and marketing, Alexandra has served as a School Volunteer at South Range Elementary School for the past 10 years and is Vice President of their Parent Teachers Organization. She is also the mother of five children and is active in church and community volunteer work.

** According to a Newsweek article, "The 50501 Movement is a grassroots initiative organizing mass protests against the Trump administration's policies. The name derives from the movement's goal: 50 states, 50 protests, in one day (Feb. 17, 2025). Organizers and participants advocate for a variety of causes, including immigrant rights, government accountability and opposition to Project 2025."

*** Sarah Green encourages concerned citizens to call Rep. Bergman's office. He is supposed to be in the First District this week but has been difficult to reach. His phone numbers include these: DC Office, 202-225-4735; Traverse City, 231-944-7633; Gwinn, 906-273-2227.

**** See also Sarah Green's letter, posted on Keweenaw Now on Feb. 14, 2025.

Letter: Local government officials hear views against anti-democratic government coup

[Editor's Note: This week Sarah Green, a resident of Calumet, Mich., addressed both the Houghton City Council (Feb. 12) and the Houghton County Board of Commissioners (Feb. 11) during public comment periods at their meetings. Green expressed her views, shared by many Copper Country residents, concerning the anti-democratic government coup by the Trump Administration. Green has given Keweenaw Now permission to present here, as a letter to the editor, the points she presented to these local government leaders.]

Houghton City Council
Sarah Green, Calumet Township
2025-02-12

Thank you for your attention and for your efforts to improve lives of Houghton citizens. Although I live in Calumet, I benefit from numerous amenities in the city and have appreciated all the improvements of the past 30 years.

I have spoken to many groups about climate change, environmental topics, and other issues. I’m here today to address a threat to our democratic institutions.

Article 1 of the US constitution is about congress: "All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives."

According to the constitution:
• Congress is given the power to pass laws and enact the budget.
• The President is commander in chief and has certain international roles, but his main responsibility is to "take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed" (Article II).
• The Judicial branch can enforce the laws and overturn laws that are unconstitutional.

This balance of powers is under attack.

1. The president is claiming the power to overturn the wishes of congress by freezing funds that have already been approved. The funding freeze aimed to block thousands of programs across the country from Meal-on-Wheels to Cancer Research. Billions of dollars in federal funding flows to counties and townships, often through state programs, including Community block grants, infrastructure programs, student loans, school lunch programs, and health insurance. Here in Houghton, $82M of federal funding supported research at Michigan Tech last year.

These are your taxes that congress is sending back to support citizens and programs for their benefit. The president does not have the right to block it.

A judge agreed, and has since ordered that the freeze be lifted and then held the administration in contempt when money continued to be blocked.

2. A private citizen and his unvetted associates have gained access to personnel records of federal employees, and to the Treasury, which houses your social security data, tax information, and personal data on every person who has conducted business with the federal government.

There is no provision under any of the three branches for a private businessman to have access to the nation’s checkbook. And Elon Musk not only has billions of dollars in contracts with the government through his various companies, but also has undisclosed relationships with Russia, China, and other U.S. adversaries.

Security experts have raised the alarm about this breach of the firewall that protects the personal information of millions of citizens. 

Again, a judge has moved to block this access. However, we don’t know how much of your data was taken before the order.

Inset photo: Sarah Green. (Photo courtesy Michigan Tech University and Sarah Green)

Poster courtesy Sarah Green. (Click on poster for larger version.)

Sarah Green, Calumet Township
Remarks to Houghton County Commissioners’ meeting, 2025-02-11

1. Thanks for listening; I don’t often attend these meetings, but I truly appreciate the efforts you make in improving the lives of Houghton County citizens.

2. I support childcare and small businesses; both are essential for our community. I therefore approve of the county moving ahead with the Gabby’s Guppies application.

3. As I’m sure you are aware, the Community Revolving Loan Fund (CRLF) for the Gabby’s Guppies comes from the federal HUD Community Block Grant Program, funded by our federal taxes. 

4. You may also know that the Community Block Grant Program had its funds frozen last week after an illegal incursion of the US Treasury by a private citizen and his unvetted associates. A judge has since ordered that the freeze be lifted (and held them in contempt today when it wasn’t).

5. Many other programs that your constituents depend on are threatened by these illegal actions: social security, housing assistance, medicare, veterans’ programs, mental health support.

6. Elon Musk is further threatening the more than 9000 federal workers employed in MI-01 (1st congressional district). These employees make up 2.6 percent of the workforce.* About 40 percent of them work for the VA; about 30 percent are veterans themselves. These are your friends and neighbors who may be abruptly fired next week.

Poster courtesy Sarah Green. (Click on poster for larger version.)

7. Do you have a plan to support Gabby’s Guppies and the rest of your constituents if this federal government take-over succeeds?

8. Can we count on you to tell officials in Washington how important federal jobs and funding are to Houghton County?

* Congressional Research Service, https:crsreports.congress.gov, R47716 

Editor's addendum: Sarah Green also reported that several supportive local residents attended the Feb. 11 Houghton County Commissioners' meeting, including Frank Fiala, local business owner and former federal employee. "Frank Fiala gave an outstanding statement from his position as a long-time federal employee and local business owner, and imploring our elected officials to put aside partisanship and respect the rule of law," Green wrote in her email report on the meeting. "The commissioners don’t respond to public comments, but at least some of them were listening," she added.

In her report on the Feb. 12 Houghton City Council meeting, Green wrote, "The response was better than I expected. One person stated that he works for the federal government and things are much worse than is being reported in the news. People who have moved for new federal jobs and bought houses have been abruptly fired already. Craig Waddell proposed discussing a resolution about this topic at the next board meeting. A resolution could be addressed to our U.S. representative and senators. So, that will be on the agenda on Feb 26th! Please come and support it this."

You are encouraged to call Michigan 1st District Congressman Jack Bergman to express your views. He may be somewhere in the District Feb. 18-21 (scheduled as district work periods) or you can call him at (202) 225-4735. You will speak to an intern, who can record your position on any issue you want to raise.

Sarah Green plans to attend the following meetings next week:

 

Hancock City Council: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb 19. City of Hancock Council meets the third Wednesday of the month. All Council Meetings are held in the Hancock City Hall Council Chambers. Meeting begins at 6 p.m.
 

Calumet Township: 1 p.m. Friday, Feb 28. The Charter Township of Calumet board meetings are held on the last Friday of each month starting at 1 p.m.

If you wish to join Sarah Green's email list of concerned residents or request copies of the above posters, you may email her at sarah@inlandsea.net

Sarah Green is Professor Emerita in Chemistry at Michigan Technological University. Dr. Green's interests include all aspects of environmental chemistry from molecular analytical methods to global climate change, including the science policy interface. Dr. Green served as co-vice chair for the Scientific Advisory Panel on the Sixth Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-6), United Nations Environment Programme. Her research interests include, among others, Climate Change Communication, Youth Engagement in Climate Policy and the Great Lakes.

AG Nessel secures preliminary injunction against executive order attempting to limit birthright citizenship

From: Office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel 

LANSING -- Today, Feb. 13, 2025, Judge Leo T. Sorokin in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts ordered a preliminary injunction enjoining the Trump administration from implementing and enforcing the President’s executive order that attempted to limit birthright citizenship, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. (Inset photo: Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Photo courtesy michigan.gov)

The preliminary injunction, effective immediately and nationwide, is specific relief sought by Attorney General Nessel and 17 states, plus Washington D.C. and the City of San Francisco, in their lawsuit filed January 21, 2025, to stop the President’s unlawful action, which violates the Constitution and would harm hundreds of thousands of American children. Since January 23, the administration has been enjoined from implementing the executive order by injunctive relief granted in separate litigation. 

Attorney General Nessel issued the following statement:

"I’m grateful to secure this essential relief from enforcement of the plainly unconstitutional executive order that aims to trample the promise of citizenship to children born in our country. This injunction will protect the constitutional rights of thousands of babies born in Michigan and across the nation while we work with our coalition to demonstrate in federal court how this executive order violates the law as plainly as it violates our American values. My commitment and oath of office require this defense of the Constitution’s Citizenship Clause, as it has been faithfully defended for 150 years."

Federal Judge orders Trump Administration to halt public health research funding cuts following lawsuit by 22 attorneys general

From: Office of  Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. (Photo courtesy michigan.gov)

LANSING --  Federal Judge Angel Kelley of the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s request for a Temporary Restraining Order after a coalition of 22 attorneys general filed a challenge to the Trump Administration's proposed funding cuts for grants awarded by the National Institute of Health. The order bars the Trump administration from taking any steps to implement, apply or enforce funding cuts for grants issued to universities and other institutions within the plaintiff states until a further order is issued by the Court. Attorney General Nessel issued the following statement in response:

"We are pleased that the Judge has issued this temporary restraining order so quickly after our filing. The proposed cuts were massive and injurious both to our state’s public health and economy. I look forward to continuing this case in court and holding this administration to account when their actions violate the law and harm Michigan residents."

Today, February 10, 2025, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel co-led 22 other attorneys general in suing the Trump Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for unlawfully cutting funds that support cutting-edge medical and public health research at universities and research institutions across the country.

Why these cuts would be injurious to the public

The coalition is challenging the Trump Administration’s attempt to unilaterally cut "indirect cost" reimbursements at every research institution throughout the country. These reimbursements cover expenses to facilitate biomedical research -- like lab, faculty, infrastructure, and utility costs. Without them, the lifesaving and life-changing medical research in which the United States has long been a leader could be compromised.  

Indirect cost reimbursements are based on each institution’s unique needs, negotiated with the federal government through a carefully regulated process, and then memorialized in an executed agreement. The Trump Administration purports to toss those agreements aside, putting public health and medical advancements at risk. The coalition’s lawsuit seeks to prevent that reckless and illegal conduct.      

"This funding supports life saving research," said Nessel. "These dangerous proposed cuts are indiscriminate and without purpose. They will cost jobs here in Michigan and will hamper tens of thousands of research projects -- many of which are currently underway and focus on improving health outcomes and preventing death. I’m proud to lead this effort to restore this essential funding."

Last Friday, February 7, the NIH announced it would abruptly slash indirect cost rates to an across-the-board 15 percent rate, which is significantly less than the cost required to perform cutting edge medical research. The NIH purported to make this cut effective the very next business day, Monday, February 10, giving universities and institutions no time to plan for the enormous budget gaps they are now facing. Without immediate relief, this action could result in the suspension of lifesaving and life-extending clinical trials, disruption of research programs, layoffs, and laboratory closures.

The coalition argues that this action violates the Administrative Procedure Act, including a directive Congress passed during President Trump’s first term to fend off his earlier proposal to drastically cut research reimbursements. That statutory language, still in effect, prohibits the NIH from requiring categorial and indiscriminate changes to indirect cost reimbursements. The coalition is seeking a court order barring the Trump Administration and NIH from implementing the action.

The NIH is the primary source of federal funding for medical research in the United States. Medical research funding by NIH grants have led to innumerable scientific breakthroughs, including the discovery of treatment for cancers of all types, the first sequencing of DNA and the development of the MRI. Additionally, dozens of NIH-supported scientists have earned Nobel Prizes for their groundbreaking scientific work.

Most NIH-funding research occurs outside of federal government institutions such as both public and private universities and colleges. In Michigan, this includes over $200 million in funding cuts that support research projects at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and Wayne State University.

This lawsuit is being co-led by the attorneys general of Massachusetts, Illinois, and Michigan. Joining this coalition are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.

The lawsuit was filed today, Feb. 10, in the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts and can be found here (PDF).

Michigan Attorney General team argues in State Court Line 5 should be shut down in Straits of Mackinac

LANSING -- On Jan. 27, 2025, attorneys for the Department of Attorney General gave oral arguments before Judge James S. Jamo of the Ingham County Circuit Court in Nessel v. Enbridge, seeking to shut down Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. The Department argued that the 1953 easement that authorized the location of Line 5 on the bottomlands of the Straits of Mackinac has been invalid since its inception because it violates the Public Trust Doctrine, and that the presence of the pipelines in the Straits violates the Michigan Environmental Protection Act and constitutes a public nuisance. (Inset photo: Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Photo courtesy michigan.gov)

"Enbridge has deliberately caused years of delay through procedural tactics, attempting to block Michigan courts from deciding a critical issue that directly impacts its residents," Nessel said. "Line 5 has long been operating in the Straits on an invalid easement, posing a significant threat to the people of this state and our environment. After more than five years, I’m glad we finally had this opportunity to present our case on behalf of the People of Michigan and our Great Lakes in state court."

Judge Jamo previously agreed with Attorney General Nessel that Line 5 needed to be temporarily shut down after being struck by anchors or similar objects, and the court ordered a temporary shut down in the summer of 2020. After Enbridge sought to remove the case to federal court, the Attorney General successfully argued before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals that the case belongs in Michigan state court.

At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Jamo took the matter under advisement and indicated that the Court will issue a written opinion.*

* Editor's Note: For more details, including arguments from Enbridge, see also the Jan. 28, 2025, WEMU article, "Ingham County judge hears Michigan Attorney General challenge to Enbridge Line 5," by Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio. (Thanks to FLOW -- For Love of Water -- for this update.)