Dear Friends,

This week the Republican National Convention (RNC)  kicked off amidst a backdrop of controversy and division. Let’s delve into what the RNC and Democratic National Convention (DNC) mean for our future and the critical issues conspicuously absent from both conventions. But first, more culture war and climate change denialist battles in Congress. The Senate Armed Services Committee released its version of the defense funding bill which includes amendments to deny gender-affirming medical care to servicemembers and family members. The House voted to roll back household appliance energy efficiency requirements. Stay with us as we look past the political spectacle.

What Happened Last Week?

Before diving into this week’s events, let's review some recent legislative developments that you may have missed:

Anti-Trans Amendments in the NDAA
The Senate Armed Services Committee advanced a version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with amendments that would restrict gender-affirming medical care. A gender-affirming model of care affirms gender identity and is proven to reduce anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. This version of the bill prohibits the Department of Defense from providing gender-affirming surgeries to transgender and non-binary servicemembers or insurance coverage for any gender-affirming medical care for transgender or non-binary youth whose parents are serving in the military. This attack on the rights and well-being of those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country would be the first restriction on gender-affirming medical care written into federal law if passed. What’s even more shocking is that these amendments were passed by a Democratically-controlled Senate committee. This serves as a stark reminder that no matter which party is in control, it is up to us to hold our leaders accountable and ensure that such prejudiced legislation does not threaten the ability of trans and non-binary service members to receive the medicare care they and their family members need.

H.R.7700 - Stop Unaffordable Dishwasher Standards Act & H.R.7637 - Refrigerator Freedom Act
The House passed these bills, which are an attempt to roll back energy efficiency regulations on household dishwashers and refrigerators.  These bills would prohibit the Department of Energy from enforcing energy conservation standards on dishwashers, refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and freezers unless they meet certain criteria. House Republicans used these bills as a red herring to oppose steps toward energy efficiency and reducing costs for consumers in the long run. Whether the Republicans and dozen or so Democrats that voted in favor of the roll backs are in denial about climate change or are in the pockets of special interests, the passage of these bills means using more energy and fossil fuels for our appliances than we should be.

What Are Political Conventions?

Political conventions are where parties unify their policy platforms and mobilize their bases. The platforms adopted at these conventions are not mere rhetoric; they shape legislative agendas and influence the direction of national policies. For example, the Democratic National Convention of 1948 was pivotal in adopting a civil rights plank, which signaled a significant shift in the party's stance and laid the groundwork for the civil rights movement of the 1960s. When the Republican Party adopted its "Southern Strategy" in the late 1960s, it marked a deliberate pivot towards appealing to racial tensions, which had long-lasting impacts on American politics and society.

Understanding the current platforms of the parties helps us hold our representatives accountable. It ensures that we can track promises made against actions taken, providing a clear metric for evaluating the effectiveness and integrity of our elected officials. The glaring absence of a call for Palestinian sovereignty and a permanent ceasefire underscores the need for us to continue pressuring our reps.

Republican v. Democratic Convention

This year's Republican National Convention (July 15th to July 18th) was expected to emphasize their typical themes of economic growth, national security, and “traditional” family values. Beyond the talk is a platform that prioritizes tax cuts for the wealthy, environmental deregulation that endangers our environment, and immigration policies that divide families and stoke fear. In addition, this convention was held just after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. While this is a serious and unfortunate event, we must also recognize how the divisive, xenophobic, and racists rhetoric historically promoted at these conventions can fuel division and violence. The RNC has often been a stage for fear-mongering and the promotion of policies that undermine the principles of equality and justice.

During the RNC, Trump selected J.D. Vance as his vice-presidential candidate. Vance, a MAGA extremist, is known for his backwards views, including his staunch opposition to reproductive choice. His selection as a VP candidate is a continuation of the party's attack on the rights of women, working families, people of color, and marginalized communities.

In contrast, the Democratic National Convention (August 19th to August 22nd) will focus on expanding healthcare, addressing climate change, and promoting social justice and economic equity. Key issues will include Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, and comprehensive immigration reform, but whether platform points are implemented is another story (hint: follow the money). The convention will also spotlight diversity and inclusion within the party, in stark contrast to the divisive rhetoric seen at the RNC.

Absent from both conventions will be any substantial discussion on a permanent ceasefire in Gaza or Palestinian sovereignty. Most alarmingly, there is a deafening silence on the genocide being perpetuated in Gaza for nearly ten months now. The lack of dialogue on these critical issues speaks volumes about the corrupting influence of special interest money in politics, like AIPAC, fossil fuel companies, big pharma, and Wall Street banks. We must demand that our leaders, on both sides of the aisle, get out of the pockets of their donors and carry out the will of their constituents.

My commitment is to keep you informed and engaged because a well-informed electorate is the bedrock of a functioning democracy. By staying vigilant and active, we can push for a government that truly works for the people.

As always, your participation is key to making this vision a reality. When we fight, we win. Stay tuned for more updates and insights.

It’s time for us,
David Kim