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[UNLOCKED] Jon’s Weekend Political Reading Recommendations! Five Articles, Two Charts (One Good, One Disturbing), A GreatVideo And Remembering Carrie Fisher...
I am perusing the web all week, and I write about some of the things I find. But I there is so much great stuff that I do not write about, but I collect for this Saturday column. Enjoy.
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THIS FEATURE IS FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS. BUT FOR DECEMBER WE ARE OPENING IT UP FOR OUR FREE SUBSCRIBERS SO YOU CAN SEE THE VALUE OF THIS SATURDAY POST! (YEAH, I SAID I WAS TAKING TODAY OFF… BUT I HAD THESE LINKS…)
In the new year, it will be behind the paywall.
A short video from me… (You don’t want to skip this!)
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Reading Recommendations!
A WEALTH TAX FLOATED IN CALIFORNIA HAS BILLIONAIRES THINKING OF LEAVING
The New York Times reports that California’s proposed one-time wealth tax on billionaires has prompted discussions among ultra-wealthy residents about reducing or ending ties to the state, with tech figures such as Larry Page and Peter Thiel weighing relocation to avoid potentially massive tax bills. The initiative reflects growing political debate over fiscal policy and economic competitiveness.
This is a GIFT LINK, so it should get you right through the paywall! Please remember the NYT is the “newspaper of record” for the left.
GAVIN NEWSOM’S BIG DILEMMA: TAX THE RICH OR DEFY THE LEFT
In this Politico story, they discuss how Governor Gavin Newsom faces political pressure over whether to support new taxes on wealthy residents in his final year in office. Progressives want higher levies to address budget shortfalls. Still, Newsom has resisted some tax increases, forcing him to weigh the risk of alienating the left caucus against broader economic concerns and his political ambitions.
THEY WANTED A CONSERVATIVE STATE. THEY MAY GET A DEMOCRATIC REPRESENTATIVE INSTEAD
The New York Times reports that California’s newly approved redistricting plan under Proposition 50 is reshaping congressional maps and threatening Republican incumbents like Doug LaMalfa. The changes, backed by Democrats to counter GOP map gains in other states, could significantly reduce Republican representation and intensify political battles ahead of the 2026 midterms, drawing sharp criticism from affected GOP members.
This is a GIFT LINK, so it should get you right through the paywall! Please remember the NYT is the “newspaper of record” for the left.
DELAY IN DECISION POINTS TO FEDERAL COURT UPHOLDING PROP. 50
On Wednesday morning, Jim Lacy took note that no news from the three-judge panel in the federal case on Prop. 50 was bad news. Well, nothing came out on Wednesday, pushing everything out past the long Christmas holiday weekend. So, if Jim’s theory is correct, it’s even worse…
THE 51 BIGGEST AMERICAN POLITICAL MOMENTS OF THE 21ST CENTURY
In this column, author Nate Silver outlines the most consequential political events since 2000, from elections to landmark policy battles. Framed as a holiday listicle, Silver offers his criteria for ranking moments that shaped the nation’s political trajectory, inviting debate on impact and historical significance.
Quick Hits…
If you present or win at the Golden Globes, you get a $1 million gift bag. See what’s inside…
AP’s Best Wildlife Photos Of The Year
What classic holiday toys would cost today
One Chart (Good News)…
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One More Chart (Not Such Good News)…
SECULAR CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS PERSIST AS SACRED ONES DECLINE
Most Americans who celebrate Christmas exchange gifts and decorate, but fewer than half now say they attend church, based on a new Gallup Organization survey.
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One Good Podcast…
CHARLIE KIRK WAS KILLED ON HER CAMPUS
Charlie Kirk Was Killed on Her Campus. This Is What Happened Next, Washington Post podcast host Megan McCardle speaks with Utah Valley University president Astrid Tuminez about leading her community after the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk. Tuminez discusses how her faith and experience shaped her response and shares lessons on resilience and compassionate leadership in crisis. You can listen to it here or find it on your favorite podcast platform.
One Good Video…
DEI KILLED MERITOCRACY — AND WHITE MEN IN AMERICA HAVE PAID THE PRICE
Victor Davis Hanson breaks down a recent, controversial article in Compact Magazine that examines how white men have been increasingly excluded from fields such as entertainment, journalism, and academia over the past several decades. Hanson explores the effects of early affirmative action, post-George Floyd hiring practices, and who bears responsibility for these changes on today’s episode of “Victor Davis Hanson: In a Few Words.”
On This Day in 2016: Actress Carrie Fisher Passed Away
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On the anniversary of Carrie Fisher's passing, it is fitting to reflect on a life shaped by fame yet defined by fierce independence. Born to Hollywood royalty—actress and singer Debbie Reynolds and entertainer Eddie Fisher—she grew up in a spotlight few could imagine navigating with ease. Rather than being eclipsed by her parents’ celebrity, Fisher forged her own unmistakable voice and career. To the world, she will always be Princess Leia, a character who permanently altered expectations for women in popular culture by embodying strength, intelligence, and defiance. Offscreen, Fisher became something equally important: a truth-teller. With wit and disarming honesty, she spoke openly about mental illness, addiction, and recovery, breaking taboos and offering comfort to countless people who felt alone. As a writer, she revealed a sharp mind and fearless self-awareness, turning personal struggle into insight and humor. Carrie Fisher lived unapologetically. Years after her passing, her voice still resonates—brilliant, brave, and enduring. Below is a classic scene from the original Star Wars film.
Let’s all continue to enjoy the holidays!
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