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“Stop the steal, stop the steal!” Some may remember this catch phrase popular with the MAGA faithful after the 2020 election. I believe current events call for some sloganeering jiujitsu. We need to resurrect and sling this gem back at the Trump administration.
Let’s “stop the steal” of taxpayer dollars now earmarked for convicted violent offenders who attacked the Capitol Police on Jan. 6. Let’s “stop the steal” of taxpayer dollars for impulsive, strategy-free, foreign wars of choice and narcissistic building projects. While we’re at it, let’s “stop the steal” of approved funding for healthcare coverage, biomedical research, renewable energy development … the list continues.
Wait. If memory serves, Congress is endowed with the power of the purse by virtue of Article I of the Constitution. Aren’t they able to “stop the steal” of our taxpayer funds in the Treasury?
Technically, this is true, but the political reality is that they are “supine.” Pundits use this phrase to denote the passive approval of the Trump administration’s machinations. As a medical professional, I know this phrase to mean lying on one’s back. I usually refer to my surgical patients as being in the supine position on the operating table. Of course, they are usually under anesthesia. What’s Congress’ excuse?
Wake up, Congress. We’re only one year in. It’s likely not going to get any better.
Todd O’Brien
Orono