2/28/2024

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            My BFF & I mused about pluralism today. We discussed the idea that we are all better off when we embrace our ethnic, linguistic & religious ancestry AND celebrate differences by learning about our neighbors’ cultural roots. Of course, this is easier said than done, especially when those differences entail opposite beliefs about particular aspects of life. For example, beliefs about when cells in a woman’s body become a person can be quite different, as are beliefs about what constitutes a family. Living with people unlike ourselves can cause confusion & humans aren’t good at dealing with cognitive dissonance.

            Speaking of dissonance, Lisa Desjardins (LD), reporting for PBS, says there was some in your meeting with the Congressional crew yesterday. She noted that Chuck Schumer said the exchange over Ukraine aid was one of the most intense scenes he's ever witnessed in the Oval Office. I hope you managed to keep your temper.

            LD also mentioned that Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) (BKF) is working on a bi-partisan bill for Ukraine aid where he is somehow bypassing the House leadership. As you know BKF is one of the 17 Republicans representing a district you won in 2020, so he’s trying to appeal to a plural electorate. It’ll be interesting to see what he can pull off.

            Speaking of a plural electorate, what are your thoughts about the 13% of voters who chose “uncommitted” in the Dem primary in MI yesterday. I hope it helps you to reconsider your pledge to send $$ to Bibi to buy weapons.

            As usual, I request that you ask the State Department to keep an eye on Burma. The G reports that the threat of conscription has destabilized the population even more with folks being worried that the junta will try to use them as human shields.

            I look forward to reading about your remarks today on making our communities safer.

            BYBS,