October 25, 2017

Three Cheers For Jeff Flake

Bill Clark/Congressional Quarterly/Newscom via ZUMA

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I’ve seen a bunch of criticism of Sen. Jeff Flake that goes like this: Sure, you talk big about Trump, but when it comes to a vote you’re always on his side. What a hypocrite.

This is also a general criticism of nearly every Republican who criticizes Trump. But what do you expect them to do? They’re conservatives. When conservative bills reach the floor, are they supposed to vote against them just because Trump happens to support them? That doesn’t make any sense.

Short of impeachment, there’s really not much that congressional Republicans can do to rein in Trump.¹ Given that reality, calling him out clearly and distinctly when he acts like a child is exactly what they should do. We need more Jeff Flakes, not fewer, and they deserve support when they speak out, not petty carping.

¹Though I’m open to suggestions.

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We can afford to take that time because we don’t report to an oligarch or corporation with a special agenda. We report to you, and for you. That’s why we unabashedly pursue the truth and relentlessly shine a light into the darkness.

In this month’s Summer Membership Drive, we’ve got to raise $200,000 to support more crucial investigations. This is a pivotal moment in our nation, with democracy on the line, and we can only do this work because readers like you step up. Every donation, of any amount, makes a difference here. We cannot do this work without you.

So, we’re asking: Will you support independent journalism that demands those in power answer for their actions?

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