With the (united) States on the verge of another divisive and generally toxic election, thanks in no small part to the exhaustive presence of Donald Trump, I found myself wondering what qualities the “founding fathers” believed a future President should embody.

George Washington, believed that a President should be a person of strong moral character and integrity. In his farewell address, Washington emphasized the importance of virtue and morality for leaders, warning that a loss of these values could lead to the erosion of the nation’s stability.

John Adams, for instance, emphasized the need for a President to be educated and familiar with the complexities of governance, as this understanding would help them act decisively and fairly. In ‘The Federalist Papers,’ a series of essays written to support the Constitution’s ratification and discuss its principles, James Madison wrote of the need to rise above partisan interests and warned against the dangers of factions and excessive populism, urging that a President should serve as a stabilizing force and a unifying figure.

In his letters and speeches, Andrew Jackson, the seventh President, emphasized that a President should be a true representative of the people’s will, not an elite figure removed from the public. He opposed policies that seemed to favor the wealthy and powerful, framing his presidency as a counter to the influence of “aristocratic” elites. He wrote passionately about the importance of majority rule and saw the presidency as a conduit for the popular voice.

Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States and a much-beloved figure in the Republican party, believed that personal integrity and honesty were crucial presidential qualities and that a President should always remember their duty to serve all Americans, not just their supporters. His approach to issues like immigration and his respect for political opponents reflected his belief that a leader should be empathetic and humble.

Indeed with immigration yet again being used as a political pawn it is perhaps easy to forget that Reagan signed the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) in 1986, which granted amnesty to nearly 3 million undocumented immigrants who had been living in the U.S. continuously since before 1982. Reagan believed immigrants should be welcomed and allowed to assimilate because he saw immigration as central to the American story. In his view, immigrants brought new energy and ideas, which enriched American culture and strengthened the economy.

It’s strange to look back on these Presidents and read about their beliefs given the toxicity of politics today in America. I know, of course, that there were challenges and divisions throughout history too, but was it ever as unworkable as it seems today?

When he was President Reagan said, “If we agree on 80 percent, that’s a lot better than if we are fighting on the 20 percent where we disagree.” He also said, “There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” Such notions seem far from today’s political reality in the USA.

But as Americans head to the polls this Tuesday we could all be in for four more years of Donald Trump, America’s first-ever orange President, and while everyone agreed Joe Biden was too old to be President it seems that electing 78-year-old Trump is something a lot of people are enthusiastic about.

I don’t know what the Founding Fathers were like. Their lofty ideas might have been very different from their personalities and how they governed. But I wonder what they would make of things today? Of course, the world we live in today is nothing like it was back when they were writing the Constitution and ‘The Federalist Papers.’ But does Trump embody any of the traits those founding fathers looked for in the nation’s future Presidents?

If Trump were to speak to those founding fathers about why he should be President again, maybe he would call upon some of the qualities he has spoken about over the years, and just for fun, I’ve listed 100 of them, in his own words, below.

1. Technology: “Nobody knows more about technology than me. I know more about technology than anybody.”
2. Taxes: “Nobody knows more about taxes than me, maybe in the history of the world.”
3. The Economy: “I think nobody knows more about the economy than I do.”
4. The Judiciary: “Nobody knows more about the legal system than I do.”
5. Border Security: “Nobody knows more about the border than me.”
6. Cybersecurity: “Nobody knows more about cybersecurity than me.”
7. Toys: “Nobody has better toys than me.”
8. The Bible: “No one reads the Bible more than me.”
9. Construction: “Nobody knows more about construction than I do.”
10. The Environment: “I think I know more about the environment than most people.”
11. Racism: “I am the least racist person you’ll ever meet.”
12. African Americans: “I have a great relationship with the blacks. I’ve always had a great relationship with the blacks.” “If I were starting off today, I would love to be a well-educated black, because I believe they do have an actual advantage.”
13. Campaign Finance: “Nobody knows more about campaign finance than I do.”
14. Renewable Energy: “Nobody knows more about renewables than me.”
15. Social Media: “I think nobody knows more about social media than I do.”
16. Healthcare: “Nobody knows more about health care than Donald Trump.”
17. The System of Government: “Nobody knows the system better than me, which is why I alone can fix it.”
18. Infrastructure: “Nobody in the history of this country has ever known so much about infrastructure as Donald Trump.”
19. Banking: “Nobody knows banking better than I do. I understand money better than anybody.”
20. Politics: “Nobody knows more about politics than Donald Trump.”
21. Russia: “Nobody’s been tougher on Russia than I have.”
22. NATO: “I know more about NATO than General [James] Mattis.”
23. Afghanistan: “I know more about Afghanistan than anybody.”
24. Judges and the Law: “Nobody knows judges better than I do.”
25. The Military: “Nobody’s bigger or better at the military I am.”
26. ISIS: “I know more about ISIS than the generals do. Believe me.”
27. Trade and Tariffs: “Nobody knows more about trade than me.”
28. China: “Nobody knows more about China than I do.”
29. The Middle East: “I know more about the Middle East than anybody.”
30. Drones: “Nobody knows more about drones than I do.”
31. Television Ratings: “I know more about ratings than anyone.”
32. Walls: “Nobody builds better walls than me.”
33. Intelligence: “I’m intelligent. Some people would say I’m very, very, very intelligent.”
34. Sen. Cory Booker: “I know more about Cory than he knows about himself.”
35. News Media: “Nobody knows more about the media than me.”
36. Polling: “Nobody knows more about polls than me.”
37. Obamacare: “Nobody knows more about Obamacare than me.”
38. The Stock Market: “Nobody knows more about the stock market than me.”
39. Real Estate: “Nobody in the history of the world knows more about real estate than me.”
40. Golf: “I know more about golf than anyone.”
41. Being Pro-Israel: “There’s nobody more pro-Israel than I am.”
42. The Hospitality Industry: “Nobody knows more about hospitality than me.”
43. Negotiating Deals: “I’m the best at making deals.”
44. Veterans Affairs: “Nobody knows more about the VA than me.”
45. Immigration Law: “Nobody knows more about immigration than Donald Trump.”
46. Tax Law: “Nobody knows the tax code better than I do.”
47. Law Enforcement: “Nobody knows more about law enforcement than I do.”
48. The U.S. Debt: “Nobody knows more about debt. I’m the king of debt. I’m great with debt. Nobody knows debt better than me.”
49. Military Strategy: “I know more about military strategy than anybody.”
50. Healthcare Insurance: “Nobody knows more about insurance than I do.”
51. Politicians: “Nobody knows politicians better than me.”
52. Criminal Justice System: “Nobody knows more about the criminal justice system than I do.”
53. Public Opinion: “Nobody understands public opinion better than I do.”
54. Agriculture: “Nobody knows more about farming than me.”
55. Nuclear Weapons: “I know more about nuclear weapons than any president that’s ever lived.”
56. Telecommunications: “Nobody knows more about telecommunications than I do.”
57. The Energy Sector: “Nobody knows more about energy than I do.”
58. Iran deal: “I have studied the Iran deal in great detail, greater by far than anyone else.”
59. Sales: “I know what sells and I know what people want.”
60. Global Warming: “The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive.”
61. Chinese people: “I know the Chinese. I’ve made a lot of money with the Chinese. I understand the Chinese mind.”
62. The Judiciary System: “Nobody knows the system better than me.”
63. Wind Turbines: “I know more about wind than anybody.”
64. Gun Policy and the Second Amendment: “No one is stronger on the Second Amendment than me.”
65. Civil Rights Issues: “Nobody has done more for civil rights than I have.”
66. Success: “Nobody’s ever been more successful than me.”
67. Women: “Nobody has more respect for women than I do.” “You have to treat ’em like shit.”
68. Top Models: “Oftentimes when I was sleeping with one of the top women in the world I would say to myself, thinking about me as a boy from Queens, ‘Can you believe what I am getting?”
69. The Entertainment Industry: “Nobody knows the entertainment industry better than I do.”
70. Women’s Health Issues: “There’s nobody who feels more strongly about women’s health issues.”
71. Veteran Support: “Nobody’s done more for the veterans than I have.”
72. Conservative: “No one is more conservative than me.”
73. Renewables: “I know more about renewables than any human being on Earth.”
74. Income Inequality: “There’s nobody that’s done so much for equality as I have.”
75. Television and Media Ratings: “I know more about ratings than anyone.”
76. Devaluation: “Nobody even understands it but me.”
77. Criminal Justice: “Nobody has done more for criminal justice reform than I have.”
78. Business Negotiation: “Nobody knows more about negotiating than I do.”
79. Veteran’s Affairs and Support Systems: “Nobody’s done more for veterans than I have.”
80. Steel Workers: “I know more about steelworkers than anyone who has ever run for office.”
81. Courts: “I know more about courts than any human being on Earth.”
82. Consultants: “Nobody knows consultants better than me.”
83. Fair hair: “I was a fair-haired boy, nobody knows more about it than me.”
84. Democrats: “I think I know more about the other side than almost anybody.”
85. Hurricanes: “I got it. I got it. Why don’t we nuke them?”
86. Wind: “I know a lot about wind.”
87. Forgiveness: “For many years I’ve said that if someone screws you, screw them back. When somebody hurts you, just go after them as viciously and as violently as you can.”
88. IVF: “I’m the father of IVF.”
89. Windmills: “I know windmills very much. I’ve studied it better than anybody.”
90. Kindness: “I think if this country gets any kinder or gentler, it’s literally going to cease to exist.”
91. Jeffrey Epstein: “Terrific guy,” – “It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side.”
92. Attention: “If I get my name in the paper, if people pay attention, that’s what matters.”
93. Bragging: “I’m not doing that to brag. Because you know what? I don’t have to brag. I don’t have to. Believe it or not.”
94. Winning: “In the end, I always win, whether it’s in golf, whether it’s in tennis, whether it’s in life, I just always win. And I tell people I always win, because I do.
95. Himself: “I am a really smart guy.”
96. His Own IQ: “Sorry losers and haters, but my I.Q. is one of the highest — and you all know it!”
97. His Own looks: “It’s very hard for them to attack me on looks, because I’m so good looking.”
98. His Second Wife: “I was bored when she was walking down the aisle. I kept thinking: What the hell am I doing here?”
99. His Own Genius: “I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star … to President of the United States (on my first try). I think that would qualify as not smart, but genius … and a very stable genius at that!”
100. Modesty: “The truth is I’m actually a modest person, very modest, it’s true.”

Those quotes are as worrying as they are hilarious, and while many people dismiss his bluster you have to wonder what’s happening in the head of someone who is so outrageously self-congratulatory. I found many similar quotes that I didn’t put in that list. But quite apart from these Trump also claims to know more than everyone on practically every subject.

Here’s a list of more than 400 subjects Trump has claimed expertise in.

1. Fake News: Claimed to understand “fake news” better than anyone else.
2. Bankruptcy Law: Claimed deep familiarity with bankruptcy laws.
3. Prison Reform: Claimed deep knowledge in prison reform.
4. Intelligence Community: Claimed to know more about the intelligence community.
5. The Pharmaceutical Industry: Claimed to know more than most.
6. Voter Fraud: Claimed expertise in understanding voter fraud.
7. School Choice: Claimed to have extensive knowledge on education policies.
8. Judicial Appointments: Claimed extensive expertise in choosing judges.
9. Election Law: Claimed to know more about election law than anyone else.
10. Climate Science: Claimed to understand climate science better than most scientists.
11. Hurricane and Disaster Relief: Claimed extensive knowledge on disaster management.
12. Space Exploration: Claimed to know more about space and NASA initiatives.
13. COVID-19 and Pandemics: Claimed to know more about COVID-19 than most.
14. Vaccines: Claimed superior knowledge on vaccines and vaccine development.
15. Science in General: Claimed an extensive understanding of science.
16. Water Management and Infrastructure: Claimed deep knowledge of water policy.
17. Education Policy: Claimed superior knowledge of educational issues.
18. Sanctions: Claimed to understand sanctions better than experts.
19. The Department of Defense: Claimed to know more about the DoD than most.
20. Renewable Energy Science: Claimed expertise in scientific aspects of renewables.
21. Historical Events: Claimed extensive knowledge on historical events and figures.
22. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Claimed to know more about environmental policy.
23. Intellectual Property: Claimed to understand IP better than others.
24. Natural Resources: Claimed expertise on natural resource management.
25. Counterterrorism: Claimed deep understanding of counterterrorism.
26. Technology Infrastructure: Claimed expertise in technology-related infrastructure.
27. Housing and Urban Development: Claimed extensive knowledge on housing policies.
28. Fire Safety and Management: Claimed to know more about fire management.
29. Crime and Policing: Claimed superior knowledge of law enforcement practices.
30. Constitutional Law: Claimed deep understanding of constitutional issues.
31. Foreign Countries: Claimed extensive knowledge about multiple foreign nations.
32. Public Health: Claimed expertise on public health issues.
33. Historical Military Campaigns: Claimed knowledge of military history.
34. The Space Force: Claimed deep knowledge about space military initiatives.
35. Television Production: Claimed expertise in TV production.
36. Legal Procedures: Claimed to know more about legal processes.
37. Marketing and Branding: Claimed expertise in marketing strategies.
38. The Stock Market and Economy: Claimed extensive insight into market trends.
39. Agricultural Science: Claimed to know more about farming techniques and science.
40. Understanding Women’s Issues: Implied a strong understanding of issues affecting women.
41. The LGBTQ+ Community: Claimed he would be the best advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
42. Marriage: Implied he has an insightful perspective on marriage dynamics.
43. Fitness and Health: Claimed an understanding of physical fitness and health.
44. Family Values: Implied he understands family values better than most.
45. Religious Freedom: Claimed to be a protector of religious liberties.
46. Religion and Evangelicals: Claimed to have great respect and understanding for evangelical Christians.
47. Drug Policy: Implied strong knowledge of drug policies.
48. Workplace Productivity: Claimed to know how to make people more productive.
49. The Pharmaceutical Industry: Claimed insight into drug pricing and pharmaceutical practices.
50. Tax Avoidance: Claimed to be an expert in understanding the tax code, especially in minimizing taxes.
51. Geopolitical Strategies: Claimed extensive understanding of global politics.
52. The Hispanic Community: Claimed extensive knowledge on issues affecting Hispanic Americans.
53. Educational Reform: Claimed he understands education better than most.
54. The History of the Republican Party: Claimed unique insight into the GOP’s principles and history.
55. Judicial Appointments and the Supreme Court: Claimed unmatched insight in choosing Supreme Court justices.
56. COVID-19: Claimed to know more about COVID-19 than public health experts initially did.
57. Financial Markets: Claimed extensive knowledge of the stock market and economy.
58. U.S. Cities: Claimed to know more about the problems facing major U.S. cities than local leaders.
59. Charity and Philanthropy: Claimed deep involvement and expertise in philanthropy.
60. Economic Stimulus: Claimed to know how to boost the economy better than any prior president.
61. College Sports: Claimed knowledge on NCAA sports, specifically football.
62. Prison Reform and Conditions: Claimed understanding of how to improve prison systems.
63. The Airline Industry: Claimed to know more about airline operations.
64. Hollywood: Claimed expertise and deep understanding of the film industry.
65. Agricultural Policy: Claimed to understand the challenges facing farmers better than most.
66. Supply Chain Logistics: Claimed superior knowledge in logistics and supply chain management.
67. Corporate Tax Reform: Claimed to know the best tax strategies for corporate America.
68. Bankruptcy: Implied expertise in navigating bankruptcy laws and systems.
69. Industrial Manufacturing: Claimed knowledge of manufacturing practices.
70. Labor Unions: Claimed insight into labor union dynamics and issues.
71. Parenting and Child Development: Claimed to understand parenting issues.
72. Mental Health and Psychology: Implied insight into psychological issues affecting Americans.
73. Aviation: Claimed to know more about airplanes and aviation than others, including expertise in the Boeing 737 Max issues.
74. Labor Markets and Employment: Claimed to understand employment trends and labor markets better than most.
75. Nuclear Power and Energy: Claimed understanding of nuclear power safety and development.
76. Intelligence Operations: Implied he knew better than intelligence agencies on various global threats and assessments.
77. Counterintelligence: Claimed to know more about intelligence and counterintelligence than most.
78. Law and Order: Frequently claimed expertise on crime reduction and policing strategies.
79. American Patriotism: Claimed to have unmatched love and respect for American values.
80. Opioid Crisis: Claimed to understand the opioid crisis deeply, including how to resolve it.
81. Monetary Policy: Implied he knew more about monetary policy and the Federal Reserve than experts.
82. Antitrust Law: Claimed insight into monopolistic practices and how to handle antitrust cases.
83. Telecommunications and 5G: Claimed to understand telecommunications policy, especially around 5G technology.
84. Suburban Development and Zoning: Claimed expertise in zoning and development affecting suburbs.
85. Animal Rights and Protection: Claimed to understand animal rights and protection policies better than others.
86. Public Speaking: Implied he’s one of the best public speakers and communicators.
87. Libel Law: Claimed to understand libel and defamation laws better than most.
88. Space Exploration and NASA: Claimed to know more about space than many in the industry, especially with regard to the Space Force.
89. Real Estate Law: Implied he has deep expertise in real estate and property law.
90. School Safety: Claimed to know how to make schools safer than current approaches.
91. Political Strategy: Implied he’s one of the best strategists in modern politics.
92. The Coal Industry: Claimed to understand coal mining and the coal industry better than others.
93. Farm Subsidies and Farming Policy: Claimed understanding of agricultural subsidies and policies.
94. COVID-19 Testing and Medical Equipment: Claimed to know more about medical equipment and testing than health experts.
95. The Postal Service: Claimed insight into fixing the issues in the U.S. Postal Service.
96. International Diplomacy: Claimed superior knowledge in negotiating with foreign leaders.
97. Hotel Industry Standards: Claimed to know hotel and hospitality standards better than anyone.
98. Transportation Infrastructure: Claimed deep knowledge of infrastructure beyond just U.S. highways, including rail systems.
99. The American Legal System: Implied he understands U.S. legal proceedings better than most.
100. Corporate Ethics and Practices: Claimed to know ethical business practices better than other executives.
101. Financial and Business Regulations: Claimed expertise in navigating and reducing business regulations.
102. Historic Monuments: Claimed to understand the importance of preserving American monuments and history.
103. Cryptocurrencies and Digital Markets: Claimed knowledge about digital currencies like Bitcoin.
104. Regulation of Social Media Companies: Claimed to understand social media policies better than those in the industry.
105. Veterans’ Mental Health: Claimed he knows what’s best for addressing mental health challenges faced by veterans.
106. Historical Significance of Monuments: Claimed to understand the cultural significance of monuments.
107. Agricultural Technology: Claimed expertise in technologies affecting farming and food production.
108. Charitable Giving and Philanthropy: Claimed to know more about charity and charitable foundations.
109. International Military Strategy: Claimed to have better strategies for international conflicts than military advisors.
110. American History and Patriotism: Claimed to know more about American history than most.
111. Fashion and Branding: Claimed expertise in fashion and brand building, particularly through his products.
112. Management of Public Land: Claimed to know more about public land management than environmental experts.
113. Postal Voting and Election Security: Claimed to understand voter security, specifically mail-in voting, better than election officials.
114. Military Veterans and Gold Star Families: Claimed to understand veteran issues better than past presidents.
115. Mortgage and Housing Market: Claimed to know more about housing and mortgage policies than others.
116. American Manufacturing: Claimed expertise in bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.
117. Automobile Industry: Claimed insight into the challenges and policies affecting car manufacturers.
118. Prison Rehabilitation: Claimed to know more about rehabilitation programs than other leaders.
119. Online Privacy and Data Protection: Claimed to understand privacy issues better than tech companies.
120. Foreign Aid: Claimed to know more about how foreign aid is allocated and how it should be managed.
121. Mental Health Policy: Implied he has a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues and solutions.
122. Supply Chain Disruptions: Claimed to understand the causes and solutions to supply chain issues better than most.
123. Renewable Energy Policy: Claimed to have insights into the renewable energy sector’s growth and challenges.
124. Cultural Heritage Preservation: Claimed to know the importance of preserving cultural heritage better than other politicians.
125. Consumer Protection Laws: Claimed to understand consumer rights and protections more deeply than others.
126. The Gig Economy: Claimed to know the challenges and opportunities within the gig economy.
127. Public Safety: Claimed to have superior insights into policies affecting public safety.
128. Urban Development and Renewal: Claimed expertise in urban planning and revitalization.
129. Small Business Support: Claimed to understand the needs and challenges of small businesses.
130. Retail Industry: Claimed insight into retail management and operations.
131. The Art of the Deal: Frequently referred to his experience in negotiations as unparalleled.
132. Crisis Management: Claimed he knows how to effectively manage crises better than anyone.
133. Economic Forecasting: Claimed to have a better understanding of predicting economic trends.
134. Military Technology: Claimed to know more about advancements in military technology than defense experts.
135. Environmental Policy: Claimed to have deep insights into environmental regulation and policy-making.
136. Infrastructure Financing: Claimed expertise in financing large infrastructure projects.
137. Water Quality and Management: Claimed to know more about issues affecting water quality and management.
138. Media Relations: Claimed superior knowledge of how to handle relationships with the media.
139. Energy Independence: Claimed to understand energy independence better than previous administrations.
140. Highway and Transportation Policy: Claimed to know how to improve U.S. transportation systems.
141. Real Estate Investment: Claimed insights into real estate investment strategies.
142. Financial Literacy: Implied that he understands financial education better than others.
143. E-commerce: Claimed knowledge of trends and policies affecting online commerce.
144. Pharmaceutical Pricing: Claimed to know how to negotiate better drug prices.
145. Animal Welfare: Claimed to understand animal welfare issues more thoroughly than others.
146. Family Business Dynamics: Claimed to know the intricacies of running a family business.
147. Electoral Integrity: Claimed expertise in ensuring election integrity.
148. Divorce Law and Family Court Systems: Implied a good understanding of family law based on his experiences.
149. City Planning and Zoning Laws: Claimed to know more about urban planning regulations.
150. Civil Service Reform: Claimed insight into improving government efficiency.
151. Historical Figures and Events: Claimed to have superior knowledge of important historical figures and events.
152. Public Works Projects: Claimed expertise in managing public works.
153. Housing Affordability: Claimed to understand the challenges of affordable housing.
154. Bail Reform: Claimed insight into the issues surrounding bail reform.
155. Digital Privacy Laws: Implied he understands the implications of digital privacy regulations.
156. Social Security: Claimed to know more about Social Security reforms than most politicians.
157. Retirement Planning: Claimed expertise in retirement saving strategies.
158. American Values and Ideals: Claimed to have a deep understanding of what constitutes American values.
159. Consumer Goods and Marketing: Claimed knowledge about consumer trends and marketing strategies.
160. Terrorism and Security Policy: Claimed he knows how to effectively combat terrorism.
161. The Criminal Justice System’s Failures: Claimed insights into the failings of the criminal justice system.
162. Public Education Reform: Claimed to understand the needs of public education.
163. The Role of Faith in Politics: Claimed insights into the relationship between religion and governance.
164. Cyber Warfare: Claimed understanding of how to protect against cyber threats.
165. Homeownership Issues: Claimed to know the ins and outs of the challenges facing potential homeowners.
166. Economic Policy for Minority Communities: Claimed to have the best plans for improving economic conditions in minority communities.
167. Food Supply Chains: Claimed to understand food production and supply chains better than most.
168. Emergency Preparedness: Claimed expertise in managing emergency situations and disaster response.
169. Nuclear Proliferation: Claimed to know how to effectively handle nuclear arms negotiations and treaties.
170. Philanthropic Endeavors: Claimed knowledge about how to effectively run charitable foundations.
171. Public Health Policy: Implied a deep understanding of health policies affecting the American public.
172. Workforce Development: Claimed to know the best strategies for job training and workforce development.
173. Judicial Ethics: Claimed insight into the ethical standards governing judges.
174. Regulation of Financial Markets: Claimed to understand how to regulate financial markets effectively.
175. The Impact of Immigration on the Economy: Claimed to know how immigration affects economic growth and job availability.
176. Rural Development: Claimed insights into policies that benefit rural communities.
177. Disaster Recovery: Claimed to know how to manage disaster recovery more effectively.
178. Water Resources Management: Claimed expertise in managing water resources.
179. Workplace Diversity: Claimed to understand the complexities of diversity in the workplace.
180. Disability Rights: Claimed knowledge of disability rights and protections.
181. The Role of Technology in Education: Claimed to know how technology can improve education.
182. Digital Economy: Claimed to have insights into the future of the digital economy.
183. Brand Management: Claimed expertise in brand management and marketing strategies.
184. Corporate Accountability: Claimed to know the best practices for holding corporations accountable.
185. The Role of Nonprofits in Society: Claimed understanding of how nonprofits operate and their impact.
186. Crisis Communication: Claimed to know how to effectively communicate during a crisis.
187. Mental Health in Schools: Claimed to understand the importance of mental health programs in educational settings.
188. Environmental Conservation: Claimed to have insights into effective conservation strategies.
189. The Role of Government in Business: Claimed to know the balance between government oversight and business freedom.
190. High-Tech Manufacturing: Claimed expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies.
191. Cybersecurity Legislation: Claimed to understand the nuances of cybersecurity laws.
192. The Art Market: Claimed knowledge about the nuances of the art market and investment.
193. The History of American Politics: Claimed a deep understanding of political movements in American history.
194. Public Transportation: Claimed to know how to improve public transit systems.
195. Youth Engagement in Politics: Claimed insights into how to engage younger generations in politics.
196. Corporate Taxation: Claimed to understand corporate taxation better than others.
197. Strategies for Winning Elections: Claimed expertise in the tactics needed to win elections.
198. Federal Budget Management: Claimed knowledge about managing the federal budget effectively.
199. Historic Preservation: Claimed to know the importance of preserving historic sites.
200. Volunteerism and Community Service: Claimed to understand the role of community service better than others.
201. Health Care Costs: Claimed to know how to reduce health care costs.
202. Strategic Partnerships: Claimed expertise in forming strategic partnerships across industries.
203. Antiquities and Cultural Artifacts: Claimed to know how to protect and manage cultural heritage.
204. Consumer Debt Issues: Claimed insights into consumer debt and solutions.
205. Elder Care Policies: Claimed to have a better understanding of elder care issues.
206. Social Justice Issues: Claimed knowledge about the complexities of social justice movements.
207. Export Policies: Claimed insights into effective export strategies.
208. High School Education Reform: Claimed to know the necessary reforms for high school education.
209. International Aid Effectiveness: Claimed to know how to make international aid programs more effective.
210. The Future of Work: Claimed to have insights into how work will change in the future.
211. Consumer Electronics Industry: Claimed knowledge about trends in consumer electronics.
212. Women’s Empowerment: Claimed to know how to empower women in the workforce.
213. Local Government Issues: Claimed understanding of issues facing local governments.
214. International Law: Claimed knowledge about how international law affects U.S. interests.
215. The Role of Culture in Society: Claimed insights into how culture influences society.
216. Trade Deficits: Claimed to understand the implications of trade deficits on the economy better than economists.
217. Educational Equity: Claimed insights into achieving equity in education.
218. Voting Rights Legislation: Claimed to have expertise in voting rights and election integrity.
219. Historical Preservation Practices: Claimed to know the best practices for preserving historical artifacts and sites.
220. American Exceptionalism: Claimed to have a unique understanding of the concept of American exceptionalism.
221. Corporate Restructuring: Claimed expertise in how to effectively restructure corporations.
222. Disaster Preparedness: Claimed to know how to prepare for natural disasters.
223. Artificial Intelligence Regulation: Claimed understanding of how to regulate AI technologies.
224. Substance Abuse Policy: Claimed to have a deep understanding of substance abuse issues and policies.
225. Economic Growth Strategies: Claimed insights into the best strategies for stimulating economic growth.
226. National Security: Claimed to know more about national security than military experts.
227. Energy Conservation Practices: Claimed expertise in effective energy conservation methods.
228. Labor Relations: Claimed to understand labor relations and negotiations better than union leaders.
229. U.S. History and Education: Claimed to know more about how history should be taught in schools.
230. Consumer Product Safety: Claimed insights into improving consumer product safety regulations.
231. The Future of Agriculture: Claimed to have better strategies for the future of American agriculture.
232. Nonprofit Management: Claimed expertise in running nonprofit organizations.
233. Interfaith Relations: Claimed to understand the dynamics of interfaith relationships.
234. Trade Tariffs: Claimed to know how tariffs impact the economy more than trade experts.
235. Privacy Rights: Claimed understanding of privacy rights issues better than legislators.
236. Political Campaigning: Claimed to know the best strategies for running political campaigns.
237. Family Leave Policies: Claimed insights into effective family leave policies.
238. Civil Rights History: Claimed to have a comprehensive understanding of civil rights history.
239. Economic Impact of Technology: Claimed to understand how technology impacts the economy.
240. Regulation of Public Utilities: Claimed expertise in managing public utility regulations.
241. Global Health Initiatives: Claimed insights into the effectiveness of global health initiatives.
242. Urban Crime Strategies: Claimed to have effective strategies for reducing urban crime.
243. Public Relations: Claimed to understand public relations better than communications professionals.
244. Elderly Care Regulations: Claimed expertise in regulations affecting elderly care facilities.
245. Sports Management: Claimed knowledge about the business of sports and management.
246. Nutritional Policy: Claimed insights into effective nutritional guidelines and policies.
247. Fashion Industry Trends: Claimed to understand trends in the fashion industry.
248. Globalization Effects: Claimed to have a deeper understanding of the effects of globalization on local economies.
249. Prison Reform: Claimed expertise in the criminal justice system and prison reform initiatives.
250. Public Sentiment: Claimed to know how to gauge and influence public sentiment effectively.
251. Sustainability Practices: Claimed to understand best practices in sustainability and environmental responsibility.
252. Tax Reform: Claimed to know how to effectively reform the tax system.
253. Food Security: Claimed insights into the challenges of food security.
254. Child Welfare: Claimed expertise in policies affecting child welfare.
255. Crime Prevention Strategies: Claimed insights into effective crime prevention strategies.
256. Civic Engagement: Claimed insights into improving civic engagement among citizens.
257. Public Accountability: Claimed to know the best practices for ensuring public accountability.
258. International Peacekeeping: Claimed expertise in the challenges of international peacekeeping.
259. Media Bias: Claimed to have a unique understanding of media bias and its impact on public perception.
260. Foreign Policy Strategy: Claimed expertise in crafting effective foreign policy strategies.
261. Crisis Response Teams: Claimed to know how to assemble and manage effective crisis response teams.
262. Healthcare Accessibility: Claimed insights into improving healthcare accessibility for all Americans.
263. Restorative Justice: Claimed to understand the principles of restorative justice better than others.
264. Political Corruption: Claimed expertise in identifying and combating political corruption.
265. Child Education and Development: Claimed to know the best practices for child education and development.
266. Stock Market Trends: Claimed to understand stock market fluctuations and trends.
267. Transportation Policy: Claimed insights into improving national transportation policies.
268. Economic Policy for Veterans: Claimed to understand the economic needs of veterans better than others.
269. The Impact of Globalization on Jobs: Claimed to know how globalization affects job availability in the U.S.
270. International Trade Barriers: Claimed expertise in navigating international trade barriers.
271. Gentrification: Claimed to have insights into the dynamics of gentrification and its impacts.
272. Behavioral Economics: Claimed to know how behavioral economics affects consumer choices.
273. Political Rhetoric: Claimed to understand the nuances of political rhetoric and its effectiveness.
274. Public Utility Regulation: Claimed to understand how to regulate public utilities effectively.
275. National Parks and Conservation: Claimed insights into managing national parks and conservation efforts.
276. Sustainable Agriculture: Claimed to know more about sustainable agricultural practices.
277. Mental Health in the Workplace: Claimed expertise in addressing mental health issues in the workplace.
278. Energy Policy: Claimed to understand energy policy and its impact on the economy.
279. Corporate Social Responsibility: Claimed insights into the importance of corporate social responsibility.
280. Women’s Representation in Politics: Claimed to know how to improve women’s representation in political offices.
281. Environmental Impact Assessments: Claimed expertise in conducting environmental impact assessments.
282. Crisis Negotiation: Claimed to understand the principles of effective crisis negotiation.
283. Intergenerational Wealth: Claimed insights into the dynamics of intergenerational wealth transfer.
284. Urban Planning: Claimed to know about effective urban planning practices.
285. Pharmaceutical Industry Regulation: Claimed expertise in the regulation of the pharmaceutical industry.
286. Veteran Affairs: Claimed to have a comprehensive understanding of veteran affairs.
287. Election Process Reforms: Claimed insights into necessary reforms in the election process.
288. Local Business Development: Claimed to know how to stimulate local business development.
289. Civic Responsibility: Claimed to understand the importance of civic responsibility in society.
290. Disaster Relief Funding: Claimed expertise in managing disaster relief funds effectively.
291. The Role of Art in Society: Claimed to have insights into the role of art in cultural development.
292. International Sanctions: Claimed knowledge about the effectiveness of international sanctions.
293. Consumer Behavior: Claimed to understand consumer behavior and its implications for business.
294. Labor Market Trends: Claimed expertise in analyzing labor market trends.
295. Health Insurance Market: Claimed to know the ins and outs of the health insurance market.
296. The Role of Religion in Society: Claimed insights into the influence of religion on social values.
297. Youth Policy: Claimed to understand the challenges facing youth and youth policies.
298. Petroleum Industry: Claimed to know about the petroleum industry and its global implications.
299. Carbon Emissions Policy: Claimed insights into managing carbon emissions effectively.
300. The Role of Technology in Healthcare: Claimed to understand the integration of technology in healthcare.
301. Cyberbullying Legislation: Claimed knowledge about the need for cyberbullying laws.
302. International Development: Claimed expertise in strategies for international development.
303. Media Relations Strategies: Claimed to know how to handle media relations better than public relations experts.
304. Education Funding: Claimed to understand the complexities of education funding.
305. Public Health Initiatives: Claimed insights into effective public health initiatives.
306. Consumer Advocacy: Claimed to know how to advocate for consumer rights effectively.
307. Elderly Rights Advocacy: Claimed to understand the rights and needs of the elderly population.
308. Digital Marketing Strategies: Claimed expertise in digital marketing and its impact on businesses.
309. Public Service Announcements: Claimed to know how to create effective public service announcements.
310. Nonprofit Funding: Claimed insights into securing funding for nonprofit organizations.
311. Media Literacy: Claimed to understand the importance of media literacy in education.
312. Disaster Recovery Planning: Claimed to have expertise in planning for disaster recovery.
313. International Humanitarian Aid: Claimed to know how to effectively deliver humanitarian aid internationally.
314. Philanthropy and Charitable Giving: Claimed insights into effective philanthropic practices.
315. Crisis Management in Business: Claimed expertise in managing crises within businesses.
316. Public Sector Innovation: Claimed to understand the need for innovation in the public sector.
317. Youth Sports Programs: Claimed to know how to improve youth sports programs.
318. Emergency Response Coordination: Claimed insights into coordinating emergency responses.
319. Transportation Safety Regulations: Claimed to have knowledge about improving transportation safety.
320. Civic Education: Claimed to understand the importance of civic education in schools.
321. Food Safety Regulations: Claimed expertise in the regulation of food safety standards.
322. Public Housing Policy: Claimed insights into public housing policies and improvements.
323. Water Conservation Techniques: Claimed to know effective techniques for conserving water.
324. Community Health Initiatives: Claimed to understand the importance of community health programs.
325. Artificial Intelligence Applications: Claimed expertise in the applications of AI across industries.
326. Urban Development Policies: Claimed to know how to formulate effective urban development policies.
327. Political Activism: Claimed insights into effective political activism strategies.
328. Corporate Governance: Claimed to understand the principles of effective corporate governance.
329. Trade Relations with Canada: Claimed expertise in U.S.-Canada trade relations.
330. Social Media Influence: Claimed to understand the influence of social media on public opinion.
331. International Relations Theory: Claimed knowledge of international relations theories.
332. Family Business Dynamics: Claimed insights into the unique challenges faced by family businesses.
333. Workforce Diversity Initiatives: Claimed expertise in implementing workforce diversity initiatives.
334. Child Nutrition Programs: Claimed to understand the importance of child nutrition programs.
335. International Arbitration: Claimed insights into the processes of international arbitration.
336. Public Health Funding: Claimed expertise in securing funding for public health initiatives.
337. Cultural Preservation: Claimed to understand the significance of cultural preservation efforts.
338. Human Resources Management: Claimed insights into effective human resources practices.
339. Regulation of Emerging Technologies: Claimed to know how to regulate emerging technologies effectively.
340. School Safety Measures: Claimed expertise in developing school safety measures.
341. Workplace Safety Regulations: Claimed to understand workplace safety better than OSHA experts.
342. Crisis Preparedness Training: Claimed insights into effective crisis preparedness training.
343. Trade Relations with China: Claimed expertise in navigating U.S.-China trade relations.
344. Social Responsibility in Corporations: Claimed to know how corporations can act more socially responsibly.
345. Public Health Education: Claimed insights into the importance of public health education.
346. Biotechnology Regulations: Claimed expertise in the regulations governing biotechnology.
347. Internet Privacy Laws: Claimed to understand internet privacy laws and their implications.
348. Intellectual Property Rights: Claimed knowledge about protecting intellectual property rights.
349. Real Estate Development: Claimed to have insights into successful real estate development strategies.
350. Community Engagement Strategies: Claimed to know how to effectively engage communities.
351. State and Local Government Relations: Claimed expertise in the dynamics between state and local governments.
352. E-commerce Regulation: Claimed insights into the regulations affecting e-commerce.
353. Financial Regulation: Claimed to understand the complexities of financial regulations.
354. Public Relations Crisis Management: Claimed expertise in managing public relations crises.
355. Environmental Legislation: Claimed to understand the nuances of environmental legislation.
356. Judicial Appointments: Claimed expertise in selecting and appointing judges.
357. Public Policy Analysis: Claimed to know how to effectively analyze public policies.
358. Trade and Labor Rights: Claimed insights into the intersection of trade policies and labor rights.
359. Cultural Events Planning: Claimed expertise in organizing large-scale cultural events.
360. Public-Private Partnerships: Claimed to know how to foster effective public-private partnerships.
361. Social Services Reform: Claimed insights into the need for reforming social services.
362. Sustainable Development Goals: Claimed to understand international sustainable development goals.
363. Media Relations for Politicians: Claimed expertise in handling media relations for political figures.
364. The Role of Science in Policy: Claimed to know how science should inform policy decisions.
365. Employee Rights: Claimed to have insights into employee rights and workplace protections.
366. Antitrust Laws: Claimed expertise in the application of antitrust laws.
367. Global Supply Chains: Claimed to understand the intricacies of global supply chains.
368. The Importance of Arts Education: Claimed insights into the role of arts education in schools.
369. Personal Finance Management: Claimed to know effective strategies for personal finance management.
370. Economic Development in Rural Areas: Claimed expertise in stimulating economic development in rural regions.
371. Pharmaceutical Pricing: Claimed to understand the factors influencing pharmaceutical pricing.
372. Political Communication Strategies: Claimed insights into effective political communication strategies.
373. Urban Environmental Issues: Claimed expertise in addressing urban environmental challenges.
374. Crisis Recovery in Businesses: Claimed insights into how businesses can recover from crises.
375. Child Development Policy: Claimed to know how to shape effective child development policies.
376. Community Policing: Claimed expertise in community policing strategies.
377. Financial Literacy: Claimed to understand the importance of financial literacy education.
378. Microeconomics: Claimed insights into microeconomic principles and their applications.
379. Federal Reserve Policies: Claimed to have a deep understanding of Federal Reserve policies.
380. Occupational Safety and Health: Claimed expertise in occupational safety and health regulations.
381. Urban Green Spaces: Claimed to know how to create and maintain urban green spaces.
382. Consumer Protection Laws: Claimed insights into consumer protection legislation.
383. Social Media Policy: Claimed expertise in developing policies for social media platforms.
384. Crisis Response in Education: Claimed insights into how schools should respond to crises.
385. Suburban Development: Claimed to know how to effectively manage suburban development.
386. Indigenous Rights and Issues: Claimed expertise in addressing indigenous rights.
387. Intellectual Property Theft: Claimed to understand the implications of intellectual property theft.
388. Youth Employment Programs: Claimed to have expertise in developing youth employment initiatives.
389. Disaster Recovery Funding: Claimed knowledge about how disaster recovery funding should be allocated.
390. Homeownership Policies: Claimed to understand the importance of policies that promote homeownership.
391. Health Insurance Reforms: Claimed expertise in the need for health insurance reforms.
392. The Role of Nonprofits in Advocacy: Claimed insights into how nonprofits can effectively advocate for change.
393. Social Security Reform: Claimed to understand the complexities of Social Security reform.
394. Digital Privacy Rights: Claimed expertise in protecting digital privacy rights.
395. Civic Technology: Claimed to know how technology can enhance civic engagement.
396. Public Health Crises: Claimed insights into managing public health crises.
397. Rural Healthcare Access: Claimed expertise in improving healthcare access in rural areas.
398. Regulation of Gig Economy: Claimed to understand the need for regulations in the gig economy.
399. Emergency Management Training: Claimed insights into effective emergency management training.
400. Behavioral Health Policies: Claimed to understand the importance of behavioral health policies.

“He who permits himself to tell a lie once, finds it much easier to do it a second and third time, till at length it becomes habitual; he tells lies without attending to it, and truths without the world believing him.”
Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, wrote that in 1785.

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Below is a link to an Ai created ‘podcast’ style conversation about this post. It was created by Google’s NotebookLM Ai.

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More funny Trump quotes from Politico

Hello blog. It’s been a while since I was last here; four years to be precise. I’ll be honest with you, after Brexit and Trump happened I needed some space. My liberal leanings were challenged, and with so much rage and vitriol around, I didn’t see the point of being one more voice shouting into the toxic void known as the internet. Four years later, my toxic shock is over.

Nobody reads blogs anymore. Facebook dealt a body blow to online journaling and the rest of social media swept it away in a tsunami of bite-sized bullshit anyone could read and share in seconds.

Our collective attention span was reduced to the length of a tweet. People stopped reading the news and instead read only the headlines. We shared for ‘likes’ and loved the affirmation those hearts and thumbs-up gave us.

When Edward Snowden told us we were being spied on, and Cambridge Analytica was revealed to be manipulating all of us, the world didn’t rise up and demand accountability. Instead, we raised little more than a collective eyebrow, then went back to thumbing through memes and Instagram posts from ‘influencers’ who exist in color-saturated worlds we browse with a hint of envy and maybe a side order of disdain.

So when Donald Trump became the President-elect in 2016, it didn’t come as a surprise to me. Just months earlier, amid a storm of misinformation, lies, and manipulation, the United Kingdom had ripped itself away from its nearest neighbors in an isolationist divorce they called ‘Brexit.’

The term ‘Brexit’ shortened the complexity of the choice voters had and gave it a clickable brand. You were either for or against ‘Brexit’ and it didn’t need to be any more complicated than that. People defined in their own minds what that word meant, irrespective of what the truth was.

Across the Atlantic, Americans had ‘MAGA’ and their red hat revolution that liberals thought could never happen. A ‘pussy-grabbing’ reality TV President was an absurd notion, impossible they thought.

Even Trump didn’t believe he would win, shouting from his campaign pulpit about how the election was rigged and victory would surely be stolen from him by an establishment of unrelatable elites, journalists, and experts.

The sweet joy of ‘owning the libs’ and the idea of building a wall to keep everyone you hate from crossing your path was a delicious idea that ignited citizens who had long felt like nobody in power was listening to them.

Complicated conversations were reduced to a word or a slogan that you could declare or decry then quickly thumb to the next meme or morsel of fast news served in the palm of your hand.

It seemed to me that nobody was listening anymore. Everyone had an opinion, and many were shouting it while others slung bar brawl punches that landed like a messy end to a good night out.

We awoke the next day with digital hangovers, our heads pounding while outside normality was ablaze. Networks created to connect us had done the opposite. Truth and the opportunity to pause for thought had been drowned in an epic flood of fear and fury.

So on that cold November morning in 2016, what was I to write that hadn’t already been written? What point was there to write anything when everything had been reduced to slogans and portamentos?

I felt lost and deflated. How had it gotten to the point where we knew more about what the people around us hated than what they loved?

As 2016 came to an end I wrote the final post on my 366 Pictures blog. It was a glorious summer day in Melbourne, Australia, far from the Brexiteers and the red-hat revolutionaries. I didn’t think it would be four years until I would publish another word.

I thought of writing, even if it were just something to say I’m still here, still loving life and seeing the world. But nobody reads blogs anymore. If you’ve made it this far then we’re probably friends, and if we’re not we probably should be.

Blogging as a form of communication is dead, and that’s why I haven’t written anything for four years. If you and I are friends then we’ve been in touch, haven’t we? And if not, then let’s fix that.

Let’s fix that because, in this world of instant communication, communication itself is broken. And maybe rather than watching another documentary telling us that, or posting something on social media lambasting this truth, we can take back a little control by reaching out to one another to start talking and maybe, more importantly, start listening.

As for my long-forgotten blog, dated and derelict as it is, perhaps I’ll return to writing. Not because anyone is reading but because writing itself takes time.

To sit and craft one sentence after another requires thought and, in some respects, meditation. We consume so much that maybe taking the time to create something as simple as a sentence can slow our rush to judgment.

I’ll write in the same way that I sometimes wave at passing airplanes knowing that the passengers won’t see me. They don’t need to see. I’m not waving for them, I’m waving for me.

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Illustrations by Edel Rodriguez and Lennart Gäbel

Tomorrow could be a big day for Canada. If Führer Donald Trump wins the Presidency in tomorrow’s US election untold numbers of U.S. citizens will have to make good on their promises to pack up and move north of the border. Fortunately for them, Justin Trudeau has not announced any plans to build a wall on the southern border of his country… and make the Americans pay for it.

The final episode of the long running reality TV show called the U.S. Presidential Election will play out tomorrow across the United States and the world. Most of us non-Americans are hoping that it will be the end of the absurdity that the U.S. has inflicted upon us, but in truth I suspect it might merely be a transition into a new season of ridiculousness.

My hope is that the Reality TV twerp, Donald Trump, will not emerge the victor, and that once beaten, he will graciously step aside and allow the only marginally less acrid character of Hilary Clinton to begin her term as the next President of the United States of America.

Trump supporters will, of course, cry foul. They’ve been trained to rattle on about voter fraud and election rigging, and facts to the contrary will only strengthen their resolve about the so-called ‘liberal media’ being part of a grand scheme.

I’ll agree with Trump on one point; The political system is a mess. But he’s not part of the solution. In fact, he’s actually a product of the problem. Trump was born into wealth and as such he is part of an elite section of society that enjoy the spoils of a growing state of inequality that is beginning to look reminiscent of pre-revolutionary France.

In his 2014 TED talk, billionaire Nick Hanauer warns his fellow plutocrats that “the pitchforks are coming.” Though there seems little evidence that anyone of them are paying attention.

Efforts to “Make America Great Again” will require more than just a tag-line and a ring master who can whip-up a crowd like a travelling faith healer. But then again, “Hope and Change” haven’t exactly worked wonders either.

The word we hear a lot these days is “broken,” and after months of unavoidable political mud-wrestling thrust upon us, few would disagree that the system is indeed dysfunctional to say the least. The pity is that despite the rallies, the promises and the slogans, tomorrow won’t fix anything.

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Don’t forget to check out 366pictures.com where I am blogging every single day through 2016. Check out a new picture and story each day, sign-up to get the pictures and stories delivered by email, and see them on facebook too!

I’m no longer a European! After the “Brexit” referendum, Great Britain has somehow managed to make itself into more of an island and less “Great” than ever… if you ask me.

I haven’t blogged on here because I am blogging every day this year over at 366 Pictures. However, I wanted to return here just to express my shock and disappointment that the UK has decided, by a small majority, to divorce itself from Europe.

The vote seems to have been carried by the “grey-heads” and people who seem to rattle on endlessly about immigration for reasons that I have yet to understand.

It wasn’t all down to the oldies though. One of my friends said that he was “delighted” with the result of the referendum because he wants to see an end to the “uncontrolled exodus from Eastern Europe” to the shores of Britain. Ironically though in the past he lived in another European country for a while, and he says he wants to do so again. I wonder, would he classify himself as an “immigrant” in that case or an “ex-pat?”

While I am sure that many people have sound reasons for wanting to exit the EU, I can’t help but think that many of those who voted in favor of the divorce, did so out of thinly-veiled racism.

How did immigration become such a talking point in this referendum when it seems that the issue isn’t actually one that any clear position has been stated by any of the powers that be? And what do those who want to see an end to the “tidal wave of immigrants” think is going to happen? Do they think that people from EU countries who are living in the UK will be summarily rounded up and sent back to Europe?

I am very concerned that the word immigration now seems to be an incendiary word capable of bringing out the ugly side of so many people who disguise hateful racist fears under a flag of national pride.

U.S. Presidential hopeful, Donald Trump, has endorsed the exit vote in what I think is a chilling preview of what might be to come in the coming election in the United States. Trump unashamedly whips up fear and racism with comments that it seems only excite his supporters. His tactic of using controversial claims and outright falsehoods has put him in a head to head fight for the White House, with facts playing second fiddle to fiction.

The so-called “Brexit” (and I REALLY hate that term) referendum seemed rife with the same problems. Facts and figures were set aside for fear-mongering and misinformation served with a familiar dose of racism dressed up as “national pride.”

So now I am no longer a European, despite what my passport says on the cover. I’m not sure what effect this will have on my life, though as someone who lives overseas, I can tell you that today I am not happy with the British Pounds I have in the my UK bank and now worth significantly less as I spend them. Other effects will take longer to see and experience, I suppose we’ll have to wait and see what happens. Time will tell if it was a mistake or not.

I tend to think that this referendum was won by selling a soup of fear and misinformation to the public and getting them to vote on a single issue, rather than truly understanding the wider question. Maybe that’s just the game of modern politics, in which case, I think our friends across the Atlantic might want to ready themselves for President Trump!

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I’m blogging over at 366 Pictures this year – though I am really behind with that right now. I will catch up though, so please check it out, even if you voted for Brexit, I’ll still love you over there :-)

Britain’s general election is now over and apparently we’re heading for a hung parliament.

Now I’m all for change, but really I’m disappointed that the media couldn’t just stick with the issues and not drag everything into the gutter as usual. I mean what do I care if the parliament is “hung” or not!

We have a general election here in the UK in just over a week I’m not really very excited about it. In fact I am not really very interested in it at all! So I wonder, am I too comfortable, too lazy, or is modern British politics just plain boring?

I honestly have no idea who to vote for on May 6th. I don’t like any of the parties because I simply don’t trust suit wearing, smugly smiling, hand shaking, baby holding, campaign stomping politicians. Underneath their party colors they’re all much the same if you ask me.

By the very nature politicians play political games. They look after themselves first, the people who keep them in power second, then somewhere after all of their other interests and activities they might look out for the interests of the people.

The recent parliamentary expenses scandals were of no real surprise. I wasn’t shocked to find out that political figures do questionable things and take advantage of their privileged positions.

In all honesty I almost don’t blame the politicians for taking advantage of the expenses system in the way they did. I can’t criticize them that harshly because I suspect that if I were in the same position as they were I might very well have been guilty of similar questionable application of the rules. Maybe that doesn’t reflect well on me, but I’m not perfect and I don’t expect politicians to be perfect either.

I suppose that’s the thing really. I’ve lost faith in political figures because I don’t really relate to their political personas. I’m tired of the carefully crafted statements and the overly wordy noise pollution they give off when saying nothing at all. They just don’t seem that real. They’re just part of a big ugly machine called government that moves slowly and often in the wrong direction.

Maybe I should be paying closer attention. Maybe I should have watched the three party leaders in their recent television debates. But frankly, I have better things to spend my time on than listening to three boring men argue with one another over stuff that will make very little real difference.

If I’ve got that wrong, please tell me. I’m serious, if you think there is something important I should know then I really would appreciate your insight. Because from where I am sitting I think we’re basically a wealthy country gripped by the same problems all wealthy countries have. Our liberty is being encroached upon by an increasingly intrusive security state that is happy most people mistake consumerism for freedom.

I’ve got my ‘hot button’ issues that I feel strongly about, but none of the ‘big three’ political parties are particularly talking about them because evidently they’re not considered that ‘hot’ to the rest of the country.

So help me out; is this really a boring election where we’re all just going to vote the current lot out with more conviction than we vote another lot in? Help me please, the election is just days away and in the absence of a ‘none of the above’ option I don’t know what box to cross on voting day.