It would be a useful exercise for left and progressive people and organizations to study the recent election experience in Michigan holistically. As you probably know, the Democrats reelected, and by substantial margins, Governor Gretchen Whitmer as well as Attorney Gerneral Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Joelyn Benson – all of whom had been under ferocious attack from the MAGA crowd. Moreover, the Democrats regained control of the House and Senate for the first time in forty – yes forty – years. This is quite an achievement that provides, I would think, valuable lessons as we look ahead to navigating the electoral terrain once again in two years.One of which is that it takes a stable of political actors – not least the Democratic Party – working in concert and independently to defeat the MAGA movement and Republican Party.

The great John Lee Hooker (of Detroit) joins the great Tom Petty at Fillmore East many years ago and play JLH’s classic, “Boogie Chillen.” TP was the musican in residence at the time. Music from that long gig was just released.

Bravo to President Biden for making a swap that brings Brittney Griner home. He knew in making the decision that the blowback from the MAGA crowd would be fast and furious, but obviously that didn’t deter him.