Weekly Wrap, Oct. 9-13

Tragedy in the Middle East, turmoil in Congress

One week ago, Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel, who then launched a siege of the densely-populated Gaza strip. The tragedy continues to unfold, threatening to expand to include each side’s allies in the region—and the United States.

Meanwhile, the House Republicans in the U.S. Congress are unable to find a consensus nominee to replace California Rep. Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House. Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise seemed poise to be the candidate, but dropped out when they didn’t have the votes.

It also didn’t help that he’s connected to former KKK leader David Duke. But honestly, it’s surprising white supremacist ideology was suddenly a disqualifying attribute for the GOP given former Pres. Donald Trump’s openly fascist and racist rhetoric of late.

Also, Trump has been praising Hezbollah, denouncing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the past week. He’s actually managed to generate bipartisan outrage over his comments this week.

Closer to home, the governor and Wreckin’ Ball Ryan managed to capitalize on the war in the Middle East in some highly questionable press releases and emails to the public and educators. Walters sent out an executive statement advocating a moment of silence and prayer for Israel. Gov. Kevin Stitt ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and the capitol building lit in blue in white.

The latest from the Observer:

Sunday, Oct. 15 from 11 am to noon, we have Brews and Views at BIG Brew Co. in Norman with state Reps. Annie Menz and Arturo Alonso. Join us for brunch, beer, and good conversation.

Don’t miss Cal Hobson’s latest (and this one), Gary Edmondson’s, and our fearless editor Arnold Hamilton’s posts to substack.

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