Matthew Mansfield

Missed this on Twitter

The ONLY sense that Trump's power is "unparalleled" is that we have all formed this demented, dangerous consensus that he is not bound by any political, legal, or practical considerations. Our own craven beliefs are giving him power. He doesn't have competence, popularity, or big majorities.

It’s hard to avoid all of this. Even while abroad, I don’t want to read or hear about what’s happening in DC, but it’s impossible not to feel it.

“On Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm (EST) all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs. Essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00pm (EST). For USAID personnel currently posted outside the United States, the Agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is currently preparing a plan, in accordance with all applicable requirements and laws, under which the Agency would arrange and pay for return travel to the United States within 30 days and provide for the termination of PSC and ISC contracts that are not determined to be essential. The Agency will consider case-by-case exceptions and return travel extensions based on personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons. For example, the Agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming. Thank you for your service”

USAID’s website has been deleted, all that is left is a note saying all personnel are now on administrative leave and personnel outside the US are to be brought home. Completely illegal, no act of congress or even executive order was signed to dismantle the agency

The Article I Republicans are getting total free passes from the media while the Republic burns. This is puzzling, since Mike Johnson & John Thune are the two men in Washington most guilty of permitting this constitutional crisis. Why is no one asking them hard questions or demanding action?

It feels better to be overseas rather than in the muck that is America

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Morning everyone! It was such a gorgeous morning on the bay.

It's such a bizarre angle for a fantastic photo. It makes them look like little people.

I didn't realize until today that you're done with Twitter. I don't blame you.

Hi, Happy belated holidays, @kate10010.bsky.social!

Merry Christmas, Tiffani!

I have a lot of books.

I’m not sure about this.

It might be just as effective, and far more enjoyable, to seek out "green flags" in people rather than red.

I’ve enjoyed baking bread for a sandwich of freshly cut pears, melted Brie, and a little salt and pepper.

I nodded off through much of the first half, but exhaustion has kept me from fully enjoying it.

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If you lived on this side of the continent, Cam, I would deliver to you, too. 😎

I baked a couple of apple walnut breads to give to friends this morning at the Ferry building.

Roasted cauliflower in harissa sauce with a bit of tahini drizzled over yogurt, garlic, and salt for the base, along with avocado and Parmesan fries with homemade rustic bread.

This isn’t surprising as Elon Musk is a SA Boer to the core. Sigh.

Thank you.

Thanks, Tho!

Ha!

Thank you, Cam!

Last loaf of the week. Came out great.

🫠😘😎

Thank you, Kate.

New loaves fresh out of the oven.

A friend introduced me to using the larger persimmons when soft, turning them into pulp, and then freezing them to make ice cream. I’ll have it with pomegranate seeds. It’s a wonderful dessert.