As the coronavirus continues to spread across the U.S., infecting millions, why do so many Americans resist the most simple remedy to the transmission of the virus—facemasks? For my latest video, I take a look at some of motivations and influences for those who still resist this simple measure despite all the evidence of howContinue reading “Why aren’t Americans wearing facemasks to prevent spread of coronavirus?”
Tag Archives: Donald Trump
Juneteenth: Facing the realities of slavery in America
By Joe Payne As a student of history, I have liked to think I have some shred of understanding of the pain and plight that people of color face, where it comes from and why, especially concerning black and indigenous Americans. But no matter how much I think I know, learning more continually illuminates myContinue reading “Juneteenth: Facing the realities of slavery in America”
Deep Dive: Protests, police, racism, and authoritarianism in America
Some issues are so complex that they require more than a 10-minute YouTube video. For my first “Deep Dive” episode of Political Payne, I take a look at the ongoing protests against police brutality in the United States and how they’ve been colored by a disturbing authoritarian overreach by law enforcement and the federal government.Continue reading “Deep Dive: Protests, police, racism, and authoritarianism in America”
Understanding power dynamics amid the Minneapolis riots
It’s astounding. Damn near unbelievable. But here we are. In the midst of a historic pandemic, the ongoing crisis of police violence against people of color in the United States has flared up again, with the fallout appearing worse than ever. In the wake of the death of George Floyd, senselessly killed by Minneapolis officerContinue reading “Understanding power dynamics amid the Minneapolis riots”
Has Donald Trump and his administration made the coronavirus crisis worse?
I decided to jump head first into a very complicated topic for my latest video: Has the president made the coronavirus crisis worse in the United States? It’s hard to argue otherwise considering the late response, disjointed measures, and straight-up denialism that Trump and his appointees have employed. A crisis demands leadership, but it alsoContinue reading “Has Donald Trump and his administration made the coronavirus crisis worse?”
Who’s to blame for the mess we’re in?
Hello readers, both returning and those seeing my page for the first time! The Santa Maria Times shared an opinion piece by me today that is in rebuttal to a column by local conservative radio show host Andy Caldwell, which criticized California’s coronavirus response and Gov. Gavin Newsom. Here is my rebuttal, hope you enjoyContinue reading “Who’s to blame for the mess we’re in?”
Don’t be a #COVIDIOT
I must have recorded and re-recorded my first YouTube installment of Political Payne at least a dozen times. All respect to most YouTubers who make it look so easy, but I’ll admit, I struggled to find the right balance of news and opinion, the right tone to take, and the length and number of issuesContinue reading “Don’t be a #COVIDIOT”
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