WE DON’T WANT A BALLROOM. WE JUST WANT OUR AMERICA BACK

In case you might wonder why Americans might be so unhappy that they’re taking to the streets, here’s just a small sample. A sample that epitomizes the disconnect between the Trump administration and we the people. While we watch crowds in inflatable animal costumes, protest signs and yellow outfits, smiling, enthusiastic with patriotism during a second round of nationwide “No Kings” rallies, the president will be at Mar-a-Lago for a $1M-a-plate MAGA Inc. fundraiser. We also get to read about corporations, and anyone else who wants to curry favorite with a president known to reward allies, donating big bucks to the gilded carbuncle that is replacing the East Wing. “Lockheed Martin is grateful for the opportunity to help bring the President's vision to reality and make this addition to the People's House, a powerful symbol of the American ideals we work to defend every day,” said Jalen Drummond , vice president of Corporate Affairs for the aerospace and defense contractor. Yes. We are sure we will be invited to many balls at the People’s House and yes, it will absolutely symbolize our shared American ideals of a golden ballroom for the people. Currying favor with power is nothing new. What does seem new is that it’s become acceptable and even expected. Ballroom donations are the current golden ticket to Trump’s kingdom. And the icing on the cake? By raising private funds for the project, Trump was able to circumvent Congress’s role of controlling the purse strings for the federal government. Again. Ethics experts warn this maneuver could undermine the separation of powers, limiting the role that the legislative branch can play on checking the executive branch. Where have they been? This has already happened. And their statement suggesting that the GOP legislative branch would, or could, ever actually try to check this executive is laughable. Why does America need a ballroom? There is no indication that the people think this is an important thing to do. There’s been no hearing, there’s been no appropriation by Congress. It’s a Trump whim. And to fulfill it he’ll do whatever he wants. Including making the White House, literally and figuratively, look small. Just wait till he puts a big golden TRUMP sign on top of it. Meanwhile the peasants are out in the streets. No pitchforks. No torches. Just good old American love for the country. It’s heartening.