Veterans in Colorado Springs are taking matters into their own hands as federal budget cuts threaten their community. With approximately 15% of the local population being veterans and 30% of the federal workforce comprised of former military personnel, proposed government cuts could devastate the region on multiple fronts – affecting both vital support services and livelihoods.

Progressive veterans groups have organized an "Empty Seat Town Hall" event that quickly reached capacity, demonstrating the community's urgent need to be heard even when their elected representatives won't face them directly. The format allows citizens to speak to an empty chair representing their absent congressman, sharing personal stories about how policy decisions are impacting their lives. As one host pointedly asks throughout the episode: "What's the plan?" when a substantial portion of the local workforce faces elimination with no clear path forward.

The conversation expands to examine troubling patterns of ethical boundary-pushing from the current administration. Appointed officials now appear in partisan political advertisements while holding government positions, creating dangerous confusion between official government messaging and political propaganda. This blurring erodes public confidence that government institutions will serve all citizens equally, regardless of political alignment.

Perhaps most concerning is the escalating trade tension with Canada, with potential electricity disruptions threatening five American states. Drawing parallels to pandemic supply chain issues, the hosts warn how relatively minor disruptions can cascade into years-long economic problems. When combined with aggressive tariff policies and confrontational diplomatic approaches, these actions create a perfect storm of economic uncertainty at a time when stability is desperately needed.

Want to make your voice heard? Join us Monday, March 17th at 6pm for the Empty Seat Town Hall, streaming live on Facebook and YouTube. The link will be available on our Blue Sky profile.

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Dramatic VA staffing cuts announced by the Trump administration will eliminate 88,000 jobs, returning to 2019 staffing levels before PACT Act implementation and primarily targeting "non-mission critical" positions.

• 15% workforce reduction at VA represents largest cuts to any federal agency in modern history
• Approximately 30% of affected VA employees are veterans themselves
• Republicans claim $90 million savings from eliminating "duplicative contracts"
• No clear metrics established to measure impact on veteran care quality
• DEI positions specifically targeted for elimination regardless of actual duties
• France's President Macron announces shift in nuclear doctrine to protect Ukraine
• European nations reconsidering security arrangements as US commitment wavers
• Nuclear deterrence strategies evolving with potentially destabilizing consequences
• Debate over proper role of America in global security frameworks

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Engaging with the importance of local politics, Maryah Lauer shares her journey and insights as a candidate for city council in Colorado Springs. She addresses the lack of representation and the need for meaningful democratic engagement within civic life. Through her firsthand experiences, we uncover how local decisions affect our daily lives.

• Introduction of Maryah Lauer and her background 
• Motivation for running for city council amid anti-democratic measures 
• Discussion of the challenges in local governance structures 
• Advocacy for fair pay among city council members and equitable representation 
• Importance of using tax revenue for community programs 
• Call to action for citizen engagement in upcoming elections 

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This episode addresses the far-reaching effects of budget cuts on veterans and military personnel, focusing on legal updates, community activism, and the implications for national security. Navigating misinformation while advocating for veterans’ rights, hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining robust support systems for those who have served. 
• Discussion on the impact of government budget cuts on veterans 
• Importance of credible information sources in navigating veterans' affairs 
• Community protests highlighting veterans' rights 
• Insights into recent legal rulings affecting veterans 
• Exploration of budget cuts’ effects on agencies like NASA 
• Paradox of military readiness amid funding reductions 
• Call to action for collective dialogue around veterans' needs

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The episode explores the complexities of local politics, focusing on a cannabis court case that intertwines electoral rights and community protests. The discussion emphasizes how civic engagement can drive political change while addressing the challenges and effectiveness of protests as a means to influence public discourse. 
• Review of a cannabis court case in Colorado 
• Impact of legal rulings on military voters 
• Importance of protests in a democracy 
• Examination of American military strategy in foreign lands

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This episode delves into the ongoing lawsuit regarding cannabis legislation in the local government, exploring the implications of Amendment 64 and the community's vital role in civic engagement. We discuss the economic benefits of cannabis, the necessity of voter participation, and the political landscape's broader challenges. 

• Update on the lawsuit Adam is involved in 
• Examination of Amendment 64 and its effects 
• Discussion on city council's role and governance 
• The economic implications of cannabis legalization 
• Importance of community engagement and voting 
• Thoughts on Netanyahu's Gaza comments 
• Call for active participation in protests and democracy

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This episode highlights the crucial intersection of cannabis regulation and community welfare in Colorado Springs, focusing on the perspective of veterans. The conversation touches upon local policies, the potential economic contributions of cannabis revenue, mental health concerns, and the evolving language surrounding immigration issues, urging listeners to engage in local politics. 
• Veterans share insights on cannabis regulation and its impact on the community
• Discussion on potential cannabis revenue to address homelessness and aid veterans
• Personal stories illustrate the link between cannabis use and mental health recovery
• Legal actions taken against city council decisions regarding cannabis policies
• Shift to the evolving language around immigration and its political implications
• Call for community engagement in advocating for systemic change

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Our latest episode delves into the connection between young men and their political identities, sparked by an encounter with a MAGA supporter in an airport. We explore themes of masculinity, emotional appeal, and the current political landscape while emphasizing the ongoing conversation around representation and identity in today’s society. 

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The episode delves into the confusion surrounding Colorado Springs' cannabis legalization, revealing the challenges voters face when local officials attempt to manipulate political outcomes. 

Who gets credit for the Israeli-Hamas Peace Deal?

• Update on the cannabis initiative results 
• City council's confusing response to voters' choices 
• Community sentiments and frustrations about representation 
• The implications of low turnout rates in upcoming elections 
• Connections to broader national topics, including Israel-Hamas 

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www.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

Send us a text

https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social
https://www.facebook.com/epccpv
www.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]