It's not just in the US though, I have to say. Centrist, consensus politics are currently being stomped on all over the world. See also: Brexit.

I find podcasts useful in the car and when I'm working in the kitchen. In other words, times when I am unable to read.

My favourite pocasts (mostly film-related) are: You Must Remember This, BBC 4's The Film Programme, BBC 5 Live's Kermode and Mayo's Film Review (takes a bit of getting used to, as it's full of in-jokes, but worth it when you do).

...And a music pod which David probably knows: Joe Boyd's A-Z, in perfect short (approx. 10 minute) chunks.

Fiona, how do we make the stomping stop?

I wish I knew, Cindy. I have a feeling it's a cycle which is going to have to play itself out. Scarily, the period in recent human history which it most reminds me of is the 1930s, and we all know how they ended.

Welcome to the post-truth 2010s! The 1930s with added social media.

Fiona, I'm so sorry to say that I feel the same way. It's scary out there. :(

My goodness -- Cindy and Fiona?! Long time no see, you guys.

I want to tell him, "Dude I'm on your side. But Trump is so batshit nuts that you can stick to the verifiable facts and still prove that he's not worth voting for."

I think that's totally worth saying explicitly.

Hi Jesse! Strange times bring strange things out of the woodwork.

(Actually, I lurk here pretty much every day, but you're usually all asleep when I'd be posting, so I don't).

Aw! I figured you were still around at least some. We would like overnight posts from you! (Over-US-night -- billytea might disagree as to the timing.)

Meanwhile, may I present our PM & family at Vancouver Pride [link] or randomly hiking in Quebec, [link]

MOMMMMMM! The Canadians are showing off again!!!

Can I interest you in an old (dated), charming, and extremely cheap house? [link]