Is there a dumpster somewhere to torch and bury this year of bedlam?
we near its end with equal amounts relief and trepidation. Surely we can’t be expected to endure another such tumultuous turn around the sun?
It was only January that Donald Trump moved back into the White House apparently toting trunkloads of gilt for the walls. Within weeks, he’d declared an emergency at the border; set in motion plans to dismantle government agencies; fired masses of federal workers; and tariffs, tariffs, tariffs.
2024: A Year That Will make the History Books
Table of Contents
- 2024: A Year That Will make the History Books
- Where there is Humor, There is Hope
- Trump’s Branding Obsession: From Steaks to the Kennedy Center
- J.D. vance’s ‘Turning Point’ Tour Signals a Shift in GOP Strategy
- California’s Primary election: What You Need to Know
- What the 2026 Election Could Mean for the Future of American Democracy
That’s the short list: a potential deal with Russia that involves backing away from Ukraine, a crackdown on opposition to trump by classifying it as leftist terrorism, and congressional inaction on healthcare that will leave many struggling to stay insured.
It was a year when America tried something new, and while adherents of the MAGA movement may celebrate much of it, our columnists Anita Chabria and Mark Z.Barabak have a different viewpoint.
Hear, they renew their annual tradition of looking at the year past and offering some thoughts on what the new year may bring.
Chabria: Welp,that was something. I can’t say 2025 was a stellar year for the American experiment, but it certainly will make the history books.
Before we dive into pure politics, I’ll start with something positive. I met a married couple at a No Kings rally in Sacramento who where dressed up as dinosaurs, inspired by the portland Frog-an activist who wears an inflatable amphibian suit.
When I asked why, the husband told me, “If you don’t do something soon, you will have democracy be extinct.”
Where there is Humor, There is Hope
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles times)
I loved that so many Americans were doing something by turning out to not just protest policies that hit personally, but to rally in support of democracy writ large. For many, it was their first time taking this kind of action, and they were doing it in a way that expressed optimism and possibility rather then giving in to anger or despair. Where there is humor, there is hope.
barabak: As in, it only hurts when I laugh?
in 2024, a plurality of Americans voted to reinstall Trump in the white House – warts, felony conviction and all – mainly in the hope he would bring down the cost of living and make eggs and gasoline affordable again.
While eggs and gas are no longer…
Trump’s Branding Obsession: From Steaks to the Kennedy Center
The president seems less concerned with improving voters’ lives than smearing his name on every object he lays his eyes on, one of the latest examples being the John F.Kennedy Center for the Performing arts.
(The only place Trump doesn’t want to see his name is in those voluminous Epstein files.)
I wonder: Why stop there? Why not brand these the United States of trump-erica, then boast we live in the “hottest” country on Planet Trump?
Chabria: Stop giving him ideas!
You and I agree.
J.D. vance’s ‘Turning Point’ Tour Signals a Shift in GOP Strategy
By Benjamin Purdy
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Vice President J.D. Vance is embarking on a college tour, dubbed “This Is the Turning Point,” that signals a subtle but important shift in Republican strategy. Rather than focusing solely on culture war issues, Vance is attempting to connect with young voters on economic anxieties, while still maintaining a strong conservative stance.
The tour, which began at Youngstown State University, aims to address concerns about job security, the rising cost of living, and the future of American manufacturing. Vance, author of “Hillbilly elegy” and a venture capitalist before entering politics, is positioning himself as an advocate for the working class, a demographic that has historically leaned Democratic but has shown increasing openness to Republican messages in recent years.
“We’ve got to get back to a place where we’re building things in this country,” Vance told a crowd of students and local residents. “We’ve got to make sure that young people coming out of schools like Youngstown State have a reason to stay here and build a life.”
The “Turning Point” messaging is a purposeful attempt to reframe the narrative around the Republican Party. While issues like immigration and social conservatism remain crucial to the base, Vance’s tour suggests a recognition that appealing to younger voters requires a broader focus on economic prospect.
However, the tour isn’t shying away from conventional conservative talking points. Vance frequently criticizes the Biden management’s economic policies and emphasizes the importance of individual obligation. He also touches on cultural issues, albeit with a more nuanced approach than some of his Republican colleagues.
The success of Vance’s tour remains to be seen. But it represents a potentially critically important experiment for the GOP, as the party seeks to broaden its appeal and attract a new generation of voters. Whether this economic focus can resonate with young people while still satisfying the party’s conservative base will be a key test for Vance and the Republican Party as a whole.
California’s Primary election: What You Need to Know
california voters are heading to the polls on March 5 for the state’s primary election. Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the ballot and how to participate:
What’s on the Ballot?
This primary election includes contests for a variety of offices, including:
* U.S.Senate: A high-profile race to fill the seat previously held by Dianne Feinstein. Candidates include Rep. Adam Schiff, Alex Padilla, and Barbara Lee.
* U.S. House of Representatives: all 52 of California’s congressional districts are up for election.
* State Legislature: elections for both the State Senate and Assembly.
* Judicial Offices: Several judicial positions are on the ballot.
* Local Measures: Cities and counties across California have local measures and propositions for voters to decide on. These can range from school funding to zoning changes.
* Presidential primary: Voters will also cast ballots for their preferred presidential candidate.
Who Can Vote?
To be eligible to vote in California,you must be:
* A U.S. citizen
* A California resident
* 18 years old on or before Election Day
* not currently in state or federal prison for the conviction of a felony
* Not declared mentally incompetent by a court
How to Vote?
California offers several ways to vote:
* Vote by Mail: All registered voters will automatically receive a mail-in ballot. Completed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by March 12.
* In-Person Voting: Voters can cast their ballots at designated polling places on Election Day, March 5. You can find your polling place using the California Secretary of State’s website (https://caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov/).
* Early In-Person voting: Many counties offer early in-person voting locations before Election Day. Check your county elections office website for locations and hours.
Important Dates:
* February 20: Last day to register to vote online.
* March 5: Election Day.
* March 12: Last day for mailed ballots to be received.
Resources:
* California Secretary of State: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections
* Your County Elections Office: (Search online for “[Your County] Elections Office”)
* Ballot Measures: https://ballotpedia.org/California_2024_ballot_measures
This election offers Californians a chance to shape the future of their state and nation. Make sure your voice is heard!
What the 2026 Election Could Mean for the Future of American Democracy
The 2026 midterm elections loom large,potentially serving as a pivotal moment for American democracy. As Mark Barabak and Jean Guerrero discuss, the outcomes could substantially impact the trajectory of the nation, offering either a course correction or a deepening of current trends.
The stakes are high.A Democratic takeover of even a single chamber of Congress could introduce much-needed opposition,clarity,and oversight,potentially slowing down current policies. Though, repairing past damage may prove difficult. Conversely, a continued Republican hold on power risks further erosion of democratic norms and institutions.
A major concern is the potential for renewed attacks on election integrity. Guerrero warns that continued efforts to sow doubt about election results could lead to further bogus claims of fraud and legal challenges,particularly heading into the 2028 presidential election.
Voter turnout will be crucial. Historically, midterm elections see lower participation rates than presidential elections. Overcoming apathy – whether due to laziness, busyness, or distraction – will be essential for translating awareness of the stakes into actual votes. Proposed restrictions on voting access, such as limitations on mail-in ballots or stricter voter ID laws, could also significantly alter the outcomes.
Despite the challenges, there is reason for hope. Barabak highlights several positive developments from 2025, including MacKenzie Scott’s ample donation to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series victory, and the remarkable resilience of communities impacted by the Southern California firestorm. these examples demonstrate the strength and compassion that still exist within American society.
## reflecting on a tumultuous Year: A Year in Politics from The Times’ Columnists
As 2024 draws to a close, *Los Angeles Times* columnists Jean Guerrero and Mark Barabak offer their reflections on the year’s political landscape, acknowledging the fatigue and division while finding glimmers of hope and shared humanity. Their year-end analysis touches on the upcoming election, the persistent polarization, and the need for unity.
Pope Leo XIV waves after delivering the Christmas Day blessing from the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.
(Gregorio Borgia / Associated Press)
### A Year Marked by Division and Anticipation
Guerrero and Barabak acknowledge the pervasive sense of exhaustion surrounding politics, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 presidential election. The column reflects on the challenges of navigating a deeply polarized habitat, where division and individualism seem to dominate the discourse.
### Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
Despite the bleak outlook, Guerrero shares a surprising source of inspiration: Pope Leo XIV. She highlights the Pope’s call for unity and breaking down barriers, quoting his address to digital missionaries: “Be agents of communion, capable of breaking down the logic of division and polarization, of individualism and egocentrism.” [https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/speeches/2025/july/documents/20250729-missionari-digitali.html](https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/speeches/2025/july/documents/20250729-missionari-digitali.html)
This sentiment resonates with the columnists’ observation that, despite the political “dumpster fire,” a sense of shared fate binds everyone together. It’s a call for recognizing common ground amidst deep disagreements.
### Acknowledging Readers and Looking Ahead
Barabak concludes the piece with a heartfelt thank you to the *Los Angeles Times’* readership. He emphasizes the vital role readers play in supporting their work, particularly acknowledging the importance of paid subscriptions in sustaining journalistic endeavors. [https://www.latimes.com/subscriptions/](https://www.latimes.com/subscriptions/)
The columnists express their gratitude for the continued support and look forward to continuing their coverage in 2026.
This year-end reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing the political landscape, while also offering a message of hope and the importance of community in navigating difficult times. it’s a call to remember shared humanity even amidst profound disagreement, and a thank you to those who support informed journalism.