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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 18/12/2025

New FREE article at The Shatterpoint! As we launch our series digging into the role of legislative branch, an introduction to what Congress actually is. *Every civics article on the Shatterpoint is written for adults who read at a junior high level so all can participate. Your gift funds my work.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 05/11/2025

Spanberger in the all red power suit, sending a clear message. 📸: Politico

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 12/10/2025

Most Americans think they vote directly for president. But that’s not exactly true. The system that really decides who wins is called the Electoral College, and it was built into our democracy long before television, telephones, or even trains. 👇🏻 open.substack.com/pub/theshatt...

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 18/08/2025

Thank you for your support. You can subscribe for FREE at theshatterpoint.substack.com

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 25/05/2025

A great reminder from Journalism Now on the difference between three very different types of professional and independent journalism: 1. News Stories 2. News Analysis 3. Commentary/Opinion Sometimes we hold writers to a standard not meant for their body of work.

Black text on a white background that states:

One person is an impartial observer, watching events unfold on the pitch, being strictly neutral, describing action, identifying players. That is like a news story.
• The person in the middle might provide deeper insights, explaining the thinking behind the manager's tactics or why a substitution has been made. This is like news analysis which provides background and context to a story.
. A more partisan presenter might be opinionated, might be trying o create t controversy.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 13/05/2025

Real patriots push for justice,not unjust obedience. Real patriots defend the integrity of Public Service. Real patriots stand up for sanctity of the Constitution. Real patriots put the good of The People over personl profit. Real patriots do not bow at the feet of Kings on golden toilets.

A blue box that says "Dissent is the highest form of patriotism".

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 11/05/2025

The Foreign Emoluments Clause bans federal officials (including the President) from accepting gift, payment, job, title from a foreign government w/o Congress approval. A luxury jet is definitely a "present" or "emolument", accepting it a clear violation of the Foreign Emoluments Clause.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 06/05/2025

When you waste our time with hate comments on our YouTube, we definitely will make the time to educate you. Our platform is for civics education, not cult worship and make believe about how our foundational Constitution works.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 29/04/2025

An important update from our Editor-In-Chief, @jjhastings.bsky.social. Cancer testing will create piblishing delays.

Hello Shatterpoint Friends and Family,

I wanted to send out a brief message letting everyone know that through May 12, I will be undergoing a series of tests, genetic tests, and physical procedures related to cancer diagnosis.

I have been navigating this behind the scenes while also being the sole creator, researcher, writer, and social media manager for every aspect of The Shatterpoint, since January.

I have made the decision to share this news with you all, as it may result in slight delays for content publication over these next 2 weeks when everything is moving quickly.

I have a series of articles ready to go and will work on getting those scheduled to publish, before my first procedure on Thursday. My goal is for there to be limited interruptions to pur publishing plans for May, but also want to be transparent in case of complications.

I deeply appreciate your support of The Shatterpoint, and for being here! It is your continued engagement that pushes me to keep creating, even when it is physically hard for me to do so.

Thank You,

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 28/04/2025

Did you know that people once had to pay to vote? The 24th Amendment ended this unfair rule, making sure every citizen could have a say in elections. Learn more about activist Evelyn Butts and how this law changed history. Read More, for FREE: shorturl.at/4OFco

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 25/04/2025

Have you subscribed to our FREE Substack? No? What are you waiting for! I'm breaking down civics, government, policy, economics, history, and media literacy in common language anyone with at least a 7th grade reading ability can understand! ~3 articles per week, delivered straight to your inbox!

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 25/04/2025

This is a great question we found in a thread about the recent arrest of a Wisconsin judge. Let's break it down 👇🏻. (⚠️ I am NOT a lawyer, this is NOT legal advice, but civics education content. :)

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 25/04/2025

What was the Women's Suffrage Movement? The fight for women’s right to vote in the United States. Did it exclude Black women, and women of colour? Yes. Learn More: shorturl.at/RPKfG

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 21/04/2025

Going into space? A dream. Going into space for 11 minutes as a distraction from the way the current Administration is dismantling our literal Constitutional rights, and then pretending it is "women's empowerment" is offensive, especially when many Americans are under threat of losing EVERYTHING.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 20/04/2025

Prohibition: the great American experiment in morality, crime, and booze. How a ban on alcohol birthed the mafia, reshaped law, and proved public opinion can rewrite the Constitution. 👇🏻 Article live at noon here: shorturl.at/4kRrr

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 20/04/2025

The 16th Amendment gave the government power to tax your income, and changed the American economy forever Love it or hate it, this amendment funds everything from highways to wars, and its impact still sparks fierce debates about fairness, power, and who really pays their share. shorturl.at/xqRTi

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 16/04/2025

Propaganda didn’t die with ads and posters, it evolved. In the algorithm age, it’s not just about what you see, but why you’re seeing it: engagement is the new weapon, so rage, fear, and bias are monetized. Audience manipulation is posting 1 story with 2 different bias' to bait a boost:

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 11/04/2025

They called it a poll tax in 1870. Today, it’s a passport fee. Same playbook, different century. Watch this 3-min video breaking down how new voter ID laws echo "Black Codes" and Jim Crow. 👇🏻 Follow and Subscribe for More: shorturl.at/HF4Ik #VotingRights #HistoryMatters #skytok

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 11/04/2025

PLEASE watch and share. I'm not too proud to beg my 1k followers! Help @theshatterpoint.substack.com reach 500 FREE Substack subscribers so we can get 1:1 opportunities with your elected officials and reach more adults. You can read more about our Mission here: open.substack.com/pub/theshatt...

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 08/04/2025

The foundations of our Democracy and the general operations of our government should be easy for everyone to understand. Join us today: theshatterpoint.substack.com

A blue box that states: Learn More

The Shatterpoint is a FREE Substack that
breaks down civics, government, policy and
American history into simple to understand
language.

Our goal is to ensure that all adults who can
read at least a 7th grade level can engage with
and understand the way systems actually work
in order to.become more informed voters.

Join us, for free, at
theshatterpoint.substack.com.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 08/04/2025

Harriet Tubman's courage and determination reshaped American history. From leading enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad to fighting for women's rights, her legacy is a powerful reminder of the fight for justice and equality in our democracy.

A red slide that states: Harriet Tubman was a hero.

A red box that states: Freedom

Harriet Tubman's bravery and determination
changed the course of history. She played a key
role in fighting for freedom and equality,
principles that are the heart of American
democracy

Born into slavery in Maryland around 1822, she
grew up working on a plantation, where she
faced hardships that inspired her fight for
freedom.

A blue box that states: Courage

Tubman became a conductor on the
Underground Railroad, a secret network that
helped enslaved people escape to freedom. She
led over 70 people to safety, risking her life
every time.

Tubman showed immense courage by
returning to the South 19 times to rescue
others. Her work helped weaken the system of
slavery, which was a direct challenge to
America's democratic values of freedom and
equality.

A blue box that states: Equality

During the Civil War, Tubman worked as a spy
for the Union Army. She helped plan raids that
freed hundreds of enslaved people
contributing to the fight for freedom and
equality.

After the Civil War, Tubman became a strong
voice for women's suffrage (right to vote). She
oelieved that freedom and equality should
extend to all Americans, regardless of gender.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 05/04/2025

Not everyone can march in the streets, but you still have a valuable and important role to play in this civic movement. 👇🏻

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 04/04/2025

Why should you care about inflation? In simple terms 👇🏻 (A thread 🧵 3/3) #skytok

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 04/04/2025

How does inflation work? Is it different from price increases? In simple terms 👇🏻 (A thread 🧵 2/3) #skytok

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 04/04/2025

What the hell is Inflation? How does it work? What does it do? In simple terms 👇🏻 (A thread 🧵 1/3) #skytok

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 04/04/2025

What if your most important rights weren’t even written down? The 9th Amendment protects freedoms that the Founding Fathers couldn’t predict, and that aren't listed outright in the Constitution. Learn how this forgotten amendment shapes your rights today! shorturl.at/oso1Q

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 13/03/2025

Ever wondered what really happens if you’re accused of a crime? The Sixth Amendment guarantees your right to a fair trial, a lawyer, and more... 🔗: shorturl.at/WJEN1

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 11/03/2025

While the Hatch Act doesn’t apply to the president or vice president, other safeguards could help prevent them from using their office for personal gain like the Constitution’s Emoluments Clauses, a Congressional Investigation (lol), or public backlash.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 09/03/2025

Think 'pleading the Fifth' is just courtroom drama? The Fifth Amendment shields you from double jeopardy, forced confessions, and losing your property without a fight. Know your rights — they might save you one day. 👇🏻 shorturl.at/8fo2p

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 07/03/2025

Not sure if that viral post is true? Learn how to spot misinformation and fact-check like a pro — because the truth matters! 🔗 shorturl.at/R5bvJ

A photo of a laptop with a magnifying glass inspecting it that says, "Thursday Special: How to Fact-Check Online Information. Quick and simple steps to check if online Information is true!"

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 06/03/2025

Can't read? We got you! All of our civics articles are written in common language anyone with a 7th grade education can follow!

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 05/03/2025

Think the government can’t search your phone or home without a reason? Think again. Discover what the Fourth Amendment really protects — and why it matters more today than ever. 🔗 shorturl.at/LzL6a

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 04/03/2025

Confused by how #tariffs raise prices? We got you 👇🏻. 🔗 shorturl.at/mff9d

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 02/03/2025

Did you know the U.S. Constitution protects your home from being taken over by soldiers? Discover the surprising history and lasting impact of the Third Amendment! 🔗: shorturl.at/4UBJw

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 21/02/2025

The Second Amendment is one of the most debated parts of the U.S. Constitution. But what does it actually say, and what did the Founding Fathers mean? Let’s explore its history and meaning in everyday language. 🔗: theshatterpoint.substack.com/p/the-second...

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 14/02/2025

Cuckerberg masturbates to a photo of Elon Musk while crying and punching himself in the face, at this point. They both remind me of the coked out rich dudes building the sex robots before they decide to trigger nuclear apocalypse in American Horror Story.

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 14/02/2025

The Bill of Rights is the first ten amendments (official changes or additions) to the U.S. Constitution. It was added to make sure the government could not take away certain basic rights, which are freedoms and protections, from the people. 🔗: theshatterpoint.substack.com/p/the-bill-o...

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 13/02/2025

Did You Know... These Democrat and Republican senators are ALL up for re-election in the next election cycle? "Class II Senatorial terms" run from the beginning of the 117th Congress on January 3, 2021, to the end of the 119th Congress on January 3, 2027.

A list of Democrats names:
Booker, Cory A. (D-NJ)
Coons, Christopher A. (D-DE)
Durbin, Richard J. (D-IL)
Hickenlooper, John W. (D-CO)
Luján, Ben Ray (D-NM)
Markey, Edward J. (D-MA)
Merkley, Jeff (D-OR)
Ossoff, Jon (D-GA)
Peters, Gary C. (D-MI)
Reed, Jack (D-RI)
Shaheen, Jeanne (D-NH)
Smith, Tina (D-MN)
Warner, Mark R. (D-VA)

A list of Republicans names:
Republicans
Capito, Shelley Moore (R-WV)
Cassidy, Bill (R-LA)
Collins, Susan M. (R-ME)
Cornyn, John (R-TX)
Cotton, Tom (R-AR)
Daines, Steve (R-MT)
Ernst, Joni (R-IA)
Graham, Lindsey (R-SC)
Hagerty, Bill (R-TN)
Hyde-Smith, Cindy (R-MS)
Lummis, Cynthia M. (R-WY)
Marshall, Roger (R-KS)
McConnell, Mitch (R-KY)
Mullin, Markwayne (R-OK)
Ricketts, Pete (R-NE)
Risch, James E. (R-ID)
Rounds, Mike (R-SD)
Sullivan, Dan (R-AK)
Tillis, Thom (R-NC)
Tuberville, Tommy (R-AL)

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The Shatterpoint: Simple US Civics @theshatterpoint.substack.com · 12/02/2025

The U.S. #Constitution is more than just an old document—it’s the foundation of our democracy, shaping our rights, government, and laws for over 230 years. But how was it created, and why does it still impact your daily life? Let’s break it down: shorturl.at/5BLqw

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