Test Balloons
In this week's packed episode, the Drs provide even more than what you asked for! From gerrymandering to empty churches, to deploying state National Guards to DC to ending Housing First funding -- there are more than enough test balloons flying over the U.S. to see what Americans allow to stay afloat.
Words of the Week [1:25]: Gerrymandering and Test Balloons: Gerrymandering is only the latest test of American resistance.
Phase 1 [7:35]: Repurposing: Given the most recent landslide of church closures, the Boston Globe highlights the possibilities for such buildings. Beyond the body and the people, how might houses of worship that no longer have enough people to sustain them turn into viable housing for those who need it most.
Phase 2 [25:10]: Deployment: As we land on Day 30, the deployment of three red states' National Guards to DC to fight (feigned) crime has us wondering how this may be a test balloon for much bigger issues. Meanwhile, such "law enforcement" (imagine Dr. Shaunna rolling her eyes here) are displacing the unhoused, which creates even more strain on underfunded resources.
Mentioned in the show
More churches are becoming affordable housing – Boston Globe
Ending Crime and Disorder on American Streets – The White House
What the Recent Executive Order Does and Doesn't Do – National Alliance to End Homelessness
A Look at the New Executive Order and the Intersection of Homelessness and Mental Illness - KFF
Trump’s Homelessness Crackdown Has Been Tried Before. It Didn’t Work – Reveal News
Scott rejects request to deploy Vt. National Guard to Washington – Vermont Public Media
