The Swamp
The Swamp examines the crazy but true world of Politics. Discover its history, corruption, politicians, activists, and more.
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Stories in The Swamp that you’ll love, handpicked by our team.
Parallel Protests
I haven't written for quite some time, but I have A LOT of thoughts about yesterday's protest rally against our government's involvement and complicity in America's war on Iran, on the harbourside of my home city Bristol, and I need to put them somewhere. My gorgeous girlfriend is always a loving and listening ear and sharing it all with her will always be a healthy and happy way of processing the mental and emotional weight, but getting it straight in my brain to share means writing it all down in straight lines, so, here we are and thanks for being here.
By Steph Cole9 days ago in The Swamp
A Gathering of Evil Bosses
“I’m the queen of chin jutting while I smooth my hair, attacking, insulting, and deflecting to protect my appointer.” “Oh, please, Blondi, my hair is curled, highlighted, and longer than yours. I feature television commercials telling immigrants that we will give them a free plane ride home, and if they voluntarily turn themselves in, they will be allowed to legally apply for re-entry. It runs everywhere, and I look good in it! You can’t compete because of your blond hair. Mine is nicer, and my lips are prettier than yours.”
By Andrea Corwin 22 days ago in The Swamp
The Saddest Thing - The Billionaires Who Rule America Aren't Even Enjoying Themselves
This single post says more about our ruling class than a thousand policy papers. The saddest thing about today's system is that the men robbing the rest of us - sabotaging our economic prospects, our pensions, our access to affordable healthcare - are not even happy.
By Scott Christenson🌴about a month ago in The Swamp
Why Black History Matters in America?
The United States of America is celebrating their 250th anniversary in 2026. I'm proud to be an American and as someone who was born here, I wouldn't imagine myself living anywhere else. This is a country where opportunities are possible. Where anyone can be successful in anything they desire to do. Equality, community, and togetherness are the backbones of what America is and should be about. However, we have an administration who wants to erase and disregard those who have made positive, meaningful impacts in our country, specifically Black figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou. President Trump and his administration have been constantly complaining and fighting against what they call the "Woke agenda". They use this excuse as a distraction from other issues they refuse to address, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and inflation. That equality is dividing America, when in reality, it's bringing us together. Being woke is not tied to a specific political party. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you can still care about other people and their plights. Compassion and empathy for others isn't tied to a political party, either. We were taught as children to treat others the way we want to be treated and not judge others because they're different from us. Caring about others isn't a personal attack on your beliefs. It doesn't make you any less of a person. People who are easily offended over African American figures, past or present, or anything related to it, are grasping at straws. Current and future generations need to know who people like Harriet Tubman and Shirley Chisholm were, especially in the classroom. Black History is part of American History. It should be recognized, not hidden or forgotten. Besides, you can't shield children from everything, just because your feelings are easily hurt.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard about a month ago in The Swamp
Wack Friday
Black Friday. We all obviously know what it is. As a kid, I'd see horror stories of people getting trampled to death in the doors of shopping centers. I didn't even understand what Black Friday was at the time or why everyone went so crazy about it. I didn't grow up with cable TV, so I really didn't have an insane amount of access to news or anything. The little I did see on the matter was enough to terrify me. My tiny child eyes sincerely thought these people were criminals robbing stores... and it was allowed. If the Purge was real and had already come out in the early 90's of my childhood, I would have thought Black Friday was the day it took place.
By Sara Wilson3 months ago in The Swamp
Dear Author
Today I read a Dear Abby column that really bugged me. It was about a woman whose best friend of thirty years abruptly stopped speaking to her because of differing political beliefs. They supported opposing parties, and her friend ended their relationship over it. The writer was hurt, but she hoped that there would be a way to work things out. When the friend had a grandchild, she wrote her a text congratulating her. Her friend responded with a "Who's this?" Our writer was ravaged and wrote the Dear Abby letter, and Abby's response was rather lacking.
By Stephanie Van Orman4 months ago in The Swamp
Criticizing the Cultural Mosaic
In many western countries the promotion of cultural acceptance has become intertwined with the strong encouragement of groups and communities to maintain and cultivate their differences. Terminology such as the “Cultural Mosaic” in Canada, celebrates this mentality. The concept of the Cultural Mosaic, in which each culture remains distinct, and the pushing of individuals to maintain their “uniqueness” have become synonymous with the concept of multiculturalism, when in fact they are not.
By Marlena Guzowski4 months ago in The Swamp
Collections
Themed story collections curated by the Vocal moderators.
Dear Donald
Open letters to the President of the United States from the people of the world. Submit your own grievances, praises, and suggestions through Vocal today.
Political Humor
Where political gaffes become comedy fodder.
Dear Theresa
Open letters to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; do it like they do on Downing Street.
Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in The Swamp.
Tater Tots and Transgender Penguins:
I have my first cup of coffee for the day in hand, and my laptop on the coffee-table in front of me, opened to my favorite government tracking site: https://www.govtrack.us/. I’m settled into my favorite spot on the couch, with Kai my 2-year old Golden Retriever and trusty research partner next to me, just a couple of political junkies, who are cruising the internet, and looking for a political good-time. Ok... I'm the political-wonk... Kai's just there for the treats and belly-rubs... and then we find what we're looking for.
By Meko James about 3 hours ago in The Swamp
US and Allies Clash with Russia and China Over Iran’s Nuclear Program. AI-Generated.
A Deepening Global Divide Over Nuclear Security A dramatic diplomatic confrontation has emerged on the global stage as the United States and its Western allies clash with Russia and China over Iran’s nuclear program. The dispute has unfolded at the United Nations and in international diplomacy, highlighting growing divisions among the world’s most powerful nations over how to address Iran’s expanding nuclear activities.
By Jameel Jamaliabout 4 hours ago in The Swamp
Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei Vows to Fight in First Statement as Supreme Leader. AI-Generated.
The political landscape of the Middle East shifted dramatically after Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first statement as Iran’s new supreme leader. His message, delivered during a period of intense regional conflict and uncertainty, signaled a continuation of Iran’s hardline stance toward its adversaries and hinted at a prolonged geopolitical confrontation. Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership after the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had ruled Iran for decades. The transition occurred during one of the most volatile periods in the country’s modern history, following major military strikes and escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States, Israel, and several regional actors. The Assembly of Experts, the clerical body responsible for selecting Iran’s supreme leader, appointed Mojtaba to lead the Islamic Republic through what many analysts describe as the greatest crisis since the country’s 1979 revolution. � Al Jazeera A Defiant First Message In his first official remarks as supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei pledged that Iran would continue to resist its enemies and defend its sovereignty. His statement emphasized national unity, military resilience, and the determination to respond to foreign attacks. He vowed that Iran would not retreat under pressure and declared that the country would continue its struggle against what he described as aggression from outside forces. The message also included a warning that Iran could expand its military response if attacks against the country persist. Reports indicate that the statement reaffirmed Iran’s intention to keep strategic pressure on its adversaries, including maintaining restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. This narrow waterway carries a large portion of global energy shipments, meaning any disruption can significantly impact global markets and international trade. � AP News +1 By referencing this key maritime corridor, Khamenei’s remarks underscored Iran’s ability to influence global energy security and international economic stability. Continuing the Legacy of Resistance Mojtaba Khamenei’s speech also framed the ongoing conflict as part of a broader struggle for national survival and regional influence. He praised Iranian forces and allied groups across the Middle East for their role in resisting foreign intervention. The new supreme leader emphasized that the sacrifices of those killed in the conflict would not be forgotten, promising that Iran would avenge what he called the “martyrs” of the nation. This rhetoric mirrors the language often used by Iran’s leadership to mobilize public support and reinforce national solidarity during times of war. In addition to honoring those lost, he expressed gratitude to the Iranian military and security forces, describing them as defenders of the country’s independence and dignity. Regional and Global Reactions The leadership transition and the tone of Khamenei’s first statement have drawn strong reactions from around the world. Some governments expressed concern that the speech signals further escalation in the already tense regional conflict. Global leaders are closely watching the situation because the war has already disrupted energy markets and displaced millions of people across the region. Oil prices have risen sharply amid fears that instability in the Strait of Hormuz could interrupt the global supply of crude oil. � AP News Meanwhile, Iran’s allies and partners have voiced support for the new leader. Within Iran itself, the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps quickly pledged loyalty and readiness to carry out his directives. This backing from Iran’s military establishment is widely seen as crucial to maintaining internal stability and consolidating Mojtaba Khamenei’s authority during the transition period. � Dawn Questions About the Future Although Mojtaba Khamenei has long been viewed as an influential figure behind the scenes in Iranian politics, his sudden elevation to supreme leader places him under intense scrutiny. Critics have argued that his appointment represents a dynastic shift in Iran’s political system, while supporters believe his leadership will ensure continuity during a time of crisis. Analysts say the coming months will be critical for determining how Iran navigates both domestic challenges and external pressure. The country faces significant economic strain due to sanctions, war-related damage, and political uncertainty. At the same time, Iran’s leadership must balance military responses with diplomatic strategies to prevent the conflict from expanding further across the region. A Nation at a Crossroads Mojtaba Khamenei’s first statement as supreme leader reflects a nation determined to resist external pressure but also confronting immense challenges. His words suggest that Iran’s current leadership intends to continue its confrontational posture, prioritizing resistance and national unity over compromise. Whether this approach will strengthen Iran’s position or deepen regional instability remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the leadership transition marks the beginning of a new chapter in Iran’s political history—one that will likely shape the Middle East’s future for years to come. As the world watches closely, the decisions made by Iran’s new supreme leader will play a pivotal role in determining whether the region moves toward further conflict or eventual stability.
By Jameel Jamaliabout 4 hours ago in The Swamp
In Defense Of Liars, Thieves, And Scumbags
We live in a world filled with those who are dishonest, untrustworthy, or act unethically. Just because you don't think so doesn't make it any less true. And in that world filled with those types of individuals, there are people who would still defend them to their last breath. It's a strange anomaly we are all witnessing more and more. But what can we do about it?
By Jason Ray Morton about 8 hours ago in The Swamp
Sons Were Suspects in Nearly One in Five Cases of Women Killed by Men in UK in Past Year. AI-Generated.
New data from the UK’s Femicide Census shows that in the past year nearly one in five women killed by men in the United Kingdom were allegedly murdered by their sons, highlighting a disturbing trend in what researchers call a largely under‑recognised form of matricide. The findings were released on International Women’s Day and have prompted renewed calls from campaigners and lawmakers for a stronger focus on family‑based violence prevention and mental health support. The Femicide Census is the most comprehensive ongoing database in the UK tracking women killed by men; it records every case where a man has been charged with the homicide of a woman. In the most recent year covered, the group identified 108 women killed by male suspects, and among those cases, 19 involved sons as the principal suspects. This figure—nearly 18 per cent—represents the highest recorded level of matricide in the 16‑year history of the project. Campaigners and researchers say the figures underline how domestic violence can take many forms. While much public attention rightly focuses on intimate partner violence, the Femicide Census data suggests that mother–child homicide—though rarer—must also be part of the conversation about violence against women and girls in the UK. “These are women who have given life to their children, and to see them killed by their own sons is deeply tragic and often preventable,” said Clarrie O’Callaghan, co‑founder of the Census. Understanding the Scale and Context Across the UK, official homicide statistics show that women are disproportionately likely to be killed by male relatives or partners. According to government data, in recent years over two‑thirds of female homicide victims were killed in domestic settings, and most of these killings were committed by men known to the victim. Common relationships for suspects include partners, ex‑partners, and other family members such as sons, fathers, or brothers. Domestic homicide statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that among female victims, significant proportions were killed by family members, which include parents and children, reflecting the broader domestic violence issue in households. � ons.gov.uk Although matricide represents a small fraction of all homicides of women, its rise within the Femicide Census data has prompted questions about underlying causes. Researchers point to a range of complex factors that can contribute to these tragic outcomes, including poor mental health support, substance misuse, economic instability, and the absence of adequate crisis intervention resources for families in distress. Drivers Behind the Trend Experts on family violence and crime say that cases of matricide—particularly where sons kill their mothers—often involve a mix of social and personal stressors. A 2021 analysis of similar cases found that mental illness was implicated in more than half of documented matricides, including conditions such as depression, psychosis, and untreated psychiatric disorders. Campaigners argue that many individuals who go on to commit violence against their mothers or other relatives are living with untreated or poorly supported mental health issues. “The intersection of domestic stress, untreated mental health needs, and isolation can create explosive circumstances,” says a psychologist working with survivors of family violence. Without early intervention and sufficient community resources, warning signs can be missed. Other contributing factors cited by researchers include housing instability, economic pressure, and substance dependency—all of which can exacerbate tensions in family relationships and increase the risk of violent confrontations. These socio‑economic stressors are often overlapping and cyclical, making it difficult for families to break free without support. Government Response and Campaigner Demands In response to growing concern about violence against women and girls, the UK government unveiled a new strategy last year that includes £1bn in funding for prevention and victim support programs. However, women’s organisations and advocacy groups say the strategy, while a step forward, does not go far enough to address the full scale of femicide and domestic murder, including cases perpetrated by sons. MP Jess Phillips, a long‑standing campaigner on domestic violence issues, used International Women’s Day to read aloud the names of all 108 women killed by men in the past year—a symbolic gesture designed to highlight the human cost of these crimes. Phillips has called for more targeted funding for mental health services, community support schemes, and early intervention programs aimed at families at risk of extreme conflict. Women’s rights groups also argue that the existing data on domestic violence, homicide, and family violence is too limited and must be expanded to better capture nuanced patterns such as matricide. “We cannot meaningfully address violence against women if our understanding of it only focuses on partners and ex‑partners,” says a spokesperson for a leading advocacy organisation. A Broader Debate on Prevention The debate over how best to prevent femicide and family violence extends beyond criminal justice responses. Researchers and social workers emphasise the importance of early social support, accessible mental health care, and community programmes that strengthen family resilience and provide safe spaces for those in conflict. Without such systems in place, the risk of tragic outcomes remain unacceptably high. As discussions unfold in parliament and among advocacy groups, the focus on cases where sons are suspects in murders of women has highlighted not only the tragic loss of life but also the complex web of social factors that can lead to family violence. For policymakers, community leaders, and families alike, the challenge remains how to translate data into effective action that prevents future deaths and supports those at risk.
By Fiaz Ahmed about 8 hours ago in The Swamp
Creators We’re Loving
The creative faces behind your favorite stories.
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Jeff Olen
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38 published stories
Scott Christenson🌴
201 published stories
Atomic Historian
532 published stories
Sara Wilson
162 published stories
Sam Spinelli
351 published stories
Mark Wesley Pritchard
411 published stories
Timothy A Rowland
441 published stories
K.B. Silver
518 published stories
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474 published stories
