Shaley Speaks
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Wife. Mom. Creator.
Politics. Life. Motherhood. Fiction. Music.
I love it all. I hope you do, too.
Stories (47)
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Government Shutdown 2025
The United States is currently experiencing a government shutdown for the first time in nearly seven years that began on October 1st, 2025, a situation that has far-reaching consequences for federal operations, employees, and citizens across the country. As we trudge through the third week of the shutdown, let’s take a look at the causes behind it, its immediate and long-term impacts, and the potential paths toward resolution.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
No Kings Mental Health Monday!
Happy Mental Health Monday, friends! Today, we actually have some great things to take in. With the endless “breaking news” headlines and events so trashy they’re difficult to believe are real (like Trump’s AI video of him dumping shit on the American people while wearing a crown), this weekend brought light back into the lives of many Americans.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
Right-Wing vs Left-Wing Violence
Political violence—defined as the use of force to achieve political objectives—has been a persistent concern in democracies worldwide. In the United States and other Western nations, both right-wing and left-wing groups have engaged in violent acts. However, the frequency, severity, and nature of such violence differ significantly between these ideological camps, as demonstrated by various studies and official statistics. This analysis does not go into detail about attacks fueled by religion, Jihadist, Islamist, or any other types of violence, but the statistics are included in some of the graphs for a better understanding.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
States are banning abortion. Birth control might be next…
The landscape of reproductive health laws in the United States has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly following the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022), which overturned Roe v. Wade. This decision gave individual states the authority to regulate abortion, leading to a wide range of restrictions and bans across the country. In addition to abortion, some states have also proposed or enacted limits on birth control access, though these are less common and often subject to ongoing legal challenges. In the 2024 elections, only 7 states voted to protect women’s reproductive rights. Here’s a look at the attack on reproductive rights in each state.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
Trump Advocates for the "Charlie Kirk Act": Examining the Debate Over Government Policing of Free Speech
In a recent and highly charged series of events, President Donald Trump has begun advocating for what is being referred to as the "Charlie Kirk Act," as suggested By TikTok user Ellie May in a video that has since gone viral. This is a legislative proposal that, if enacted, would empower the federal government to play an active role in policing free speech across the United States. The measure, named after conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has ignited a wave of debate among lawmakers, legal scholars, civil libertarians, and everyday citizens who are now reckoning with its potential consequences for the cherished First Amendment, of which Kirk himself was a very firm believer.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
Department of Education Partners with Conservative Foundations to Shape Curriculum Focus
Recently, Department of Education secretary, Linda McMahon announced a new partnership with more than forty conservative foundations, the American 250 Civics Education Coalition. The stated purpose behind this alliance is a comprehensive shift in educational priorities, emphasizing values such as God, country, marriage, pro-life, and patriotism. The announcement has been met with a range of reactions—some enthusiastic, some skeptical, and, frankly, many indifferent.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
Gun Violence in the U.S.. Content Warning.
Gun violence in the United States is no secret. Anyone with access to a computer or news outlets is aware of the impact gun violence has on U.S. citizens. This year alone has already seen approximately 22,000 gun deaths – this includes homicides and suicides. I’ve put together a compilation of gun violence statistics for anyone who wants more information but may not have the time to do the research on their own. While these numbers are changing frequently and we can never know the exact statistics at every minute, I’ve cross-checked multiple sources to give you the most accurate information available.
By Shaley Speaks3 months ago in The Swamp
Let Me Out
The mirror showed a reflection that wasn’t my own. It was my face, but there was something dark about its presence. Almost sinister-like. The reflection mirrored my movements, my mannerisms, but the eyes looked hollow and empty. And the smile… just slightly curled upwards as I stared back in horror. And I swear, as I turned away, the reflection remained still, watching me leave.
By Shaley Speaks3 years ago in Horror
The To-Do List: Chapter Three
Three days had passed since Mitch and I said goodbye to Mel. Mr. and Mrs. Hannen had gone to the morgue to identify her body and, unfortunately, it was her. They had been busy planning a funeral for their daughter, my parents helping as much as possible. Mitch hadn’t been around much and I didn’t blame him.
By Shaley Speaks4 years ago in Fiction
