Short answer: the two-party machine and the media that supports (and is owned) by it.

The United States’ corrupt two-party system ushers in rich candidates to nomination (getting name on state ballots is expensive) and derails fresh voices.

Consider this observation from George Washington’s farewell speech in 1796:

However [political parties] may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.

And this is why our “choice” for U.S. President in 2024 is between two old white guys: an addled incumbent and a serial liar with the “morals of an alley cat”.

You know who repeatedly warned us using Washington’s quote? Marianne Williamson.

Most media outlets ignored her candidacy, despite her substantive knowledge of U.S. history and clear, hopeful, detailed, achievable policy platform—not to mention her extraordinary performance in a previous presidential debate.

And the DNC? Rigged their own primaries to “elect” their choice of candidate—not the will of the people.

Williamson wasn't even allowed to debate!

And now, the DNC is doing their damnedest to keep RFK Jr. off ballots, too. Why can he keep going but Williamson couldn't? He has money—lots of money.

It doesn't matter if you think someone’s a “flake” or “not a serious candidate”: if they can get the signatures to get on ballots—and not have to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to get on each state’s ballot—they should be allowed in the primaries, and allowed to debate.

Let the people decide who's a poser or an incompetent or a bald-face liar (with fact-checking independent/citizen journalists, of course).

The 2 of Air card from our Coffee Tarot shows the symbols of America’s two parties—Democrat (donkey) and Republican (elephant)—and their clashing ideologies (represented by the two swords).

As the viewer looks at the card, it appears we have a choice.

But do we?

Is it really a choice if party gatekeepers have carefully curated the candidate they can keep in line to do their bidding—and aggressively sabotage and hobble any others, despite momentum (think Bernie Sanders)?

And does it really serve America if two child-men fight about golf swings and handicaps, rather than important issues affecting voters? You know, things like women's reproductive rights, affordable medication, living wages, childcare, clean water, inflation…

What America needs is a candidate that can embody the four Tarot Aces, all connected to a fresh start:

Ace of Swords: Sharp clarity and clear communication that cuts through spin and gaslighting bullshit

Ace of Coins: An economic bill of rights that grants a living wage, affordable housing and free healthcare

Ace of Wands: Passion and stamina for democracy and the will of the people

Ace of Cups: A compassionate heart that seeks to cultivate a culture of compassion, alleviate suffering and uplift citizens with hopeful, gracious, constructive connections

Gee, I wonder who that sounds like…