Preparing for the Rest of Trump's Presidency
Are you ready for it? It's beginning to look like we're not going to get any relief from a full term of Donald J. Trump. That said, I think it's time to check to make sure you're ready to survive it and will be able to vote in 2020 to eject him from the White House. Here are some things to check and ways to prepare:
1. Have proof of citizenship ready and at hand. - This is especially true if you were not born in the United states, are a person of color, or do not speak English as your first language. Make sure you have a valid birth certificate available, any naturalization papers, and any permanent resident paperwork.
2. Get a valid passport. - This document may become an essential form of identification over the long term. With it in hand, you have proof of identity and citizenship, issued by the federal government, itself. Don't wait, if you do not have one or if yours will expire soon. Right now, the process isn't taking long. That could change. Store this document in a safe place, perhaps in a fire-proof lockbox.
3. Have current state identification. Check your state Driver's Licence or ID card. Renew it promptly before it expires. If your state has lagged in implementing Real ID, convert your identification to that standard as soon as you possibly can. You will need it soon, or a valid passport, to fly on airlines and to enter federal buildings and installations. Even if you have a passport, back it up with valid state identification that shows your current address. If you move, get your address changed immediately.
4. Have proof of ownership documents. - This applies to your home, if you own it, your vehicles, and other high-value items. Make sure you have current documents that prove ownership. For undocumented property, take photos and store image files safely in more than one location. Send them to your insurance company as well, for additional documentation.
5. Check your voter registration. - Do this now, and prior to all elections. Act before the deadline to register for any election. You can check with your County Registrar of Voters or County Clerk. There are also websites that will check for you. Don't be unable to vote. We need every vote. If you move, re-register right away.
6. Secure all other important papers and make digital copies. - If your actual Social Security card is missing, replace it immediately. Your DD Form 214 is a crucial document if you are a veteran. Deeds, Insurance policies, recent tax filings and other critical documents should be stored safely and protected against destruction. Digital copies of such documents, stored in multiple places, are also a good idea.
7. Monitor your bank accounts, credit card accounts, and other financial assets closely. - Keep an eye on such accounts on a daily basis and immediately report any irregularities. These days, this is a crucial thing to do. You can use a fee-based service, as well, to get alerts on suspicious activity for such accounts.
Those are my suggestions in a Trump presidency, but they're a good idea in any case. But, if any of those are something you've neglected, I recommend taking action now. Changes may occur at any time that make such safeguards very important.
= new reply since forum marked as read
I have neglected many of these...
