I have enough suspense on my plate watching the door to Special Counsel's office, hoping it will open any day now with news of an indictment of treason for the so called man in the White House.
I can wait another year to start placing bets on the Democratic wannabes.
Saying that, keep it up, Gail. We need to remember to breathe these days, let alone laugh.
11
Judging by all the emails I receive from Joe Kennedy III, he’s running for some national office sometime.
Otherwise, why all the emails across the country?
1
No matter what the New York Times does to try to conceal the fact that the leading candidate for the nomination of the Democratic Party is Bernie Sanders, the leading candidate for the Democratic nomination for president of the USA in 2020 is Bernie Sanders.
10
I hope these egomaniacs conclude that the best to beat 45 and experience to be president should run for the nomination.
1
The Democrat candidate needs to be a Caucasian male younger than sixty. Harsh but true.
74
Please reconsider: you would have my vote! (Although you need some education about the relative importance of Washington state.)
5
Hillary! It’s her turn.
2
Oh, Gail! Shame on you! No credit given for an excellent quote from Civil War General William ("Uncle Billy") Tecumseh Sherman: "I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected."
2
Angus King and Kirsten Gillibrand for his VP. That should provide a nice, calm respite from the Trump chaos and idiocy.
3
Bring on the seven dwarfs. Trump will decimate all of them.
2
So when was the last time a seriously funny person ran and won? You have my vote, Gail. You can sell pink hats with MALA on them. Make America laugh again.
3
Wouldn't it be nice if they could all run against Trump and beat him one by one. He is simply too repulsive to be thrown out of office just once.
10
Disgusted and disheartened by Trump, I have been bingeing on Winston Churchill lately -- watching movies about him, reading parts of half-a-dozen books and listening to his wartime speeches.
A staunch liberal in his younger days, Churchill ultimately became a blood, sweat and tears conservative through and through.
His one big idea for England -- before, during and after the war -- was KBO, “keep buggering on.” There were no big schemes in him then for rapidly solving all of his country’s social problems.
Democrats would be wise to emulate him in his later years. Piling one empty social promise onto another in 2020 is the road to certain defeat. Best leave that to Trump and the Republicans who have already sickened the country by promising everything and delivering nothing but trouble and heartache.
Biden would be a good choice for President, but I fear is growing a bit long in the tooth.
Best of all would be Beto for President and Bloomberg for VP.
Beto to inspire and cheerlead the country and Bloomberg behind the scenes to help him run it.
3
I can’t tell who is going to run or who can win the presidency. But my wish to Santa is that he finds a bigly beautiful, the most beautiful room in Terre Haute to house the richest, most corrupt, distinguished orange face, yellow hair, fouled mouth person ever to be elected for a government position.
4
We need a good, solid, almost boring candidate. People are sick of the hate and drama. They want competence.
I suggest Governor Roy Cooper of N.C., who has been bravely battling a republican legislature, and who stood up for the lgbtq community in a socially conservative state.
24
"try to avoid mentioning that we haven’t elected a House member president since James Garfield"
Senators have not done so well either. Plenty have run, but they almost all lose. The last sitting Senator to win was JFK. Obama hardly counts, because he'd only just gotten there. Before that, there were none I can recall.
We hear a lot about Senators because they are known to the media, not because they are likely to win. Governors do much better at winning.
17
@Mark Thomason well, there's Andrew Cuomo. It speaks volume about the pathetic state of the Dems that Cuomo, the only really big winner time after time is not even mentioned. No one else even come close in terms of running a Big Campaign. But he's not running!
1
However many candidates the Democrats have now, there will be only four or five "viable" options after Super Tuesday, March 3rd. Media organizations cannot cover dozens of campaigns, and voters will quickly tire of stories about candidates who can't break 10 percent in primaries or caucuses.
By the end of March, if not sooner, journalists will be covering at most two or three candidates.
I've watched many primaries in my lifetime, and the winnowing process is always much faster than people expect.
2
If you ran, I would vote for you.
1
How about Eric Holder with Kamala Harris as a running mate? Eric is a seasoned lawyer and this could Kamala some more time to get national experience.
1
How bout that Joe Stassen....er, Biden!
2
Gail Collins in 2020! (just kiddin Gail, but how about 2024? 0r 28?
Tulsi Gabbard -- or is there another non-militaristic candidate?
If nominated I will not walk, if elected I will not serve. Ballotpedia, please remove my name from any and all other lists produced in the future. Thank-you for your attention to this matter. Writing that felt good. Maybe we can convince the President to take the dive too. Might have to replace walk with cart.
Gail, you can put a chalk mark next to my name for a Warren/Sanders ticket but as somebody living in Washington State I admire Inslee as well.
People who denigrate Warren for her DNA test should ask themselves if they want to see Trump's DNA as well as his taxes.
I don't want to know Trump's pedigree (lie down with dogs, ya know) but I do want to see his taxes. In fact, it should be a law!
But speaking of Trump's DNA I'm sure that it's his epigenetic profile that's really damning. Obesity, intelligence, and so much of our behavior is determined by the epigenetic profile that I'd bet his are off the charts, and not in a good way. Doctors may want to check his parasite load too. He has so much in common with the common intestinal flatworm!
3
Harris/O’Roarke would make a great ticket.
1
@maryb
Who is Harris? What has she done to warrant people in fly over to vote for her? I mean compell them?
Why would anyone in flyover country want to vote for her?
The last election, the candidates with the most name recognition got nominated.
Harris?
9
The Republicans had a " cornucopia of candidates" the last time around.
How did that work out?
Cornucopia bad! Plethora bad!
What really matters is which Democratic candidate has the support of Benjamin Netanyahu, Kim Jong Un, Vladimir Putin and Mohammed bin Salman.
2
Where is Mitch Landrieu?
2
Actually, Gail, you would probably make a good candidate. Keep not-running and you will have my vote.
It sounds like the Dems., are figuring out a way to snatch defeat
from the jaws of victory.
3
Bernie Sanders so simple to see except the powers that Be will never allow this! Not Bloomberg! No more billionnaires
5
"try to avoid mentioning that we haven’t elected a House member president since James Garfield."
You will probably lose all 234 Democratic House members if you remind them that James Garfield was assassinated.
2
Or what about Tom Wolf of Pennsylvania, who just won re-election against a guy who threatened to “stomp all over your face with golf spikes?"
Wouldn't that be,
"stomp all over your face with golf spikes"?
The Nutmeg duet, Diamond Joe Lieberman and Lowell P. Weicker are a natural across the aisle dream team. Lowell can regal audiences with his Watergate Committee days. Joe can wax melodically of his McCain, Graham Three Amigos ties as defense mavens.
This tag team will tout strong on defense, light on pomposity and an extra dollop of over 75/85 the new 55. Joe Lieberman, his Adelson taint free support of Israel will win over the religious right.
Al Gore can come out swinging his axe for the environmentalist audience. Hill $ Bill conduct a We Love Joe&Lowell tour for a nominal speaker fee.
What’s not to love when Beto signs on for the “young’uns” skateboard into 2020 themed roadie circuit.
This duet has possibilities.
Yeah, even my sanitation man is thinking of running. After all, the bar is now so low and he’s already an expert in garbage. And if not the Presidency, he’s hoping for UN ambassador after Heather Nauert.
3
I’m shocked! Shocked! Shocked!
You have forgotten the curse of Tippecanoe! Perhaps we want a certain Russian agent to run for president?
If he wins we may all go, hehehe!
2
Gail- I reckon most of us here think you ought to run anyway. -Mick
2
"Well, maybe if elected. But no running."
LOL,LOL, You're the reason I subscribe to the NY Times
Can you say messy brokered convention and disillusions progressives!!
1
Beto? Ben Lujan? Colorado Gov? Arizona? West Coast?... nobody from east of the Miss River!!!
4
Thank you for your unique humor and viewpoint. We are going to have to start 'culling' the herd.
No known felons or individuals facing jail terms -
No billionaires as you live in separate universes from the rest of us, or those not in the one percent -
No real estate developers -
No one over the age of 65 - please enjoy your retirement instead!
No current member of the GOP in Congress - you are anathema to your own party -
No racists -
No white nationalists -
No misogynists -
No anti-Semitics -
No one with a personal arsenal of weapons of mass destruction -
No one who does not believe in Santa Claus -
1
Consider the FlyOver country: Midwest, Great Planes, West-Appalachia & the South. You can’t get nominated without it.
Bernie did great in the Midwest but lacked the NAME RECOGNITION in the South which Hillary swept. She then lost both the South & states in the Midwest in the general.
The Midwest/Rust belt requires credible working class progressives with NAME RECOGNITION.
I’m a Bernie-craft & want him to run. That said someone like Sherrod Brown or perhaps Biden (who probably has too much ties to establishment) might work in the Rust Belt. Then perhaps maybe putting someone like Bento O’Rorke as the VP for a chance to snipe off Texas or put the GOP on the defensive there.
Biden might be valuable as a way to bind the wounds and restore the govmnt back to normalcy but normalcy for the last 45 years has meant a flat median wage for the last 45 years and that is THE source of dysfunction that is giving birth to the American dystopia that made Trump possible: which then brings us back to Bernie.
The flat median wage means declining wages for white working class people as segue to their opioid crisis: see Frontlines on the hollowing out of the Dayton economy.
Quite frankly, the Elites couldn’t give a dam about this problem & these people. You don’t have 45 years of flat wages in an economy that has grown ove 150% without across the board complicity of the elites.
As for Harris, who is she, what has she done & why would Fly-Over people be compelled to vote for her?
3
Considering the recent dire reports on climate change, I'm looking for a candidate who puts that issue first on the agenda -- and who can communicate effectively how crucial the environment is for the future of life on earth and inspire us to sacrifice so children being born today will not live in hell on earth.
As Bernie Sanders said in 2016, climate change is our greatest national security threat. He is probably too old to be elected now, but this is the most pressing issue whether we like it or not.
82
Now Gail, don't rule yourself out! You have a better handle on current events and political history than most, and you're infinitely better qualified than the present WH occupant.
Of course, a box of rocks is better qualified that the present WH occupant, and would do less harm because it couldn't tweet...
But listen, more people know who you are than know about..what's-his-name...that guy you mentioned early in your column...Patrick or Henry or whatever his name is. I forget.
Plus, you're genuinely smart, have a lot of common sense and a great sense of humor; you'd kill at the WH Correspondents Dinner!
You can do it! I'll even come up with some snappy campaign slogans for you:
"Let's not fail, vote for Gail!"
"American, stop your bawlin' and vote for Collins!"
"She ain't tweetin', she's in a meetin'!"
Uh...OK, so those aren't the best slogans, especially the last one. But I just got up and I can do better.
We need to talk, Gail.
Seriously.
Call me.
4
I just got an email from www.kamalaharris.org. I assume she got my email from thew DNC.
I hit unsubscribe. I just don't like her and will never vote for her.
4
@Me
Who is she?
What has she done to warrant consideration of her by people who live in fly over country?
In the last election, the people with the most name recognition won nomination of their parties. Bernie was unknown in the south so he lost all of those states.
The south put Hillary on the ballot then Hillary proceeded to lose all of those states in the general. Ta-da!
The #1 issue is the median wage being flat for over 45 years, which means that working class wellbeing has been declining for 45 years. This is impossible to sustain without complicity by all elites in both parties - witness Hillary saying that $15 an hour is was too much (radical idea) but by the end of the campaign season state law governing it 25% of Americans had embraced those positions.
To the elites - giving bargaining power to ordinary Americans is radical. This has to end IMMEDIATELY or it will give us more monsters like Trump or worse and allow operators like Putin to split this country apart and shatter it.
The #2 issue, and just as important in the “now” is Climate Change.
So, I think advocating a new Green New Deal is probably pretty good politics.
Anyone with children (and I am not) should want to leave a habitable planet to their posterity.
1
Here's your winning ticket: S Brown OH Prez and Betto O'Rourke TX VP.
9
Write-in Gail Collins!
1
Elizabeth warren
2
Come on, Sheldon Whitehouse has to in the scrum. Imagine reporters coming to you from the Whitehouse Whitehouse.
2
Gail Collins for US Prez!
Welcome to the Democratic Party 2019. Now that we sacrificed the party for the last 20 years on the altar of Saint Hillary. (I am with her!!!)
Hehehe.
Take it from a conservative hater of anything liberal and Democrat: Beto.
I hate the guy, but he is your only chance. I hate him because he is so ... Obama light ...
Or should I say Obama white ...
1
Personally I'd like to see the Melissa McCarthy/Steven Colbert ticket. I think they are the only ones who could make the next presidential season something other than the root-canal operation with no anesthesia that it otherwise is sure to be, as we endure the agony of the next white zillionaire RICO-fascist fleecing the angry rural white base on his way to the Whitehouse.
If Richard Pryor were still alive he'd be 80 in 2020. I miss him.
2
Go BETO 2020!!!
1
Whoa! Gail, you waffled on the "full Sherman". Elect Gail Collins!
A much-needed funny read in these political times.
I’ve begun receiving emails requesting my selection from the large list of potential candidates, many of whom I’ve never heard of, as well as some who are not suitable for the 2020 elections (maybe at some far future, enlightened times). Put simply and pragmatically, Democrats need the candidate who can defeat the GOP (Trump may not remain an opponent based on his current troubles).
Perhaps, as in 2008, the economy will decide it.
Look at how pets humanize a president. My gosh, everybody watched the videos of Sully the Labrador attending Bush's memorial at the rotunda or clicked on the photo of Sully sleeping beside the coffin. A little candy Bo standing in the yard of the gingerbread White House. Postcards of Socks the Cat being sold in the White House gift shop. A hundred and fifty years ago, when Mrs. Lincoln was asked if her husband had a hobby, she answered "Cats." One of his cats was named Dixie.
Do not, under any circumstances, vote for someone who doesn't have a pet, especially someone who won't let their young son have a dog. Americans love animals and there's something unnatural about a president without pets. Even Washington had a parrot.
1
I don't have any name but I can give a laundry list of requirements:
- Younger than 72
- Experience in governance
- Character, character, character
- A veteran would be a plus
- No tweeters
- The single biggest problem the US, and the world, faces is climate change. We need someone who is passionate about fixing it.
- If he/she utters the word "god" I will look elsewhere. God has nothing to do with our problems.
5
But who will pass the left’s moral purity test?
2
Amy Klobacher should give serious thought to running. This is a woman who out did everyone on the Senate Juducial Committee when she was verbally harassed by Kavanaugh.
She kept her cool, asked intelligent questions and managed to have Kavanaugh so rattled by her calm questioning and her dignity that he could not contain his rage.
Imagine how Klobacher would do against Trump in a debate. She would annihilate him just by her composure.
She is not a grandstander like Gillibrand and temperamentally better than Warren, and I am a big fan of Warren. However Warren can do more good if she remains in the Senate.
I think an unbeatable ticket would be Klobacher and either Moulton or Joe Kennedy
4
PLEASE not Michael Bloomberg! -- He'll find a way to keep himself in office for an extra term just like he did when Mayor of New York.
5
While it should be a minor factor, a presidential candidate must have charisma. That is how shallow minded America works. We were fortunate Mr. Obama had charisma and smarts, as we can currently see, his successor charmed a large enough portion and with the Electoral College and some corruption got in. Look at recent successful democratic candidates and you'll see the charm factor.
1
Sanders & Gillum or Sanders & Abrams 2020!
1
I'm for taking a long vacation from presidential campaign talk. Think I'll read a book for a change.
I'm not sure Trump is going to be a problem. Did you read the headlines? He'd be going to jail with Cohen if he wasn't President of the US. Let that sink in.
I just hope the media has learned its lesson and lets the people decide who they want to be president. And if another charlatan like Trump emerges, cut off the oxygen supply, for the good of the country not the bottom line.
4
Great article.
Shows the Democrats are fractured, disorganized, directionless, and have no one real to challenge Trump.
You have a problem people. and 2020 is ever closer. But at this point you might already be too late.
Take this chance to burn those who won't go away, while working on a new one that can win on 2024.
1
How could you ignore Rick Scott, ex-governor and now junior Senator for the 4th largest state in the Union?
Surely he ranks right up there with Trump, having tap-danced his way out of a $1.7 billion fine for Medicare fraud but was nonetheless elected Governor by at least at shoebox full of hanging chads.
And really, would you deny Americans the privilege of voting for a crash test dummy? The fact that he failed the audition at Volvo by reason of the cash test roundels on the side of his head being blue instead of green shouldn't be held against him.
1
Not sure if I can even spell her name correctly at this stage, but Minnesota Senato,r Amy Kobuchar, is already at the top of my list.
Here's why:
Experienced, a more than able leader, committed, impressive intellect, grounded in common sense, no major baggage if any, pleasant as well as inspiring speaking manner, the right age, the right gender, and from the heartland - swing states go blue!
5
But, if you change your mind and decide to run, Gail, you'd have all of our votes. Right, everyone?
1
“There are also 418 people who have already declared their intent to run to the Federal Election Commission. Unless you happen to live on the same block as one of them, you probably have never heard any of their names. This is a thing low-profile people do when they want to get attention in a virtuous, nonviolent way. And easier than decorating your Christmas lawn with 47 dancing reindeer.”
Or happen to have a reality TV show! Always funny, witty, Gail Collins, you’re the best!
2
BIDEN - O'Rourke #2020
Loved this column Gail. Run (outside...)!
We're going to keep Edwards here for as long as possible. Y'all can have him when we're done.
Last time the Republicans had their clown car, now the Democrats seem like they'll have two. As a lifelong Democrat I will say that if we nominate a woman or brown person, or both, we will lose again. There are many qualified in those categories, Kamala Harris for one, but America is now too openly racist to buy it. Think of Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania. We'll lose them again, not to mention the South. Well, the South has been lost for decades.
2
My dream team is Biden-Klobuchar with Franken running for her senate seat upon election
1
The 2020 Democratic presidential candidate should not be Biden or Clinton, and should not have a blatantly socialist agenda. The 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate needs to speak to health care and immigration moderately with common sense vision and a detailed plan; not just taking the money from the wealthy to pay for it. The best 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate would not be a Washington insider but have a great respect to the quagmire and the traditions of said quagmire, would not speak of locking people up and taking others to the parking lot. The 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate would hold the press accountable but not consider them an enemy of the people. The 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate would have a business track record and not sex scandals. The Democrats do not have a cornucopia of candidates.
1
Not Inslee. He's been a really good governor--my governor--and a good Congressman, but he isn't a President. He will be a wonderful and very effective Secretary of the EPA or Energy. Honestly, I think that's what he really wants--not the White House.
1
Don't know why this is so hard for people. The most popular politician in America is Bernie Sanders.
His views -- Medicare for All, $15 minimum wage, aggressive action to counter climate change, on an on -- are actually supported by large majorities of the country.
He raised millions of dollars in 2016 without taking PAC money, proving broad support that will be there again. He electrified new and young voters.
He also has a very long history of honorable service as a mayor, congress member and senator, and before that as a civil rights activist.
He has worked across the aisle on matters such as supporting veterans' services and would continue to do so. He only seems uncompromising because voters are used to politicians who change their views with every focus group.
Polls showed in 2016 that he would have beaten Trump, and continue to show that.
No other candidate can say all of this for themselves. Bernie 2020 is an easy call for me.
5
As usual, trying to get the Democrats to focus on something is like trying to herd cats. Consider this as a means of motivation: As things now stand Trump gets reelected. He and his party are focused, have a solid platform and message: "Whatever Trump wants is right." No, I'm not kidding.
The Democrats, like cats, are wandering all over the map. They are supporting everyone from a senior statesman who wants to get in a fist fight with Trump, to a 28 year old (you must be 35 to be president) new representative with no experience at all, as possible presidential contenders. Regarding their platform, there are no limits, pick any subject and there is a group pushing for it: Universal Healthcare, Banning Hydrocarbons, Veganism, Paleo Diets, the Gaia Hypothesis. In spite of all the help Trump is giving them, the Democrats are determined to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, again.
4
How about Mitt Romney as an independent third party candidate? It will split the Republican vote and whoever Democrats choose will be a shoe-in.
3
A lot of people are saying they'll vote for anyone the Democrats nominate.Not good enough, folks: people who will lose a day of work and stand in line for hours need a stronger incentive that 's/he isn't Trump'. Find it.
5
@S North
"Isn't Trump" is good enough for me.
5
Very witty, enjoyed this.
5
"I think the least I can do is to let it be known right now that I am not a candidate for president. If nominated I will not run, if elected I will not serve. Well, maybe if elected. But no running."
That's an awesome,super funny line, Gail.
Happy Holiday's to all.
5
And there are many, many more on the island of misfit toys.
4
I'm looking hard at Steve Bullock from Montana. REALLY, I am.
2
Why would you want this job? You know the Republicans will start a special investigation the moment you walk into the oval office for something trivial. It's tit for tat score settling.
The problem with the special investigation is what was NOT investigated - Bay of Tomkin and the Iraq Invasion.
41
@Tom
I am of the mind that we need a permanent special prosecutor that will always be looking at the highest members of the executive branch. I want integrity in government, by both parties.
6
Nothing to say about Kirsten Gillibrand? She appeared on Colbert being coy about the race and using the word 'moral' repeatedly in a way that sounded campaign theme-ish.
If he's still in office, Trump will do doubt run (bad decision, but why stop now), and I think his opponent should be a woman. It's past time, after Hillary Clinton's dubious defeat, women's march, me too movement, etc. Somebody who's tough and funny a la Ann Richards. Does Kamala Harris have a sense of humor?
Kirsten Gillibrand? Never, after what she did to Al Franken.
8
America has reset it's presidential bar after the 2016 election.
Now, neophytes in government and politics think an hour or two as an elected official is sufficient to run for the most important elected position in the country.
And why not, President Trump's election of the least prepared individual for the presidency has removed any hurdles to overcome short of committing murder apparently.
And with our national politics all you need is a bit of a charismatic personality, the ability to collect millions in money and a TV station supporting you. Ingratiate yourself with the monied elites and away you go.
3
By the time we hit 2020 the country will be in deep recession. "Not a Republican" should be a good campaign slogan.
2
John Hickenlooper! Like many of Colorado's governors, he his more practical than ideologue.
Democrats need to change their messaging. Instead of buying into the conversation about whether it is good/bad to give handouts to the poor or tax the rich, we need to talk about investing in our country. Invest in green energy. Invest in education. Invest in training the workforce of the future. Invest in infrastructure. Military spending is not an investment and does not make our country stronger. Investing in the economy does.
11
@Striving Not a bad pick. Just so long as he stays off of MSNBC programs. See: The kiss of death.
1
This is great!! Maybe so many will run that they’ll split up the vote, and Donald will return with 17% of the vote. Perhaps a lot of progressives and 60s sentimentalists will once again “feel the Bern”, then take their bats and balls and stay home when he loses.
1
Some bet on Beto.
Some feel the Bern.
And now that Stormy's Lawyer
has yielded his turn,
there's room for Garcetti,
a Mexican-Jew,
or Biden or Bloomberg or
Joe Biden, too.
But wouldn't it be nice
if among these dudes,
a person emerged
who's worn sensible shoes
through the perilous paths
all blazed by white males,
who kiss little babies
and pose on hay bales?
I know what your thinking.
Wouldn't it be grand,
if women like Harris, Klobuchar,
Warren and Gillebrand
Proved once and for all
that getting out of this hell
might require accepting
the best candidate is... Michelle?
OBAMA 2020!!!!!
13
Politicians are going to be spending more time with their family to decide not to spend more time with them.
4
@Andy so many of us feel that way at Xmas! :).
2
Dear Gail. I have heard many Elk herd stampedes. They are loud and chaotic, but Elk move fast and they are out of ear shot in less than a minute. We can only wish.
7
The very tarnished silver lining to all of this is that it actually could have been worse. A genius authoritarian political strategist, and orator, who surrounded himself with brilliant counsel that he actually listened to, would have been worse.
Of course this can still happen; and, it can happen on the left. Anything is possible. Our current president should be proof of that. Angrily wrenching this country 180 degrees is not the answer. When you're driving towards a wall at 100 mph, you don't shift into reverse. Terrified that Trump, and his base are destroying this country? Such a leader would cause millions to feel the same. If the Democrats go that way, I don't think that there has ever been a time when an independent has had as good a chance of being elected. A calm, mature voice of sanity, would be sweet refuge from the yelling.
3
My 16 year old granddaughter is president of her high school’s junior class. Her term ends at the end of the school year which she pledges to fulfill even though friends are pressing her to resign and become a Democratic candidate. Gail, with all your political knowledge, what would you advise?
6
Wait until she turns 35. There’s something about a constitution.
We don't need a cornucopia of wilting veggies and fruits.
We need instead a blast of Pandora's fresh air filled with new, public-serving politicians committed to serve all the people. Both parties!
Look what happened to us and the leaders who focused instead on just some of the people. We need a new leader and a middle ground taker to get us off dead-center and working together.
2
@Lake Woebegoner
Trying to understand how a leader can serve the giant of industry and finance while serving the poor and the downtrodden.
Where would the middle ground be?
1
And yet again, my once beloved Democratic party fails to see the forest for the trees. We need to have fresh ideas and a real plan. Gail Collins says "our possibilities are endless", which to me translates to "we don't have anyone who stands out as a clear leader".
Jerry Brown. Not gonna happen. Way too left...and old (sorry)
She mentions others as good candidates because their previous opponents were flawed. Trump is and was as flawed as it gets.
Kamala Harris is the only candidate that could possibly be perceived as more angry than Trump. Not good. I know, I know, I am a racist and misogynist, move on.
Candidates trying to prove they are native American. That worked well, don't you think?
I apologize if I am coming off as nasty, but if we don't change our approach and attempt to appeal to a broader section of America, we will lose in 2020. Donald Trump will be re-elected. God help us.
It is time to get off our self-righteous soap box. It's time to act.
7
It's wonderful to see so many courageous people who want to restore/preserve true democracy in OUR United States of America stepping up to run to manage OUR country.
Of course, the media is pushing the old dogs - Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden. Why? They were in OUR U.S. Senate while the Robber Barons took over and did nothing to stop them. Why would they be any better today? They wouldn't. Also, Bernie Sanders and his gang knew the Russians infiltrated their facebook accounts to try to destroy Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton and did nothing. That, to me, is as treasonous as The Con Don's actions.
It will be interesting to hear from all the candidates and, especially, watch their actions and listen carefully to their words. WE THE PEOPLE must select someone who will work for 99.9% of us. Corruption has no political affiliation. It's WAY too soon to try to "pick a winner" as the media tries to do. WE THE PEOPLE do not want a "celebrity". WE want a Socially Conscious, intelligent, smart, qualified, individual who understands how democracy in OUR government works.
5
@njglea
Good luck with that, LOL.
1
On the one hand, I can't wait for this candidate jockeying to finally settle down. I gave a short list last time. I stand by that assessment. You're looking at some combination of Kohlbacher, Harris, Booker, and O'Rourke. The platform is TBD. Even among the leading contenders, the short list is therefore much shorter than you think.
On the other hand, the DNC needs to stay a thousand leagues away from this primary debate. After 2016, even one whiff of influence is going to result in mass chaos. The DNC already handed Trump one election. We should formally disband them before the next one. What a disaster.
For the sake of fun though, let's suppose we had an overly large primary field. We should probably develop some sort of playoff system with ranks and divisions. We'll hold a bunch of smaller debates to winnow the field before the main event. I don't think anyone wants to see the last Republican primary repeated by Democrats in 2020.
Actually, we don't want to see the last Democratic primary repeated in 2020 either. See the points above.
3
Whoever runs, he or she would do well to focus on policy and not the evil of Trump. Everyone is well aware that Trump is awful, but there are millions who need a better reason than that to choose a Democrat.
207
@Anthony trump may actually be in jail. The Democratic contender will have to deal with Pence, a formidable threat.
8
@esp Trump would not get to jail because Pence would pardon him, and that would be the END of Pence.
3
@esp -- My guess is that Trump will "do the Christie thing:" rope-a-dope through to the end of his term but odiously unelectable, as droves of his hench-kiddies go to jail.
I don't think Trump will run for the nomination, and if he does I think there's already a good chance he'll lose. He'll be beyond toxic ... if he is
Pence will never be nominated, forgeddaboutit. He has no constituency or "base." Pence isn't even popular enough to take his home state.
Don't rule out the idea that the next Republican nominee could be Ted Cruz.
Democrats need to focus on candidates who can take on whoever ends up winning the nomination. I can imagine that might be Kasich, or Romney -- Republicans might swing back to a candidate who isn't deplorable. That would be wonderful for America ... but don't bet on it.
9
First, I would willingly support any sitting Democratic governor who runs, especially from Oregon, Delaware, the new gov. of California, and a number of others. We need younger, energetic candidates with executive experience. Second, I am in complete agreement with the writer who feels a well-justified nostalgia of the party organized, smoke filled rooms of yesteryear. Voters used to support a platform not some media invented personality, and that was not perfect but it brought pragmatism, realism, and experience to elections. Sigh.
133
@Rebecca Hogan
You've just insulted about 15% of the U.S. populations with your ageist remark.
Many of us surely as energetic as you.
2
@Rebecca Hogan I agree! The American people want decent, competent, progressive politician to be their President. The democrats should consider the following people to run for President in 2010: Brian Schatz, John Hickenlooper, Sherrod Brown, Jay Inslee, Jeff Merkley, Christopher Murphy, and Sheldon Whitehouse.
5
I'd like to see a Democratic ticket with someone from the Midwest paired with someone from the West (Colorado to the Pacific).
Young-ish. Whip-smart. Non-Yale or Harvard Law. Middle class background. Kids. Really cool spouse/partner. Detests everything Trump is with every fiber of his/her being. Confident. Self-deprecating; sense of humor, smiles, laughs. Loves the outdoors and understands why grouses and polar bears are endangered. Favors gradual implementation of Medicare-For-All, with supplemental plans available for those who want higher or lower levels of insurance security. Believes in government. Promises to implement national infrastructure overhaul. Job skills training through national service. Is deeply spiritual, but not so you'd ever know except for the way he/she treats others. Supports Constitutional Convention to consider dropping Electoral College and requiring states to turn Congressional redistricting to independent, bipartisan commissions.
This ticket would have one man and one woman. They don't have to represent any particular cause, identity or grievance, other than a burning desire to restore and restart America.
Other commenters would have a completely different list of "wants" for the 2020 Democratic ticket. Go for it, and then listen carefully to the various candidates -- carefully, I say -- and when you find the candidates you like, help them.
Our nation's future is at stake. Seriously.
481
@PaulB67
Just to emphasize - 'deeply spiritual' got nothing to do with religion. No that's wrong; organized religion is more an impediment than irrelevant.
26
@PaulB67
Oh! You mean Amy Klobuchar. I'm sure we could find her a great running-mate, maybe from Colorado or, say, Montana. Or even California, although I'm kind of liking the Minnesota-Montana concept.
46
@PaulB67 I would vote for that person even if he or she were a good old-fashioned Republican (which, basically, can easily pass for Democrat these days.)
15
Looking back on Barack Obama's time in office, I wonder if he would have been better equipped to deal with Republican intransigence on Capitol Hill, and more able to effectively negotiate, had he had more Senate years under his belt. Even Vice President Joe Biden's good relations with his former Senate colleagues wasn't always enough to overcome the likes of McConnell, Cornyn, & Company. Hindsight can be a dubious lens, but when I see newcomers like Kamala Harris, who hasn't yet completed two years in the Senate, already contemplating a presidential bid, I have to sigh. Youth, diversity, and fresh ideas are vital to our country's future, on all levels of government, but just as important are substantial legislative experience and solid relationships with Congressional leaders. Choose thoughtfully and carefully, Democrats.
580
@Mark Hugh Miller
Mr. Obama did not like politicking. He did not socialize with Republicans, they did not get to know him. Remember hoe Reagan and Tip O'Neil would fight in congress and when the day was over, go have a beer together.
A couple more terms in the senate and he would have known how to deal with them. That and his presumed partisanship were what kept him from being more effective. All it would have takes was a few Republicans that liked him, and he would have been far more effective.
18
@Mark Hugh Miller
It's going to be a herculean task to right the ship of state. We need someone who at least has a clue what they are doing.
We really need HRC, but I was a huge supporter and I think her time has come and gone.
I don't have an answer. I'd say Al Franken as an Independent because he's smart and gosh darn it people like him.
50
I agree. We need someone with experience in government to help restore some semblance of unity and to help the country heal after four years of madness. Maybe a fresh face fir V.P.
23
So Ms Collins, as amazing as your columns are, on this one I am left wanting. Is the bottom line that there are lots of people running? Tell us, it that a good thing, bad thing, thing to be sarcastic about? Are you saying that that it will help the Democratic cause, hurt the cause, is something to be proud of, or ashamed of? Is it embarrassing? Does it foretell good or bad things for the Democratic party? Please, deploy that sharp-edged humor and deliver some insight!
1
If we learned anything from George HW Bush's recent memorial celebrations, it showed us one thing, we have come a long way from his times (just looking at the people who gathered there), when everything was WASPy. Up and down the political ladder everyone was white, mostly male. Sprinkle of women, and less so , diverse women, people of color. For some reason, back then, people thought they could only trust our nation to white WASPs, that they alone controlled chaos, they alone held moral values, they alone knew what was right for the rest of us, non WASPs.
The current democratic wave shows us, dear Gail, just the opposite, that we the people believe we do not have to put all our eggs in the WASP's nest.
3
No Bernie, No Joe, No Elizabeth, Absolutely NO Hillary!
No Oprah!
No Tom Steyer!
I am OK with Sherrod Brown, Al Gore, Andrew Cuomo, Sen. Gillibrand , and so on.
My best prediction is that the DEM candidate will come from nowhere like Carter, Bill and Pres. Obama.
7
@adara614 Brown's OK. The other 3 you named are whack jobs. Signed.. I'm with the Greens
You gotta wonder about everybody. Bill Gates, for example.
2
My state rep is a Democrat, enormously popular in a deeply red county. I see her walking in the neighborhood with her husband frequently. Whenever I ask her about her plans for a Presidential run, she says "Oh, look! A squirrel!" Then she runs away.
3
Senator Klobuchar got more legislation passed than any other senator in 2016 and she has a 72 percent approval rating from her constituents.
She's the real deal - and, we're in luck - she's not 80.
This is the second of Gail's 2020 columns that doesn't mention her, but that's okay: Klobuchar hasn't been mentioned because she's NOT a joke!
14
The point of this article was? Mockery? You didn't mention even one person who would be considered a serious candidate. We are about two years away from the election and probably shouldn't even be talking about this yet.
2
Gail!
Gail!
Gail!
We could have such fun with a Collins' presidential run (as long as we steered clear of confusion with that other Collins, the representative from the Buffalo area with a penchant for insider trading).
Imagine the homophones!
Gail Collins for President! A new wind blows into town!...
Now, if she just got a cat, and strapped it to the roof of her car on a trip...
2
And I think we have the current occupant of the White House to thank (he the #PLIC) for the crowded field. After all, he proved that anyone, just anyone, could be elected President of the United States.
4
I'm all in for Gail Collins for President! Let's write her in!
1
Gail, let me simplify your future columns on this topic.
It's Sanders-Warren.
3
Fanatics news! I hope many run as independents. It will be 2016 all over again! The Bernie lovers will stay home, the HRC debutants will whine but do nothing, and the GOP will win!
1
Rather like garbage on a Manhattan street. Let's take Gillebrand. She only won a congressional seat because the incumbent and spouse engaged in drunken brawls which became public. It took more than one brawl to get her over the finish line. Of course, since it was an upstate NY district, her positions were tailored to the district. Gun friendly, fiscally sound, etc., etc., etc. Talk about conversions on the road to Damascus (no DC). All is forgiven though. She now has the correct totalitarian positions that run now in the Democrat party. Next time I see Gillebrand, the other Cornucopia of Candidates, or even Gail Collins for that matter even just criticize the violent left (like ANTIFA) I may change my mind. But not a real liberal among them.
3
Thanks for taking my call, Gail.
I had to get outta the time-warp that was black-holed as Bret's column today. With admitted comedic favorites like Winston Churchill and Ronald Reagan, I'd hate to be a nut on HIS holiday cake and eat it too.
Will you please provide YOUR take re "A Presidency Without Humor" tomorrow? Bret on anything humorous is a bigger anomaly than Rick Perry trying to invoke thermodynamics to save on energy.
3
Make them ALL President--at the same time. It's going to take a village to clean up all the messes the "Individual One"-in-Chief had made.
3
I hereby join that exclusive group of those who will not run, and I’m asking my faithful supporters to throw their donations and efforts to the eminently qualified Mr. Bloomberg.
Thank you all for your loyalty and support during this exciting time.
John
1
Gail, you’ve got MY Vote. But only if Frank Bruni is your running mate, and NO DOGS on CARS. Pretty Please ??? I’ve got plenty of suggestions, but I’m not pressing my luck with the comments moderators. Promise you’ll rethink this, as tomorrow is my Birthday, I need some HAPPY.
4
@Phyliss Dalmatian
Happy birthday!
1
I say, Pelosi for President in 2019!
2
Add Chris Van Hollen to the list.
Has a wife and three children
Was born in Karachi, Pakistan
And salutes NASA achievements.
Nails it.
4
I am covering all bets to the contrary: The Dems will NOT nominate a white male.
That should thin the ranks considerably.
But we Marylanders are proud that two of ours, O’Malley and Delaney, are both in the hunt. Yuk yuk
2
Amy Klobuchar, D-MN Senior Senator, just re-elected in a PURPLE state! I'd love to have her on the ticket! She got it all in particular her Midwest roots. We need a Midwest candidate. She's pragmatic, smart, even keeled. very likeable, has strong resume and real gravitas. I appreciate her work on the Judicial Committee.... remember her CLASSY response to Kavanaugh's rudeness????? No baggage. No drama. Integrity, intellect and class!
13
So it's true? You really no longer have to have done anything to be qualified for the Presidency? We didn't learn anything form Barrack Obama? Continuously running for higher office does not really qualify you for anything. Did we not learn anything from Donald Trump? Never having run for higher office doesn't qualify you for anything either. Ironically, the best qualified Democrat to run for higher office? Hillary.
1
Don't forget Amy "I got a new hot dish recipe - that's a casserole to you coastal elitists! - and I haven't met a military intervention I didn't like!" Klobuchar. She'll cover all the bases for you or her name isn't "Amy".
2
I am relieved to read Ms. Collins's article on a Cornucopia of Democratic Candidates. If if the spreading-out only hurts the Party, at least it is not a short list of leftist radical non-practicing Judaic-Protestant New York Democrats.
What about Beto?
2
My favorite candidate is named, "Anybody but Trump."
2
Without a doubt I will write your name in for president, Gail, unless my vote will doom the Democratic ticket, that is. Now common on wouldn't you want to be the first lady president?
We need some humor in that White House of horrors, or perhaps an exorcism.
1
Well,should the Mueller investigation prove the present occupant of the WH,and his vice are guilty of treason, and in cahoots with Putin, Nancy Pelosi becomes President. My Christmas dream gift
comes to fruition.
8
Ms. Collins, not again, but it sounds like a raft of crocodiles. All we need is One stand-out candidate; a phoenix or cat among the pigeons.
Earlier when having a phone exchange about the political weather, N.J. shouted 'Pamela Harriman' is the one. Since Mrs. Harriman died more than eighteen years ago, this was cause for a pause, followed by eh?
'Senator Kamala Harris, you dimwit!', continued N.J., and here I did not hedge in venturing that we do not appear ready for a woman president in the U.S. of A. We will be going on in the News about our commander-in-chief's hemline, her shoes and mascara.
I voted for Hillary Clinton based on the belief that she would have been a better than fine president. Listening to many women commentators at the time who were planning to 'hold their nose', while casting their vote against Trump, is perhaps not the right attitude. We are going to have to do better than this, or stay home and bake cookies.
A neighbor, a widow, just told me she was on the roof of her house clearing the gutters. I took the liberty of telling 'Can-Do-It', please don't do this again, or there will be no space for Santa Claus and his reindeer to land on Yuletide Eve.
If Michael Bloomberg decides to toss his hat into this political dance to The White House, he has my vote. I tested this choice on a weathered buffalo, a staunch republican, and we would not cancel out each other's vote.
In the meantime, we need your voice to keep us from flight and fright.
3
Warren can run on her "Native-American" street cred. (/sarc). Pelosi can run on a platform of, "not dead yet". To lock the race for Trump, Dems need to promise to add a "gas tax to save the environment" and "give us more 'dreamers'!"
2
Dog on the roof, bring back the dog on the roof! Please?
1
THE LIST OF DEMOCRATIC Also rans is getting ridiculous. Just about the only governor mentioned who's got the chops is Tom Wolf of PA. He's from a blue collar family that built a thriving business and became wealthy. Wolf shared profits with his workers. Wolf has faced implacable opposition from the GOPpers in PA who are mucking up the works with their ideological manure. He's managed to work around them. Wolf is popular among blue collar groups, since he's seen as a man of the people. Upbeat, hard-working, sincere and effective--that's what Wolf is. Those words happen to be antonyms for Trump!
2
A Democratic ticket that would attract enough red votes to win would have Chris Coons and Amy Klobuchar.
Coons stood out during the Kavanaugh hearings as the questioner who inspired Flake to almost grow a spine. His sincere and pointed remarks rose like incense in the putrid atmosphere. Google him. Even his recent tweets that pop up in the results are upliftingly sane, important, kind.
Klobuchar more famously stood out in the media. Both would deliver sharp focus on issues, civility, decency, and votes.
8
My preference goes for someone who can actually win. At one time I thought that would be Warren or Sanders. Now I am not so sure.
Sadly, I think we can rule out any women, and/or people of color. Country (those angry white men and those goofy religious conservatives who think they know what God wants) is not ready for women or people of color. Obama was a fluke.
So Biden sounds like a good bet. Although I do like Mrs. Obama even is she is a woman of color.
2
@esp You beat me to it. As a lifelong Democrat I said the same.
If it is a cornucopia, the fruits and vegetables have become stale; how about a youthful yet experienced, moderate, charismatic candidate who stands a chance of winning—one who is not obsessed with a career in politics or filthy rich. Do those exist any more? I believe they do but they are all smart enough to avoid the fray.
2
And unfortunately, the list will grow as Trump becomes more and more beatable in the months to come---While I am ok with a marketplace of ideas, I am not ok with marketplace of candidates. 2020 is for the democrats to lose---you cannot go into this cycle with a candidate that is too progressive or too conservative/moderate---they must both hit that sweet spot of sound policies to address middle class fears, but at the same time, be able to take a punch and deliver some to Trump---most importantly, I know this sounds silly, they must defy being branded with a famous Trump nickname ----
1
Kamala Harris appears to be a very smart, attractive possible candidate - so far. She has only 2 years in the Senate, but has been in government positions in California, having been AG for 6 years with several thousand employees. Not sure that is a recommendation, but at least a plus.
3
I'd be more inclined to vote for the fictional Tommy Carcetti, in The Wire, or even the actor who played him, Aidan Gillen, an Irish national, before I'd vote for just about anyone listed in this column. At least we'd be fairly confident in his acting ability from the get-go and wouldn't mistake it for reality as we often do with some current and recent clowns in political office (take your pick).
Mickey Mouse could get the nomination and I’d pull the lever for him if the alternative is Trump
6
I promised myself that George Bush would be the last Republican I would ever vote for. I don't remember why I voted for him. I am looking for a Democrat with a sense of humor. Trump has the sense of humor of a jelly bean.
1
This guy made a comment with Bret's column about trump's failure of humor (also humorless) that I liked so much and is so appropriate here:
Eugene Ralph
Colchester, CT53m ago
I hope the Democrats are listening as the begin sorting candidates out for 2020. Imagine a somewhat youthful Will Rogers/Winston Churchill combination leaving the President sputtering and looking . . . What is the word?
I don't know where we're gonna find this guy but I'm pretty sure we need them and they aren't gonna fall from the usual political trees. We are gonna have to go out and shake the bushes to flush out someone with these traits and still be willing to do the job.
PLEASE! Do NOT have the three-ring circus of countless unqualified people arguing (probably more politely) making it easier for a Voldemort win! Governors or leaders with complex problem solving a diverse team building skills, please. If you are 70 or older - regardless of how qualified - please step aside for newer leaders. Biden, Kerry, Sanders, Brown: Thank you for lifetime of amazing service, but please step aside.
7
But most of the chestnuts are rotten. Maybe, a box of chocolates next time instead.
1
If they get enough contenders, they may find one who is qualified.
The big question that nobody can answer at the moment; who will the Democrat be running against in 2020? Trump or Pence? What the heck, if Pence comes up dirty in the Mueller report, the 2020 incumbant might even be Nancy Pelosi. Wouldn't that put a twist in a lot of knickers!
At this point in American presidential politics, nothing is impossible.
4
Al Franken.
9
Trump is cooked. The release of the full Mueller report plus a few dozen select Cohen tapes should open the floodgates. It will finally dawn on his supporters that Trump's entire political career was a sham. Just kidding. In reality it will be Rupert Murdoch and Faux News that signals the end of the line for the Trump train. It'll be a business decision.
I think the Republicans will have Pence (by presidential resignation) and Haley on the ballot for 2020. Kasich, Flake, or Romney may make runs on that side but they're too sane for the Party of Trump.
Just spitballing here, but I think the Dems best chance in what should be a 2020 Dem landslide is the combo of Biden with Booker or Harris.
4
iit's really too bad that Al franken and Donald Trump won't be going at it. but that just won't happen since by then Trump will already be very busy out of office and because Franken isn't in the office now
I sort of like the image of Joe Kennedy, who looks like a merged portrait of Robert Redford and Superman, standing on a stage debating with incoherent, ignorant, bloated old Trump with his pumpkin skin, reverse-raccoon eye bags, and candy-floss rug.
Except that I'd rather Trump were in prison where he belongs.
6
This could be fun if they ran it like the NCAA playoffs. Brackets to bust, tailgate parties, betting pools. Make politics fun again!
The only thing that matters in 2020 is beating Trump. Everything else...EVERYTHING else...takes a back seat to that. And the only way the Democrats will beat Trump in 2020 (or Pence if Trump is impeached or resigns) is with a centrist governor, preferably from the Midwest, with a track record of appealing to the working class and farmers. I have many conservative friends who voted for Trump in 2016 who are sick and tired of his act; they'd vote for a Democrat if he/she doesn't get too crazy on things like "free health care for all" or "free college tuition for all" (the latter of which is just about the dumbest idea going). Bolstering labor unions, fixing the ACA, promoting alternatives to college for those who don't need a university education, these are the sorts of things that will attract the majority of 2016 Trump voters who did so because they feel ignored and disrespected both by the party of the rich (traditional GOP) and the party of [pick your pet liberal issue that is of no relevance to the problems of the great mass of forgotten Americans]. Elizabeth Warren's heart is in the right place, but no 2016 Trump voter is going to switch to vote for her. Get over it. The Democratic Party needs to once again be the party of "the forgotten man." The rest can wait.
3
Just love you. Thank you. That’s all.
I'm not running. But please, John Kerry and Hillary, stay out of it! Nobody wants either one of them.
8
Your closing comments brought memories of Pogo, the reluctant candidate.
How about Pat Paulsen, the perennial candidate. "Sure, why not?". He wouldn't die in office since he has already passed. I think he would still be better than our current office holder.
*Any* Democrat is better than Trump.
Find someone who’s best equipped to beat Trump and run like it’s mankind’s final campaign.
‘Nuff said.
1
Your list is too short, Gail, by four letters: Beto.
Already has millions in his campaign coffers, more donors than Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' combined have donut holes, and a Toyota pickup that he has driven to every one of Texas's 255 counties. It's a Toyota, built here in Texas, just barely broken in. Hitting 49 states shouldn't take more'n a couple of weeks, maybe three. And the Millennials and women love him.
Did I mention the Millennials and women love him?
I wish I could laugh but the person currently living in the White House is not funny. My younger family members will have to live with the "results" of the Republican sell out.
The GOP (Greedy OLD Politicians) are fighting tooth and nail to keep control and do not care how much harm they are doing to the country. It is $$$$ not people who they serve.
1
the next Democratic presidential candidate must be Francis of Assisi, or better yet, Hildegard von Bingen. and you better hope they never had an Instagram account or any other public appearance. otherwise, the likes of Kristin Gillibrand will make sure they are scorched Earth.
For the many out there who voted for Trump but now looking for an alternative, it's amazing how the Dems offer NOTHING. You have a hodge lodge of candidates spouting the same tired left wing rhetoric that turned voters against the Dems in 2016. And who in the GOP would challenge a sitting president, even if it's Trump? So unless Mueller comes up with something stronger than paying off two adult actresses (one a model, the other a porn star), it's looking more and more like Trump might not only survive, but actually get a second term.
1
Unless someone else emerges as a legit candidate, put Liz Warren, Sherrod Brown, Beto O"rourke, Kamala Harris, and Mazie Hirone on the same debate stage...and a real 2020 Dem candidate will emerge.
Gail, given what we've been seeing, you'd be a fine President.
Even though you are not a governor or ex-governor, I'd vote for in a second, in a femtosecond!
We need a bit of literate humor in the White House.
Or just someone who is literate.
Or just someone with a sense of humor.
Ever been to Iowa? Consider visiting after the holidays.
1
It's going to have to be a white male at the top of the ticket this time. A plain-talking macho man. I don't see him yet. Stacey Abrams would be a great VP.
1
Having been appalled and thoroughly disgusted with this presidency, I am hoping that somehow the democratic candidate ends up to be someone like William McRaven. Someone whose very presence on the debate stage is a rebuke to Donald Trump, a man who has never served this country, not even for one second.
If 2020 was just an ordinary presidential election, I would pledge to write your name in on November 3. As much as I admire your writing, and as much as the White House needs your sense of humor, there is just too much at stake to vote for a candidate who refuses to run.
4
My Mom is 98, born in 1920, the year (white) women secured the vote. The daughter of a suffragist, she went to the polls in 2016, wearing purple and white, to honor those who marched for women to have this right, to vote for the first woman President of the U.S. We know how that turned out.
My Mom still lives independently. Sharp as a tack (she credits this to doing the NY Times Crossword every day), she has this advice for the Democrats in 2020 -- the top of the ticket has to be a man. A likable man. A man who can win the heartland and the coasts. So, these tickets are her picks:
Biden-Brown (Sherrod, of OH)
Biden-O'Rourke
Biden-Kennedy (Joseph, of MA)
Biden-Edwards (John Bel, of LA)
Biden-Booker
Biden-Tester
Basically, Biden-anyone.
I hope my Mom is with us, and in good health and spirits, on November 3rd, 2020. And, I hope we can celebrate the results when the polls close.
109
@JE
Good for your mom. Sadly though, 98 year old voters do not represent a statistically relevant sample of the voting population. Biden is a long shot at best. He had his chance in 2016. He either chose to take a pass or was forced to take a pass. Either way, I don't see a huge comeback anywhere on the horizon.
14
@JE
I have my eye on Adam Schiff for VP
7
@JE Your mother's instincts are correct. The Democratic candidate in 2020 must be a man. But there is more strategy involved. He must be white, well over six feet tall, with a quick wit. He must be a fighter who does not suffer fools. Furthermore, Democratic identity politics must be put on hold as of right now. Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ and #MeToo must stand down and remain quiet for the next two years. Follow this formula and there is a chance the Democrats can win the hearts and minds of the working class males in the Rust Belt states.
7
Add my name to the list.
My slogan is
"Vote for me. At least I am honest."
It can fit on a bumper sticker.
Better than what we have now in the oval office.
13
@RJB No one should endorse themselves. See: It's NOT honest.
@HLB Engineering
Oh, no!
I am, I am.
Would I lie to you?
PS: I don't do twitter.
My dog loves me.
That should settle it.
1
With so many candidates why not use the Instant Runoff Voting System (or called Ranked Choice Voting) used in elections around the world including congressional election in the state of Maine. We would end up with happier voters.
15
Before the democrats get too far down the road they need to spend time thinking through how they have contributed to the rise of Trump.
8
Pass the popcorn. I’m trying to think this might be fun. I’m trying to think we’ll end up with a decent candidate. Then I remember that the winnowing out of the huge Republican field , yielded trump. Oh dear.
11
"Meanwhile, Democratic officials are trying to figure out how you stage a debate with three or four dozen people."
Gail, you yourself noted that the holiday season is upon us. Anyone with enough relatives knows that all you have to do is get them all in one room, hear two of them voice radically different opinions, and the one with the loudest voice — or who provided the most wine — eventually wins.
If Trump isn't busy being in hand-cuffs somewhere, I'd go with the 'loudest voice' scenario. But if the eventual Democratic contender ends up running against a relatively normal, mentally-intact human being, all bets are off.
3
The Republicans are already in the process of swapping out President Autopen for Vice President Race Bannon.
The candidate with the best chance, in my opinion, is Beto O'Rourke. He's young (think JFK), personable and a breath of fresh air. We need a millennial to appeal to the next generation. No more old white men.
85
@AV
He's still too green and not ready for prime time. But I like him a lot, too. Maybe in eight years. He needs more government experience for me to vote for him.
And, of course, I realize that 45 had zero government experience and won. Yeah, and it shows.
37
@AV
I thought the millennials were for that opportunistic geezer Bernie Sanders. He's the exception to the "olds" rule.
4
@klm how ridiculous. Opportunistic?a man completely off the radar, ran a campaign that was virtually ignored, even by this publication, Collected hundreds of millions of small dollar donations, won numerous primaries and caucus and garnered 14 million votes is deemed out of contention. He spoke about issues and still does. It’s a broken record because the same problems have been present forever. They still need fixing. They need fixing by someone who doesn’t take campaign money from people bent on the problems not being fixed. He appealed to millennials and everyone else because they’d never heard anyone talk like that and offer them something for which they could have hope. More young voted for Bernie than for Trump and Hillary combined. The smears have started but the American public is smart enough to ignore them. Hopefully they will.
17
It would be nice to have candidates with big ideas to take on Donald Trump in 2020.
Immigration: Increase lawful immigration where workers are needed and exile the law breakers. Don’t make asylum seekers travel to the U.S. for a hearing. Let them be heard wherever they are with video conferencing and investigations that quickly separate those in need from those trying to game the system. Stop treating children as pawns.
Criminal Justice: Let those who are convicted propose their own alternatives to incarceration that demonstrate cooperation with the police, restitution, self-sufficiency and, most of all, safety for the community. Nonprofits, churches, and community volunteers should play a big role but the individual must take the initiative.
Taxes: Inverse taxation of family wealth and income. Allow lower wealth families to pay lower income tax rates by electing to pay a wealth tax. Encourage families to become millionaires over a lifetime. Let the wealthy, who don’t want to pay wealth taxes, pay the highest income tax rates.
Abortion: Stop cutting the baby in half. Recognize a father’s right to procreate and require his consent to destroy his child.
Guns: Require insurance priced at the risk of harm for particular weapons and ammunition in the hands of particular persons. Let private insurance have access to all statistically relevant background information.
Health Care: Free medications for all and efficient nurse practitioners to renew the prescriptions as needed.
4
I cannot wait for the first debates when there are more people on stage than in the audience.
10
The DNC needs to modify the procedures for choosing future Dem presidential candidates. The New Hampshire primary and the Iowa caucus are not representative of the Party base nor of the national electorate. Yet, they play a dominant role in deciding who the Democrat candidate will be. Indeed, States that hold early primaries are “battlegrounds;” their decision makes the opinion of Democrat voters in other States irrelevant (When was the last time the California primary mattered?). A better way of choosing the Dem candidate would be a system of rotation by which the fifty States would be divided into eight heterogeneous groups according to their differing geographic, demographic, and economic attributes (coastal, Rocky Mountains, industrial, agricultural, ethnically diverse, etc.) of six or seven. With such a system, each group would have a turn holding its primary first every sixth election cycle. If this were done, the Dems might actually nominate someone the vast majority of the party could enthusiastically get behind. Personally, I plugged my nose and voted for Hillary because I didn’t (still don’t) Bernie had/has a snowball's chance.
8
John Kerry, Elizabeth Warren, possibly Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden* (if they want to run) -- I can't think of anyone else who would get my vote automatically in a contest with a Republican candidate. Among the Republicans, John Kasich might get my vote if I don't like the Democrats' candidate.
(* not necessarily in that order)
6
Any Democratic candidate gets my vote automatically if Donald Trump runs in 2020.
Any. Democrat.
1
Dems should get behind former NYC mayor Mike Bloomberg. But they won't. And perhaps the zeitgeist is that people are too exhausted to have a "businessman" as the next prez anyway. So, the Dems may go through another round of internal blood letting having the Reps to use it to continue its minority rules and majority gripes
4
@Bos two or three problems with Bloomberg: not really a Democrat, so has few party ties (Cuomo won’t help him in NY); from a Northeastern big city, so how does he play elsewhere?, and he’s Jewish - the attack’s will be ugly, brutal and subversive of our democracy, but they will come and be a focus of campaign news. Bernie would have faced the same undermining had he gotten the nomination in ‘16, and of course he’s not a Democrat, either.
2
@Bos, amen
1
@Bos...voters have yet to see a businessman. Trump is more of a mafia Don.
2
Any one who intends to participate in primaries as candidate for President should take a qualifying exam that shows he/she understands US laws and what are the limits of the executive branch. In addition the putative candidate should release his/her income tax forms for at least the previous 5 years before his/her name is put on any ballot. Hopefully that will help reduce the flood.
29
As somebody who will be in my seventies at the time I really want to vote for somebody younger (like a couple of decades younger) than me.
27
I ask two things of everyone who runs for the Democratic nomination:
Please run on your strengths and ideas, not on the supposed weaknesses or liabilities of the other candidates in the field; especially not on a crescendo of attacks against anyone who looks like emerging as the front runner.
If the day comes when you must fold your campaign or accept defeat in the final delegate count, please do yourself everlasting credit in your country's hour of need by urging your supporters to vote for the Democratic nominee.
Thank you.
62
Before we start (continue) with a list of names for Democratic Presidential Candidates, we should spend considerable time talking about the qualities we want in a new president. Since there is a minimum age to be president, shouldn't there be a corresponding maximum age? What kind of elected government experience should a candidate have? It's too late for 2020 but shouldn't a second language be part of any new criteria? When should tax filings be made available? Upon entering the game, 30 days later, 10 days before the first primary, 24 hours after securing the nomination?
Should it matter what you did or said 10 years ago? Should forgiveness and redemption be a reward for openness? What are the character traits that matter the most? Name-calling and locker-room talk would not make the list.
When it comes to debates, we should not use standing in polls, rather something more equal and fair. Right now the standings are based on name recall where Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders, who is NOT a Democrat, do best. Why not draw names from a hat? Or we could make it more like the U.S. Open tennis tournament, using poll standings for the rankings, and then have a debate-off as a condition for continued participation. Registered voters could vote for the one who won and who gets to advance to the next round.
A different debate format with voter participation would capture and sustain voter interest. It's too late for 2020, but Iowa should not be "more equal" than other states.
12
@Josh Hammond
While the Constitution has no maximum age, that still allows the electorate to discriminate on the basis of age, or anything else.
@RM What I have in mind is some kind of citizens committee that would establish a broad range of criteria to run for president. Candidates would then be asked if they subscribed to the criteria, or the press could measure them against it.
Gail could be the chair. To soon for 2020, but if they got started next year, the conversation would get underway. An example in the policy area is the notion of a "Living Wage" or "Medicare for all."
Consider that all the front runners are bumping 80. Really?
We can do better.
Anybody but Bloomberg! Aside from the horrendous instances of sexism he demonstrated while CEO, aside from the fact that his wealth puts him completely out of touch with 99.9999% of Americans, aside from the fact that he chose Cathie Black, someone with no experience to be Schools Chancellor because they frequented the same cocktail parties, he destroyed New York City. Bloomberg tried to create a city in his delusional self-image and succeeded in ways he could not imagine. He envisioned himself as a modern day Cosimo de'Medici, presiding over a new Florence but instead gave us a sterile, artless, glass menagerie stuffed with insipidly wealthy people - just like himself.
17
Gail! You forgot to mention me. I have absolutely no prior training nor experience for the daunting position of President of the United States. However, I did graduate New York Military Academy one year prior to President Donald. Knew him quite well. I also avoided the draft due to some silly excuse. Therefore, I consider myself well equipped for the job. Dad didn't have his fathers buck-dollars, but he did pretty well. Took the edge off of reality...
I therefore consider myself easily as well equipped for the job as our current Commander in Chief.
Plus, I write a better line...
Please send money...
34
@John Bolog
If avoidance of the draft or active military service are disqualifications, then we never should have had a Clinton or Obama, or a Bush 43, who declined an opportunity to fly over Vietnam.
3
@John Bolog. Whether true or not, your post deserves to be a NYT pick. Send the material to Jon Stewart. LOL
3
@John Bolog
No! (I mean "no money")
1
I read all the 50 comments so far but no one has mentioned Beto O’Rourke. He has captured the country’s imagination, has been singled out by former President Obama, is young and charismatic, progressive, and appears to be unbought by big donors and corporate America. What about him?
19
@Barbara
Congressman O’Rourke doesn’t pass the DNA test for the identity politics tribalists that have captured the Democratic Party.
For these self-proclaimed progressives that legitimize the same racist and sexist logic they claim to abhor from those they oppose, a necessary and sufficient condition for the 2020 nominee is that their chromosomal makeup is XX, and/or they are a person of color.
Although there are several potential candidates that possess these inherited characteristics and actually practice progressive politics, for too many in the Democratic Party sex and skin color are non-negotiable traits. For such self-righteous activists a Beto O’Rourke or Sherrod Brown nominee would constitute institutional racism and sexism.
4
@Barbara
Beto would be wiser to run for Senate in 2020 and then challenge Pence in 2024. But even if he is not mentioned he is the lurker in the 2020 race and everyone knows it.
6
@Barbara
He has failed to capture my imagination.
1
Democrats have a Cornucopia of Candidates.
This Christmas, I am expecting a Plethora of Presents.
10
Consider Mitch Landrieux, former mayor of New Orleans, who handled his city's debate over Confederate monuments so eloquently and thoughtfully. Not sure someone from Louisiana can be elected, but honestly, after Donald Dump anything is possible.
14
What to talk about at Christmas dinner?
A) Which Democratic candidate, out of the 1,001 who are running, should we support two years from now?
B) Will the Special Counsel soon reveal even more criminal or business ties between Donald Trump and Russia which will explain Trump's bromance with Putin?
C) Will Mr. Barr be confirmed by Senate Republicans in time to shutdown the Special Counsel before so much evidence of the Trump family crime organization is released to the public that embarrassed Republicans feel that they have no path to keep their seat in Congress but to impeach their wannabe king?
D) Answers B and C.
5
I am curious why Dick Durbin's name has not come up in all the speculation about possible Democratic nominees for 2020. He his well liked and has shown he can lead as well as work with others. He has served on a wide range of committees such as Committee on Appropriations; Agriculture and Rural Development, Defense, Financial, Labor , Health, State and Foreign operations as well as the Judiciary: constitution, crime and drugs, immigration, Terrorism, Technology, Human rights. He incredibly well qualified. He is known to be a top debater and on top of that he is from downstate Illinois , he might be a able to bridge the divide between rural and urban Democrats. Durbin's positions are among the most liberal in the senate.
10
From a wide open mouth of the Cornucopia, what we have to worry about is the deeply flawed "system" of selection thru a most ridiculous gauntlet. The system has a proven record of not selecting the best.
At least this time the system for at least one party is not set on "default". While the other party is set on "tilt".
At least one party has hopes of pulling us thru with four bald tires on the 50's Chevy with Ecology stickers in the windows, while the other has four bare wheels supported on concrete blocks, on the sidewalk of banana republic, on promises of great again with the cruizin' dude.
3
doesn't matter what you write about, it makes me chuckle. then i read it to my wife, and laugh again! thanks, twice over ms collins, you're the greatest
20
It doesn’t matter to me who runs on the democratic ticket. I will vote straight blue - up and down. I will register as many people as possible and I will inform them all about election fraud, and I will drive as many folks to the polls as need rides.
46
I have heard of John Delaney and most of the others, but then I read newspapers and I know how to tell real news from the other stuff. Too many people don't read anything, and that's why elections are a crapshoot.
--Donald, Colorado
8
Or maybe it was Avenatti’s recent arrest on domestic violence charges. Or his law firm’s eviction from its offices for nonpayment of rent. Anyhow, he withdrew, citing family considerations.
Family considerations like how is Avenatti going to be able to get around without his private jet and his Ferrari, both, since this afternoon's divorce settlement, now belonging to his ex.
As for the Dem's nominee, if Gail isn't running, and Hillary isn't running, it has to Biden.
4
"I think the least I can do is to let it be known right now that I am not a candidate for president. If nominated I will not run, if elected I will not serve." Darn, and I would have voted for you. I am so disappointed. You have excellent credentials, you're intelligent, knowledgable about how government works, and best of all you're funny. Everything Trump isn't. If you were running (which you swear you are not, but we've heard that before) I would not have to plod through endless political debates or any of that stuff, I would be all set.
Looking around I am hoping for another Barack Obama. He is charismatic, intelligent, understands what the Constitution and Bill of Rights are actually all about, and he is inspirational. Not to mention dignified. All the things Trump lacks.
I am hoping for the Trump antidote. I hope we get a presidential candidate who is someone who will galvanize the young people to vote and appeal to the old goats like myself as well. Beto O'Rourke is very inspirational, and has wide appeal. Stacey Abrams is also very appealing to me for the same reason. One thing is for certain, we don't need any retreads this time around, we have to get it right. We need to choose wisely, and vet the daylights out of any potential candidate. Let the games begin!
13
The democrats are smelling blood in 2020 as Trump will likely be defeated for a second term if not impeached or in jail as his legal troubles mount.
The republicans rats are jumping the sinking ship slowly but surely.
If the democrats want to win don't nominate an identity obsessed, never met a war, trade agreement, wall street banker I did not like , elect/annoint me because I am a woman and put in my time campaign like Hillary did.
Run somebody who can address the issues that Trump demagogued like immigration, rust belt job loss, corporate welfare, ACA etc.
17
"If nominated I will not run, if elected I will not serve. Well, maybe if elected. But no running."
You're Hillary Clinton and i claim my 5 bucks.
The Democrats should not even consider anyone who has never won a statewide race in a red or purple "flyover state."
No New Englanders.
No New Yorkers.
No Californians.
No "coastal" anything.
No one whose primary political qualification is "progressive star" or "representation for XYZ gender/racial group."
Be real, Democrats. America needs you to beat Trump. Nominate someone who can beat Trump.
24
@A F
So "no coastal" rules out Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, as well as the the usual suspect northeastern, Mid-Atlantic, and Pacific Coast states, the last by definition including Alaska and Hawaii as well as California, Oregon, and Washington.
By my count, 23 states of the 50 have a salt water coastline. A lot to take off the table.
7
@A F. And. No DNC preselected, preordained candidate this time.
3
@A F couldn’t agree more. Dems need someone who knows about showering AFTER work. Someone comfortable with dirty fingernails. But I suspect we’ll nominate a non-starter. Trump will win again. They lie, cheat and steal. We need four times the usual turnout which will be a formidable task, especially if we put forward another “statement” candidate. Talk about manufacturing wind turbines and solar panels out in the hinterlands with new rail lines connecting everyone. Win the working stiffs in Trumperville with real programs, real ideas. Fix immigration and student debt; win the urbanites. But we won’t. We’re comfortable with the Christo-fascist oligarchy cuz we get huge campaign donations, too.
1
I am not so sure Trump will be the Republican candidate.
7
I think the "if elected, will not serve" category is already filled by the current White House occupant.
37
You can make book on the mainstream media creating the narrative in 2020 that a large Democratic primary field is a sign of a party in disarray, at civil war with itself, full of gadlfy attention seekers as well as those who don't know when to get off the stage.
As opposed to the 2016 Republican field which was often characterized as offering a robust exchange of ideas from numerous elder statesmen and several new firebrands with original ideas and who can think outside the box.
By the way, that Vitter fella mentioned in the article who was caught soliciting a madam's escort service? His wife, Wendy, who infamously appeared next to him wearing a leopard print wrap around dress and heroin chic make up when he confessed his infidelities to the world, is the chief counsel to the Arch Diocese of New Orleans.
5
No mention of Beto O’Rourke?
6
@Lynne H
How much Beto does a candidate have to have/be?
1
We need to develop a more effective -- and less expensive -- method to get the number of candidates down to a "workable" number, say 4 or 5. Since the members of each State Democratic Committee are elected by the people, they should be the ones to select who they think are the 4-5 best candidates for the Presidency. Here, all candidates interested in running are allowed to "throw their hats into the ring". Once the number of suitable candidates is reduced to 4-5, then we can commence with the debates and the primaries as usual. Makes good sense to me. Otherwise, there would be chaos and NO ONE will be happy with the outcome.
2
Gail Collins is a really talented writer. She writes a very funny column about the many Democrats running or thinking about running for president.
Every one of us Democrats laughed at the column, until we fell into a deep depression.
9
After today's Mueller revelations about Individual 1's complicity in multiple crimes, whoever the Democrats nominate will be running against Nikki Haley, not Trump.
5
John Delaney - who?
John Bel Edwards - well, that remark shows some pizazz.
Kamala Harris - nope.
How about Sherrod Brown from Ohio? At least he says he is for the workers. Wonder where he stands on universal healthcare.
Amy Kolbuchar? She seemed quite reasoned in the debacle that saw Kavenaugh confirmed.
And Bernie is out there, getting around to many states, and putting forth some interesting position papers.
At this point, maybe start a write-in for Frosty the Snowman and worry about it in the new year.
3
Peekskill, New York had a local election in 1950. A group of progressive democrats were unhappy with the candidates that were running. So they all wrote in the same name: hippopotamus.
And hippopotamus won!
Maybe we will need to have a write in campaign if we are not happy with our choices in 2020.
3
The thing that seems to be forgotten by almost everyone is that in 2016, but for the power of the Clintons, both candidates would have been insurgents. The GOP ended up with someone who had no history of support for the party, and the Democrats clearly preferred someone who had never been a member of the Democratic Party. What makes you think that that is not still HUGELY relevant? We are more than 18 months away from the nominating conventions of 2020. Get a grip, folks!
6
Once again, our national treasure, Gail Collins, puts together a hilarious piece of succinct writing.
From WI and MI and today’s sentencing statements, one might wonder if we still live in a democracy. Well thank god for our free press and for Collins’ ability to make a bad day a little bit brighter with her wit and Sherman Pledge reference. Personally, I’d vote for Collins on any ticket.
5
I don't know how this will end. But when America looks in the mirror, Trump stares back at us.
We are all responsible. It's up to us.
12
@Blue Moon
When I stare back in the mirror all I see is the rug on top of the skull.
And if you pooled all their great ideas for America and the rest of the world they would cancel out. So, maybe no one should run for president.
We could save a lot of time needed to sort them out and put, at least, a hundred and counting talking heads out of business. We could turn our full attention to Kim Kardashian.
5
While Donald Trump picks Fox News celebrities to man every imaginable post -- including Ms. Haley's at the United Nations -- and wrecks our republic, the Democrats are making things worse by letting 25-year-old self-identified as marginal persons declare themselves as candidates for 2020. They know nothing, they've never run anything, and they will appeal only to their own.
Give me a moderate, a grown-up. I don't care what color or gender -- just someone who doesn't preen or whine or both. If only Colin Powell would run. As anything. Or Michael Bloomberg, but he can't win. A pity.
6
Completely astonished after reading the Politico article referenced by Gail Collins about Governor John Bel Edwards that there is a Republican politition with some integrity, even though I vehemently disagree with his gun control and right to life views.
I suppose there’s something I’m missing.
2
Top presidential candidates as of now would have to be:
Mike Bloomberg
Cory Booker
Elizabeth Warren
Kamala Harris
Joe Biden
John Kerry
These are just the ones with big-name recognition. Another may well emerge from the shadows after the Trump/Russia fallout, much like Jimmy Carter's honest qualities became the antidote to Nixon/Watergate. Remember that field of candidates?
5
I am voting for Bernie Sanders, his platform is simple. Everything will be free. What could be better than that. Ah a world free of worry about the Reds and Ivan, over running Asia and Europe, as in who cares. He can call himself a Democrat for awhile if that helps.
1
Gavin Newsom, California's governor elect, will be the Democratic nominee. He is a former Lieutenant Governor, is 51 years old, is 6'3" (the most important factor), well-spoken, and handsome. He might even be a good president.
4
Glad to hear Deval Patrick is not running.He is the reason I switched to an independent.He is the poster child for a neoliberal,and I think we have had enough of those.
2
Suddenly, Jerry Brown looks good. Thoughtful, experienced, budget-minded, and trained a Jedi, er, Jesuit, he would be an outstanding President.
5
While I love her, Warren is to far left to be elected. I really like that she get's under trump's (intentionally lower case) thin skin.
Jerry Brown would make a great president, but I don't think he's going to step up.
My overwhelming choice is Kamala Harris. Exceptionally smart and savvy–and it's about time we elect a woman. She's the total package.
5
Maybe Ms. Collins is getting a second wind as a humor writer, since this column is light and funny.Is not that the key to keeping your readers reading beyond the first and second paragraphs, to avoid solemnity, gravitas, to view the defile of potential Dem. Party candidates with the lack of sobriety that it merits.It's what Drew Pearson might have had in mind generations ago when he called his column, "Washington Merry Go Round!" Good show Ms. Collins:humor with finesse!
3
Don't rule out John Delaney. I've read about him, and he seems like a serious and competent guy. We need someone like that, don't you think?
1
TRAITS AND ANSWERS
Decency? President Klobuchar.
Intelligence? President Klobuchar.
Can work with anyone? President Klobuchar.
Communication skills? President Klobuchar.
Diplomatic skills? President Klobuchar.
Far-sightedness? President Klobuchar.
Humorous? President Klobuchar.
Self-deprecating? President Klobuchar.
Hard-working? President Klobuchar.
Middle class champion? President Klobuchar.
Working class champion? President Klobuchar.
American economy champion? President Klobuchar.
Moral capacity? President Klobuchar.
Political capacity? President Klobuchar.
Reasoning capacity? President Klobuchar.
Infrastructure understanding? President Klobuchar.
Admirable? President Klobuchar.
Likable? President Klobuchar.
Special? President Klobuchar.
Lincolnesque? President Klobuchar.
Necessary? President Klobuchar.
No one else even comes close.
20
@H. A. Sappho - completely agree! I have been talking about her to anyone who will listen for months. She won with over 60% of vote in MN where Hillary barely won and did very well in red counties. I really don’t think it will be a good idea to put up a nominee from the coasts and I say that as a Californian...we would be well advised to pick a Midwesterner given their pivotal role in 2016. She is progressive enough but not too far left for a general, very smart and nimble and has folksy charm and comes across as very appealing when on TV. And she’s a woman but doesn’t use it as a cudgel (see: Gillibrand, Kirsten). I have the feeling she would match up well against Trump with her calm and reasoned approach, she’s not a screamer and would not fall into his traps (see: Warren, Elizabeth). Run Amy run! I would really like to see her go to S. Carolina asap to start to build up relationships especially with black politicians, as she may have early success there but needs to show she had support with Dems of color.
6
@H. A. Sappho - completely agree! I have been talking about her to anyone who will listen for months. She won with over 60% of vote in MN where Hillary barely won and did very well in red counties. I really don’t think it will be a good idea to put up a nominee from the coasts and I say that as a Californian...we would be well advised to pick a Midwesterner given their pivotal role in 2016. She is progressive enough but not too far left for a general, very smart and nimble and has folksy charm and comes across as very appealing when on TV. And she’s a woman but doesn’t use it as a cudgel (see: Gillibrand, Kirsten). I have the feeling she would match up well against Trump with her calm and reasoned approach, she’s not a screamer and would not fall into his traps (see: Warren, Elizabeth). Run Amy run!
@H. A. Sappho
Beto has these qualities. Also more energy, more passion, more vividness. I like Klobuchar. But I'm routing for Beto. If he drops out, I'll support whoever wins the Democratic nomination. And I hope the rest of you will.
But there's only a handful, if that, who could win.
Oprah, Brown, maybe Harris. After that, it's a cast of thousands that all have potentially fatal flaws.
I say let's just draft Oprah and get this show on the road.
1
"If nominated I will not run, if elected I will not serve."
Thanks, Gail, we all needed that.
PS Me too.
1
The Democrats must find a Lincoln/FDR/JFK who offers class, vision, guts, a plan. The nation needs to soar again.
4
Gail, you forgot the one candidate who’d have a real chance of winning: Sherrod Brown of Ohio. He’s smart, amiable, unafraid, principled with blue collar roots and from the rust belt. A self made man unlike Trump.
14
Well.. today I am wondering more who they will be running against. There is a more then good chance the Orange One, El Duce, will be under indictment, maybe on his way to prison. Or he may have resigned under so much pressure. He may get challenged for the nomination anyway. Could be a Kasich / Rubio ticket, which would be harder to beat.
As others have mentioned, lots of talent but can they win. As of right now I still think Beto O'Rourke has a great shot, and is my favorite. Michael Bloomberg could do it. I love Bernie, I just don't know if he can make it over the hump, Same with Elizabeth Warren. I think she would make a fine Pres, but can she win? Some others mentioned like Booker or Harris would be good as VP, but will never make it through the primary. .. Yes come 2020, we may be looking at temporary Pres Pelosi, ( which would be a ton of fun ), and a mighty big wanna be candidate field on both sides.
3
@Doctor Woo Trump won't run again if he gets an immunity from prosecution agreement for himself & his family. If not, he'll fight a vicious, anything goes campaign, including ginning up some phony war to distract everyone, to keep the oval office and its protections from prosecution.
I only hope that the leadership of the DNC would update rules clearly with the following:
1. Candidates should have at least 5 consecutive years of being registered as democrats
2. Provide their tax returns with no exception (at least 5 years of them)
3. Have background checks including full financial disclosures.
If candidates can’t do this, then they should not run as democrats.
We need exemplary people not just jerks or wishy-washers about where the belong in the party.
And as a democrat, we should still elect the most qualified person in the house. Because dreaming of some kind of redentor is such a useless thing to do.
5
Howard Dean or Sally Yates. Maybe Jerry Brown. He has the most experience running for President than any other living person.
2
There really aren’t that many candidates for president. The media simply inflated the number in a desperate attempt to avoid talking about Bernie Sanders at all costs.....
1
I give Amy Klobuchar 99% of winning if she runs.
11
The person I vote for:
1. Will not be named Trump
2. Will not be a Republican
3. Will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution
I guess (3) makes (1) and (2) redundant.
13
John Bel Edwards of Louisiana... shot back: “I give 100 percent to my wife...."
Interesting. How unlike the more glamorous and once-promising *other* John Edwards of 2004.
4
There is of course the distinct possibility that the Democratic candidate may not even be a Democrat—or at least have not been not one for very long. Two guys who will most assuredly be at the “grownups table” if they
run are Mike Bloomberg and Bernie Sanders. Mind you given the general popularity of the Democratic Party this may not be a bad thing.
1
@Brooklyncowgirl Hah! How about a Bloomberg/Sanders ticket. A total non sequitur but oh the irony, which, alas no one would vote for.
"I think the least I can do is to let it be known right now that I am not a candidate for president. If nominated I will not run, if elected I will not serve. Well, maybe if elected. But no running."
Is this Gail Collins's way of saying that she hasn't fully committed herself to NOT running. If so, I say Gail Collins for Prez!
1
Maybe Robert Mueller III will change parties and become a Democrat. He would make a good president, and if Trump is not in jail (can you run for president from jail?) what a fun campaign that would be!
4
Vote for veto-proof Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. Keep Trump on as President but pass a law forbidding his use of a twitter account and never report anything he has to say.
2
This would be funny if the years of gerrymandering and voter suppression hadn't made it almost impossible for Dems to win the WH. Obama won by 5 million votes. Hillary won by 3 million votes and that wasn't enough.
6
I'll go with Gina Raimondo, Governor of RI. She just got reelected, is an advocate for the opioid crisis, is well spoken, and actually knows how to govern.
2
I am really upset at Gail for only naming the living. What about FDR? He would make a really good Democratic president. We need a Green New Deal like yesterday.
3
My prediction for the last 4 years or more has been Julian Castro in 2020. Next is Hickenlooper; I think either of those two would be an excellent choice.
3
That seems to be the problem out here as well for state offices. The republicans get their decision making over early and coalesce behind one candidate while Democrats fight it out until 8 weeks before the general election. By the time the Dems decide, the Republican has been running a general election campaign for three months. Doing it at the national level is even more problematic. Add to that, the Republican platform is always the same on their stone tablets while Dems fight over it for months. This again gives Republicans a lead. Lastly, Republicans seem to have an all of the above strategy and run candidates everywhere while the Dems pick and choose trying to be strategic and not running anyone in many races giving the Republicans the ability to concentrate their money to attack the few races where they actually have opposition.
2
While this is a very funny piece (thank you Gail), it is also very sad that there are so few Democrats at this point who could inspire a groundswell of voters of all persuasions to support him or her. Yes, Michael Bloomberg has both the political and both public and private executive experience to do the job, but unfortunately he may not have the "ground feel" (like a Beto O'Rourke or Barack Obama) to rally the youth, marginalized and disgruntled voter.
4
@Mister Ed
Did people forget that it was under the Michael Bloomberg administration that "stop and frisk" policy was enforced in high gear?
Did the people forget that he forced out veteran teachers (experienced teachers is what education needs)from the NYC Public school system by holding individual schools and no longer the BOE responsible for their pay?
Did the people forget how much wealth he gained while serving as mayor?
DID THE PEOPLE FORGET THAT THE PERSON IN THE WHITE HOUSE IS AN OLD, WHITE, WEALTHY, NYC BUSINESSMAN AND HE IS A FAILURE?
3
I'd like to see the Dems nominate a mayor or a governor, someone who must interact successfully with multiple constituencies. Members of the House and Senate can be distant from their electorate (who doesn't remember the last 5 1/2 years Joe Lieberman spent in the Senate?), and nowadays (it's become the nature of the beast) they are excessively pre-occupied with how a single vote on a single issue might resonate. New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Pete Buttigieg in South Bend (according to Mike Pence (!!), the best administered city in Indiana).
3
Yeah, "what about Tom Wolf of Pennsylvania". He really is the least talked about, most successful Democratic politician in America. He first won election in 2014, and he was, I believe, the only Democrat who wasn't running for reelection to win a statewide race that year. He has been a successful Governor despite having a very hostile Republican legislature that until January has had a super majority to override his vetos (but has not, as far as I know, succeeded in doing that).
4
A winning ticket would be Biden-O'Rourke. Biden would restore dignity to the office. He could serve one term and groom O'Rourke for 2024. O'Rourke demonstrated that in a deeply red state, his determination and energy impressed Texas voters. There are several qualified people (Booker, Harris, Castro, Warren, Sanders, Landrieu) but none has the resume of Biden, though advanced in age, has the passion and energy for the office, and the experience collaborating with congressional Republicans. The passing of his son took the sails out of Biden in 2016 but judging by his recent impassioned speeches he is ready to return to the ring. Trump has severed any spirit of working with Democrats. Biden is the best hope to achieve bipartisanship and work to heal the horrible schism created by Trump.
14
Not for all Democrats
Biden would be a clothespin on the nose vote for me
There is a reason he failed a couple of times before to get the nomination. Perhaps first on the list is Clarence Thomas’ confirmation hearings.
And other than O’Rourke giving Cruz a run for his money (and there was a lot of money in that campaign) I can’t tell you anything about him
Let’s not get wrapped up in the cult of the personality and let this play out the old fashioned way: on issues.
17
@nzierler Biden is old news. I'm 67 y/o and have always voted Dem. I will not vote for any ticket that has Biden on it. Have the Dems not learned ANYTHING!?
2
@Blue**** O'Rourke .. you know his name .. and that is more than most of these people have. You talk of issues but you don't know where Beto stands. You are not paying atten. He has clearly stated numerous times during his Senate run he is for Medicare For All, or at least starting to expand it. He is for taking Pot off the schedule one drug cat. and letting states legalize it. He is for cutting the Military Budget, or at least slowing it down. By the way Biden is for none of this. Biden I agree is Republican lite. He tried twice and didn't even get close. And unlike Bernie, looks his age. Beto O'Rourke when I have heard him has tried to clearly state his position, not much mumbo jumbo. He raised record amounts of money, plenty from out of state. He is from Texas, a border state, so he has direct knowledge of the immigration issue. In my eyes no one mentioned can touch him. He has some problems, they all do, but enough natural charisma too over come that.
8
Before this is over, I am fully expecting a last ditch "Draft Chelsea" initiative.
9
Love Gail's take and would write her in just to get some levity back in the national conversations, but we all know how dangerous protest votes can be now, don't we? That said, for me it's just far, far, far too early to start even thinking about which candidate. When I lived in Iowa I couldn't avoid it as it comes very early there. Sometimes I think the dear people of Iowa must be a little addled to want to keep their "first" status considering the price they pay.
10
@Anne-Marie Hislop
"Sometimes I think the dear people of Iowa must be a little addled to want to keep their "first" status considering the price they pay."
I always figured Iowans craved the attention they got from being the first primary state. But, in my dotage, I do believe that anonymity carries more blessings than notoriety.
I always enjoy your comments, Ms. Hislop.
4
Fun piece.
But seriously, there is only one person on the list who has all the characteristics we need to restore legitimacy and stature to the Presidency.
He has experience, great energy and competence, proven political skills, honesty and a superb worldwide reputation.
His name is Michael Bloomberg.
10
Yes, Bloomberg earned the silver spoon in his mouth
But sadly in NY he was the tale of two mayors. While really good for those with money his time in office was not a good one for the poor (so maybe he really is a Republican)
The homeless situation exploded under his watch with not just more people going into the shelters but the cycle of leaving to subsidized housing getting broken and many more winding back in shelters - directly due to his policies.
Also not sure the country is ready for his paternalistic views on soda, styrofoam, and other sinful products.
He may be right on them, but his approach wont play well nationally.
4
@Peter Rosenwald "Stop and Frisk Mike"? Yes, communities of color will swarm to his cause.
1
My preference still goes with Sen. Elizabeth Warren.
She proved scientifically that she is at least 1/1024th Native American.
This sets her apart, even though the academic entries seeking governmental grants and institutional diversity when hiring her, did not run that "asterisk" noting the exact percentage of her Native pedigree or that she did not belong to any recognized Tribe.
In serious matters such as the Democratic presidential nominee, Tribal members opinions really should not matter. After all, aren't we all one big Leftist Tribe anyway?
Sen. Warren has demonstrated her loyalty to identity politics, intersectionality, and taking up the challenge from Trump.
Even Robert Francis, I mean "Beto," who has not one drop of Mexican blood, O'Rourke, has had his sincerity questioned. And after all, as Shakespeare noted so famously, what's in a name?
What more can one ask from the current crop of Democratic contenders?
12
Such a polite way to make a joke out of what is a sad joke, Gail. Two years into the worst presidency ever, the Dems cannot get any traction on name recognition.
The Democratic leadership needs to step aside and let the Millenials do some work. For all the accolades Pelosi gets as a deal maker and experienced politician (no doubt she is a crafty politician), she draws almost as much ire from the left as she does the right. Hoyer and Schumer are as ossified as she and just as out of touch with the realities of day to day life of the disintegrating middle class.
If the DNC and party leaders really want to dominate federal govt., they would put up a candidate that Millenials want - they are the biggest voting bloc and can deliver enough votes. That candidate is progressive. It's not the likes of Kamala Harris and Corey Booker, who take big donations from corporate interests and promote policies that ultimately work against the middle class.
Despite the hatred and disgust that Bernie Sanders seemed to generate within the party faithful, he is the template for moving forward. That should have been evident last cycle, when Sanders was filling, to capacity, sports stadiums at his rallies, while Clinton couldn't fill an elementary school cafeteria. They're just idealistic kids who something for nothing, they said...
Forget about courting the middle. Forget the Boomers. Nevermind Gen X. Millenials will get the Dems the White House.
8
@Jonny Boy
"Forget the Boomers. Nevermind Gen X. Millenials will get the Dems the White House."
Names, please. I've heard many of the same complaints about Pelosi, Hoyer, et al, but haven't heard any names of possible replacements. (Sanders, being a Boomer, is disqualified by you.) If no one had the moxie to challenge Pelosi as Speaker, then no one has what it takes to lead the Democratic Party in this "new" direction that nobody has defined.
Full disclosure; I'm a Boomer, former SF resident who voted for Pelosi the first time she ran and every election after until I moved to New England.
4
@Jonny Boy Need a Bernie who is a Beto. Solved.
The Republicans had a cornucopia, too. But none could beat Trump. I write this as a supporter of Sanders, who exit polls from the Rust Belt long since demonstrated would have wiped the floor with Trump there, and thus nationally, if the Dems had not nominated the most despised nominee in party history, a woman only Goldman Sachs could love.
9
@Fred White,
“A woman who only Goldman Sachs could love”? You do know she got 3 million more votes than Trump, right?
And for all the moaning about rigged systems Sanders only really did well in caucus states. The most undemocratic candidate selection processes, where tiny numbers of people participate over many hours.
Active duty military, people who work, infirm and disabled and most anyone who has a real life can’t easily participate.
And that doesn’t even get into his (lack of) standing with minorities - the backbone of the Democratic party.
He is an interesting person, has built a cult, will leave a legacy but will not be a good nominee.
9
I'm still trying to figure out who those 17 Republican stiffs on the last primary stage were. Only one colorful and entertaining one stands out in my memory and he's in the White House. Tell the Democrats to get it together and stop confusing me with so many possible prospects. Find just a few with the pizzazz of Trump and the ability to knock him out at his own game.
4
Yes, it's a veritable village of Democrats. But, really, given the severity of the problem the country is facing, whoever ends up running will have a huge tailwind.
10
It used to be the field was narrowed down to two . What are they thinking ? Last time the Republicans had 16 and we got Donald Trump . This is not a popularity contest ; to have so many would cancel them all , this is not sampling desserts where you take a taste of all and end up with a bellyache . The democrats need to get wise and stop being so dysfunctional . The party just got another chance , don't throw it away or we'll end up with Trump's second term .
15
Somebody with the depth and experience. NO MORE MBAs or businesspeople!
Somebody with Hilary Clinton's experience and intellect and true understanding of the world, or Kerry's, but without the so-called baggage. One who has a proven track record of advocating for the majority of the people. Like Warren's approach to economics and fairness. And who will put the gop on their heels. Who won't hesitate to attack.
8
@Tim Lynch Thing is, to get this you end up identified as an inside the Beltway figure, the Establishment.
Unfortunately, anyone who would be good won't run. If you run you instantly are labeled the devil incarnate by the opposition. At least until you die, but then you can't run. So, who of any intelligence and integrity wants to put up with that?
5
It is a bit of a concern that there are no obvious standouts yet for the Democrats as we end 2018.
Hopefully by spring 2019 there will be a handful that look ready to become President.
I would like a qualified, steady, no-nonsense yet empathetic woman at the top of the ticket for 2020. How about an AB (Amy-Beto) ticket - Sen. Amy Klobuchar (midwest) and Beto O'Rourke (Texas)?
Was very impressed with Sen.Klobuchar at the Kavanaugh hearings - she was the only Senator who got him to apologize (by just staring him down after he went through a verbal rampage.) People who want a Democratic nominee who will trade attack-for-attack vs Trump are mistaken, I think.
27
@shiva
Klobuchar is vastly underestimated. I would love to see her on the ticket.
4
That's the thing. There's no one on the Democratic side, except possibly Bernie, who inspires and doesn't seem like an opportunistic corporatist clown. Even Hillary can't take the hint and seems to be revving up for yet another chance to stroke her own ego. If Trump manages to win in 2020 it will again have more to do with Democratic failures than his own successes.
7
@TLibby, Michael Bloomberg can get the job done. He has the experience, he has the empathy and he is proven. His being Jewish, might be a slight issue, but he might be the right guy for the moment, to challenge Trump. Mitch Landrieu should run as his VP. Together they can bring the whole country in union.
2
@Petey Tonei
Maybe, but I'd be happier to see the Dems move farther away from cowtowing to billionaires. Putting obscenely rich people in office, even if they kinda sorta act like folks you'd want in office, is pretty much the exact opposite of the direction we should be headed in. And after living in New Orleans for 6 years, Lousiana politicians just don't have my trust either.
E pluribus unum should be the Democratic motto for 2020 as its plethora of candidates will do nothing more than have ‘Individual 1’ and his merry band of lockstep Republicans exclaiming, ‘the more the merrier’ as they drool with anticipation over another victory. Anyone remember how, one by one, the 16 or 17 candidates folded like cheap suitcases before ‘1’ mercilessly ended their misery?
And we all know how far and how singly solid and unified the Sanders and Clinton camps still remain, eh?
Oh, let’s not forget the foreign puppeteer whose playbook contains that pesky ‘divide and conquer’ strategy.
Just sayin.’
Robert Mueller For President.
1
Then there is the Catch-22 Syndrome.
Running a credible campaign for president requires spending tens of millions of dollars (your money or begged from others), devoting at least two years of your life to an exhausting schedule of endlessly repetitive events, schmoozing with fleeting legions of strangers, making impossible promises and telling improbable lies to garner voter support, and enduring (if you're successful) constant blaring and invasive media coverage or (if unsuccessful) the cold shiver of humiliating irrelevance.
And the winner gets the opportunity to solve problems that either have no realistic solution or, if soluble in theory, are defended by impregnable barriers to change constructed by special interests.
So who would choose to lust after this task other than a delusional egomaniac? The desire to be president is an irrefutable confession of unfitness to hold the office.
3
Regardless of who runs, I will vote for anyone against Trump. We have seen the consequences of allowing a man-child into the most powerful office in the world. Repeating the mistake is the definition of insanity.
25
Silly question , I know, but wouldn't it be a good idea to have some semblance of a platform first? A coherent set of policies that are both realistic and different from the GOP's? Something to agree on broadly? Or even two versions and then each can have 2 or 3 proponents who could go to the debates? You know, something to put before the American public and discuss?
What you have now is virtually guaranteed to give Donald the Magnificent a lock on a second term... (Unless Mueller delivers evidence of intentional wrongdoing so egregious and indisputable that even the current GOP can't continue to support Trumpski.)
All this "I might be running for President" blahblah should be kept indoors till there is something to present to the voters, too.
2
A cornucopia of candidates or an excess of ego? Wait! They’re not mutually exclusive!
Thank goodness. That’s one less concern for the pundits, of which there are even more.
The problem with the democrats is not the number of presidential wannabes but conflicting and contentious factions within the party. Their efforts to appeal to as many people who feel marginalized, takes precedent over a coherent and well thought out platform. This results in a conflicted approach that while includes everyone leads them to appear to be poorly thought out and incapable to actually lead. With regard to social issues they have been riding the wave of the New Deal without any new ideas for a long time even though our social problems have changed. Corruption is also as evident as that in the republican party. Just think back to Wasserman-Schultz and the Clinton wing who actively undermined Sanders' run because the leadership decided it was Hillary's turn to run. Obama was a symbolic president who was able to trump Hillary because of his race and although he had increasingly missed rhetorical skills was inexperienced and lacking in allies in the legislature. His missteps in foreign relations were not as spectacular as his successor, but he was not an international whiz and appeared to be over his head at times. While the republicans may look like they are swirling around the drain, despite their fewer numbers, with the aid of the electoral college, gerrymandering and voter suppression, the democrats can still lose easily enough until there is a an effort to put together some pragmatic solutions that can work.
3
Give me Joe Biden in 2020, with one of the up and comers by his side.
We desperately need a President who believes in selfless service, dignity, morality, ethics, and all of the principles that make our country the best in the world.
Americans are exhausted by Trump. In order to feel safe and secure again, we need stability. Another "shake it up" candidate running the show is the last thing we can afford.
44
@Sarah
Yeah, I won't vote before I'll vote for Biden. He's a left version of Donald Trump.
I mean really, what is wrong with this country that we think this man might be a good choice?
@Sarah
Biden is not my first choice, but he would take Trump to the cleaners. Most of the other prospective Democratic candidates would win New England (possibly excepting New Hampshire), New York, California, and Hawaii. Then we would wake up the morning after Election Day and wonder, again, "How could this have happened?" I'll tell you how: not listening, and not thinking.
4
Hey, the Democrats had a winning candidate in 2016 -- by nearly 3 million votes, not a close call -- and still lost the presidency. Seems to me that rather than the qualities of the candidate, the Democratic party should be working on how to get around the Electoral College.
52
@Linda
I get your point, the Electoral College is a strategic hurdle, but "the qualities of the candidate" are still rather important.
4
@Linda Working "to get around" the Constitution?
Sounds like collusion. Be careful. Do you really want (another) Independent Counsel searching for a crime committed by the next Democratic President?
2
@Linda Win by 10 million? That's how many more votes Democratic House candidates just received.
How about Gail runs? Just saying, a sense of humor, a touch of humility, and real insight into issues and other politicians are real qualifications for leadership.
Exactly who has anybody named lately who has those qualities. BTW, yes Obama did have those qualities.
40
There are many democratic potentials. I can’t think of anyone, however, who has worked harder than Bernie Sanders. On 11/9/16 while many of us were reeling over the results of the election, Bernie was back at work fighting for Americans. His ideas are at times unconventional, but there’s no questioning his work ethic and unbiased dedication to helping ALL Americans. If nothing else, he deserves consideration as a democratic candidate (should he choose to run).
31
@Brandon W Don't expect any mention of Bernie Sanders in this context in this daily. The only NYT news on Senator Sanders during the 2016 election race was disparaging or non-existent. 100 percent Clinton, even though it was pretty clear from the start that she carried too much baggage to have a chance.
26
@Brandon W
My problem with Bernie is not his ideas so much as that he shares one characteristic with Trump: he enjoys giving speeches to adoring crowds far more than the nitty gritty hard work of figuring out how to actually implement his ideas. For example, a key factor in the success of single payer health insurance systems like Taiwan's is cost controls, while currently in the US, Medicare isn't allowed even to negotiate the costs of medication. Someone like Elizabeth Warren who has designed complex legislation to deal with equally complex problems might be more suitable.
32
@Alicia Lloyd
I have to completely disagree with you there. Sanders was my Senator when I lived in Vermont and I've never seen a legislator that worked harder. Warren, meanwhile, very effectively hamstrung herself with the genetic testing distraction.
6
History demonstrates that democrats do well with younger first candidates John F. Kennedy, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, etc... Carter was in his 50, but he was still notably younger that many of the establishment candidates such as Bernie sanders, Elizabeth Warren Joe Biden , John F. Kerry, Michael Bloomberg, Hillary Clinton etc... who are currently considering a run in 2020. Moreover, the base of the party has definitely moved toward a younger, progressive mindset and agenda.
The best thing that democratic party can do is nominate a youthful candidate who speaks to the future, not one mired in the past.
29
@InfinteObserver Not this tired old trope. Check out the interplay between Ms. Pelosi and Ms. Ocasio-Cortez. We don't need a silly young versus old argument. Like-minded folks need to work together.
BTW Sanders as an establishment candidate? Didn't know weed was legal in Tennessee.
3
I am sorry Corporate Democrats,but it’s going to be President Bernie Sanders-the time has come for Medicare For All and other progressive policies. He can run with a younger person like Governor Inslee of Washington to take over for the second term.
I love my country and I want America to be America again !
40
@Ron Marcus Sorry Ron , but America being America did not include medicare for all . President Bernie Sanders need to explain how it would be paid for without raising taxes . Would you be willing to pay half of your earnings for medicare for all?
8
@sm Sorry sm, but your "facts" don't add up. Medical cost in the US are higher than anywhere else in the world (in total and per capita), but not 50% of earnings. Medicare for all would be cheaper than the present system; tax increases would be more than offset by insurance and other savings, leaving taxpayers better off (and healthier).
79
@Ron Marcus
Would Sanders release his tax returns this time? And I don’t understand the idea of free college without an income consideration. I can’t see paying taxes for a rich kid to go to college.
11
Long, long ago, Plato said that those who seek power are least fit to to hold it. Other cultures with different languages have similar sayings.
Looking at the nearly endless lineup of people posing, posturing, positioning, and pandering, all pushing to be the next nominee, I feel ever more estranged from the whole scene, and more despairing about our future.
A few, like Warren & Sanders, entered presidential politics late in life, apparently motivated by issues and principles. But most of the rest seem to be motivated by the power and glamour.
We just had one of these. Wasn't that enough?? The 2016 Democratic nominee spent decades trying to please everyone. She talked civil rights to some, "superpredators" to others. Spoke for consumers to some, but promoted the most anti-consumer bankruptcy law in generations if not history. Sprung from the Vietnam protest movement but cheered the Iraq war. Four decades of positioning in hopes of becoming President. And she was so unbelievable that even Trump beat her. And now we see more of the same: Posing, posturing, positioning, and pandering, all pushing to be the next nominee,
46
55 Democratic presidential candidates?
In debates, if it takes about 30 seconds to introduce each of them, that itself will take about 30 minutes and there will be time for one or two questions at best before people lose interest, unless they get bored during the introductions.
If the candidates do not have poll numbers at least in double digits, they should not be in any debates.
7
So let’s let football show the way. All we true Americans - blue, red, pink or purple - could, um, rally around that, right? Each candidate could represent her or his alma mater, first in a ‘regular season’ of one-on-one debates, with subsequent rankings, all leading to a ‘Final Four’. We all love Final Fours, don’t we? Think of the money Vegas could generate- we could tax that to fund Single Payer...
Ok just, um, thinking out loud here, American style.
1
@RK
-Then you get into the debates about how they get to those numbers? Where does their exposure come from? Who are the media darlings? Is it a fair and equitable opportunity? Has the DNC picked a favored candidate they're willing to cheat for a la Hillary? Etc. Etc. Etc.......
Amongst these candidates, there are many possible paths to the light at the end of the tunnel. Let's just suspend the purity tests and any unwillingness to vote with less-than-complete enthusiasm, and we will prevail over Trump in 2020.
35
@NM -- "purity tests and any unwillingness to vote with less-than-complete enthusiasm"
If you want to avoid purity tests and lack of enthusiasm, there need to be limits on how low you go.
5
@Mark Thomason
Winding up with Trump as President as a result has shown us how low we can actually go (and he continues to bring us down further every day.)
6
Really? No one mentioned in this article has a shot. I think the article was meant to be satirical.
For heaven and the future's sakes (with apologies to Madeleine L'Engle) could we please please please
Wait until late 2019 to start the next presidential campaigns.
We aren't even finished with the midterms.
And, please, can we stop propping up TV revenues and salaries with outsized advertisement revenues, which are expensive and inefficient?
The whole money thing is bass-ackwards!
80
@Susan Anderson - and also spend some time working to make sure the Democrats don't stack up a lineup for their primary like the GOP did. Trump would have had a harder time if it weren't for the fact that he appeared to be running against a mostly identical bunch of suits all claiming to be "most conservative". If he ran against just two standard issue Republicans I think he'd have had a much harder time getting nominated.
19
@b fagan Yes, thanks.
We have work to do. Spending all our time on presidents misses a whole lot of important stuff. I'm looking forward to the show. I love Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and my Ayanna Pressley is doing well, and they're collaborating with the supposedly hated Nancy Pelosi (who isn't hated at all, and is good at her job).
If I could, I'd limit it to 6 months and forbid TV ads, like in the UK. And make it a requirement to vote, like Australia.
Getting rid of the cheating by overcoming it with overwhelming votes for honesty and people who care about all of us, starting with your local reps, would be a good start.
I have a good few charities I'd rather support than one more TV ad.
34
@Susan Anderson - 6 months and no ads would be a dream.
Congress passing laws to invalidate Citizens United is a Christmas dream come true.
Publicly funded campaigns with all funding distributed equally to all qualifying candidates?
Well, I wouldn't believe that. There's just so much you can dream for at once.
22
The Republicans had a cornucopia in 2016 and we can see how that turned out.
None of it will mean a thing if Democrats can't give up their ideas of perfection and rally around the eventual candidate.
31
Please do not focus on one person to lead in 2020. We desperately need a team. We need to elect a dozen good people at least to lead this country. They will need to work together.
First, to be able and willling to step up and face the gauntlet with good humor. Their skills and expertise should be placed in context. All the possible contenders now should meet regularly and form a strong team.
The Trump administration is playing a constant game of musical chairs and many of the top people are incomprehensibly ill-suited to the jobs they received. Trump is a team of one, a unilateral decision making autocrat.
"Great things in business are never done by one person. They're done by a team of people". -Steve Jobs
Let's work to elect a team in 2020.
9
@Anne — huh? What are you talking about? Steve Jobs was talking about corporate governance (“great things in business”). This is about electing a president. Plus a vice president as a spare. That’s not a team. You’re suggesting that all the presidential contenders get together and form a team? They are competing for the same job. You’re suggesting a dozen people share the job? Hate to sound autocratic, but the president is one person — that’s what we elect under our form of government, and, yes, exactly what we need to focus on.
@Anne
Agree—a team, with a platform and a plan.
I suggest everyone declared or “thinking about it” be gathered together to put their ideas in the pot for consideration in first quarter 2019. If you can’t make the meeting, you can’t run. Get to the basics the dems will champion in the 2020 race set. Then discuss strategy to get the best person identified out of the possible candidate soup. Narrow the field internally (with minimal leakage please), thinking of how to gain the WH and set the country back on its foundation. Potential candidates must pledge to take small donations only—no corporate money. And call in some rank and file, everyday dems to organize the meeting and discussion. We need people who live everyday trying to make ends meet having maximum input into the process of selecting the Democratic candidate in 2020.
1
There are some of us even outside Iowa who have paid attention to former Representative John Delaney. He is an old time Democrat with progressive ideas who recognizes and cherishes true American values. At 55, he is not exactly one of the young firebrands but at the same time with our newly lowered US life expectancy we wouldn't have the prospect of another state funeral in the near future. From a blue collar, union family, with an excellent educational background, and resounding success in business, he proved he could work collaboratively in the House. Gail, you might be correct in pointing out his lack of name recognition on a national level, but he is definitely worth a serious look. My dream ticket - him at the top and Mayor Pete Buttigieg as VP.
16
Now that we've elected for president a real estate developer / reality show host who's never before performed public service and has no understanding of civics, the floodgates are open. Anyone breathing can now be a considered candidate - whatever their experience, personal record, beliefs or shortcomings. The base has spoken, and is apparently satisfied with anyone who can capture their limited imagination and expectations. We thought Bush Jr was unbeatable in the "terrible" category, but Trump makes him look good by comparison, indicating that it can and may still get worse. As unimaginable as that now seems.
71
As long as it's not Bernie Sanders, I'm good with whatever candidate they choose. It shouldn't be hard to defeat the current president, but for some reason it is. Can't really get my head around that fact.
91
@AMM I’m kind of surprised at your tone. Rather visceral, it seems to me. Don’t think you have to worry about Berni getting the nomination. Truth is we all discriminate, against age—too old, too young. I’m old enough to get a taste of the former. Sanders doesn’t try and can't hide his age. He won’t be the nominee because of his age.
His agenda will be the Democratic Party’s agenda though. It's what the American people want and need and the reason he came close to capturing the nomination the last time around.
6
I can smell that person but I haven't head from that person yet because nobody we normally hear from makes me feel enthusiastic. I was impressed by Amy Klobuchar when I heard her speak recently and I am sure there are others just like her.
28
Democrats must win. We must nominate a candidate who can win the White House. That’s the absolute bottom line. No matter how much we agree with the politics of Sanders, Warren, Harris - they are too coastal and easy targets for Fox. Someone really smart and experienced from an important Electoral College flyover-country state with impeccable ethics is what we need. Senator Sherrod Brown, for example.
126
@BPierce. Agreed. How do we get Sanders, Harris, etc to gracefully bow out? They aren’t listening to these cogent comments from anybody. Their egos and ambition is blocking their hearing.
18
@BPierce
Agreed!
In the VP slot? In no particular order: Stacy Abrams, Heidi Heitcamp, or Claire McCaskill.
4
@BPierce I heard Sherrod Brown yesterday on NPR talking about the trump/GOP tax law which hugely rewards GM for moving jobs to other countries. Intelligent, intelligible (on tax law, no less) and impressive! Team him up with Stacey Abrams or Beto O'Rourke.
13
You’ve got my vote, Gail. When you win, just make me embassodor to Bordeaux. At this, uh, stage, in our Shakespearean, “Life is a tale told by an idiot,” political process, it’s healthy to have an infinite amount of presidential candidates.
But do recall (sorry to ruin your evening) the infinite amount of Republican presidential primary candidates in 2016 that yielded trump, the worst possible choice. For that reason, I do not advocate Oprah. But, you are right. The available talent is extraordinary.
One of my favorites is the articulate Cory Booker (not that my location has anything to do with that) who would be able to unify this nation, if anyone could. Having “Mayor of Newark, NJ” on your resume means that you can govern *anything*. The U.S. presidency is trivial for him.
Not that I would ever denigrate the trump presidency, trump, who has been so gracious to nearly everyone, but I detect that much of the electorate is looking for a change. In that desire there is some fear in commenters in the media of nominating someone who is too liberal, whatever that means. So they don’t like Harris and Ocasio-Cortez. But anyone is better than trump, even Oprah.
Unless some impeachment miracle happens, it appears as if trump will be president for another two years, after having pardoned all of his criminal administration. This means that it is imperative that, whomever Democrats nominate in the 2020 primaries, that all Democrats support her or him.
39
Yes, who will emerge to capture the public's imagination?
Jerry Moonbeam would make a good president, but he wants to retire to his little ranch in the woods not too far from here, and meditate.
Kamala Harris is certainly smarter than the current example of the village idiot, but again, it has become obvious inexperience does not make one qualified, despite the current GOP theory.
The Democrats fell behind when the Republicans made a concerted effort to capture local offices and getting them to move up in the political scheme. So all we have at the present is several wannabees, except Joe Biden who is the most experienced of the lot.
All the Democratic senators talking about running have only been in for a term, but put Cory Booker on the tab as VP, being from New Jersey he must know how to deal with racketeers and con men/women.
In the meantime we can watch the latest Dem sensation Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez taunt the Rs, they are having a snit about almost anything she says, which must mean she speaks the truth about them. They call her dumb, she is a graduate of Boston University, was able to save $8k working as a bar maid, and got elected to a job that pays $174K a year, doesn't seem too dumb to me.
We will find someone in the next year or so who can speak good English, did not have to lie about the source of his/her wealth, has not been in bankruptcy, had their possessions repossessed, and does not brag about abilities he does not have.
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@David Underwood,
Ditto! And, as an add-on, someone who is not reticent about releasing their tax statements.
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Sherrod Brown has served more than one term in the Senate. And if we elect him, we get Connie (Schultz, the Pulitzer prize-winning journalist whom he is married).
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@David Underwood
Senator Harris is toxic on the national stage. Just for starters: Willie Brown's mistress, San Francisco values, sanctuary city promoter, weak on crime, weak on immigration. As DA, failed to aggressively prosecute the undocumented MS-13 gang member who murdered a family he mistook for gang rivals, and she failed to pursue a capital conviction for the killer of SFPD Officer Espinoza.
As AG, blocked DNA testing for a death row prisoner, Kevin Cooper, who appears to have been framed. As a nice, safe senator, she now supports it.
In truth, every progressive thing she's done has been matched by a conservative one. She's a fraud. And I'm FROM San Francisco.
She has no chance of winning a general election.
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These 2020 wannabes need to remember that we are deep, deep in Trump fatigue.Even a fresh face will not cheer us up.We need more time to remind ourselves of the nation we once had and begin to hope again.We need until at least late spring.Incidentally, I know of John Delaney in Maryland and everyone here thinks he is a great guy.The Democrats need to solidify their recent gains before they split up in competing rivalries.
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I don't want Deval Patrick,
Michael Avenatti too
And also add Ms Gillibrand,
She simply will not do,
A Warren-Sherrod twosome
Has big appeal for me
And the State of Ohio
Might happen to agree.
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@Larry Eisenberg Thumbs up to Warren-Sherrod!
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@Larry Eisenberg
Warren is my Senator. I like her a lot, but I do not want her to run for President. I think she would be a disaster. Her talent is to be the gadfly. The annoying and persistent voice telling us what's wrong and what needs to be done. Believe me, I do not mean that as criticism. We need people like Warren, but that particular talent isn't necessarily what we need in a President or a presidential candidate. I could be wrong and if she did become the candidate I would enthusiastically support her, but I hope she will firmly take herself out of the running soon and let the attention go to someone with a better chance of winning.
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@Larry Eisenberg Maybe Sherrod-Warren, but the US will not elect a liberal woman from Massachusetts as President anytime soon. Warren should stay in the Senate and continue to work hard for the American people.
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And yet, every one of these near-anonymous lightweight presidential wanna-bes could not be worse than the man who’s currently squatting in the Oval Office. Why bother with primaries and debates? When people buy a lottery ticket, their name should be entered into the presidential running. Loser gets the job.
Just like now.
There don’t appear to be many statesmen or women on the list. There’s a dearth of soaring rhetorical eloquence, or selfless commitment to ordinary people or galvanizing personas who can transport us from our humdrum lives and make us envision the America of our dreams. The best we can hope for is a-grammatical quips and snide comebacks.
Didn’t we learn anything from the Obama years? He was presidential before he even ran for office. The demeanor was there. The seriousness, the humor, the recognition that hope was the most valuable thing any president could give the voters.
Instead, we got a classless con man who aspires to be a mob boss, complete with his improbable wavy coif and visions of babes in slinky sequined outfits, ripe for the groping.
So this time around, let’s draft someone who is a just decent human being. Someone who won’t embarrass us, and make us do a three-handed face-palm every time they open their mouth.
Or just pick someone from the phone book. We couldn’t do worse.
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@gemli
Oh yes. They could be worse. Never say words like that. Things can always be worse.
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@gemli. Senator Tim Kaine is all of the above, maybe slightly tainted from being Hillary’s running mate, as is Senator Chris Coons. Both would be sterling, and are among the “draw from both sides” centrists who not running.
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@gemli Beto O'Rourke seems to be a decent human being with a gift for oratory.
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There may be a cornucopia of candidates, but there is no cornucopia of talent.
Elizabeth Warren might be the best of them, but she is not a natural politician. That is the real story behind her clumsy handling of her ancestry.
I don't know why Kamala Harris thinks she is Presidential material. She was OK but not exceptional in California politics. She seems to think that being brown and female qualifies her to be President. She has never won a race against a serious Republican challenger.
Jerry Brown has had an exceptional career in California, but he is simply too old at 80. That is a pity, because he would make a fine candidate if he was 15 years younger.
The Democrats really seem to lack somebody who is young, talented and has a good track record of beating Republicans. Ohio's Sherrod Brown would fit the bill, but he doesn't seem interested.
Given how large the field is, it might be very difficult for anybody to emerge unless they are already a celebrity. That would favor Biden, Sanders and Warren.
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Gov Jay Inslee might surprise against better known Democratic figures.
His state of Washington looks like a healthier version of America, with thriving tech, manufacturing, biotech and until Tariff Man, agricultural sectors, along with investments in infrastructure like the long overdue $56 billion Sound Transit project.
The University of Washington excels at funding and graduating low income students, who can be admitted after two years of free community college in Seattle.
These are locally rather than federally funded initiatives that can be implemented elsewhere.
Mr Inslee himself is a likeable, low key guy whose political career started in agricultural eastern Washington. More recently, he has served as chair of the Democratic Governor's Association. He promotes coordination with other states on climate change and environmental protections actions in the face of a Federal government hostile to both.
Washington is a state with a legislature closely balanced between Democratic and Republican representatives, requiring a different kind of leadership than states like say, California.
Jay doesn't have privileged background, an Ivy League education, no connections to the East Coast investment banking world, luxury real estate or corrupt foreign autocrats.
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@Look Ahead Agree that Inslee would be excellent and is the sleeper in the early field. Not only does he have an excellent record and the lack of any controversy, but he may be someone that could unite the two major factions in the Democratic Party.
That being said, I hope that all of the posters here recognize that once the primaries are over and a candidate is chosen, it is imperative to rally around the winner, no matter who it is, how old they are, what wing their from, regardless of gender, race, class, etc. No sour grapes, no third parties, no staying home, no holding out for the "perfect" - this election is too important.
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I only know two things for certain: (1) I'm not running for President (I've said this before but just in case someone doubts my sincerity, I'm saying again). And, (2) I'm voting for whoever becomes the Democratic nominee. I didn't vote for Trump last time and I'm certainly not voting for him (or any other Republican for that matter) this time.
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@David Clark - Indeed; the wonder is why Pence, McConnell and Ryan shouldn't all be prosecuted for heading up a protection racket (the GOP'ers) shielding Un-indicted Co-conspirator for: judges, tax cuts, deregulation.
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@R. Law Robert Mueller may know the futures of Pence, McConnell and Ryan.
Patience.
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@sondheimgirl
Sadly, Bob Mueller is a lifelong Right Wing Republic Party adherent.
Though he will no doubt follow the illegal activities of the key players in this tragedy where they lead, he is unlikely to overstep his boundaries and ensnare other top politicians like Pence in his nets.
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Every four years political commenters reveal to us the unprecedented development that there are a lot candidates for President.
I can remember Johnny Carson doing it in the 70s.
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Gail, you did not mention my fave, Senator Amy Klobuchar who seems to possess all the qualities and experience to be an excellent president. Not enough charisma? Only if you refuse to listen to her when she has the floor.
Sure, the right-wing hate automator will do all in its power to bring her down, but this will not be an easy task. I suppose the GOP could drum up Swift Boat Legislators for "Truth." Hey, the tactic worked against Kerry who I dearly hope will rest on his laurels as Secretary of State.
It's way past time for the next generation of Democratic leadership. Sorry, Joe.
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@John lebaron
Klobuchar or Hickenlooper? These names do not exactly roll off the tongue. Consider the last names of presidents since the country was founded. No odd or difficult names anywhere to be found. Now you may take issue with this notion and explain that we should judge people by the content of their character. But, unfortunately, superficial appearances matter. Why did JFK win the debate and ultimately the election? Why did Trump change his last name? I'm sorry, but strange names don't stand a chance. I agree we need younger candidates, but Kerry or Biden would fare better, based solely on their last names (and I'm ignoring name recognition).
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@Blue Moon
All of our presidents have been of either English, Dutch, German, or Irish descent with the exception of Obama. After 242 years, isn't it about time that we Americans acknowledge that we have a lot of different kinds of names (and peoples) in our country beyond those of the ruling class of over 200 years ago? After all, Klobuchar is not all that difficult. Nor are names ending in vowels, or in -wicz, and so on and so forth. We have to use those names every day with our neighbors, so where's the rub?
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@SC
The winning candidate will have a good last name, look good, and be smart (doesn’t have to be the brightest bulb, but smart enough not to get into serious trouble).
Consider Elizabeth Warren. Good name, she looks good, she’s older (but not prohibitively so). But she’ll never shake Pocahontas: the DNA test blew up in her face. That’s a clear indicator she’ll have terminal problems on the campaign trail.
We know who Gail Harris likes, because she listed her last: Kamala Harris. Good last name, looks good, and smart. We’ve had one black president; she would be a black woman president. That’s a stretch right now, but maybe, particularly if more serious damage is inflicted on Trump with the investigation. She’s the best Democrats currently have to offer. Plus she and Obama would be fitting bookends to Trump.
Gail, you have done a nice and light-hearted run down of prospective candidates. From establishment regulars like Biden, O'Malley, Edwards and Brown. A rebel like Sanders. Newbies like Harris and Booker. Governors, senators and congressmen. Old and young. Experience or not. Articulate and bombastic.
@FunmyIrishman thinks the DNC machinery will stick with the elites or establishment. @R. Law wants youth and questions if anyone can prevail against Trumpism?
Whoever it is the race will be a contrast: politics as usual against the Disrupter. If Trump continues the economic growth, deregulation, strengthens military and VA benefits, stronger border, gets out of Afganistan and improved USMCA trade deals it will be a formidable race.
Will traditional communications be effective against daily, even hourly tweets? Can orthodoxy prevail over what we have now? Sure the new governorship and increased House majority will help. What will the platform focus be on?
I believe American politics will never be the same again. We are in a new universe and its new implications for a winning candidate.
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@Frank
For the record, I am for Beto.
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I have two points to make. First, John Delaney is following in Jimmy Carter's footsteps. He was an unknown who practically lived in Iowa, won the first-in-the-nation caucus, and won the election. So now, a small unrepresentative state has far more importance than it deserves. I say that as a native of Iowa.
Second, as a former Republican and a new Democrat, I fear that the latter will split between liberals and moderates--and find a way to lose to Trump. It's difficult to see how we can survive four years of him...and impossible to see how we can survive eight.
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@bnyc. No one is mentioning the fact that after Mueller’s work is done, it’s at least possible that the Democrat will not be facing Trump.
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@bnyc "Uncommitted" won Iowa in 1976...Carter finished first among the named candidates, defeating Birch Bayh & Mo Udall, for what it's worth.
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Not that long ago, pundits and opinion writers were lamenting that the Democratic Party lacked a bench with any depth. Now we are starting to hear there are too many on the bench. We can't have a horserace without some drama now can we?
Pardon me, but beating Trump in the next election and providing this country with a competent leader is going to provide a surplus of drama.
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@JD Ripper The need for drama is part of the problem. When we have news media who must entertain in order to exist, sensational reporting becomes a requirement.
Add in a political industry staffed with people whose talent is manipulating opinion and the drama is guaranteed. That those political strategists aren't necessarily operating based on any principles makes it worse.
Donald Trump provided a surplus of drama. He continues to provoke sensational reporting and, somehow, leads the press by the collective nose. Democrats would do well to take note.
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@JD Ripper
The truth will become apparent after the swimsuit competition.
3
@JD Ripper
Bench is wide but not deep.
1
“ Family considerations “. That’s usually code for “ I’ve been caught at something, but will probably NOT go to Jail, but why takes chances “. A true classic.
Seriously.
37
Gail, we'd err on the side of candidates who will be some decades younger than the mentioned 'not 90 before 2024' - that's not age discrimination, coming from someone 60+.
Of course, they will all be subjected to Tweet-storms from Mayhem 45*, punching down below his weight from the Oval Office - they should all have their various nicknames ready for 45*, when he inevitably tags them.
The worst problem is that almost 5 decades (2 generations) from St. Ray-gun's declaration 'government is the problem', plus an entire generation growing up with the messaging foghorn of miasma from Faux Noise 24/7, that their demonizing of 'Democrat' seems to have metastasized so GOP'ers also have a problem with 'democracy', and 'democratic institutions'.
It will be very hard for a Dem politician with a significant track record to prevail against the Orange Jabberwock's Tweet-storm.
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The DNC is going to do what it always does with its machinery - make only a few candidates they have chosen (insiders, well connected and well pocketed republican lite candidates) available in the still skewed primary process.
Having said that, there are really only a handful of true Progressive candidates that are acceptable to the rank and file of the Democratic party (and country at large) that will unequivocally and passionately embody said Progressive policies. (things like Single Payer health care, a true living wage, peace, equal human rights for all)
I expect ageism and misogyny to still be prevalent when the ballots are ready, along with the usual Wall Street financial interests backing their candidate(s), but this time it is going to be different.
This time there will be a true people's candidate.
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@FunkyIrishman
Look I do not want to disabuse you, but the DNC has not say who enters the primaries. It would be better if they did like previously, but those days are long gone.
Even who gets the financial support is in question, that is one thing the DNC can do though. In fact our local Dem Club is not giving any money to our congressman because he did not spend any time promoting some of our local contests.
But we have no say over who enters the primaries.
10
@David
That's fine mate, but you seem to contradict yourself - right in your comment. The DNC controls the money as well as makes the rules. (super delegates anyone ? - just ask Bernie )
At any rate, I think Democrats are going to go around the party machinery this time around. Beto anyone ?
We shall see.
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@FunkyIrishman. “Having said that, there are really only a handful of true Progressive candidates that are acceptable to the rank and file of the Democratic party (and country at large) that will unequivocally and passionately embody said Progressive policies. (things like Single Payer health care, a true living wage, peace, equal human rights for all)”
I’m part of the rank and file, and have no interest in subjecting potential candidates to these sorts of litmus tests. I want a candidate who can appeal to enough Democrats and independents to win the presidency. If the past two years have taught us anything, it’s that demanding that a candidate check all progressive boxes amounts to handing victory to the other, much darker, side.
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