I consider myself a rather cheap and stingy person. But I have given money to Sanders -- and will give him more.
I would never give a dime to Clinton. She doesn't need or want us little people anyway...she is partying with the banksters.
I would never give a dime to Clinton. She doesn't need or want us little people anyway...she is partying with the banksters.
34
Too many "if's" I would not count Bernie out. Hillary is from the old regime with lots of baggage and seems to preach to the choir. Were are her real values, like the first George Bush has she ever been in a real supermarket, hung out with real people. Suppose Bernie decides to pull Elizabeth Warren into the primaries- what if. Bernie has gained momentum without much money and has lived what he has preached for many years. Labeling him a socialist is a slap in the face and if you are going to do that you should label Hillary a champion for the capitalistic status quo. Our country is going down the tubes. As we continue to war around the world, send jobs overseas, etc. the middle class gets closer to the lower class and the upper class continues to get richer off the backs of the middle and lower class. It is a travesty and perhaps Bernie's messages will spark with the disenfranchised and even the millenials.
22
Bernie with running mate Jim Hightower. They may not be able to win but it would do my heart well to finally be able to vote for a ticket I could believe in.
9
Wishful thinking on your part, Nate Cohn. As someone who was "ready for Hillary", I have just donated to Bernie Sanders. And so did my millennial son. I am so tired of politicians who simply court corporations like they were constituents. Although Mitt Romney might disagree, corporations are not people and they support what is in their own best interests, not mine. Maybe Bernie Sanders will get the nomination and maybe not, but dismiss him at your own risk.
31
Nate, Once, years ago, an actor from cowboy films ran for President and won. His greatest attribute was the ability to inspire, create a sense of leadership and possibility. He was a bit over the hill as well, but although he was a Republican I ended up appreciating the difference between a navigator and one who follows the wind. Bernie is exciting to a population that feels abandoned by Washington, and Mrs. Clinton reminds us that the same two last names have been on the ballot most of the last two decades. As ScottW says, you may be right, but how about you just take a year off and let voters make some decisions. You have a lot of influence, and so do the Koch brothers. I guess you know how we feel about them.
26
Hillary is rich, but she is not charismatic. The best thing she has going for her is none of the Republican candidates will be able to lift the ball and chain of conservatism necessary to win the Republican nomination during the general election. But...she is vulnerable during the democratic primaries. She is Al Gore redux, boring, predictable, and she tries too hard. She is the only politician that has had more make-overs than Gore. The "new" Hillary is old.
Gore would have won in 2000 if he had quit campaigning in October, for sure if he'd had started cracking jokes in October. The Obama experience in 2008 has frightened Hillary to the extent that she will reinvent herself as soon as Bernie has a good day at the polls. If he has two good days she will panic and her smile will freeze on her face. It will be awful.
This is not a good run up to a presidency. Everyone knows it. Anyone with a new story and a great organization can beat her.
Both Saunders and Webb are authentic. She is not.
Gore would have won in 2000 if he had quit campaigning in October, for sure if he'd had started cracking jokes in October. The Obama experience in 2008 has frightened Hillary to the extent that she will reinvent herself as soon as Bernie has a good day at the polls. If he has two good days she will panic and her smile will freeze on her face. It will be awful.
This is not a good run up to a presidency. Everyone knows it. Anyone with a new story and a great organization can beat her.
Both Saunders and Webb are authentic. She is not.
19
The artlicle sounds like it was written and released by the Clinton press office or from a Clinton media acolyte like George Stephanopolos. Back in 1968, they said an Eugene McCarthy insurgency didn't have a prayer against a powerful incumbent President Lyndon Johnson--we saw how that turned out even though MCCarthy was not the ultimate democratic party nominee. If the media would cover Sanders and other democratic candidates with the same fervor that it does for Clinton, perhaps despite her huge financial and staff resources, her nomination would not be a 'fait acomplishe'.
29
There are too many variables on which to base sound judgments here. Bernie has an up hill battle. However, his honesty, humble lifestyle, positive outlook and avoidance of personal slander will all look favorable as compared with other democrats and all republicans. Many of the downtrodden who have been crushed by the last 30 years of royalist policies are those conservative democrats who will have to come to their senses at some point in time. Bernie's best hope is that these voters will listen to his ideas and then go out and support him with their vote. Go, Bernie, go.
18
Cohn's rant is his hope and wish, not a serious example of reporting. Relying on ancient polls and his wish list of demographics, it is devoid of actual political analysis of the issues that separate Clinton and Sanders, as he ignores the actual issues,especially her deadender support of the Iraq that ensured her defeat by Obama.
14
Why does this take me back to the candidacy of Howard Dean, also a New Englander, who believed that a single-payer health plan was a real possibility? Could it be that the Times and the networks themselves have a stereotype of the ideal Democratic candidate? I take comfort in the fact that they underestimated Obama, but I worry that they're all hoping some mike or hidden camera will pick up a yell or remark that will allow them to dismiss Sanders from serious consideration.
14
The split between the NYT’s general stance on Sanders and the stance of the majority of its readers in their comments here is the most interesting thing about this article.
That split is generally the most interesting thing with any Times article about Sanders.
I’ve been voting since 1972, and have never given a dime to any candidate in that time. I just made a small contribution to Bernie Sanders. I have no illegible, color-coded, interactive maps to support my decision.
That split is generally the most interesting thing with any Times article about Sanders.
I’ve been voting since 1972, and have never given a dime to any candidate in that time. I just made a small contribution to Bernie Sanders. I have no illegible, color-coded, interactive maps to support my decision.
31
If Sanders is not polling as well among nonwhite, "less educated" moderates, maybe it is because they are simply unfamiliar with him. Most of the media has barely covered his campaign. If I didn't watch MSNBC and certain liberal Internet shows, I wouldn't know what Sanders stands for.
Let's wait until after the first debates, when more Americans will have heard him and how his views compare with Clinton's. 2008 is irrelevant. It is already ancient history; things have changed enormously since then. The old labels like "liberal" and "moderate" are no longer useful. Now, people are more concerned with real-life economic concerns, and Sanders focuses on those concerns like a laser.
Also, he seems very honest, down-to-earth, and grandfatherly, unlike the icy, evasive Clinton. He's like FDR and Truman combined into one person. As a result, Sanders may appeal to all those moderates and conservatives much more than these Beltway pundits realize.
Let's wait until after the first debates, when more Americans will have heard him and how his views compare with Clinton's. 2008 is irrelevant. It is already ancient history; things have changed enormously since then. The old labels like "liberal" and "moderate" are no longer useful. Now, people are more concerned with real-life economic concerns, and Sanders focuses on those concerns like a laser.
Also, he seems very honest, down-to-earth, and grandfatherly, unlike the icy, evasive Clinton. He's like FDR and Truman combined into one person. As a result, Sanders may appeal to all those moderates and conservatives much more than these Beltway pundits realize.
18
It's good that Bernie sanders is surging. I will be delighted if Snaders wins the candidacy & the presidency. But it can't happen. He's no Reagan. If he were, charisma-wise, he would win, despite his age. He is authentic. He is straightforward and determined. But that isn't enough.
Back in 2000, many just wanted to vote for Ralph Nader, not because he would win they thought, but they loved him so much, which blunted, even blinded their judgment. But it led to George W Bush's disastrous presidency. And even Sandra O'Connor regretted to rule to "appoint" GW Bush as president of the US. That's unlikely to repeat. For one thing, Sanders is not as intoxicated as Nader was. He said he would not be an obstructionist. He is unlikely to be a third party candidate.
Unlike many think, both Bill & Hillary Clinton are quite progressive. Their posture as "moderate" has been just practical to win elections. If Sanders surges, that will be cover for Clinton to pull left more than she would otherwise have.
Back in 2000, many just wanted to vote for Ralph Nader, not because he would win they thought, but they loved him so much, which blunted, even blinded their judgment. But it led to George W Bush's disastrous presidency. And even Sandra O'Connor regretted to rule to "appoint" GW Bush as president of the US. That's unlikely to repeat. For one thing, Sanders is not as intoxicated as Nader was. He said he would not be an obstructionist. He is unlikely to be a third party candidate.
Unlike many think, both Bill & Hillary Clinton are quite progressive. Their posture as "moderate" has been just practical to win elections. If Sanders surges, that will be cover for Clinton to pull left more than she would otherwise have.
9
Fresh meat gets stale.
America is bored. Give us Oscar Meyer. A Bush or a Clinton.
Sure, it's just a wiener.
But we understand what we're getting.
America is bored. Give us Oscar Meyer. A Bush or a Clinton.
Sure, it's just a wiener.
But we understand what we're getting.
1
So far he does not, but we'll just see about that as time goes on. Bernie Sanders is not a "socialist" - he's a Democratic Socialist. Time and time again during his decades as an Independent congressman he has reached across the aisle to fight for the people against corporate interest. He is not a candidate that represents the Democrats. No, he represents democracy itself. When people - of all ages and races - look at his record and see what he has to offer they will gladly join his cause. Feel the Bern!
20
I'm glad I read this article. I just made another donation to Bernie. He is the ONLY candidate that speaks his mind, means what he says, stays true to his principles and isn't on the side of the corporations and the 0.01%.
25
Bernie Sanders is a narcissistic windbag with no accomplishments in office to speak of. His supporters are left wing versions of Limbaugh's dittoheads who consider political skill to consist of spitting out ridiculous radical nonsense that makes them feel smug and righteous. I am a consistent Democrat but would NEVER vote for Sanders.
2
How about first the Times establish some credibility by actually covering the Sanders campaign and why it is resonating with so many Democrats? This is a hatchet job of the old school variety, a great example of the Clintons' zero-sum, infighting ability. I'm sure they all but wrote it. If Nate Cohn keeps this up, he'll be ushered into the Clinton circle of trust, where he will be served spin before all others and allowed to march in parades with no ropes to hold him back.
19
Time to test your analogy skills:
Clinton Beats Sanders is like Dewey Beats Truman
Clinton Beats Sanders is like Dewey Beats Truman
8
when sanders loses the nomination, it will likely be traced to his and his supporters unwillingness to take criticism as anything more than an attack. it will also have to do with a misunderstanding of what role the progressives/liberals play in the party and what really happened in 2008.
you can't win the white house without being political, and sanders doesn't know how to do that....that's both admirable and his achilles heel.
you can't win the white house without being political, and sanders doesn't know how to do that....that's both admirable and his achilles heel.
Yep, blame the messenger, and all will be well.
Get your collective heads out of the sand, Bernie supporters, and figure out how you and he are going to change these odds. Wake up, and realize that the data are what they are, now. Work to change it so that the odds look different six months from now.
Get your collective heads out of the sand, Bernie supporters, and figure out how you and he are going to change these odds. Wake up, and realize that the data are what they are, now. Work to change it so that the odds look different six months from now.
6
Gosh, so let's see the logic here. Barack Obama was, in fact, far too liberal to beat Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary (he only won because he was black)... but somehow, he managed to win two national elections (in which, presumably, the Times analysis would suggest that blacks would overwhelmingly vote for the Democrat regardless of who that person was). I'm not sure who this article is more insulting towards: Bernie Sanders, Barack Obama, or the Times readership.
11
It's disheartening that when the NYTimes finally runs an article about Bernie, it's negative.
We're still nearly a year and a half away from the election. Now's the time for debating and figuring out what each candidate stands for. There'll be plenty of time later to lay odds for the horserace.
We're still nearly a year and a half away from the election. Now's the time for debating and figuring out what each candidate stands for. There'll be plenty of time later to lay odds for the horserace.
17
"Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure." Really? What in the world does that mean? She's not a liberal Democrat by my measure, and not by measures as understood by voters who prefer Sanders. This single sentence seems to illuminate your bias, Mr. Cohn. Or you carelessness with prose.
22
Support for Bernie is a frustrating social cry by a growing mass of voters who want something Other Than Hillary. I'm sorry but Hillary isn't deserving of the nomination. She may as well wear a T-Shirt that says, "Do I really have to do THIS?" Her entire life has been a campaign and now the most important one of all is starting and her tank is collectively empty. What a buzz kill!
This isn't they way it's supposed to be and it's not fair to America, because no matter what she says, she's still going to side with Wall Street and the middle class is going to continue to get squeezed like a grape. I do not believe her and I would like to think Bill may have some influence over her Presidential decisions but I don't think those two have seriously spoken to one another in over a decade, if not longer.
So I will hope and day dream for Bernie, but sad reality tells me it will [unfortunately] be Hillary. This entire election on both sides really is a wash and spin cycle of the American voter and while we may laugh at how preposterous it is- the joke is really on us.
This isn't they way it's supposed to be and it's not fair to America, because no matter what she says, she's still going to side with Wall Street and the middle class is going to continue to get squeezed like a grape. I do not believe her and I would like to think Bill may have some influence over her Presidential decisions but I don't think those two have seriously spoken to one another in over a decade, if not longer.
So I will hope and day dream for Bernie, but sad reality tells me it will [unfortunately] be Hillary. This entire election on both sides really is a wash and spin cycle of the American voter and while we may laugh at how preposterous it is- the joke is really on us.
25
Shocking. The hometown paper of the bourgeoisie proclaims the chosen candidate of the bourgeoisie the only rational candidate for the working class.
13
I would like to add my voice to the chorus of those who think this article is at best misguided, and at worst a thinly veiled attempt to cast doubt and thwart Sanders candidacy.
But I'm not buying it for a minute. People are ANGRY, they are upset, are fed up with a political system that jerks us around like puppets and then goes off to serve the interests of the powerful at the expense of the governed once elected.
I like Hillary very much, and think she could do a lot of good for the country, certainly when compared to the GOP clown car -- racist, theocratic, and at the beck and call of the puppet masters. But she often comes across as stiff, formal, and very much a politician.
One further comment I might like to make. Again, while a great deal may happen between now and election season, pundits who rely on the liberal-conservative spectrum for their analyses may be in for a surprise. Unless some great public movement occurs, "social issues" that forced much of the polarization of the electorate is collapsing...at a record pace. If that truly happens, the old liberal/conservative divide is history, and the election is going to solely on the issues of the economy and the middle class.
If that were to materialize, Bernie is the right man at the right time.
But I'm not buying it for a minute. People are ANGRY, they are upset, are fed up with a political system that jerks us around like puppets and then goes off to serve the interests of the powerful at the expense of the governed once elected.
I like Hillary very much, and think she could do a lot of good for the country, certainly when compared to the GOP clown car -- racist, theocratic, and at the beck and call of the puppet masters. But she often comes across as stiff, formal, and very much a politician.
One further comment I might like to make. Again, while a great deal may happen between now and election season, pundits who rely on the liberal-conservative spectrum for their analyses may be in for a surprise. Unless some great public movement occurs, "social issues" that forced much of the polarization of the electorate is collapsing...at a record pace. If that truly happens, the old liberal/conservative divide is history, and the election is going to solely on the issues of the economy and the middle class.
If that were to materialize, Bernie is the right man at the right time.
10
Yes yes, he is. Wonderful. The most progressive fellow. But Mrs. Clinton is what all of us should hope for, I think. One day and progress at a time. Or no. Not aligned to other than anecdotally to anyone.
Mr Cohn, since you seem to like to play with charts and percentages, how about examining what percentage of eligible American voters - Republican, Democrat, or otherwise, agree with the major positions Bernie Sanders is running on? Or would that be too scary to the establishment candidates and their corporate supporters?
15
There comes a time when The People have had enough with the Lies, the Cheating, the Stealing from American workers. This may be that time, NY TIMES. You may want Hillary very, very badly, as is obvious from the several articles almost daily about her, but this may well be her undoing. Trying to force her upon us, when we want Ethics, Truth, Healthy Ecology, Water Safety, Food Chains Safety - you may just find that we do what we know is right. VOTE for BERNIE! If he is not on the ballot, I will write him in.
Reinstate Glass-Steagall. Overturn Citizens United. Support Green Energy and Organic Resources. Vote for Ethical Candidates to serve in our Congress and in the White House.
Reinstate Glass-Steagall. Overturn Citizens United. Support Green Energy and Organic Resources. Vote for Ethical Candidates to serve in our Congress and in the White House.
17
Typical, transparent, nyt wish fulfillmemt-type article. Conceited conventional wisdom served up as fact. This kind of trash punditry, plainly dispensed with the intent to contribute to a self fulfilling dynamic, will seem "true" only until it's not. Another perspective: Who has more percentage support per campaign dollar spent. The funny thing is that Sanders is actually much more aligned with the idealistic/progressive viewpoints issued by the Times' editorial board. I realize there is a division between the news and editorial side, but this "news" piece is so heavy handed that its editorial-type agenda is plain for all to see.
12
Above everything else I hear the sound of hammers being used to drive nails in a political coffin
5
Media uses the terms "left" "right" and "center" as calibrated on a yardstick of politicians, not the people. Polls show Sanders is dead center on the issues with the majority of people. The yardstick for politicians is skewed right by big money.
13
'There aren't many reasons' to say Mr. Sanders will not 'break through' and pip Ms. Clinton in the primaries. The less liberals on whose "less" the writer depends to prop up his arguments that Sanders may not gather more support than he already has to overtake Hillary are all likely to be more liberal after hearing what Sanders has been saying. They seem to be "less" liberal because so far there has been none who projected what they had in mind. In all likelihood, now that Sanders who is vocalising what has been in their hearts and minds for a long time has entered the Democratic primaries arena after many years. the "less" liberals will grasp at this opportunity to back him. They will indubitably vote for him because helping a person like him occupy the White House is the best chance for them to see their ideas being implemented. They will all vote for Bernie to uphold true democracy. And Bernie's declaration that if elected he will include a progressive economist like Paul Krugman in his cabinet shows that he intends to implement what he promises. And he has proved his credibility as the Governor of Vermont. Vote for Bernie to defeat plutocracy that is raising its dangerous hood in America. Vote for Bernie to defeat the dynastic tendency in American politics. Vote for Bernie to uphold genuine democracy. America cries for a real democrat like Bernie to be at its helm.
V.M.Mohanraj, India
V.M.Mohanraj, India
8
The author is mistaken. Most of the conservative Dems left the party. I think the author is a member of the Establishment ( or an aspiring member) and desperately seeks to derail a Sanders candidacy. I think the elctorate is going to be quite different than in the past and Sanders has a better chance of winning the general election than Hillary. Anyone for who Sanders is liberal will see Clinton as too liberal also and vote Republican.
10
This nominally Muslim Iranian-American thinks that it's time for America to have a Jewish President. Sure, it would be good to have a female President first, but seriously, is there anyone who trusts HRC? Now, if Elizabeth Warren were running, I would vote for her.
16
People love Bernie because he can articulate this vision and goals in clear, concise language. He never wavers: moreover he never obfuscates either.
That said, he still remains a novelty. He's drawing crowds because he's new, blunt in fresh. In a very odd way you can compare him to Trump: unfiltered, non-edited, direct. Both candidates appeal to the most passionate of their base. If course, Trump is brash and offensive while Bernie is plainspoken but firm.
But the problem with Bernie is his lack of experience on the world stage. I can't picture him in the oval office...or on international trips. He still projects the passion of an adolescent who yearns to change the world. But unless he can broaden his base, he can't go far. Our system of elections is broken: we all know thst. Money rules.
I just hope he doesn't attempt a 3rd part run. Too much is at stake in 2016.
That said, he still remains a novelty. He's drawing crowds because he's new, blunt in fresh. In a very odd way you can compare him to Trump: unfiltered, non-edited, direct. Both candidates appeal to the most passionate of their base. If course, Trump is brash and offensive while Bernie is plainspoken but firm.
But the problem with Bernie is his lack of experience on the world stage. I can't picture him in the oval office...or on international trips. He still projects the passion of an adolescent who yearns to change the world. But unless he can broaden his base, he can't go far. Our system of elections is broken: we all know thst. Money rules.
I just hope he doesn't attempt a 3rd part run. Too much is at stake in 2016.
9
They said the same thing about Obama vs Clinton in 2007-08 and again in 2012 with Obaba vs Romney.
A liberal can't win. He's too radical. Americans are conservative etc. And yet Obama won twice convincingly and no one should be surprised by a Sanders victory. The pundits and pollsters have gotten it wrong for nearly a decade. Some Republicans still refuse to accept the reality that Romney's prognosticators were completely wrong. As Bill Maher says it's inside the bubble thinking and the Hillary camp and many pundits suffer from it too.
A liberal can't win. He's too radical. Americans are conservative etc. And yet Obama won twice convincingly and no one should be surprised by a Sanders victory. The pundits and pollsters have gotten it wrong for nearly a decade. Some Republicans still refuse to accept the reality that Romney's prognosticators were completely wrong. As Bill Maher says it's inside the bubble thinking and the Hillary camp and many pundits suffer from it too.
7
I've noticed that, when people read an opinion that they agree with, they declare it's the truth.
1
Bernie Sanders is not as famous as Hillary Clinton. That is literally the biggest thing in his way. These other demographics simply don't know who he is. Plain and simple. I think this article's title is irresponsible. I'm a non white voter and to me he's an obvious choice. Anyone who hears this man speak and has a brain that functions to at least 5% capacity will see why he is the most hopeful candidate for change certainly in my lifetime. Void of corporate and billionaire interests.
These labels: Moderate, Liberal, Conservative. They are names no longer correctly defined. From my understanding Bernie is breaking down these labels by simply saying what is BEST for America despite your political affiliation. He expands the imagination of what Americans should expect from Government knowing that this is the most wealthiest nation in all of world history! If you listen to him and use a little common sense, despite divisive topics that the country is split on based on main stream media perpetuating them, most of us agree on the most fundamental issues facing our nation. Guess what? You can be a republican and still stay a republican by not voting for a "republican". It's called putting the right person for the job in office based on historical needs, not based on labels and stubborn ego based loyalties. His whole point is that if people stop following the false narratives that have been laid out by purchased reps and dems, and just look at the facts, they would vote for him.
These labels: Moderate, Liberal, Conservative. They are names no longer correctly defined. From my understanding Bernie is breaking down these labels by simply saying what is BEST for America despite your political affiliation. He expands the imagination of what Americans should expect from Government knowing that this is the most wealthiest nation in all of world history! If you listen to him and use a little common sense, despite divisive topics that the country is split on based on main stream media perpetuating them, most of us agree on the most fundamental issues facing our nation. Guess what? You can be a republican and still stay a republican by not voting for a "republican". It's called putting the right person for the job in office based on historical needs, not based on labels and stubborn ego based loyalties. His whole point is that if people stop following the false narratives that have been laid out by purchased reps and dems, and just look at the facts, they would vote for him.
56
It appears Mr. Cohn has broken the bad news--there is no Santa Claus (well, at least not in the White House in the foreseeable future.)
While this may seem blatantly obvious to the inhabitants of planet earth, the core NY Times readership seems to be having trouble digesting that bit of news. Never surprising, but always amazing.
While this may seem blatantly obvious to the inhabitants of planet earth, the core NY Times readership seems to be having trouble digesting that bit of news. Never surprising, but always amazing.
2
Here is a link to Bernie Sander's explanation of his being a "Socialist". It's likely something even a moderate Democrat might agree with it.
http://onpolitics.usatoday.com/2015/07/08/qa-with-bernie-sanders-what-he...
http://onpolitics.usatoday.com/2015/07/08/qa-with-bernie-sanders-what-he...
7
Republicans say Obama is a Socialist. That fared well among the uneducated simple minded people who live off sound bites. We all know Obama is not a Socialist. In fact, Reagan was farther to the left than Obama ever was.
Bernie Sanders is not a socialist either. He's a social democrat. His philosophy is similar to those implemented in Europe. The problem is not Brrnie's policies,but the implementation of those policies. Is America going to look like Sweden or Greece? That's the million dollar question.
Bernie Sanders is not a socialist either. He's a social democrat. His philosophy is similar to those implemented in Europe. The problem is not Brrnie's policies,but the implementation of those policies. Is America going to look like Sweden or Greece? That's the million dollar question.
2
This generation of pundits have never encountered an honest politician before so they cannot fathom the idea that Bernie Sanders could win the nomination, and the presidency by merely telling the truth. Don't write him off just yet.
14
I don't care what Mr.Cohen thinks. I well never vote for Hilary, I will
vote for Mr.Sanders if he can get on the ballot. I am a 72 year old woman
who used to believe hope was possible. Now, I've seen too much. know
too much and believe our country is in big trouble. Hope Bernie can take it
all the way.
vote for Mr.Sanders if he can get on the ballot. I am a 72 year old woman
who used to believe hope was possible. Now, I've seen too much. know
too much and believe our country is in big trouble. Hope Bernie can take it
all the way.
15
Polls show the majority of the public share Sander's stands on the issues. He's not "left" he's bullseye center. The right and bought-off "objective" media have been calling the public center "left" for so long journalists have begun to believe their own propaganda. To big money, everything but their theft is "left," and that's what happens to people after big money has drained them dry, they're just...left.
63
My suspicion is the voters (those who will actually vote) will give credence to the news media and their fear mongering. They will vote for the "anointed" ones in each of their parties and then complain for the next four years. The oligarchs dictate who they want to run this country. They have nothing but disdain for the middle class. They will demonize Bernie Sanders every chance they get just as they have with President Obama. If you recall, the "tools" of the oligarchs proclaimed America will be devastated with his presidency. He's done a pretty good job and could have done so much better if his detractors stopped saying "NO" so often.
7
No, no,no! Not another article about Bernie Sanders through the lens of Hilary Clinton. Enough already. NYT PLEASE - just say no!
How about articles about moderates who lean Republican (like me, for example) who plan to vote for Sanders?
I only agree with him on 1/2 his platform but that's the stuff that gives us the best shot of fixing our corrupt, sclerotic political system.
I yearn for an honest leader who isn't owned by anything other than his principles.
How about articles about moderates who lean Republican (like me, for example) who plan to vote for Sanders?
I only agree with him on 1/2 his platform but that's the stuff that gives us the best shot of fixing our corrupt, sclerotic political system.
I yearn for an honest leader who isn't owned by anything other than his principles.
16
Bernie is a conservative. He wants to conserve the middle class, and
therefore, conserve the country. I'm voting for "the conservative."
therefore, conserve the country. I'm voting for "the conservative."
11
What Nate doesn't factor in is the deep distrust Democrats of all shades have of Hillary.
No one knows who the Real Hillary is. Maybe not even Hillary because she has worn so many disguises (what she is doing right now is a fair impersonation of Elizabeth Warren, but it's falling flat). There isn't a genuine bone in her body.
Folks are sick of Wall Street, sick of Hollywood executives, sick of businesses that love the TPP, tired of pointless foreign wars. Hillary -- who I will vote for in the general if she is the only Dem on the ballot -- is more of the same.
Bernie gives all of us disaffected voters a place to go and I (we) will support him as long as he is on the ballot. I no longer have faith in the American electorate (the great unwashed) and Bernie may indeed go down. But he'll go down with my donations and my vote and that's all that matters to me.
Pity Nate didn't talk to (or quote) any real people.
No one knows who the Real Hillary is. Maybe not even Hillary because she has worn so many disguises (what she is doing right now is a fair impersonation of Elizabeth Warren, but it's falling flat). There isn't a genuine bone in her body.
Folks are sick of Wall Street, sick of Hollywood executives, sick of businesses that love the TPP, tired of pointless foreign wars. Hillary -- who I will vote for in the general if she is the only Dem on the ballot -- is more of the same.
Bernie gives all of us disaffected voters a place to go and I (we) will support him as long as he is on the ballot. I no longer have faith in the American electorate (the great unwashed) and Bernie may indeed go down. But he'll go down with my donations and my vote and that's all that matters to me.
Pity Nate didn't talk to (or quote) any real people.
11
And this is leaving aside any of the other plausible reasons — electability, experience — for preferring Mrs. Clinton.
What experience? You mean the experience that informed her decision to vote for the Iraq war? Her lack of judgement and informed historical perspective on that folly automatically disqualifies her from any serious consideration for president in my book.
"It’s primarily a problem with moderate and less educated Democrats,"
Maybe moderate and less educated are one and the same thing. Anyone who gets hung up on on Bernie's "socialist" self-identification is getting lost in the Cold War era propagandist baggage of the word. Socialism in his case means a system where government is looking out for the general citizenry. Republicans are pushing for a system, clothed in Libertarian ideals, that allow the monied elite running corporations/hedge funds/et al to dictate policy for the sole purpose of profits, not the well being of the electorate. And frankly a good many Democrats are feebly mumbling protest at this while they "compromise" and acquiesce in exchange for some quid pro quo pork project that gets them elected again. Hillary is in that camp. Ask yourself, who would be more likely to have prosecuted financial executives in the 2008 fraud-fest, Bernie or Hillary? And I really wonder, why Is Nate Cohn trying to tell us Bernie can't win?
What experience? You mean the experience that informed her decision to vote for the Iraq war? Her lack of judgement and informed historical perspective on that folly automatically disqualifies her from any serious consideration for president in my book.
"It’s primarily a problem with moderate and less educated Democrats,"
Maybe moderate and less educated are one and the same thing. Anyone who gets hung up on on Bernie's "socialist" self-identification is getting lost in the Cold War era propagandist baggage of the word. Socialism in his case means a system where government is looking out for the general citizenry. Republicans are pushing for a system, clothed in Libertarian ideals, that allow the monied elite running corporations/hedge funds/et al to dictate policy for the sole purpose of profits, not the well being of the electorate. And frankly a good many Democrats are feebly mumbling protest at this while they "compromise" and acquiesce in exchange for some quid pro quo pork project that gets them elected again. Hillary is in that camp. Ask yourself, who would be more likely to have prosecuted financial executives in the 2008 fraud-fest, Bernie or Hillary? And I really wonder, why Is Nate Cohn trying to tell us Bernie can't win?
57
i've read about 50 of the comments posted.....49 acknowledge bernie sanders as a viable candidate. i can't think of one nyt article about him that wasn't disparaging on one level or another. stop! time to remove the heads from the sand and open your eyes to clearly see that bernie sanders is the ONLY candidate that walks his talk and exudes integrity. truly, the others are all a sham, including, i am sorry to say, hillary. she is part of the corporate system that is destoying this country. the debates will tell the tale.
14
Just tired of 'sure thing' Democrats. We had 'Sure Thing' Kerry. Last year we had 'Sure Thing' Braley for the Senate in Iowa and look what happened. "Sure Thing" Clinton---tired out has been, more like it. Give us more choices.
6
Gene Mc Carthy was supposed to get 7 percent of the vote in New Hampshire. He won over 40 percent. The chances of progressives are always minimized and scoffed at. I will take this author's comments with a grain of salt.
Furthermore, the author is using some increasingly anachronistic measures of voters' affiliations. He said, for example, that Black Voters were among the least "liberal" in the dem party and hence less likely to go to Bernie. But how is he defining liberal, a broad and unwieldy term that always confuses debate. Re Black Voters: Perhaps they are less liberally socially, but on economic issues it is in their interest to be receptive to Sander's message because they're not flush with cash. And so on a traditional left right axis re economic interests, I think Blacks would tilt to the left and could be a big boon to Bernie.
Furthermore, the author is using some increasingly anachronistic measures of voters' affiliations. He said, for example, that Black Voters were among the least "liberal" in the dem party and hence less likely to go to Bernie. But how is he defining liberal, a broad and unwieldy term that always confuses debate. Re Black Voters: Perhaps they are less liberally socially, but on economic issues it is in their interest to be receptive to Sander's message because they're not flush with cash. And so on a traditional left right axis re economic interests, I think Blacks would tilt to the left and could be a big boon to Bernie.
5
Bernie Sanders may not yet have all the demographics of the Democratic Party lined up, but he has fire in his belly. Hillary Clinton may have a lead, but she has no fire.
53
I'm a registered "independent" voter inside the DC beltway. I've voted liberal in nearly every election since I turned eighteen some thirteen years ago. Never before have I declared party affiliation for the purpose of voting in a primary. If Bernie does not stray from his message (which I'm sure her won't), I'll be sure to update my voter registration sooner rather than later.
7
The generation of the 60's is old and dying off. Bob Dylan has become just another businessman. Joan Baez was reduced to dating Steve Jobs. Bernie gives a pretty good summary of what the 60's were all about.
1
Thank you! It 's very important to tell us that it is business as usual, that the voter doesn't know anything and the person with the most money wins.
Thank you. Thank you. I can't thank you enough.
Thank you. Thank you. I can't thank you enough.
10
Strictly a stalking horse -- vetted and approved by Team Pantsuit -- for the express purpose of raising, addressing, co-opting and, thus, neutering any possible traction issues dear to the Warren-progressive wing of the party might gain in advance of the early primaries.
3
Hate to paraphrase the outstanding Socialist of the last century - but sometimes its better to vote for 85% of what you want and get it than vote for 100% of what you want and not get it.
Many commenters are missing the point of this article - which is that most Democrats aren't as liberal or progressive as Bernie-supporting NYT commenters. You guys live in a silo of Bernie underdog media. I love reading Salon too, but lets face facts, he's not sweeping EVERYONE off their feet.
I am supporting Hillary because, while I respect Bernie's public service, I don't think running the city of Burlington, VT qualifies you to run the country. I'm ready to cast my vote for the candidate who I believe will do the best job and also brings a woman's voice and perspective to the office, something I would have never believed would take until my mid 30s to see.
I'm an active party member and will knock on doors for all our candidates no matter who they are. What troubles me about this whole primary is seeing 75 people recommend a comment that basically says, "don't vote" if Bernie loses. I live in a state struggling under Scott Walker's government destruction. Are some of you "progressives" really considering not voting for a Dem if it isn't Sanders? Come visit...see if you'd like to see how his "reforms" might play out on a national level.
I am supporting Hillary because, while I respect Bernie's public service, I don't think running the city of Burlington, VT qualifies you to run the country. I'm ready to cast my vote for the candidate who I believe will do the best job and also brings a woman's voice and perspective to the office, something I would have never believed would take until my mid 30s to see.
I'm an active party member and will knock on doors for all our candidates no matter who they are. What troubles me about this whole primary is seeing 75 people recommend a comment that basically says, "don't vote" if Bernie loses. I live in a state struggling under Scott Walker's government destruction. Are some of you "progressives" really considering not voting for a Dem if it isn't Sanders? Come visit...see if you'd like to see how his "reforms" might play out on a national level.
20
Sanders is a "socialist"? That's hilarious! His views and ideals are old-school, core Democratic values. It's been quite awhile since we've heard them uttered by Democrat which is likely why you became confused.
99
Mr. Cohn, you may not be experienced enough to see the broader landscape. Bernie, on the other hand, is not afraid to go anywhere. He is even bolder than Barack Obama. More people (statistics to you) want truth, not invective. The man is going places, literally and figuratively. And perhaps the media is going to give him a hand, even if it is a little backhanded.
4
Hmmmm. So the corporate media don't think a Democratic Socialist like Bernie Sanders can do anything. What a surprise. It really makes me want to vote for that Democratic Socialist, especially since his suggested policies tag him as a centrist Republican during the Eisenhower Administration. Yeah, he's way too radical, even though large majorities of Americans agree with him on almost every individual issue.
8
"This might seem surprising if you live in a liberal enclave like Madison, Wis., or in places along the coasts," ... or the NY Times comments sections. Very pro-Sanders, very highly educated progressive people on here.
5
Even if Bernie Sanders doesn't get the nomination, I would still get quite a bit of satisfaction in knowing he had all the 1%ers, bankers,multinationals,corporate lobbyists, big money political contributers and assorted political hacks zealously guarding their privileged access to power tossing and turning in their sleep and waking up in a cold sweat.
36
Nate. You are not so great. But how could you be, there's so much you didn't see and haven't read. His Times highness before us, Walter Lippman, calling FDR a lightweight feather duster with no realistic chance. Jack Kennedy written off as too young, inexperienced and catholic. Forget Jimmy Carter, a Southerner?! Read Tony Schwartz's the Responsive Chord, boy. Bernie is talking to America. I think Nate, you are going to be embarrassed by this for life, Nate. But let's talk in terms you understand. Let's bet. Put some money on it. Two months ago Ladbrokes offered me 60 to 1 odds that Bernie wouldn't be the nominee. Now, it's 8 to 1. Something is happening here and I'm sorry but you'd have to be an old timer (not 26) to see it clear.
8
Seeing as how we are being election-science propeller-heads, here is a critical fact that every candidate knows. Entire campaigns are based around this.
One of the biggest reasons (if not THE biggest reason) why anyone votes for a particular candidate is because, in the exact words of pollsters, "he cares about people like you and me."
This is a big reason why Mitt Romney lost. He was out of touch. This is a big reason why Bill Clinton won twice. He feels your pain. This is why is was such a big deal that Bush senior couldn't recognize a supermarket scanner. Or that Kerry that went windsurfing and looked like a fool in hunting garb.
This is why HRC is making such a big deal out of her hokey, contrived "listening tour," and why she always finds some single mother named Sally May Jones from Podunk, Ohio to quote in her speeches.
Quiz time: who seems more in touch with real people, Bernie or HRC? Not sure? Read the comments here. Bernie's message hits home for many. Hillary seems phony and out of touch. Strange that election-scientist Cohn doesn't get this.
One of the biggest reasons (if not THE biggest reason) why anyone votes for a particular candidate is because, in the exact words of pollsters, "he cares about people like you and me."
This is a big reason why Mitt Romney lost. He was out of touch. This is a big reason why Bill Clinton won twice. He feels your pain. This is why is was such a big deal that Bush senior couldn't recognize a supermarket scanner. Or that Kerry that went windsurfing and looked like a fool in hunting garb.
This is why HRC is making such a big deal out of her hokey, contrived "listening tour," and why she always finds some single mother named Sally May Jones from Podunk, Ohio to quote in her speeches.
Quiz time: who seems more in touch with real people, Bernie or HRC? Not sure? Read the comments here. Bernie's message hits home for many. Hillary seems phony and out of touch. Strange that election-scientist Cohn doesn't get this.
9
This is an attempt by the Grey Lady to damped support for Sanders, pure and simple.
Bernie will win Iowa and New Hampshire.
And then Hillary will panic. And probably go very negative on Bernie.
And Democrats will see the measure of her character.
And they will see that she is wanting.
Badly.
Bernie will win Iowa and New Hampshire.
And then Hillary will panic. And probably go very negative on Bernie.
And Democrats will see the measure of her character.
And they will see that she is wanting.
Badly.
7
I am a moderate. I will also most certainly be voting for Mr Sanders.
7
Neither Sanders nor Clinton will get the nomination.
1
Ready to kill every pol that panders?!
Vote for the truth. Vote Bernie Sanders.
Vote for the truth. Vote Bernie Sanders.
5
Bernie knows he's not going to win. I think that Bernie looked back over his life and decided that as a matter of principle he was obligated to run to let the American people know that there is a reasonable alternative to the "mainstream" parties. We may not see this change in our lifetime, but as Kennedy said, "let us begin."
22
The Times seems determined to bury Bernie Sanders. If he has the opportunity to present his policy ideas to a large enough audience, he may surprise the pundits who are writing him off.
8
Second NYT piece in less than a week practically screaming that he has no chance. Worried much?
6
So long as the press keeps just referring to him as a "socialist" we can keep the coronation march moving and get the Oval Office back into the hands of one of our two anointed families.
If anyone in the middle wants to pause and listen to what Sanders says and look at his record as a Senator, they might be surprised to find how much they agree with him.
If anyone in the middle wants to pause and listen to what Sanders says and look at his record as a Senator, they might be surprised to find how much they agree with him.
78
"Wow! I really like that person! Their views hit home. They are honest. They keep it real. They're not like the others. I really want that person in the White House."
How many people say that about Bernie? A lot. Not everyone, it's true. But a lot. Just read the comments.
How many people say that about HRC?
(sound of crickets chirping)
THAT is what Mr. Cohn fails to realize.
How many people say that about Bernie? A lot. Not everyone, it's true. But a lot. Just read the comments.
How many people say that about HRC?
(sound of crickets chirping)
THAT is what Mr. Cohn fails to realize.
8
Reagan upended the political landscape in large part by winning over so-called "Reagan Democrats," white working class men who no longer felt like they received enough attention from the Democratic establishment.
There's evidence to suggest Bernie Sanders, who is posed to lead a similar political upheaval as Reagan, only in the opposite direction, would be able to win many of these voters back. Source: http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2015/07/08/how-socialist-bernie-sa...
There's evidence to suggest Bernie Sanders, who is posed to lead a similar political upheaval as Reagan, only in the opposite direction, would be able to win many of these voters back. Source: http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2015/07/08/how-socialist-bernie-sa...
4
Another lackeyed article written by the "authoritative" newspaper of this great plutocracy that calls itself a democracy. Bernie is part of a rich legacy of people in this country who have always stood up for democracy, for the rights of all people, and social and economic policies that actually represent the interests of a liberal society (review your 18th and 19th century English history/philosophy/political theory if you've forgotten the meaning of the term). Pointing out he's a long-shot is hardly provocative. Tell me something I don't already know! A more provocative piece would highlight the fact that the majority of this country doesn't vote and the likelihood of those potential voters becoming engaged increases with Sanders's involvement. Way to do your job: kiss the feet of those running the country.
3
Come on people Bernie is not trying to win the nomination, he's using the timing of the countries unhappiness with it's representatives to bring to light our grassroots demands with how we've been treated....The bottom line is he will get his planks at the convention.
I will vote for Bernie because his values are my values. Your article motivates me to make another donation.
5
This is the most disingenuous article in the NYT this year.
Saunders has a very good chance of trumping Clinton for one basic reason: he's authentic, she isn't, and everyone knows it.
Saunders has a very good chance of trumping Clinton for one basic reason: he's authentic, she isn't, and everyone knows it.
7
Senator Sanders must be doing pretty good - all of the columnists are saying how is day in the sun is over. The Hillary groupies must be nervous.
4
"Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure."
This is a load of bunk. She's bought and paid for by corporate and financial interests. She may be liberal on social issues, but she's corporate through and through and no economic liberal. Look at her donors. look at her service on the Wal-Mart Board of Directors in the 1980s and by all means look at her equivocation on the TPP and TTIP.
You can be a social liberal and still be a tool of the 1% and Hillary has mastered that positioning.
Deep down, she's still the little Goldwater girl she was in 1964.
This is a load of bunk. She's bought and paid for by corporate and financial interests. She may be liberal on social issues, but she's corporate through and through and no economic liberal. Look at her donors. look at her service on the Wal-Mart Board of Directors in the 1980s and by all means look at her equivocation on the TPP and TTIP.
You can be a social liberal and still be a tool of the 1% and Hillary has mastered that positioning.
Deep down, she's still the little Goldwater girl she was in 1964.
5
As social networks become more profuse, it becomes more and more difficult to predict which way the wind is going to blow, near-long-term. Sanders is resonating now in much the same way that Obama did on 2008; there is pent up demand for a POTUS that will DO what Obama promised he woudl do, and largely didn't. It ain't over til' it's ober!
2
Bernie Sanders is not on the left. He speaks for middle America. He is square in the middle of the concerns of the 99%. That's mainstream America.
96
Bernie Sanders is the Democratic Party's Donald Trump. He is basically unelectable because even a majority of Democratic voters can't palate his positions. But in response his ever-so-liberal supporters chant "he tells the truth". (Sounds so very much like the Trump mantra "he tells it like it is".
Well, Mr. Sanders does NOT tell his zealots the truth. He tells them THEIR truth. What Democrats must do to is figure out who is electable and who isn't. As McGovern learned years ago, you can be ultra-liberal or you can get elected and make substantive change. This is America, you can't do both.
Well, Mr. Sanders does NOT tell his zealots the truth. He tells them THEIR truth. What Democrats must do to is figure out who is electable and who isn't. As McGovern learned years ago, you can be ultra-liberal or you can get elected and make substantive change. This is America, you can't do both.
1
I think you vastly underrate Sanders' appeal. I say that as someone who probably would have been put off by the socialist label not so long ago. But the 2008 near-depression changed everything, and I think the Sanders message will resonate well beyond the constituency that is deemed "far left."
8
I think it would benefit all of us if presidential campaigning was limited to six months before the election.
We wouldn't have to listen to 16 months of idiocy from so many candidates, and Nate Cohn's forecasts would be limited to the immediate future with data that will of course change in the next day or so.
These forecasts are as empty as many of the presidential candidates.
We wouldn't have to listen to 16 months of idiocy from so many candidates, and Nate Cohn's forecasts would be limited to the immediate future with data that will of course change in the next day or so.
These forecasts are as empty as many of the presidential candidates.
6
It is very disturbing that the Times seems so determined to minimize Bernie Sanders, but devotes an entire editorial (today's) for Marco Rubio, writes a puff piece on the joke that is Rick Perry, and can't cover The Donald enough.
Bernie Sanders is talking about the things that are most important to the vast majority of us who do the living and dying in this country, and who for nearly thirty years now, cannot get ahead in Ronald Reagan's America. This tiny group of people in Congress does everything in its power, along with the SCOTUS, ALEC, the Kochs, the banks, the lobbyists, the SEC, and all the rest of their ilk to make everything even harder than it already is for so many Americans who do most of the heavy lifting in this country every day for less and less.
Go ahead, mock him, minimize him, and tell us all how stupid we are to vote for him. Let's see how it all really shakes out. Bernie Sanders may just be the only hope for honest, hard-working, decent Americans to get back on track and actually be part of the American experience and the American dream.
Hilary is an incredibly polarizing figure no matter how you feel about her. What are we left with? Bush III, Inc. and ALEC- and Koch-owned Scott Walker, who is truly the most dangerous candidate, as is evidenced by his all-out assault on the working class, and his latest secret sleaze move over the 4th of July weekend to end weekends for workers and block Wisconsin's open-records law.
Go Bernie, GO!
Bernie Sanders is talking about the things that are most important to the vast majority of us who do the living and dying in this country, and who for nearly thirty years now, cannot get ahead in Ronald Reagan's America. This tiny group of people in Congress does everything in its power, along with the SCOTUS, ALEC, the Kochs, the banks, the lobbyists, the SEC, and all the rest of their ilk to make everything even harder than it already is for so many Americans who do most of the heavy lifting in this country every day for less and less.
Go ahead, mock him, minimize him, and tell us all how stupid we are to vote for him. Let's see how it all really shakes out. Bernie Sanders may just be the only hope for honest, hard-working, decent Americans to get back on track and actually be part of the American experience and the American dream.
Hilary is an incredibly polarizing figure no matter how you feel about her. What are we left with? Bush III, Inc. and ALEC- and Koch-owned Scott Walker, who is truly the most dangerous candidate, as is evidenced by his all-out assault on the working class, and his latest secret sleaze move over the 4th of July weekend to end weekends for workers and block Wisconsin's open-records law.
Go Bernie, GO!
17
I wish the "fourth branch" of government would not waste it's time on silly articles like electability. Instead focus on what people stand for and corruption in politics, and maybe who is electable won't be a matter of money and backyard dealings but rather what is good for the country. You know Just a thought.
11
Never say never. His message (if people look past the "socialist" label) is genuine and should appeal to most of us who are being taken for a ride.
5
The Clinton campaign is so homogenously corporate. They're misreading the American electorate. Sanders's numbers are rising because, unlike Hillary, he speaks from his heart, not a script. When Jim Webb hits his stride, watch out.
3
The establishment starts to circle the wagons...
4
Nonsense. Clinton is a a Republican.
4
Someone at the Times really needs to study Vermont politics. I think too many New Yorkers assume we are all hippie liberals up here but no, just not the case. While Sanders was voted in with landslide numbers again and again, so were many Republican candidates across the state. Many middle-of-the-road voters up here in Vermont vote for Bernie. Why? Because one and all appreciate his candor, bluntness, compassion, and smarts. We trust the guy. And reading the comments here it seems so do many voters across the nation. Hilary is great and I respect tremendously her life of service, but Bernie is pretty great too, and not part of any tired machine, and it would be wise to not discount him at this stage.
90
Disclaimer: There's a Bernie Sanders for President sign on my lawn.
What I can't forgive Hillary for was her refusal to stand in the way of our calamitous entry into Iraq. I knew that Bush and his clique were lying, and essentially I'm a nobody. At the center of power, she ought to have known they were lying, and I imagine she did. She was one of the few people who could have stopped the war if she had had the courage. The result is hundreds of thousands dead or maimed, millions displaced, and the daily feed of dreadful news out of the Middle East and Africa.
With Hillary, it's always calculation in place of passion, ambition before principle.
Time for Bernie Sanders.
What I can't forgive Hillary for was her refusal to stand in the way of our calamitous entry into Iraq. I knew that Bush and his clique were lying, and essentially I'm a nobody. At the center of power, she ought to have known they were lying, and I imagine she did. She was one of the few people who could have stopped the war if she had had the courage. The result is hundreds of thousands dead or maimed, millions displaced, and the daily feed of dreadful news out of the Middle East and Africa.
With Hillary, it's always calculation in place of passion, ambition before principle.
Time for Bernie Sanders.
9
Bernie Sanders is squarely where the Democratic Party used to be. If the party is smart, it will shift over to his position and make clear the distinction between the insane GOP slate and the Democrats.
7
It is depressing to see so many people here proudly proclaim they will vote for Sanders but never for Hillary Clinton. These same people will be right here complaining when the elected republican president invades Iran, and appoints two more Supreme Court Justices who roll back everything they believe in.
Victory and controlling the White House is critical given that the republicans may still be in control of both the Senate and Congress after the 2016 election. This is no time to prove how liberal you are or how much Hillary offends you.
If your refusal to vote for Hillary allows a republican to become president, you might as well have voted republican, and I can assure you it won't take you more than a year to regret your decision. Nor should you complain about any move a President Walker, Bush or Trump makes.
Victory and controlling the White House is critical given that the republicans may still be in control of both the Senate and Congress after the 2016 election. This is no time to prove how liberal you are or how much Hillary offends you.
If your refusal to vote for Hillary allows a republican to become president, you might as well have voted republican, and I can assure you it won't take you more than a year to regret your decision. Nor should you complain about any move a President Walker, Bush or Trump makes.
28
I see lots of articles like this that say Bernie cannot win, but I disagree. The primaries have a lot to do with mobilization, and that's exactly what his internet campaign is doing. Links explaining how to register to vote in the primaries are viral among his supporters. I have just received my registration as a democrat and have the date of the election written on my calendar. I don't think Hillary supporters will make it to the primary polls in such great numbers. She's a centrist, and as a centrist she does not have the edge when it comes to making people exceptionally enthusiastic.
There's a great quote about the New York Times. It goes something like "the dentist says I've been grinding my teeth, but I knew I hadn't as I was sleeping. My wife stayed up all night to make sure and vouched for me. Sure enough the next morning I opened up the New York Times and found the culprit."
There's a great quote about the New York Times. It goes something like "the dentist says I've been grinding my teeth, but I knew I hadn't as I was sleeping. My wife stayed up all night to make sure and vouched for me. Sure enough the next morning I opened up the New York Times and found the culprit."
1
What did the New York Times say about the Obama campaign when it first challenged Hillary for the nomination? Pretty much the same thing it's saying now about Sanders. Obama hit the stone wall of the "rank and file" of the Democratic electorate and ran through it. And no matter how much Socialism they try and stick to Sanders, he's directly addressing the things people are outraged by: the intransigence of the rich; the realization that the congress is nothing more than a collection of corporate lackeys for sale; the refusal to address climate change. Stick around, Mr. Cohn, people might surprise you.
5
Cohn (mis-) writes "Whether Mr. Sanders can close the gap among these voters will determine the seriousness of his candidacy." He's wrong. Mr. Sanders IS a serious candidate, a very serious one. Whether or not he is likely to win the nomination is a different question and has noting whatsoever to do with his seriousness and the seriousness of his candidacy. He conflates seriousness with likelihood of winning. They are not the same thing; they don't mean the same thing. He should use the word "threat" or "electability," not seriousness.
7
Hillary Clinton a liberal by any measure? I don't think so. She supported the Iraq War. She's cozy with Wall Street and the Israel lobby. If she gets the nomination, I'll vote for her, but I would so prefer Bernie.
5
Obama beat Clinton because people felt he was the real thing and that Clinton would say anything to get elected. Now we know better what is authentic, and that is what Sanders has shown for years. The American people, and that includes you, can make mistakes but they do care for an honest man, and that makes Bernie Sanders unbeatable. If you saw that there was a really strong chance of Sanders getting elected, I think you would be for him, not some compromise choice like Clinton.
4
Oh yeah??
I hope Bernie Sanders wins the primary. I hope he's elected President.
But -- as Mr. Sanders has pointed out -- he's only one man.
If we want to see Sanders' 12-point agenda unfold, and the American dream to rise from the ashes, it'll be up to us voters to keep on voting and clean house in Congress.
So much for Sanders' lack of momentum, Mr. Cohn.
I hope Bernie Sanders wins the primary. I hope he's elected President.
But -- as Mr. Sanders has pointed out -- he's only one man.
If we want to see Sanders' 12-point agenda unfold, and the American dream to rise from the ashes, it'll be up to us voters to keep on voting and clean house in Congress.
So much for Sanders' lack of momentum, Mr. Cohn.
5
Nate,
One thing you missed: we're all bored stiff with Hillary. Bernie is sending waves of excitement through the liberal base. Hillary can't win with an apathetic voter base.
One thing you missed: we're all bored stiff with Hillary. Bernie is sending waves of excitement through the liberal base. Hillary can't win with an apathetic voter base.
5
I guess based on this article from the NY Times, which is owned by a corporation is supporting the democrat who supports corporations and WallStreet. Funny the NY Times said something similar when Hillary ran against a little know candidate called Obama!
5
Wait for the debates. Bernie has the knowledge and experience as well as truth and facts on his side. He will trounce all of his opponents and let's hope the electorate (99% of who will benefit from his policies) will understand and appreciate it.
6
A politician who champions labor over capital, wages that match inflation, a you-play-you-pay plan for the subsidized 1% and its abuse of the infrastructure, universal health care, the refinancing of student loans, and other overdue benefits to the middle class and working poor, i.e. the real laborers and taxpayers, coupled with with the raspy and tired throat and stooped shoulders to show for it all, and...
...he's deemed a radical.
The US firmly is a right wing nation, and it shows; the one finding of the American Experiment is that conservatism is beneficial only to a very tiny handful of people.
Good luck, Senator Sanders, and keep on keepin' on.
...he's deemed a radical.
The US firmly is a right wing nation, and it shows; the one finding of the American Experiment is that conservatism is beneficial only to a very tiny handful of people.
Good luck, Senator Sanders, and keep on keepin' on.
38
It seems the Times has decided not to take Bernie Sanders seriously — to make him into a caricature. It kills him not with vitriol but with insidious distortions of his character and campaign. Why?
Is the Times so enmeshed with the powerful institutions of this country that it quakes whenever someone questions the established order? It seems so.
Is the Times so enmeshed with the powerful institutions of this country that it quakes whenever someone questions the established order? It seems so.
47
I would like to encourage responsible voters to look at where all of the candidates, Democrat or Republican, are getting money from. I saw where Sanders was getting money and this is the top reason why I am going to vote for him AND donate money. Should Clinton win the nomination, I will begrudgingly vote for her, but will not donate one dime to her already well-financed campaign. Sanders is just getting started: stay tuned, because I don't think Clinton has a chance...
31
What establishment a.k.a. corporate democrats fail to see in Bernie is his consistent honesty. People see it and they follow. I personally will always pick his raw honesty over Clinton's carefully manicured lies. This is a wishful article.
30
So the NY Times wants Clinton. What's new? I will be voting for Bernie Sanders and I will not support the other democratic party candidate.
26
There is absolutely no reason why people in the US cannot support a candidate like Bernie Sanders and yet the NY Times again does the whole process a complete disservice by painting him a socialist, with no chance. Hogwash. In whose pocket it the NY Times anyway? The US healthcare system is broken and the rest of the civilized/industrialized world, including Cuba, has much better access, better outcomes, including longer life spans in most cases, and at much lower costs. Income and opportunity inequality is at a all time high. Bernie Sanders speaks clearly about the need for such a healthcare system as he does about other important issues, including issues important to people of color, and has for years including putting words into action. Are any of the other candidates as consistent as he has been?
36
Something tells me he's going to eat these words.
Go Bernie!
Go Bernie!
19
Hillary better ask Bernie to be VP and fast, otherwise he is going to split votes and we'll almost certainly put a Republican in the White House. If that's the case, I can only hope it's Donald. Just for my own selfish curiosity, I'd like to see how much trouble he'd be able to cause as POTUS.
2
Bernie Sanders started a conversation about income inequality, banks & Wall St that this country needed to have. If that is all he did, he did us a service. If he maintains his momentum, he'll be a force in the primaries and debates. Feel the Bern !
18
I grew up in the sixties, and I still have ideals. Bernie Sanders has my vote.
22
Slip into some reality folks. Hillary is going to be the nominee. We need to keep the White House in the hands of Democrats. Bernie isn't a Democrat.
1
The same Sanders who was arrested marching for civil rights while Clinton was working for Goldwater, a republican, has no chance with minority voters? Please. Once people find out about Bernie, they love him. Go figure people like honesty.
32
Also, Bernie will be 75 on Election Day 2016. But his popularity suggests that some younger politician to the left of Mrs. Clinton ought to consider a run.
I'm not happy with Mrs. Clinton but I'm certainly not going to hire a fellow that will need a mid-day nap. He has to be up and running 24/7 and I'm fairly positive that will not happen with him.
Ronald Reagan fell asleep at the wheel? Certainly. But I must tell you, Bernie Sanders is no...Ronald Reagan.
Ronald Reagan fell asleep at the wheel? Certainly. But I must tell you, Bernie Sanders is no...Ronald Reagan.
2
If Bernie loses it won't be because he is labeled a socialist or whatever other category is mentioned in this article. It will be because of the ignorant voter.
17
Bernie Sanders is an interesting character with some interesting ideas. I am about as liberal as they come, but I am a realist. Even if by some major fluke he got elected he still has to work with congress to get his "magical unicorn" ideas passed. Presidents are not Emperors.
I think a lot of the people here live in a fairy tale land where Bernie can get elected--in my opinion big business will rip him to shreds with their Super Pacs and JEB! will pummel him--but if elected he can govern---we have absolutely no evidence of that. He's never done anything on the scale of even being governor--and he could some how force congress to agree with him. I might as well by a powerball ticket. It's more likely.
Meanwhile back on planet earth in a place called America...
The leftward fundamentalists are just as delusional as the rightward. And this running around pretending Bernie Sanders has some sort of magic bullet to clear up all of the intransigence by the GOP against Barack Obama is just a break from reality.
I think a lot of the people here live in a fairy tale land where Bernie can get elected--in my opinion big business will rip him to shreds with their Super Pacs and JEB! will pummel him--but if elected he can govern---we have absolutely no evidence of that. He's never done anything on the scale of even being governor--and he could some how force congress to agree with him. I might as well by a powerball ticket. It's more likely.
Meanwhile back on planet earth in a place called America...
The leftward fundamentalists are just as delusional as the rightward. And this running around pretending Bernie Sanders has some sort of magic bullet to clear up all of the intransigence by the GOP against Barack Obama is just a break from reality.
4
The media and other politicians are obviously miscalculating who Bernie Sanders supporters are.
I not a liberal and I'm definitely not a conservative. I consider myself as a "realist" who leans a little to the left. Reality #1: Nobody in government is currently doing anything to help regular Americans. I make a decent salary and still worry every day that I'm only a few missed pay checks or unexpected bills from not making it. Reality #2: Most DC politicians are so wealthy that they've never had to struggle just to "make it", so they cannot relate to regular Americans. Reality #3: Govt and Corps. are so intertwined and have made things it so difficult for regular Americans, that regular Americans are scared, angry, and tired. Reality #4: They say that they care, but their actions prove that they don't, at all.
THAT is why Bernie Sanders is getting the support he is from a lot of different types of regular Americans; not just Liberals. On my 2016 ballot, I was planning to write, "NONE OF THE ABOVE." Now, I'm going to vote for Bernie! Not because he says he's going to fight for the middle class. They all say that until they drink the DC Kool-aide. I'm voting for Bernie because fighting for regular Americans is what his whole political career has been about. He is simply the right person, with the right beliefs, at the right time in history, to inspire millions and hopefully to save the USA from what it is becoming!
I not a liberal and I'm definitely not a conservative. I consider myself as a "realist" who leans a little to the left. Reality #1: Nobody in government is currently doing anything to help regular Americans. I make a decent salary and still worry every day that I'm only a few missed pay checks or unexpected bills from not making it. Reality #2: Most DC politicians are so wealthy that they've never had to struggle just to "make it", so they cannot relate to regular Americans. Reality #3: Govt and Corps. are so intertwined and have made things it so difficult for regular Americans, that regular Americans are scared, angry, and tired. Reality #4: They say that they care, but their actions prove that they don't, at all.
THAT is why Bernie Sanders is getting the support he is from a lot of different types of regular Americans; not just Liberals. On my 2016 ballot, I was planning to write, "NONE OF THE ABOVE." Now, I'm going to vote for Bernie! Not because he says he's going to fight for the middle class. They all say that until they drink the DC Kool-aide. I'm voting for Bernie because fighting for regular Americans is what his whole political career has been about. He is simply the right person, with the right beliefs, at the right time in history, to inspire millions and hopefully to save the USA from what it is becoming!
36
Every time I vote, I experience the strangest thing.
I start to vote for the candidate whom I like the best.
Then a voice booms inside my head. "YOU MUST VOTE IN ACCORDANCE TO YOUR DEMOGRAPHIC!"
Shaken, I pull out a brightly colored map. I note where I live, my color, my gender, my age, my highest attained level of education, and my religion. Then I pray to the oracle of Cohn for divine guidance.
Then the voice booms again, between my ears, identifying in detail the candidate I must support. Against my will, I humbly vote the way I am supposed to.
This is how elections work. So the Times thinks.
I start to vote for the candidate whom I like the best.
Then a voice booms inside my head. "YOU MUST VOTE IN ACCORDANCE TO YOUR DEMOGRAPHIC!"
Shaken, I pull out a brightly colored map. I note where I live, my color, my gender, my age, my highest attained level of education, and my religion. Then I pray to the oracle of Cohn for divine guidance.
Then the voice booms again, between my ears, identifying in detail the candidate I must support. Against my will, I humbly vote the way I am supposed to.
This is how elections work. So the Times thinks.
19
" the only candidates who could threaten Mrs. Clinton’s path to the nomination would be ones who could break her grip on the party’s moderate wing."
I know somebody, named Hillary Clinton, who could do that. That's another reason for Bernie's popularity. He smells more like fresh air. Cohen's analysis is also troubled by something else. What is it that makes a "moderate" moderate these days? It is so easy to define? Maybe his demographic aprioris are too rigid to capture the dynamism of politics. Hillary Clinton wasn't always the hero of moderates before she ran for the Senate. The idea of her candidacy used to be something for "scary" feminists, not moderates. Things change, and Bernie likes to win.
I know somebody, named Hillary Clinton, who could do that. That's another reason for Bernie's popularity. He smells more like fresh air. Cohen's analysis is also troubled by something else. What is it that makes a "moderate" moderate these days? It is so easy to define? Maybe his demographic aprioris are too rigid to capture the dynamism of politics. Hillary Clinton wasn't always the hero of moderates before she ran for the Senate. The idea of her candidacy used to be something for "scary" feminists, not moderates. Things change, and Bernie likes to win.
5
The closing paragraph of your profile piece on July 3rd:
“I believe there was a lot of editorializing on philosophy,” Ms. Lake said. “At the time, we were thinking that the important thing in politics was to educate people, to get them to understand what was happening in the world, rather than to get elected.”
I think that that hasn't changed. Sanders's appeal is that he still cares deeply about getting people to understand what is happening in the world. He might be focused on that rather than actually winning -- but he's tended to win elections anyway.
“I believe there was a lot of editorializing on philosophy,” Ms. Lake said. “At the time, we were thinking that the important thing in politics was to educate people, to get them to understand what was happening in the world, rather than to get elected.”
I think that that hasn't changed. Sanders's appeal is that he still cares deeply about getting people to understand what is happening in the world. He might be focused on that rather than actually winning -- but he's tended to win elections anyway.
11
It's amazing how much energy the Times invests in trivializing both Sen. Sanders and those of us who support him. You'll be happy, will you, when you've hammered us sufficiently about little our ideas mean to the bulk of the Democratic Party that we realize that there is no point in our paricipation in the electoral farce?
28
Obviously, Mr. Cohn, like all experts on polls, you have no interest at all in ideas, only in counting poll responses.
Others have presented arguments suggesting that he could in fact win the Democratic nomination. I am not at all sure that they are cogent ones, and I have not yet seen any good arguments suggesting that he would have a good chance of winning the general election. But I don't think that's the real point. He has already expressed progressive ideas that have not been heard in a presidential campaign from a candidate with more than minuscule support in many years, going back perhaps to Norman Thomas.
If a solid movement organization carrying on this momentum were to develop out of his campaign, we would really be getting somewhere. Unfortunately, I have strong doubts that that would happen; Americans seem to have pretty much lost the ability to organize a wide-scale progressive movement that they used to have. But anything is possible, I suppose.
Others have presented arguments suggesting that he could in fact win the Democratic nomination. I am not at all sure that they are cogent ones, and I have not yet seen any good arguments suggesting that he would have a good chance of winning the general election. But I don't think that's the real point. He has already expressed progressive ideas that have not been heard in a presidential campaign from a candidate with more than minuscule support in many years, going back perhaps to Norman Thomas.
If a solid movement organization carrying on this momentum were to develop out of his campaign, we would really be getting somewhere. Unfortunately, I have strong doubts that that would happen; Americans seem to have pretty much lost the ability to organize a wide-scale progressive movement that they used to have. But anything is possible, I suppose.
9
If one actually listens to what mr Sanders is saying; actually listen, what one will hear is NOT radical at all, but is more Spock logical, and therefore , it makes perfect sense. He is addressing the issues as an adult who is smart and Logical. He is drawing crowds and surging inflation in the polls because those people are actually LISTENiNG to him, and hearing it. The real deal
74
rollie is correct; Sanders is the real deal. This is a problem for Hillary as she is seen as intelligent but untrustworthy
Rollie
What you have to say sounds true and is reminiscent of when Ross Perot, a friend of the office where I worked, declared his bid for the Presidency on the Independent ticket during the first Clinton Campaign.
The Democratic economist, my supervisor for nearly two decades, always held Mr. Perot in the greatest esteem, and his office members would rise to their feet to give him a warm welcome. He was a hero and remains so in my eyes today, the epitome of common sense and getting to the point, without loud fanfare.
Our vote had already been cast earlier for Mr. Clinton, none of us were to waver, and I remember my late uncle, an Officer and a Gentleman, addressing me on the candidacy of Mr. Perot. As I look at his dress cuffs this early morning, which he proudly wore at the inauguration of FDR, one of the finest highlights of his political life, I remained silent when he proposed to support the nomination of Mr. Perot, which was causing a divide among voters of all parties, especially the Democratic one.
Whether the NYT staff members wish to publish the following, I will leave it up to them. It was always Clinton for us, a rough beginning, and I listened to my boss explain to his friend why he was supporting the Democrat nominee. We never looked back and forged ahead, while remembering with honor the wisdom of Mr. Perot.
What you have to say sounds true and is reminiscent of when Ross Perot, a friend of the office where I worked, declared his bid for the Presidency on the Independent ticket during the first Clinton Campaign.
The Democratic economist, my supervisor for nearly two decades, always held Mr. Perot in the greatest esteem, and his office members would rise to their feet to give him a warm welcome. He was a hero and remains so in my eyes today, the epitome of common sense and getting to the point, without loud fanfare.
Our vote had already been cast earlier for Mr. Clinton, none of us were to waver, and I remember my late uncle, an Officer and a Gentleman, addressing me on the candidacy of Mr. Perot. As I look at his dress cuffs this early morning, which he proudly wore at the inauguration of FDR, one of the finest highlights of his political life, I remained silent when he proposed to support the nomination of Mr. Perot, which was causing a divide among voters of all parties, especially the Democratic one.
Whether the NYT staff members wish to publish the following, I will leave it up to them. It was always Clinton for us, a rough beginning, and I listened to my boss explain to his friend why he was supporting the Democrat nominee. We never looked back and forged ahead, while remembering with honor the wisdom of Mr. Perot.
1
In the early 2000’s, former Boston Globe sports columnist Michael Holley wrote the following of technocratic ex-Red Sox general manager, Dan Duquette : “It’s weird. He detects baseball things that we don't see and we understand life situations that escape him.” Ditto to Nate Cohn’s column on Bernie Sanders. Cohn gets the technical stuff, but his eyes are so submerged in the magnifying glass that he misses the self-evident earthquake that’s rumbling right under his feet. Even a child can see that this emperor – Bernie Sanders – is in fact wearing clothes.
48
...or more importantly that his opponent has no more substance than a finger to the wind, and everyone sees that!
People - this time, just vote AGAINST the money? This is really simple.
86
The map that laid out Obama's victories in the Southeast and compared his tally without that support was most insightful. The Iowa data showing Sanders significantly lagging Clinton in support by moderate was also very useful.
The rest of this column, however, was thinly sourced and doesn't take into account the appeal of many of Sanders's positions to a wide swath of middle class and less affluent voters. As well, Sanders has attracted support from veterans, who are already campaigning for him in South Carolina.
While I am far from certain that Sanders can win the Democratic nomination and acknowledge his limited resources relative to Clinton's, it is far too early to write him off.
The rest of this column, however, was thinly sourced and doesn't take into account the appeal of many of Sanders's positions to a wide swath of middle class and less affluent voters. As well, Sanders has attracted support from veterans, who are already campaigning for him in South Carolina.
While I am far from certain that Sanders can win the Democratic nomination and acknowledge his limited resources relative to Clinton's, it is far too early to write him off.
64
Another post that relies on the premise that Americans will always vote against their own best interests. Those who were predicting the outcome of the American Revolution probably would have made similar predictions about the average American's loyalty to the King. One of these days, enough voters will wake up and actually vote their true interests. The entire crew of plutocrats will be endangered----and Bernie Sanders (or another disrespected and disparaged leader who speaks the truth to power but is dismissed by the nation's closed-minded news media) will be leading the nation to a more fair and just life for every working American.
34
Whatever Bernie Sanders might be able to do, winning the general election is not one of those things. As long as Democrats nominate a viable candidate such as Mrs. Clinton, there is no way a Republican can win - the demographic and electoral math is now stacked too high against Republicans in the general election.
3
You don't get America at all! You're completely wrong. We're going to run a 50 state campaign and take them all thank you. Bernie Sanders right then a right now for America! I will vote Republican before I'll vote for Hillary there is not much difference far as I can see. Except she'll come after my guns.
Mrs. Clinton = viable? Almost choked on my food when I read that.
This isn't 1972, you know.
This isn't 1972, you know.
I have listened to his speeches and will try to hear everyone at some point. He seems to me to have an approach to economics based on the Robin Hood legend. It's appealing in a medieval monarchial society, but not in a modern democratic society. It is highly unlikely I will vote for him, but, I see very few candidates on either side that I think I could vote for and fewer - maybe none - for whom I would happily vote.
we've had REVERSE Robin Hood for the past few decades. Why not try to turn that around?
26
Yes, it's just like in those medieval monarchical societies we now call Sweden and Denmark.
FDR was medieval? Eisenhower was medieval?You need to read more, study American history and government more. Obviously you're the one that's completely out of bounds with the Robin Hood thing. This isn't about Robin this is about making America the way it was fifties. That has nothing to do with Robinhood. That has to do with making corporations pay their fair share and we're tired of them not. Nothing Robin Hood about that you're either for America or you don't belong in America
Sen Bernie Sanders raises the issues that I am concerned about. He asks the questions, and suggests rational solutions.
None of the other candidates even understand the real issues in this country facing the working class.
The more I listen to him, the more I support him.
None of the other candidates even understand the real issues in this country facing the working class.
The more I listen to him, the more I support him.
92
Too black and white. Not enough gray area. Bernie Sanders is not only a candidate in opposition to Clinton. You haven't read deeply enough, Nate. Democrats aren't like Repulicans in that they will debate among themselves, challenge, argue and stomp off in a huff, only to come back and vote. Sanders is a serious candidate, and not because Clinton fails in some way. And he's not a "socialist." He's a social democrat, essentially. Read history. You'll find a lot of those in our country. They favor helping each other in order to produce a stronger, more united country. Hillary is focused on some other things with a more mainstream lexicon. Sanders is possible. I couldn't disagree more with your article. You've missed the point by a mile. One or the other, we'll have a Democrat for POTUS next. Unless the voting is so rigged that we need the U.N. to step in. And I'll vote for either Clinton or Sanders, prefering Sanders' platform, but supporting Clinton's experience and intelligence and platform as well. It's salt and pepper. They go together, yet are vastly different.
33
Whether he wins or not is beside the point.
He is raising awareness for a number of issues that are of concern to many Americans, and he may have the ability to change the complexion of the race as a whole. I for one welcome his honesty, a trait that has become so rare in those in the public eye, that when someone like Bernie Sanders speaks out it's considered novel.
Sanders knows that to truly connect with people you must have the courage to speak the truth. The tremendous response he's gotten suggests that he's filled a void that has existed for a very long time.
He is raising awareness for a number of issues that are of concern to many Americans, and he may have the ability to change the complexion of the race as a whole. I for one welcome his honesty, a trait that has become so rare in those in the public eye, that when someone like Bernie Sanders speaks out it's considered novel.
Sanders knows that to truly connect with people you must have the courage to speak the truth. The tremendous response he's gotten suggests that he's filled a void that has existed for a very long time.
69
Don't count Bernie out yet. There was once an unknown guy who was a bit odd-looking, poorly dress and even had an somewhat strange-sounding voice. It didn't make much of a positive impression initially. But when people heard him talk they were strongly swayed. He became president. Twice. Abraham Lincoln. Don't underestimate the power of a message and of its delivery. The country can certainly turn to the left. It only turned decisively rightward when the Republicans began to exploit religion and racism (Nixon learned this from observed George Wallace). Both of these seem to be on the wane. We've embraced gay marriage despite the best efforts of the religious right and the outcry against police killings of black men and against the Charleston church killings has been loud and clear.
174
It would be great to see issues discussed. That's Bernie's strength, he tells the truth and has a record of doing just that.
I'm hoping the debates come early so we can see him in action---with Hillary and also invite the R candidates. It would show one person with integrity, grit and experience left standing, for all to see.
I'm afraid the great powers of our society may not allow this Mr Deeds to ascend, even if people are behind him. Articles like this, ignoring entirely what Bernie is saying--& what people are upset about--are big part of the problem.
I'm hoping the debates come early so we can see him in action---with Hillary and also invite the R candidates. It would show one person with integrity, grit and experience left standing, for all to see.
I'm afraid the great powers of our society may not allow this Mr Deeds to ascend, even if people are behind him. Articles like this, ignoring entirely what Bernie is saying--& what people are upset about--are big part of the problem.
70
There will come a time when all voters, including moderates and conservatives, will wake up to the fact that establishment politicians have rigged the system against them for the benefit of the super rich. This may be that time.
84
Too much of today's journalism is either prediction of some future event or analysis of why something happened. In a sense, it has become a lot like sports writing. Look at the Super Bowl, for example. Weeks of 'who's going to win', the actual game, and hundreds of articles about why team x won. It's pretty useless information - including 'rigorous' statistical analysis. The job of a newspaper with national and international importance should be writing serious pieces about the actual policy positions of the candidates. And then analyze those positions and their implications for the country. This isn't guessing who's going to win an Academy Awards, people. It's our future.
106
Thanks for saying that. We used to expect more from the national paper of record. Not so much now.
Sen. Sanders has hit a nerve, and it's just a shame that Mr. Cohn fails to report on the real story. People are angry with the injustice and unhealthy imbalance of power in American society. We have raised soul-less corporations to the level of people, with all of the privileges, few of the responsibilities, and disproportionate control over government.
Sen. Sanders has substance, and a clear and consistent message that spans decades. Mr. Cohn's article insults readers' intelligence by reducing the election, once again, to a mere horse race/popularity contest. But there is a rumbling underneath that is being willfully ignored by most in the media.
We, the people, are tired of "the selfish spirit of commerce, which knows no country, and feels no passion or principle but that of gain." - Thomas Jefferson
Sen. Sanders has substance, and a clear and consistent message that spans decades. Mr. Cohn's article insults readers' intelligence by reducing the election, once again, to a mere horse race/popularity contest. But there is a rumbling underneath that is being willfully ignored by most in the media.
We, the people, are tired of "the selfish spirit of commerce, which knows no country, and feels no passion or principle but that of gain." - Thomas Jefferson
131
Sir, it's "analysis." And it makes sense to some of us, even leftists, who find it hard to imagine "President" Bernie Sanders and who, though not pleased with the Clinton Restoration, will do anything to prevent a Republican from winning next year.
1
I would love Bernie to win but I'd love it even more if he motivated a new generation of honest, progressive politicians, people who could start winning local or state positions as well as House seats to start changing the fabric of our government. Without that kind of support, even if he wins, he'll have a hard time getting anything done.
The danger is that he'll veer towards a "cult of Bernie" approach which becomes all about him and not about the ideas he represents.
The danger is that he'll veer towards a "cult of Bernie" approach which becomes all about him and not about the ideas he represents.
14
This essay misses the point. I am 62 years old and have seen a fair share of presidential elections. Only a small percentage of people who profess support for Bernie Sanders actually think he could be president. The support for him is more an expression of frustration about our current conservative administration and the prospect of more of the same no matter who is elected in 2016. Bernie Sanders is honest, seems to owe few, and is on the side of a great multitude of Americans (whether they realize it or not). Until Ms. Clinton and the horde of Republican candidates get that, we are in trouble.
159
True, but if all of those who appreciate Sanders's policies actually support him at the polls, he will be a very viable candidate and can attract a broad base of support.
39
Within 2 minutes of being posted and having no recommendations this comment is already considered a NYT Pick? Now why is that exactly? Smells fishy to me. I would very much like to see where you are pulling the numbers that say "only a small percentage of people... actually think he could be president" considering how effortlessly myself and others are working towards Bernie Sanders' campaign and the positive responses we've gotten after reaching out to others. If you are in favor of Bernie Sanders and are truly frustrated with the current political system entrenched in corporate interest then you should let that energy go towards more than just complaining. Instead, you should get involved and spread the goals that he champions for the people of America.
2
Bernie Sanders is the next president!
As an American lost in how our presidential elections are conducted, it feels as if politics are heating up more than ever. True, it seems there are more angry people than before, looking to the Left and to the Right, and it is very difficult to stabilize and balance the mood of our Country.
Planning to read what others have to say, and this may be helpful. Counting my blessings that President Obama was not defeated in 2008 remembering that he is extraordinary and exemplar in his own right, and as Commander-in-Chief of our Nation during these times of adversity and duress.
'Shake a leg!' comes to mind when thinking of Bernie Sanders who has the right tone and pace to draw the attention of Americans in search of truth, pacifism and few frills. But what kind of President are Americans looking for at this stage and can someone sum this up in a few sentences?
The power of the Republican Party should not be underestimated, even if their running politicians look out-of-this World. What about an international American globe-trotter, worldly, wise, measured and profound, who relates to all classes, cultures and credos? A family-oriented person who inspires others to follow their conduct and behavior?
Untarnished, a visionary and an honorable ethical individual, who understands and listens to America with a show of conviction and courage.
A bold endeavor is needed on our part to recognize such a candidate, and Bernie Sanders may shed some light on how to go about this.
Planning to read what others have to say, and this may be helpful. Counting my blessings that President Obama was not defeated in 2008 remembering that he is extraordinary and exemplar in his own right, and as Commander-in-Chief of our Nation during these times of adversity and duress.
'Shake a leg!' comes to mind when thinking of Bernie Sanders who has the right tone and pace to draw the attention of Americans in search of truth, pacifism and few frills. But what kind of President are Americans looking for at this stage and can someone sum this up in a few sentences?
The power of the Republican Party should not be underestimated, even if their running politicians look out-of-this World. What about an international American globe-trotter, worldly, wise, measured and profound, who relates to all classes, cultures and credos? A family-oriented person who inspires others to follow their conduct and behavior?
Untarnished, a visionary and an honorable ethical individual, who understands and listens to America with a show of conviction and courage.
A bold endeavor is needed on our part to recognize such a candidate, and Bernie Sanders may shed some light on how to go about this.
7
First of all Madison is a progressive, populist city . "Liberal" has, it seems, become a catch-all phrase used by many when they don't know what else to call those who care deeply about safety nets, women's rights and worker rights, among other humanist issues.
Second, retrospective data are notoriously poor at capturing emerging trends or accurately predicting inflection points. The conclusions from his analysis are even more tenuous when you consider that Mr. Cohn is using an "N" of 1 to make his points ( a statistical no-no in most instances).
A more helpful analysis would examine how supposed front-runners, and distant contenders have done over time with various subgroups of primary voters. I imagine Bernie Sanders capturing the Democratic Party nomination would not look so unlikely when one considers other post-open primary dark horse winners including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.
Second, retrospective data are notoriously poor at capturing emerging trends or accurately predicting inflection points. The conclusions from his analysis are even more tenuous when you consider that Mr. Cohn is using an "N" of 1 to make his points ( a statistical no-no in most instances).
A more helpful analysis would examine how supposed front-runners, and distant contenders have done over time with various subgroups of primary voters. I imagine Bernie Sanders capturing the Democratic Party nomination would not look so unlikely when one considers other post-open primary dark horse winners including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.
32
I strongly disagree. Bernie Sanders will appeal to moderates. II consider myself a moderate Democrat; a NYC transplant who lives in Atlanta. And one who will work on Bernie Sanders' campaign.
Bernie Sanders is who he is. He's genuine, not staged. He means what he says and he doesn't shade the truth because he's in for a tough election.
I've had enough of politicians who lie when it's convenient, who tailor every program or policy to segments of their base to get elected, and who are part of the over-the-top fundraising, super Pac money machine that controls American politics.
Bernie Sanders is who he is. He's genuine, not staged. He means what he says and he doesn't shade the truth because he's in for a tough election.
I've had enough of politicians who lie when it's convenient, who tailor every program or policy to segments of their base to get elected, and who are part of the over-the-top fundraising, super Pac money machine that controls American politics.
84
I'm a bona fide leftist. I'm interested in what Uncle Bernie has to say.
I just don't do symbolic campaigns anymore. I've been involved in elective politics since 1968. I was actively repulsed by the idea of the Clinton Restoration but I seem to have got over it in the face of the Republican Clown Squad. I'll take her over any of them and if Sanders can push her a little to the left, great. Otherwise, I'm down with Hillary or, perhaps, within the electoral college safety of NYS, I'll vote for the Green candidate.
The idea that Bernie Sanders can or will be the next president is simply beyond my ability to conceive and in the general election the only thing I'm doing next year is preventing a Republican from winning. There are times in life when pragmatism, even with its overtones of cynicism and the lack of "true blood" fire, is the right thing and pragmatism, at least for me, is the right thing for 2016.
The stakes are just too freaking high.
I just don't do symbolic campaigns anymore. I've been involved in elective politics since 1968. I was actively repulsed by the idea of the Clinton Restoration but I seem to have got over it in the face of the Republican Clown Squad. I'll take her over any of them and if Sanders can push her a little to the left, great. Otherwise, I'm down with Hillary or, perhaps, within the electoral college safety of NYS, I'll vote for the Green candidate.
The idea that Bernie Sanders can or will be the next president is simply beyond my ability to conceive and in the general election the only thing I'm doing next year is preventing a Republican from winning. There are times in life when pragmatism, even with its overtones of cynicism and the lack of "true blood" fire, is the right thing and pragmatism, at least for me, is the right thing for 2016.
The stakes are just too freaking high.
16
As it comes back to every campaign like clockwork, here's the worn out symptom of the lesser evil virus.
That is, only by compromising can we achieve our ideals...the essence of Clintonism!
He can win. If every person does even a little bit to get educated and share their opinions with those that they know. And it's not as though your "pragmatism" will really affect your ability to keep a Republican for winning as Bernie Sanders is a Democratic candidate. It's either him or Hillary in the primaries. You can choose which you want to support and to be active for.
While Bernie Sander's is a principled politician-almost an oxymoron, his campaign seems relatively devoid of strategic focus. Baring an economic collapse, he is unelectable as a socialist. He announced his run, without having built a sustaining progressive movement, alternative party or strong insurgency in the Democratic party. Undermining Clinton, if in fact she is the most viable option, does not serve progressive interests. Pushing her to the Left in the primaries has no enduring significance. Finally, my comments are not meant to undermine Sander's essentially correct critique of the economic, social and political state of affairs. Rather to ask, Why? Why run?
2
To show the electorate what it's like when a politician with integrity and honesty runs for president. To put an end to the hopeless escalation of corrupting money in politics which has resulted in an endless stream of two-timing legislators who say one thing and do another. To return the Democratic to its core values so intellectuals like you will wake up from your armchair analysis and start acting on principle rather than speculative strategy.
39
I would posit that voting for Clinton undermines progressive interests. I realize for many it's all about being on the winning team but it's not all about winning. It's about standing by your principles. Standing by what you believe in. I'm not casting my vote for anyone merely on the basis of their being on the winning team, the winning candidate. Bernie or no Bernie, Clinton will not be getting my vote.
Hillary and Slick Willie have always gone where the political winds blow them (and, most importantly, where the money is.) If they take a stand it's backed by polls and demographics and strategically advantageous to their agenda. There are no "progressive interests." It's all smoke and mirrors.
I'm with RON JOHNSTONE of Burlingame, Calif. and MARK MAYFIELD of Tuscaloosa, Ala. who both wrote Letters to the Editor on the subject of "The Clinton Foundation and the Foreign Donors." http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/25/opinion/the-clinton-foundation-and-the...
Hillary and Slick Willie have always gone where the political winds blow them (and, most importantly, where the money is.) If they take a stand it's backed by polls and demographics and strategically advantageous to their agenda. There are no "progressive interests." It's all smoke and mirrors.
I'm with RON JOHNSTONE of Burlingame, Calif. and MARK MAYFIELD of Tuscaloosa, Ala. who both wrote Letters to the Editor on the subject of "The Clinton Foundation and the Foreign Donors." http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/25/opinion/the-clinton-foundation-and-the...
You lost me at "devoid of strategic focus" (and multiple thereafter). The man has a detailed 12 point plan that anyone can see on his website.
1
That Bernie Sanders is written off by so many as an impossible long shot for president while Jeb Bush is treated as a serious contender is a rather sad commentary on the state of affairs in the USA in 2015. I have no doubt that Bush would beat Sanders hands down in a large number of states from South Carolina to Mississippi to Utah. I'm just at a loss as to understand why. Why would any self-respecting person vote for a person (Jeb Bush) who is clearly not his own man?
Bush family members may have, at one time, possessed something resembling that noblesse oblige attitude among privileged people which compels them to enter politics as a way of engaging in public service and giving back to the country which made their wealth and good fortune possible. But the Bushes ceased being that way in 1992, after Bill Clinton beat the family patriarch.
It is so transparently obvious to me that Jeb Bush is motivated by a desire to match or exceed his older brother. Bush's campaign is the polar opposite of the one being waged by Sanders and has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with giving back to the country or anything similar.
Bush family members may have, at one time, possessed something resembling that noblesse oblige attitude among privileged people which compels them to enter politics as a way of engaging in public service and giving back to the country which made their wealth and good fortune possible. But the Bushes ceased being that way in 1992, after Bill Clinton beat the family patriarch.
It is so transparently obvious to me that Jeb Bush is motivated by a desire to match or exceed his older brother. Bush's campaign is the polar opposite of the one being waged by Sanders and has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with giving back to the country or anything similar.
68
If Bush "exceeds his older brother", we'll be in a hole so deep we'll be popping up in Beijing.
I am so tired of the Times's campaign to proclaim that Hillary Clinton is inevitable and Bernie Sanders can't possibly win. Your job is to report the news, not to make it. Is Sanders a long shot? Obviously and I've gotten into arguments with some less cynical friends for pointing that out. But stranger things have happened: Jimmy Carter, a peanut farmer from Georgia, came from nowhere.
Sanders is actually the only candidate who is speaking for and in tune with the American people, not just liberals, but disaffected conservatives as well. Because the real issue today is that while the Republicans are worse than the Democrats, neither major party really stands up for the American worker anymore. Sanders is an FDR liberal at a time when the country is crying out for an FDR liberal. And that being the case, and despite his campaign's underfunding and his unfortunate choice of a socialist label that many older voters will misunderstand, he has the potential to reach the American people in a way that no other candidate does.
If, that is, he has a chance, and the press stops declaring him e loser and Mrs. Clinton the winner long before the first primary has even been held.
Sanders is actually the only candidate who is speaking for and in tune with the American people, not just liberals, but disaffected conservatives as well. Because the real issue today is that while the Republicans are worse than the Democrats, neither major party really stands up for the American worker anymore. Sanders is an FDR liberal at a time when the country is crying out for an FDR liberal. And that being the case, and despite his campaign's underfunding and his unfortunate choice of a socialist label that many older voters will misunderstand, he has the potential to reach the American people in a way that no other candidate does.
If, that is, he has a chance, and the press stops declaring him e loser and Mrs. Clinton the winner long before the first primary has even been held.
149
It is an opinion, not advice, but it might do us good to listen and not get into arguments in a no-win political discussion. This is a habit that many of us have, and it's enough to plunge one's head into the sand, or bang it against a brick wall.
Perhaps we are not all reading the same page in The Times, but the one in front of my eyes describes Mr. Sanders as a breath of fresh air, and 'they don't make anymore like him'. Mr. Sanders apparently shows signs of being a Socialist? Many of us would not recognize a Socialist if we tripped over one. Whether there is a President for All People is unlikely. We have a President that meets this description and we do not wish to recognize him.
Perhaps we should look at the role of the Media more closely in these presidential elections, and not go in search of the perfect recipe for American pumpkin pie.
Perhaps we are not all reading the same page in The Times, but the one in front of my eyes describes Mr. Sanders as a breath of fresh air, and 'they don't make anymore like him'. Mr. Sanders apparently shows signs of being a Socialist? Many of us would not recognize a Socialist if we tripped over one. Whether there is a President for All People is unlikely. We have a President that meets this description and we do not wish to recognize him.
Perhaps we should look at the role of the Media more closely in these presidential elections, and not go in search of the perfect recipe for American pumpkin pie.
1
Josh the "Media" tags Senator Sanders with "socialist" in the hope of a thought parallelism to the bloody Russian Stalin era. Bernie , all his life, has been a "democratic socialist" just like Republican Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt and his cousin Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) . He is not pursuing the support of Democrats or Republicans because the "Two Part System" has divided and ruined our nation . He needs, and must have, the support of the American voting public 206,000,000. strong . Only 36.6% of them voted in the last national election . - 131,500,000. - did NOT vote - ! And, why should they ? Our politicians and elections have been progressively owned by a handful, about 60,000, hugely wealthy Elites !!??
1
Well put. I agree. Even on tv news shows like Morning Joe Hillary is being pushed too much with negative portrayals of Bernie from her campaign (obliquely) and politicians like the Senator from Missouri. Bernie should run as an Independent if he does not get the nomination and his supporters should write him in.
1
However you try to spin it, you're making the same argument that was made in 2008 that no way would Barack Obama win the Democratic nomination, and if he did, no way could he get enough white voters to vote for him to win the election. How did that come out again?
139
About this time in 2007, I attended a Washington, DC dinner party where the U.S. politics' watcher–expert from the embassy of one of our major allies remarked how interesting it was going to be to have Hillary Clinton as the Democratic nominee. With no special political expertise, I said that I thought there were too many Democratic and independent voters who simply would not support her, much less enough of the general population to enable her to win the general election. When I suggested that Barack Obama seemed intelligent, fresh, and appealing, the expert and a number of other guests ignored my incredibly unknowing remark. History is filled with "inevitabilities" that never happened.
19
The difference is that the earlier argument was made because Obama was not white, whereas the argument made today is that Sanders is a Socialist. Socialists generally are not successful political candidates in the United States - at least they haven't been in 80 years.
Sanders is a democratic socialist, as the term is used in Scandinavia. This is very much akin to Franklin Delano Roosevelt's positions during the 1930s and 1940s. Sanders's ideas resonate with many. Yes, his opponents will try to tar him as a socialist, but I predict that Sanders will make significant gains among those who actually listen to him rather than merely accept labels.
14
No matter, I will be voting for Bernie Sanders for President and will not support the other Democratic Party candidate.
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Nancy, Sanders himself has said that if he is not the Democrats' nominee, he will be supporting whoever is. If you really support what he stands for, it is beyond belief that you would not do the same. By staying home or voting for some third party, you could be complicit in electing a Republican president who would have the opportunity to shape the Supreme Court for decades to come.
60
This is what the media will do for awhile now. Sanders is not good for the media - he already stated he will break up the 10 major outlets. So, now it's "He will lose momentum. He can't win." It's a joke. All these media types are DC insiders who are out of touch like the politicians. They dont ubderstand the disillusionment in this country. Bernie Sanders' lack of money is an advantage - he's clean. He has integrity and the record to match. Not only are liberals considering him, but so are plenty of Republicans. This is a wide open race and Sanders can win. Hillary is already starting to shoot herself in the foot (subpoena).
17
It's called strategic voting. There is no reason for a left-Democrat from Great Neck (or Rochester for that matter) to bother voting for a candidate that doesn't support his or her values. Donald Trump will be elected president of Mexico before NY goes Republican in the presidential election, so those of us who live in safe states don't have to hold our noses and vote for war-mongering, corporatist, fair weather LGBT-supporting former Walmart board members. Bernie will be supporting her to help her eek out a few extra votes in Florida and Ohio but Nancy and I will be voting for whoever we please, thank you very much.
7
As long as liberals have Bernie Sanders to rally around they won't abandon the Democratic Party en masse, so he's actually doing Hillary a favor.
They'll be kept very happy right up until the moment they have to vote for Hillary. Their having to face that prospect so early might be a disaster for the party.
They'll be kept very happy right up until the moment they have to vote for Hillary. Their having to face that prospect so early might be a disaster for the party.
19
The Jeb! versus Trump party is cackling over "disaster for the [Democratic] party?" Please. The lack of self-awareness on the part of the Republican Party is tiresome, AACNY.
I support Sanders but I will vote for Hillary Clinton because when she is elected POTUS - and everyone knows she will be elected POTUS - she'll populate the SCOTUS with Justices who won't interpret the Constitution through the lens of religious zealotry.
For now, that's good enough for this Sanders liberal.
I support Sanders but I will vote for Hillary Clinton because when she is elected POTUS - and everyone knows she will be elected POTUS - she'll populate the SCOTUS with Justices who won't interpret the Constitution through the lens of religious zealotry.
For now, that's good enough for this Sanders liberal.
12
AS long as Sanders pulls Hillary to the left, Democratic voters won't be upset to give her the vote. And with the clown car of republicans offered, who has any credibility?
2
Valeire ~ You ignore the fact that Bernie has stated unequivocally that he will not select ANY prospective justice that won't swear to undo Citizens United (perhaps the very worst decision ever). Hillary hasn't. I wouldn't be selling Bernie short when Hillary is dancing the campaign dance while Bernie is talking straight. Exceptionally straight.
For all those who proclaim so loudly that they wouldn't be able to tell the difference between Hilllary and Jeb Bush. Vote for Bernie Sanders and you will get what you wish for: a chance to welcome the Jeb Bush Supreme Court picks.
45
What makes you think a HRC corporatist Supreme Court pick would be any better?
They can spew all they want but they are both in the pockets of oligarchs.
Calyban, you can vote for a candidate that has ALWAYS legislated on behalf of the middle class, the real job creators, or you can vote right of center. There is only one progressive at this moment, Bernie Sanders.
They can spew all they want but they are both in the pockets of oligarchs.
Calyban, you can vote for a candidate that has ALWAYS legislated on behalf of the middle class, the real job creators, or you can vote right of center. There is only one progressive at this moment, Bernie Sanders.
2
Your fearmongering won't fool us. If Bernie Sanders beats Hilary, he will easily beat Jeb Bush. The last time a Democrat ran on a progressive, anti-war, anti-bankster, anti-disparity and pro single payer platform, he won in a landslide against a Republican with a 40 year high of voter turnout. That was Obama.
When Obama and other Democrats like Hillary Clinton failed to properly fight for most of this progressive agendas, voter turnout went to a historic 70 year low.
If anything, Hillary is a liablity. Unlike Obama and Hillary, Sanders has a solid track record that shows he WILL follow through on those progressive agendas.
Sander can beat Hillary and he most certainly will beat any Republican challenger including Jeb Bush.
When Obama and other Democrats like Hillary Clinton failed to properly fight for most of this progressive agendas, voter turnout went to a historic 70 year low.
If anything, Hillary is a liablity. Unlike Obama and Hillary, Sanders has a solid track record that shows he WILL follow through on those progressive agendas.
Sander can beat Hillary and he most certainly will beat any Republican challenger including Jeb Bush.
2
Of course, Bernie has my vote. I find really hard to decide who can do more damage, Hillary or Jeb?
1
Dream on. I'm hearing someone protesting a bit too much.
29
We are all Greeks now. Greece has a socialist government that believes in democracy. Bernie's supporters believe first in democracy and letting the people decide their political direction. The reason Greece is in the news is because it chose democracy not because it chose socialism. The French chose socialism without democracy and so France is not in the news. We will all be assimilated and resistance is futile. Our masters will let us vote right or left as long as we behave ourselves and live by their rules.
The election is about what type of totalitarian government we will enjoy. In the 1980 election we chose steady oil supplies and the rule of international finance. Bernie is a socialist who believes in democracy. Democracy means the people decide which way the pendulum swings.
Bernie is the candidate who wishes to return America to the road to democracy. Elections have consequences and 1980 decided that "As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods."
In America the pendulum is stuck permanently on the right and the democracy that could get it back in motion is like Jacob Marley dead as a door nail. Bernie will not win because he is riding a dead horse named democracy.
The election is about what type of totalitarian government we will enjoy. In the 1980 election we chose steady oil supplies and the rule of international finance. Bernie is a socialist who believes in democracy. Democracy means the people decide which way the pendulum swings.
Bernie is the candidate who wishes to return America to the road to democracy. Elections have consequences and 1980 decided that "As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods."
In America the pendulum is stuck permanently on the right and the democracy that could get it back in motion is like Jacob Marley dead as a door nail. Bernie will not win because he is riding a dead horse named democracy.
21
I believe it was H.L.Mencken who said : Democracy is the idea that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it.....good and hard!" The alternative is Trump, Cruz, etc., et al..........
2
This is why it is very likely that a Republican will win the Presidency in 2016.
3
That's delusional. Obama ran on a platform very similar to Bernie Sanders and won in a landslide with voter turnout at a 40 year high.
The difference between Obama/Clinton and Sanders is he'll actually follow through on those anti-war, anti-bankster, anti-disparity and pro single payer agendas and Bernie's track record proves it.
The difference between Obama/Clinton and Sanders is he'll actually follow through on those anti-war, anti-bankster, anti-disparity and pro single payer agendas and Bernie's track record proves it.
1
Really? There are 3000 Republican candidates, and this is what you're worried about?
1
If a Republican wins the presidency it would be because of the lefties' delusion that America is ready to elect a self-proclaimed socialist POTUS.
Cohn's analysis is right on the money: America as a whole is more like Hillary than Sanders, which is why he will come up very short -- the fervor for his candidacy of the left-wing of the Democratic party that populates the NYT or other discussion boards notwithstanding...
Cohn's analysis is right on the money: America as a whole is more like Hillary than Sanders, which is why he will come up very short -- the fervor for his candidacy of the left-wing of the Democratic party that populates the NYT or other discussion boards notwithstanding...
1
At this juncture, it is particularly critical for the US electorate to focus on the policies espoused by candidates rather than the political horse race as covered by the media amid deceitful and wasteful political advertisements. Sanders can win because he is the only candidate unequivocally and honestly presenting to the voters his solutions to the multitude of problems confronting the nation. People seem to be listening.
122
The more you dismiss him, NY Times, the more people will support him. Is there no one on your staff capable of writing a thoughtful article about Bernie Sanders and the very real issues he is focusing on?
The media is so invested in the idea of the "horse race" they can't see something in plain sight right in front of them. People are fed up. Fed up with corporations and their legal theft, enriching themselves at the expense of their workers. Fed up with a government bought and paid for by the wealthy. And really fed up with the corporate media-looking directly at YOU, NY Times-with your gutless refusal to do your job to inform and investigate and hold wrong-doers accountable.
The media is so invested in the idea of the "horse race" they can't see something in plain sight right in front of them. People are fed up. Fed up with corporations and their legal theft, enriching themselves at the expense of their workers. Fed up with a government bought and paid for by the wealthy. And really fed up with the corporate media-looking directly at YOU, NY Times-with your gutless refusal to do your job to inform and investigate and hold wrong-doers accountable.
282
you got that right
Perfectly said, thank you, Go Bernie, Hilary seems like a cylon, not sure what to says or how to act, not an authentic bone in her body compared to Bernie. He is talking about issues that effect us 99%, every other candidate is a shill for the wealthy.
It's impossible to recommend this comment as many times as it deserves to be recommended.
Wondering why Sander's supporters feel the need to attack Clinton? I have noticed that neither Clinton or Sanders attack each other. They realize they are both running for the democratic nomination and the real enemy is who one of them will face in the general election. And say what you will about Hillary, but she has always been loyal to the Democratic Party. I will never forget how she rallied her 18 million supporters to the side of Obama after she lost in 2008.
36
No, she hasn't, for what it's worth. She was a Goldwater Girl, self-declared, in high school; an intern for Gerald Ford; and in '68 a worker for Gene McCarthy and an attendee at the GOP convention in support of Nelson Rockefeller.
I like Bernie Sanders a lot - having lived in Vermont during his early days in politics; that said, I think two things are true about his surprising campaign: 1) he's tapping a deep well of bitterness over economic inequities, which, unfortunately, Hillary Clinton seems clueless about and 2) Hillary Clinton's tepid, safe, and rather desultory campaign has left a wide opening for someone, and Bernie Sanders has stepped into that opening.
I like Bernie Sanders a lot - having lived in Vermont during his early days in politics; that said, I think two things are true about his surprising campaign: 1) he's tapping a deep well of bitterness over economic inequities, which, unfortunately, Hillary Clinton seems clueless about and 2) Hillary Clinton's tepid, safe, and rather desultory campaign has left a wide opening for someone, and Bernie Sanders has stepped into that opening.
6
Sanders will never be negative and Hillary is too smart a politician to directly attack him. It would be like someone attacking the grandfather you love.
Robert you write: "I will never forget how she rallied her 18 million supporters to the side of Obama after she lost in 2008."
She didn't "own" those supporters. They went with the Democratic Party candidate - Obama -- and Hillary revised her timetable.
She didn't "own" those supporters. They went with the Democratic Party candidate - Obama -- and Hillary revised her timetable.
2
Maybe, then again, maybe not, Mr. Cohn...when reading the article about solar power for low income people in the NYT this morning, I may have missed the part that gave deserved credit to Bernie Sanders. My understanding is that the bill is Bernie Sander's bill. He seems to have been working on pertinent issues while others are talking and writing about how he doesn't stand a chance at the 2016 Presidential nomination..
121
Gardener,so true ! And when their minions describe Senator Sanders as a "socialist" they are hoping for a thought of parallelism to Stalins bloody "playmates" . Bernie's Life-Long-Record is that of a "Democratic Socialist" JUST LIKE Republican President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt and his cousin Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) ie: "OF the people, BY the people and FOR the people" and NOT the Billionaires ..
11
I voted for Kerry many times and Obama once, and when they and other elite Dems, Feinstein, Schumer, Hillary Clinton and others went on to condemn a true patriot, Edward Snowden, as a coward and traitor, the Dem party lost me forever. The corporate and Israeli lobby owned Dems have demonstrated their total lack of respect and concern for the rights of we citizens, and keep putting forth corrupt and compromised candidates, all the while trying to scare the rest of us with the specter of the awful Republicans. We as a country can do far better, but things will never change if we keep voting for these lousy candidates. I voted for a woman for president in the last election, Dr. Jill Stein, and if she runs again, I will vote for her again. I too deeply regret my votes for Kerry and Obama to ever compromise my principles again, especially by voting for the awful HRC. I know many others who feel the same as I do, and if the Dems were smart, they would put up a better candidate than the "presumed", "it's her turn" so-called "glass ceiling breaker" Clinton. I can only quickly recall two countries where family members get a turn, other than monarchies that are figureheads, and those are Saudi Arabia and North Korea. And while we are too much like both of those countries in important ways, a change is desperately needed, and the Dems really need to look past "winning" politics to the good of the nation and start to reform their party.
42
Just to remind you, Bernie Sanders is an INDEPENDENT running on the democratic ticket as he caucuses in the senate with the democrats. He is not the same as a democrat, do look into him. Far from elite.
You sound exactly like the right wing nuts who want to nominate Trump or some other "pure" candidate. Exactly.
All of this brings us back to the question of why Iowa and New Hampshire are given early voting status as they are thoroughly unrepresentative of the rest of the US.
30
Mort Sahl, comedian and astute political commentator used to have a line about the ridiculousness of the politics of the country first being filtered through the uptight, conservative white voters in New Hampshire every four years.
1
Good column, Mr. Cohn. You support your findings well. I believe you are correct.
12
bigreenie ~ sure. But you miss the obvious. The American Public is sick and tired of the idiotic income disparity, low pay that's stagnant, the lies and empty campaign promises: "When President I promise to , followed by a big grin and some money begging. It's not working so well with an honest and straight shooter in the running. Bernie is different. I know it's hard to grasp but give it go and listen to him carefully. You'll see.
When African American voters find out that Bernie Sanders participated in the civil rights movement. Was arrested protesting segregation in schools in Chicago and participated in Dr Kings March on D.C.! Endorsed by Killer Mike and loved by Dr Cornel West. How much more of a candidate for the black voter can you be? He's championed African American issues for 52 years. Bernie Sanders right then and right now for America!
190
Yes!
Your assumption is that the issues have no effect on the outcome of the election. I think you're wrong.
79
Stranger things have happened than an independent US Senator born before the Pearl Harbor bombing winning the Democratic nomination for president at the age of 74 in the first half of 2016. Such as a first-term black US Senator winning the nomination at age 46 in early 2008 against an ex-president's wife and second-term US Senator.
Sanders appears more lucid and in better command of the issues than Reagan was at age 69 in 1980. I don't understand why it's assumed that Sanders has no chance of winning over black voters against Clinton. Is this because Sanders represents lily-white Vermont? OK, but at this point I don't see the basis for strong support among blacks for Hillary Clinton besides the fact that she's married to Bill. But I suspect that Bill Clinton's reputation among blacks has been damaged by 1) his less-than-cordial relationship with Barack Obama and 2) a revised view of his 1993-2001 presidency as a time that marked the true beginning of catastrophic de-industrialization in the USA as jobs got exported to China and Mexico and blacks suffered greatly as a consequence.
Sanders appears more lucid and in better command of the issues than Reagan was at age 69 in 1980. I don't understand why it's assumed that Sanders has no chance of winning over black voters against Clinton. Is this because Sanders represents lily-white Vermont? OK, but at this point I don't see the basis for strong support among blacks for Hillary Clinton besides the fact that she's married to Bill. But I suspect that Bill Clinton's reputation among blacks has been damaged by 1) his less-than-cordial relationship with Barack Obama and 2) a revised view of his 1993-2001 presidency as a time that marked the true beginning of catastrophic de-industrialization in the USA as jobs got exported to China and Mexico and blacks suffered greatly as a consequence.
51
You say ms. clinton is a "liberal democrat" by any any standard."
You must not mean "liberal democrat" in the Franklin Roosevelt sense. Clinton is owned by Wall Street, supports the .01% over labor on economics every time, supports the TPP and the TAPI or whatever the Atlantic trade agreement is called, corporate supported the social security cat food commission, never passed on a war, favors assassination Tuesdays, loves drones, missiles and bombings, calling their collateral damage "unfortunate, supports torture, supports rendition, supports prisons and on down the endless list.
Supporting abortion rights and the LGBT are claimed, but here she was a late comer to support same sex civil marriage. Civil rights, racial inequality? Oh well, let see which way the wind blows. Oh yeah, she and Brian Williams have something in common, flying under fire.
To call her liberal is a misuse and corruption of the word. It is similar to calling Warren Buffett impoverished.
us army 1969-1971/california jd/agitated liberal
You must not mean "liberal democrat" in the Franklin Roosevelt sense. Clinton is owned by Wall Street, supports the .01% over labor on economics every time, supports the TPP and the TAPI or whatever the Atlantic trade agreement is called, corporate supported the social security cat food commission, never passed on a war, favors assassination Tuesdays, loves drones, missiles and bombings, calling their collateral damage "unfortunate, supports torture, supports rendition, supports prisons and on down the endless list.
Supporting abortion rights and the LGBT are claimed, but here she was a late comer to support same sex civil marriage. Civil rights, racial inequality? Oh well, let see which way the wind blows. Oh yeah, she and Brian Williams have something in common, flying under fire.
To call her liberal is a misuse and corruption of the word. It is similar to calling Warren Buffett impoverished.
us army 1969-1971/california jd/agitated liberal
83
Sorry Marvin but that is a gross mis-characterization of Clinton's record and current platform.
19
If she is owned by Wall Street, why do the Republicans keep throwing so much money and invective against her? They clearly understand that there is a difference between Clinton and Republicans-- they don't want other people to understand in the hopes that Democrats and independents will stay home on election day.
15
In what possible way is that a gross mischaracterization of her record? LGBT rights is an extremely easy issue, embraced by many conservatives. It is a very popular position with the general public and serves as a cover for the support of policies designed to maintain a horrifically unjust and economically untenable status quo. Ms. Clinton is right of center by any standard employed before her husband's presidency.
9
1) Different time. Post banking and mortgage crashing the economy.
2) Bernie will expand the voter base.
3) Bernie will do better than Obama among moderate and conservative Democrats than Obama.
4) African Americans and Lations will vote for Bernie. Why Clinton considers this vote locked up for her is beyond me.
2) Bernie will expand the voter base.
3) Bernie will do better than Obama among moderate and conservative Democrats than Obama.
4) African Americans and Lations will vote for Bernie. Why Clinton considers this vote locked up for her is beyond me.
78
Um, Bernie Sanders is not getting the Democratic nomination. I personally would be fine with him as President, but we are not risking this crucial election on an independent socialist. The Affordable Care Act, the Supreme Court, complete control of this country by billionaires- all are in play in this election. I was around when we nominated George McGovern in 1972. It felt good at the time, but we did the nation a real disservice by handing the general election to Richard Nixon. We can't make that mistake again. Instead, pray that the Repubs nominate one of their many idiotic nominees.
25
Yeah we are. Catch the wave.
19
"complete control of this country by billionaires"
Have you not looked at who Sanders donors are vs. Clintons? Clinton is in service to the billionaires and corporations. Sanders is in service to the people, and not someone who changes their mind with whichever way the wind blows.
Have you not looked at who Sanders donors are vs. Clintons? Clinton is in service to the billionaires and corporations. Sanders is in service to the people, and not someone who changes their mind with whichever way the wind blows.
1
Old blue, you sound like Hillary Clinton's fearmongering lackeys and the Republicans. Which is really pathetic that in order to support Clinton, you end up sounding like Republicans.
Sanders is NOT running an an Independent. He's running on a Democratic ticket. He's not running as a spoiler. Sanders is not some "evil" socialist and that's that. He's a hybrid of a capitalist and democratic socialist.
When Obama ran on an anti-war, anti-bankster, anti-disparity, pro-single payer agenda, he won in a landslide with voter turnout at a 40 year high.
When Obama and other Democrats like Hillary failed to properly follow through on those progressive agendas, voting went from that 40 year high to a 70 year low.
If anything, Hillary is a liability. Unlike Obama and Clinton, Bernie Sanders has a solid track record that backs him up. Bernie Sanders has been consistent for decades. Sanders will follow through and he will FIGHT for our middle class and poor.
Hillary is going to fight for her Wall Street bankster donors and the Republicans will fight for their billionaire sugar daddies. Americans are getting this information and that's why support is exploding for Sander even this early in the race and despite the fact Sanders is refusing corporate bribes, Super PACs, etc.
Sander can beat Hillary Clinton and he most certainly will beat any Republican challenger. This is 2015 where more Americans than ever in our history are able to spread information to one another.
Sanders is NOT running an an Independent. He's running on a Democratic ticket. He's not running as a spoiler. Sanders is not some "evil" socialist and that's that. He's a hybrid of a capitalist and democratic socialist.
When Obama ran on an anti-war, anti-bankster, anti-disparity, pro-single payer agenda, he won in a landslide with voter turnout at a 40 year high.
When Obama and other Democrats like Hillary failed to properly follow through on those progressive agendas, voting went from that 40 year high to a 70 year low.
If anything, Hillary is a liability. Unlike Obama and Clinton, Bernie Sanders has a solid track record that backs him up. Bernie Sanders has been consistent for decades. Sanders will follow through and he will FIGHT for our middle class and poor.
Hillary is going to fight for her Wall Street bankster donors and the Republicans will fight for their billionaire sugar daddies. Americans are getting this information and that's why support is exploding for Sander even this early in the race and despite the fact Sanders is refusing corporate bribes, Super PACs, etc.
Sander can beat Hillary Clinton and he most certainly will beat any Republican challenger. This is 2015 where more Americans than ever in our history are able to spread information to one another.
Very lengthy article to essentially say, the NYT is an establishment paper and Hillary is a part of our establishment.
150
As many commenters have noticed, yet another article on the horse race with nothing on the issues, the history, or the data. I ask you Nate, which candidate would score better on the following True False test?
1. Significantly (say, no deficits for more than 3 years) paying down the federal debt has usually been good for the economy.
2. The single payer health care systems of other developed countries produce no better results at not much lower costs.
3. The very high top tax rates after WWII combined with high real (ratio of taxes actually paid to GDP) corporate taxes stifled economic growth.
4. The devastation of WWII caused the output of Europe to stay low for many (>10) years.
5. A small ratio of federal debt to GDP has always insured prosperity.
6. Inequality such as we have today (Gini about ,50) has usually encouraged entrepreneurship thus helping the economy.
7. Our ratio of our corporate taxes actually paid to GDP is among the highest of all developed countries.
8. Since WWI, the cause of severe inflation in developed countries has usually been the printing of money.
9. As a percentage of GDP, today's federal debt service is the highest in many years.
10. Inequality such as we have today is an aberration; the history of capitalism has shown that periods like 1946 - 1973 with low inequality are the norm.
1. Significantly (say, no deficits for more than 3 years) paying down the federal debt has usually been good for the economy.
2. The single payer health care systems of other developed countries produce no better results at not much lower costs.
3. The very high top tax rates after WWII combined with high real (ratio of taxes actually paid to GDP) corporate taxes stifled economic growth.
4. The devastation of WWII caused the output of Europe to stay low for many (>10) years.
5. A small ratio of federal debt to GDP has always insured prosperity.
6. Inequality such as we have today (Gini about ,50) has usually encouraged entrepreneurship thus helping the economy.
7. Our ratio of our corporate taxes actually paid to GDP is among the highest of all developed countries.
8. Since WWI, the cause of severe inflation in developed countries has usually been the printing of money.
9. As a percentage of GDP, today's federal debt service is the highest in many years.
10. Inequality such as we have today is an aberration; the history of capitalism has shown that periods like 1946 - 1973 with low inequality are the norm.
15
Mr. Cohn writes "Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure" Not hardly. Lots of liberal Democrats may support her but that's only because the alternative is far right of center. Mr. Sanders's campaign is probably doomed, but he is riding high on the wave of progressive politics currently in full swing in the US. Let's hope he can keep his stride going long enough to force Ms. Clinton's neoconservative foreign policy a little to the left.
22
The NYT smear continues, unabated. After reading this absurdly shallow article, I read through the first 22 comments from readers. Pro-Sanders comments = 22. Pro-Nate Cohn comments = 0. It will be interesting to see how much longer the Times can keep its head in the sand and defends the Establishment. Readers are clearly not buying it. I cancelled my subscription this morning.
91
Michael, I've not cancelled my Times subscription, but I fully concur that it's coverage of the Sanders campaign has been deficient.
5
I admire you for your resolve, Michael. Unfortunately I can't live without the NYT so I won't be following suit though the thought has certainly crossed my mind.
I am deeply disappointed in the Times having expected better. (I know, foolish, right?)
I am deeply disappointed in the Times having expected better. (I know, foolish, right?)
Isn't this just Ralph Nader's replacement?
6
No, Nader ran against Gore and Bush in the general election, saying there was no significant difference between them. Sanders isn't that dumb. He is in the US Senate and knows how Democrats and Republicans vote and what kind of judges they nominate.
Sanders has been paying attention. He knows that there is a huge difference between Republicans and Democrats. He is an independent, but he caucuses with the Democrats.
Sanders has been paying attention. He knows that there is a huge difference between Republicans and Democrats. He is an independent, but he caucuses with the Democrats.
12
No. Nader was in a three-way race. If Bernie ran as a third-party candidate in a general election race against both Democratic and Republican candidates, your hypothetical would be analogous.
If you knew anything, admittedly a tall order, you'd be aware that Ralph Nader has done more for the good of this country, and its citizens, than any president since Carter (who was good, and is similarly smeared) and has more talent and intelligence in his little finger than Clinton in her expansive, state dinner fed over thousands of miles, body. I would not vote for HRC with a gun to my head, because, and this may seem ironic to people like you who are drunk on the Dem Kool-Aid, if HRC is nominated, then SHE is "the spoiler." For the 99%.
Cohn seems to think black people are stupid, which has a racialist tinge to it, and will overwhelmingly vote against their interests and support a corporatist Democrat like Ms Clinton.
Hillary Clinton is pretty far from the brilliant crowd pleasing performer that is Bill Clinton. And, regarding those who work to put food on the table, she's been on the wrong side of too many issues for decades.
Then count states that will vote for Sanders in a general election against the likes of Jeb "I'm my own man" Bush or Trump? (I'll bet Hillary Clinton's people are doing this count in horror.)
Anybody care to remember who won the Vermont democratic primary in 1988? Is wasn't the guy from state directly to the south of Vermont.
Then there's the 2002 Iraq war vote problem for Ms Clinton coupled with the fact of her Libya war support.
Hillary Clinton is pretty far from the brilliant crowd pleasing performer that is Bill Clinton. And, regarding those who work to put food on the table, she's been on the wrong side of too many issues for decades.
Then count states that will vote for Sanders in a general election against the likes of Jeb "I'm my own man" Bush or Trump? (I'll bet Hillary Clinton's people are doing this count in horror.)
Anybody care to remember who won the Vermont democratic primary in 1988? Is wasn't the guy from state directly to the south of Vermont.
Then there's the 2002 Iraq war vote problem for Ms Clinton coupled with the fact of her Libya war support.
32
Just more evidence that the mainstream media has become out of touch with what most Americans want. We aren't a bunch of hicks who want to remain in the stone age or some weird dystopian version of a Charles Dickens novel. Most Americans want a social democracy that is more in line with modern nations like Denmark or France. We're tired of being led by the nose, by corrupt politicians who are in the pockets of big corporations. This is counter to the interests of big media like the New York times. Sanders is surging among Democratic voters who want things like real universal health care and access to communications. Hatchet job articles like these aren't fooling anyone.
87
Most Americans don't want a 90% tax rate.
4
Just as the highest marginal rate. When we last had such high income tax rates for the super-wealthy -- under Eisenhower, a Republican -- the economy was booming.
Try to paint Bernie as an extremist. What he is for makes sense, and when people hear more about it the political picture will change.
Try to paint Bernie as an extremist. What he is for makes sense, and when people hear more about it the political picture will change.
2
Except for one thing: most Americans won't be paying a 90% rate if superbrackets are established. I think that there is substantial support for additional tax brackets at higher income levels.
5
Oh the snark and certitude that HRC is "the One", with charts to boot. Most of those moderate Democratic voters don't even know who Bernie Sanders is, but they soon will. First, the NYT, WaPo, and other so-called liberal media ignored Sanders. Then, they adopted a smiling, patronizing mien toward His candidacy, remarking on his quaint tone and "rumpled" appearance, like a faded uncle left behind by modernism. Now it's all about how, despite the enthusiastic crowds for Bernie, they're the wrong crowds, who won't matter in the primaries. What's next? His lifestyle and taste in ties doesn't meet Beltway standards?
84
One of the advantages a candidate like Bernie Sanders has is the advantage of a consensus by and among the "experts" who firmly declare, early, that he cannot possibly win. It is an advantage, in one respect, because that candidate has nowhere else to go but up, and in another respect, because the "experts" live, work, and populate in a world of people just like them, not where people actually vote. Having adapted to this milieu of like-trained professionals, policy experts, statisticians, and organizers who have worked one election after another since Gary Hart ran for President, the experts are simply disbelievers, experts of little faith.
Everything the author concludes here makes sense. Everything written here, as of today, is likely to come to pass. But voters don't make sense all the time and the election isn't held today. The real test is really whether he can raise the money and attract those willing to work in his campaign. There was hardly an "expert" who viewed Barack Obama as a winnable candidate, until the first quarterly campaign report was filed, at which point the election was his to lose.
God only knows, Bernie's got the issues on his side and, now, fortunately, he's got the experts denigrating his chances of winning.
Everything the author concludes here makes sense. Everything written here, as of today, is likely to come to pass. But voters don't make sense all the time and the election isn't held today. The real test is really whether he can raise the money and attract those willing to work in his campaign. There was hardly an "expert" who viewed Barack Obama as a winnable candidate, until the first quarterly campaign report was filed, at which point the election was his to lose.
God only knows, Bernie's got the issues on his side and, now, fortunately, he's got the experts denigrating his chances of winning.
40
One of the major reasons Bernie Sanders has so many supporters is because people believe they can trust him.
And right now, there's a new story in the NYT about Hillary Clinton lying about a subpoena she said she never got in a CNN interview yesterday. A copy of the subpoena has just been released.
It's that kind of stuff, over and over, that makes people believe she is untrustworthy. It's not without a basis.
And right now, there's a new story in the NYT about Hillary Clinton lying about a subpoena she said she never got in a CNN interview yesterday. A copy of the subpoena has just been released.
It's that kind of stuff, over and over, that makes people believe she is untrustworthy. It's not without a basis.
72
Well that all may be true author and it may come to pass. But you can not call a horse race 100 meters out of the gate. It is true if Sanders gets labeled before he gets into the ring, as the NYT is trying to do, and you, then it will be more difficult to overcome the corporatist effect. Black voters may not know him well and one can discount the conservative Dems and those include the ones with money at risk whom you might call all of Hillary´s backers. The question is why though is article after article in this newspaper obliquely or directly deriding Bernie´s chances. But then again why did the NYT triumph the Iraq war. Lack of wisdom is not restricted to just Republicans. It will be a tough slog for Bernie. It always is when the emperor has already been crowned.
38
If only Bernie's older (and dumber) brother (and father) had been president, he'd be a shoo=in.
19
I think the real purpose of his campaign-and it is an honorable one- is to push Hillary Clinton to the left, to get her to commit to a few progressive goals, publicly. I am worried about her being a hawk and a few other areas, and he is trying to be a control, as is Elizabeth Warren.
8
You failed to get Bernie Sanders point at all! We're taking this country back and nothing can stop us once the momentum is built!
1
I'm quite confident you are wrong and hope to disabuse you of that notion.
Bernie is nobody's sheep dog and he is running for the Democratic nomination with everything he's got. Count on it.
What's more, Sanders can win. He's already outdrawn and outraised Mitt Romney's 1st 1/4 of fundraising in 2012 and Bernie managed the latter in a mere 8 weeks.
Bernie is nobody's sheep dog and he is running for the Democratic nomination with everything he's got. Count on it.
What's more, Sanders can win. He's already outdrawn and outraised Mitt Romney's 1st 1/4 of fundraising in 2012 and Bernie managed the latter in a mere 8 weeks.
Dear Reva, hold on to that thought when you are in the voting booth. Fact is she IS a hawk, and once elected will revert back to her old positions. How could she not? It's insulting that she thinks voters are stupid enough to believe that she can be mellowed or controlled by the left wing. Once she's in, four tedious years of lecturing and contemptuous, mind-deadening demagoguery will follow during which time she will do absolutely nothing for those of us she is right now courting.
How does Nate Cohn know? It sound like the prediction in 2008 that Obama couldn't overtake Hillary.
31
The analysis misses one thing about Sanders: he gets people out to vote who have not voted in years. It would be interesting to re-do the analysis taking into account his ability to do that in Vermont and projecting that onto comparable demographics nationwide. My guess is that the conclusion will be very different.
But what is also true, as Krugman pointed out to very little attention in 2008, is that Hillary Clinton's economic positions generally have been to the left of those of then candidate Barack Obama.
But what is also true, as Krugman pointed out to very little attention in 2008, is that Hillary Clinton's economic positions generally have been to the left of those of then candidate Barack Obama.
15
In July 2007, very few voters in the 2008 primaries were engaged enough to even consider Senator Obama.
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Compared to that scenario, Senator Sanders is on a very early wave of momentum. Will that wave carry him to primary victories ? I'm going to sit back and let the prognosticators like the article's author yak away. I'll satisfy myself with visits to "Basil BuddhaCat Presents !" by William Jefferson Clinton. That dude is a hoot !
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In the meantime . . . Go Bernie !
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Compared to that scenario, Senator Sanders is on a very early wave of momentum. Will that wave carry him to primary victories ? I'm going to sit back and let the prognosticators like the article's author yak away. I'll satisfy myself with visits to "Basil BuddhaCat Presents !" by William Jefferson Clinton. That dude is a hoot !
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In the meantime . . . Go Bernie !
12
And the New York Times was correct about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq too? The lack of brilliant, probing, prescient writers at the New York Times has been steadily increasing, a malaise has set in. Perhaps the writers could take a lesson from Bernie Sanders and try a new, less manipulative approach to your readership.
57
Once people get beyond labels and actually hear what Sen. Sander’s positions are, they like him just fine.
Regardless of Sen. Sander’s fate, I fear Ms. Clinton has too much baggage: the connections to Bill Clinton, the untrue story she told about being shot at, and the secret email account as Secretary of State.
We need to elect someone not named Bush or Clinton and someone not brandishing the Republican crazy that seems to be their mainstream now.
Regardless of Sen. Sander’s fate, I fear Ms. Clinton has too much baggage: the connections to Bill Clinton, the untrue story she told about being shot at, and the secret email account as Secretary of State.
We need to elect someone not named Bush or Clinton and someone not brandishing the Republican crazy that seems to be their mainstream now.
26
"Nearly half of the Democratic primary electorate is moderate or even conservative."
That would seem to imply that former Sen. Jim Webb, not Sen. Bernie Sanders, could become former Sen. Hillary Clinton's biggest rival for the nomination.
That would seem to imply that former Sen. Jim Webb, not Sen. Bernie Sanders, could become former Sen. Hillary Clinton's biggest rival for the nomination.
15
When you hear practical (and rational) people like Webb and Kasich speak you start to realize how everyone else sounds like a politician, including Bernie Sanders.
1
Bingo! Webb in 2016
More Sanders bashing. In '08 Hillary Clinton would squash Obama. Yeah, right. Why this sort of cheap journalism?
46
The article on the initial web page is titled, " Sanders’s Momentum Is Not Built to Last". Not a question but a conclusion. I am not a conspiracy theorist but people reading the NY Times have to wonder. For weeks now we have been seeing repeated articles on why Sanders cannot win and why Clinton needs to be the anointed one. I note no similar articles on the 15 Republican candidates. The paper of record seems to be playing the same record over and over.
91
Cohn is viewing the election through the distorted lens of the 2008 election. Much has changed since 2008. So many people have lost their jobs, their homes, and their hopes of achieving the American dream. Hillary Clinton, a wealthy candidate who is in bed with Wall Street, does not appeal to those voters.
138
Those disasterous events happened on the watch of some guy named Bush.
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800,000 jobs lost per month starting with the economic meltdown and ending with the recovery under President Obama in early 2009 - and all the other bad economic news which has been reversed ove the past six years.
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800,000 jobs lost per month starting with the economic meltdown and ending with the recovery under President Obama in early 2009 - and all the other bad economic news which has been reversed ove the past six years.
3
Reversed?? Not for those who used to have a full-time job with good wages, now working 2 part-time jobs for low wages. Not even close to reversed.
3
Really? The bad economic news has been reverse? Wages are still stagnant and many are still underemployed. There are still lots of black economic clouds over our heads. And no consequences for the banks or the men who run them and whose policies ruined many peoples lives.
10
I agree with the criticism of too many stories about the horse race.
But about the horse race, it's great that Senator Sanders is getting young people and intellectuals to look up from their phones and their theorizing and actually get involved in politics, for the first time or once again.
If we can all remain engaged for the next 16 months, we can avoid another disastrous round of swearing in Scalias, Thomases, Alitos, etc. We can begin to get back government for the people.
But about the horse race, it's great that Senator Sanders is getting young people and intellectuals to look up from their phones and their theorizing and actually get involved in politics, for the first time or once again.
If we can all remain engaged for the next 16 months, we can avoid another disastrous round of swearing in Scalias, Thomases, Alitos, etc. We can begin to get back government for the people.
70
The only way we can avoid another round of Scalias and Thomas' is by electing the best Democratic candidate: Hillary Clinton. The rest is just a pipe dream.
If you really want to see a Democrat in the White House, and not just want to show your idealism then there's no choice but Hillary.
If you really want to see a Democrat in the White House, and not just want to show your idealism then there's no choice but Hillary.
2
Notice how there are usually NYTimes Picks on the comments but not on this story? Because almost all the up votes are opinions against the article declaring Clinton our chosen candidate. The reality is I will support Rand Paul if the Dems don't pick Sanders or Webb. I will never support a Clinton or a Bush again. They both take tons of money from giant banks and private prisons industries. Clinton=Bush in my book. No substantive difference in either major party now, that is why they both hate Sanders and Paul.
105
Get a grip. With Bush in the White house we had the Iraq war and a serious depression. With Clinton we had prosperity, even though the mad dogs of the Republicans tried to rip him apart.
2
Remember "workfare"? That's what we had after Clinton dismantled welfare. What a liberal!
5
and a GOP controlled congress.
2
I agree with many commentators the NYT is unconsciously biased against Sanders. The NYT is not considering the effect of Sander’s positions and logic. I think voters who you classify as moderate or even conservative are much more open to Sander’s fact based positions on the issues. You need to look at the number of people who have heard of Sander’ and his positions and now support him. Call this the captivation potential.
Also you have not at all explained and compared his positions against other candidates and of course the facts. You continue to treat elections as horse races when what you really need to do is inform the voters about the candidates so they can make better choices when casting their votes. Please do more to inform us about the candidates, their positions on the issues, temperament, forthrightness etc. but not simply report who is on top at this moment. You may be surprised by how people change in response to information.
Also you have not at all explained and compared his positions against other candidates and of course the facts. You continue to treat elections as horse races when what you really need to do is inform the voters about the candidates so they can make better choices when casting their votes. Please do more to inform us about the candidates, their positions on the issues, temperament, forthrightness etc. but not simply report who is on top at this moment. You may be surprised by how people change in response to information.
154
Everything about your comment is correct save ne thing: The Times' bias against Sanders is quite conscious, and unconscionable.
1
There is nothing in this piece that I haven't read or heard over and over, not a spark of imagination, not an iota of originality. I won't bother to counter these pompous "arguments" here.
Howard Dean was defeated by the Democratic establishment, scared to take a clear position against the Iraq war (they choose Kerry-the-warrior.) But now the same establishment has nothing to run scared of, and therefore, nothing to coalesce "against." Are they going to run against minimal wage, health care, free education? And, anyway, nobody listens to them anymore.
Bernie says what he thinks and that, incidentally, is what the majority of Americans also believe -- although they may not know it. Paradoxical? Yes, the same paradox that led right winger to scream "Get the government's hands off of my Medicare."
Maybe a less in-bred, echo-chamber-driven media class could get smarter about this apparent dissonance and understand that the Republicans have grasped it, and have made hay of it, to their advantage.
Howard Dean was defeated by the Democratic establishment, scared to take a clear position against the Iraq war (they choose Kerry-the-warrior.) But now the same establishment has nothing to run scared of, and therefore, nothing to coalesce "against." Are they going to run against minimal wage, health care, free education? And, anyway, nobody listens to them anymore.
Bernie says what he thinks and that, incidentally, is what the majority of Americans also believe -- although they may not know it. Paradoxical? Yes, the same paradox that led right winger to scream "Get the government's hands off of my Medicare."
Maybe a less in-bred, echo-chamber-driven media class could get smarter about this apparent dissonance and understand that the Republicans have grasped it, and have made hay of it, to their advantage.
85
Mr. Sanders may well experience the same fate a former well-educated and well-spoken Democrat did - Adlai Stevenson. It does sometimes feel as if the NYTimes is threatened by Mr. Sanders and what he stands for and keeps pushing for Mrs. Monied Clinton instead. That's fine. Just don't hide it under the wrap of fair and equal journalism. Mr. Sanders and the rest of the Democratic party (those of us without the money) just might surprise you.
119
Molly, You note, "Mr. Sanders may well experience the same fate a former well-educated and well-spoken Democrat did - Adlai Stevenson." But I checked the names of the 15 Republican candidates and I note that none of them is named Dwight Eisenhower.
8
A lot of people think Bernie is a great candidate because they like him and his views.
A lot of people think Hillary is a great candidate because they recognize her name think she is electable.
The Republicans did real well in 2012 when they chose a name-brand, electable candidate.
A lot of people think Hillary is a great candidate because they recognize her name think she is electable.
The Republicans did real well in 2012 when they chose a name-brand, electable candidate.
30
Yet again the NYT offers up another slap against Sanders. Is Clinton the NYT's darling? It certainly seems so.
128
try the Clinton News Network (CNN).
This column is generally all about the numbers and handicapping, not ideas.
But a campaign, in early stages is not about numbers. Any campaign, be in political or sales or marketing, intends reach a group of people with a message and elicit behavior in return. The question is: will the message of Sanders' campaign reverberate with large blocs of voters.
The column fails in that it puts different blocs of voters in "moderate" and "conservative" boxes and assumes that a "liberal" candidate cannot reach them. Very simplistic. Much better would be to go beyond the labels and see how Sanders' specific proposals play with the different blocs. Apparently they play fairly well: not "liberal ideas," but "common sense." This bears investigating.
Perhaps a few columns on politics written by anthropologists, psychologists, and political scientists might be more to the point. The handicappers have their place in the heat of the election, but in early days they are not so useful.
But a campaign, in early stages is not about numbers. Any campaign, be in political or sales or marketing, intends reach a group of people with a message and elicit behavior in return. The question is: will the message of Sanders' campaign reverberate with large blocs of voters.
The column fails in that it puts different blocs of voters in "moderate" and "conservative" boxes and assumes that a "liberal" candidate cannot reach them. Very simplistic. Much better would be to go beyond the labels and see how Sanders' specific proposals play with the different blocs. Apparently they play fairly well: not "liberal ideas," but "common sense." This bears investigating.
Perhaps a few columns on politics written by anthropologists, psychologists, and political scientists might be more to the point. The handicappers have their place in the heat of the election, but in early days they are not so useful.
39
Bernie's campaign is generating hope and enthusiasm. Moneybags Hillary's campaign is generating cash.
The Clinton "welfare reform" has put millions of black children into extreme poverty, less than $3/day.
Hillary is just another shill for the plutocrats and the one per centers. Bernie, an early supporter of Jesse Jackson, is talking about the real issues of black lives and poised to take a major share of the African-American vote:
http://www.salon.com/2015/07/07/the_truth_about_bernie_sanders_race_why_...
It is not ultra-liberal to support massive job creation in infrastructure, to guarantee postsecondary education to all students of merit, to tax the wealthy, have true national health insurance, to protect American jobs from bad trade deals, to keep out of eternal mideast wars, to halt climactic destruction, and the wealthy world's worst child poverty (thank you, Hillary Clinton).
Bernie will soon wipe the smirks and sneers off the faces of the Dem party establishment and the inside-the-Beltway groupthinkers.
The Clinton "welfare reform" has put millions of black children into extreme poverty, less than $3/day.
Hillary is just another shill for the plutocrats and the one per centers. Bernie, an early supporter of Jesse Jackson, is talking about the real issues of black lives and poised to take a major share of the African-American vote:
http://www.salon.com/2015/07/07/the_truth_about_bernie_sanders_race_why_...
It is not ultra-liberal to support massive job creation in infrastructure, to guarantee postsecondary education to all students of merit, to tax the wealthy, have true national health insurance, to protect American jobs from bad trade deals, to keep out of eternal mideast wars, to halt climactic destruction, and the wealthy world's worst child poverty (thank you, Hillary Clinton).
Bernie will soon wipe the smirks and sneers off the faces of the Dem party establishment and the inside-the-Beltway groupthinkers.
85
Bernie's voting record leaves Hillary's in the dust. And unlike Hillary he's not taking money from fossil fuel companies or ANY super pacs. This is the direction our country needs to move in; toward REAL campaign finance reform. And he CAN win! The internet has been available to many of us for over 20 years now, and it's a brave new world where social media campaigns and information can reach farther than costly television ads ever could. For many this has been an awakening. Manipulative politicians using religion and hot-button issues to puppet voters are losing more and more credibility all the time, while the scientific community is gaining more ground every day. Religious types are leaving their faiths in droves, and applying the angst from their god-shaped holes to real social issues and reform. Don't underestimate generation X and millennials. We want real action on climate change issues, we're not scared of labels like "social democrat," and we're more informed than ever. We want a better world for our children. Move over Hillary and all of the old guard; it's time for a sea change. Incidentally, many of my friends and I have voted for the green party since we could vote, but now we're finally registering democrat so we can vote for Bernie in the primaries. The same goes for a lot of my independent and formerly republican friends. It's not 2008 or 2000, and antiquated polling data from those election years in no way speaks to what is coming in 2016.
93
Hey Nate. When you speculate on the outcome of the NH primary, you would do well to remember the result of what happened to LBJ in '68.
14
for those who don't remember: LBJ actually won.
It was closer than anticipated (50 to 42), and so it was called by pundits as a McCarthy win......
It was closer than anticipated (50 to 42), and so it was called by pundits as a McCarthy win......
2
Cohn: "But his [Bernie's] problem with nonwhite voters is not properly understood as simply a problem of race. It’s primarily a problem with moderate and less educated Democrats, regardless of race, which happens to disproportionately affect his support among nonwhite voters."
Less educated, huh? You are treading on thin ice, Mr. Cohn. This seems suspiciously like code words to imply that non-whites aren't as conversant with the issues. Au contraire. They are very conversant. Proof? Did Herman Cain or Alan Keyes ever get support from non-whites? Non-whites didn't vote for Obama because of his skin. They voted for him because of his positions.
I am reminded of hubby Bill's ridiculous statements in 2008 that he was an honorary black person. As I recall, that didn't fly well.
Meanwhile, Mr. Cohn's expert analysis also implies that people who don't know the issues are more likely to favor Hillary. Hahahaha. That part is probably true.
Less educated, huh? You are treading on thin ice, Mr. Cohn. This seems suspiciously like code words to imply that non-whites aren't as conversant with the issues. Au contraire. They are very conversant. Proof? Did Herman Cain or Alan Keyes ever get support from non-whites? Non-whites didn't vote for Obama because of his skin. They voted for him because of his positions.
I am reminded of hubby Bill's ridiculous statements in 2008 that he was an honorary black person. As I recall, that didn't fly well.
Meanwhile, Mr. Cohn's expert analysis also implies that people who don't know the issues are more likely to favor Hillary. Hahahaha. That part is probably true.
48
How arrogant to think at this point you can predict the outcome, especially drawing on all the worn out labels, e.g. "socialist." This kind of thinking contributes to foregone conclusions before voters have even had a chance to have their say. Old school, status quo, Nate. How about some new, broad thinking????
69
This is critically shallow, analytically weak, full of assumptions, dubious reasoning, and false statements. Ms. Clinton is not a "liberal democrat" and Mr. Sanders is not just a "socialist" Lazy thinking, lazy writing! Jeez, NYTimes. Get it together.
149
What an odd analysis. So, Sanders is doing about as well six months before the early primaries as Obama actually finished in the early primaries. I guess Cohn expects that Sander won't build any further support in the next six months?
More fundamentally, Cohn's underlying and unspoken presumption is that the dynamics of the election this year are pretty much the same as eight years ago. But, it's not. In the last eight years, people have become fed up with a government that's become controlled by big-moneyed elites at the expense of everyone else. That's going to be the top issue in this election.
Given that, Clinton's now looking like a relic, inexorably tied to the status quo which Sanders is aiming fracture, in order to forge a more appropriate balance between the interests of have and have-nots. Sanders' focus on economic and social equity, coupled with his straight-forward honesty, may very well propel him to the presidency, with support from Democratics as well as a meaningful number of everyday Republicans.
More fundamentally, Cohn's underlying and unspoken presumption is that the dynamics of the election this year are pretty much the same as eight years ago. But, it's not. In the last eight years, people have become fed up with a government that's become controlled by big-moneyed elites at the expense of everyone else. That's going to be the top issue in this election.
Given that, Clinton's now looking like a relic, inexorably tied to the status quo which Sanders is aiming fracture, in order to forge a more appropriate balance between the interests of have and have-nots. Sanders' focus on economic and social equity, coupled with his straight-forward honesty, may very well propel him to the presidency, with support from Democratics as well as a meaningful number of everyday Republicans.
59
Yet another article from an Establishment newspaper talking about how Bernie can't win.
What it fails to bring up, like so many other such articles, is the fact that Hillary Clinton's name is recognized by everybody, and until a few months ago Bernie Sanders was basically unknown outside of Vermont. Early polls are almost entirely dependent upon name recognition, and Nate Cohn knows this--but he only alludes to this fact in passing before saying that "Mr. Sanders's problem runs a lot deeper than name recognition" without providing any numbers to back his next claim.
It's pretty clear that the NYT has a pro-Clinton agenda. When Bernie Sanders drew the biggest crowd by anyone so far in the 2016 campaign, the headline was "In Wisconsin, Sanders appeals to like-minded liberals."
A few days ago, the NYT editors made a clear effort to bury the most popular comments, which were decidedly pro-Sanders, and to disproportionately prop up comments that were either neutral or pro-Hillary.
To the editors of the NYT--shape up, or you're trying to shape the narrative around this election to help the Wall Street candidate, and it's transparently obvious. Shape up.
What it fails to bring up, like so many other such articles, is the fact that Hillary Clinton's name is recognized by everybody, and until a few months ago Bernie Sanders was basically unknown outside of Vermont. Early polls are almost entirely dependent upon name recognition, and Nate Cohn knows this--but he only alludes to this fact in passing before saying that "Mr. Sanders's problem runs a lot deeper than name recognition" without providing any numbers to back his next claim.
It's pretty clear that the NYT has a pro-Clinton agenda. When Bernie Sanders drew the biggest crowd by anyone so far in the 2016 campaign, the headline was "In Wisconsin, Sanders appeals to like-minded liberals."
A few days ago, the NYT editors made a clear effort to bury the most popular comments, which were decidedly pro-Sanders, and to disproportionately prop up comments that were either neutral or pro-Hillary.
To the editors of the NYT--shape up, or you're trying to shape the narrative around this election to help the Wall Street candidate, and it's transparently obvious. Shape up.
127
Maybe we should all send an email to the Public Editor, Margaret Sullivan, announcing a cancellation of our subscriptions until we see more balanced and in depth reporting of the Sander's campaign and policy platform. So far, I have been shocked at the shoddy and biased coverage by the Times. If this comment, even as a reply, becomes published, I will be shocked. I am quickly losing faith in this newspaper over this issue. The coverage of the candidates is of paramount importance to the electorate and to the entire world. Yet, the most serious, honest, consistent, and capable candidate in the race receives little to no coverage and the coverage finally received is dismissive without the facts to buttress the reporters' conclusions.
We're very early in this process. In tempestuous times, it's not necessarily the front-runner that matters. Bobby Kennedy, who might well have won in 1968 had he survived, did not declare his candidacy until March, 1968. Sure the process was different then, but the electorate today is very different, more diverse, less party-dependent, than the electorate of 1968. If McCarthy had been vetted earlier, he might not have survived past March, 1968. He proved to not really have his heart in the race. Bernie definitely has his heart in it, but so do Hillary. I hope that they both bring out the best in each other, and that they both get asked the very tough questions early. Obama survived all the nonsense attacks as well as the sensible criticisms and came out just a little stronger than Clinton in 2008, but Hillary has learned a lot since then. Bernie is energizing a part of the electorate that has been marginalized in the past several years and longer for some. Where will that all go? Hard to tell right now. The writer of this piece, as others have pointed out, is pretty naive to join the Bernie naysayers so soon.
18
It's time that we took the phrase 'Radical Fringe' and put it where it belongs-on the 1%. Bernie is representing the middle class and has a much better chance of reaching both the Republicans and Democrats, unlike Hilary who will surely be a polarizing force in the general election. It's also time for the NYT to stop being so dismissive of a serious candidate.
79
It may be admitting to an American heresy, but I'm not a fan of sports, including the political variety. So, discussions of election strategy, polls, statistics et al tend to leave me cold. No, I don't expect Mr. Sanders to win the nomination but I'll be voting for him anyway. The reason is a hope (and I hope not a delusion) that Ms. Clinton in assuming the mantle will hear the loud whisper from many of us that says, "This is what we really want, Hillary." Will she listen or care? Time, as they say, will tell.
10
I have enormous respect for Mr. Nate Cohn, but this old Eisenhower republican is putting money on, and voting for Senator Bernie Sanders. If I'm wrong, then I'll reluctantly vote for Hillary Clinton, who, like most Blue Dog, Establishment Democrats, are little more than one of today's slightly saner republicans.
52
Hillary is a woman and some democrats will promote anyone to avoid the horror of a woman president
I hope that this analysis is completely wrong and that Sanders, whether or not he eventually gets the nomination, is a force in the race right up to the convention.
He is a good man with a powerful mind and a sincere commitment to righting wrongs that run deep in our country -- so deep that discredited Reaganisms find their way into the Democrats' discourse.
We need him, not a return to "triangulation."
He is a good man with a powerful mind and a sincere commitment to righting wrongs that run deep in our country -- so deep that discredited Reaganisms find their way into the Democrats' discourse.
We need him, not a return to "triangulation."
33
Its pretty amazing the way the Times is covering this campaign so far. When writing about Hillary she's "Queen Hillary" who won't talk to the self-important political journalists. With Sanders its "he's a socialist who can't win." (No, he's not a "socialist." Journalists need to do something different, like listen to Sanders as he describes himself.) While Republicans from Jeb! Bush, to Chris Christie to Scott Walker (in today's Times) get big fat wet kisses. The overpaid, pampered American political press is filled with juvenile idiots who should actually get off their butts and do some research about POLICY. Tell us where candidates stand on issues and how they will address them if they become President. The endless horse race coverage and talking points today's journalists report on should be left to the tabloids. Unfortunately, its not.
76
Hillary's candidacy will be a disaster. She has honesty issues, is considered 'the establishment', has scandals galore and isn't very likable. Worse, her platitudes and disgusting dirty money don't inspire.
The New York times is wrong here. Hillary may be who you've already crowned, but stick an establishment candidate against 'boy scout' anti-establishment YOUNG Scott Walker or Marco Rubio or even Rand Paul and voters will go with them. They will be the Obama to her McCaine. That will be a disaster.
It doesn't show in the polls yet, but the GOP is just getting started. Bernie appeals to republicans (ask Howard Dean) and Independents. What's more, he has inspired young kids, like my twenty year old son to vote for the first time. No, my son would not vote for Hillary EVER. She represents why he doesn't vote.
The New York times is wrong here. Hillary may be who you've already crowned, but stick an establishment candidate against 'boy scout' anti-establishment YOUNG Scott Walker or Marco Rubio or even Rand Paul and voters will go with them. They will be the Obama to her McCaine. That will be a disaster.
It doesn't show in the polls yet, but the GOP is just getting started. Bernie appeals to republicans (ask Howard Dean) and Independents. What's more, he has inspired young kids, like my twenty year old son to vote for the first time. No, my son would not vote for Hillary EVER. She represents why he doesn't vote.
35
In your world up is down and black is white. Let the republican party nominate Rubio, Walker or Paul and it will be a bloodbath for any of them. Like cockroaches, sunshine will make them disappear.
I don't put much store in Cohn's analysis. I prefer my campaign commentary from Ira Gershwin (with music by brother George!)
"They all laughed at Christopher Columbus when he said the world was round.
They all laughed when Edison recorded sound.
They all laughed at Wilbur and his brother when they said that man could fly.
Why, they told Marconi wireless was a phoney - it's the same old cry."
"They all laughed at Christopher Columbus when he said the world was round.
They all laughed when Edison recorded sound.
They all laughed at Wilbur and his brother when they said that man could fly.
Why, they told Marconi wireless was a phoney - it's the same old cry."
33
The vehemence of Bernie supporters in the comments section in this and other NYT columns reminds me of Ron Paul 2008 and 2012 people.
Having said that, Nate is pointing out the problems Sanders MIGHT have against Clinton next year based on how Obama (and to a certain extent Edwards) did in 2008. He is using elections from 8 years ago, which is fine in its own way (you have got to get your data from somewhere). But the dynamics of the party base may well have changed in 8 years. We shall see.
Still, many people wishing to #FEELTHEBERN need to tone down the magical thinking and get out there and work.
Having said that, Nate is pointing out the problems Sanders MIGHT have against Clinton next year based on how Obama (and to a certain extent Edwards) did in 2008. He is using elections from 8 years ago, which is fine in its own way (you have got to get your data from somewhere). But the dynamics of the party base may well have changed in 8 years. We shall see.
Still, many people wishing to #FEELTHEBERN need to tone down the magical thinking and get out there and work.
6
The difference between Bernie and Ron Paul is that history and data are on Bernie side.
To correct the deficiencies noted in this article among the less liberal members of the Democratic electorate is where Senator Sanders' campaign rubber must meet the road. There is still plenty of time to bump those numbers, but has he put together a competent, professional campaign organization? What is being done to improve his fund raising in order to bring in serious money? Efforts in those areas will tell us much more about the probability of his campaign's success than giving speeches in front of dreamy-eyed audiences in college towns.
3
Is it not a bit early in the game to be deciding the outcome? Sanders is a long shot. Clinton has money, organization, and a track record. She also is a neo-liberal-big business-Wall Street darling. If you want TPP, TPIP, TISA et al, she's your candidate. If you want a sort of hawkish foreign policy, she's your candidate. If you want Clinton III, she's your candidate. If you want four more years of weasel speak, she's your candidate.
I prefer Sanders.
I prefer Sanders.
31
My brain tells me Cohn is right.
My heart tells me he is wrong.
My political finger in the wind tells me HRC is dust.
My heart tells me he is wrong.
My political finger in the wind tells me HRC is dust.
24
Bernie Sanders has a positive, build the nation agenda, with a vision based on "We the people ...." I saw that vision in action when I was growing up and though the 1970's, as it led us out of the great depression, made us a powerful nation during < 4 year global World War II, gave me and all the citizens of the nation the opportunity to work and have a career through the public programs, including essentially free education, and the GI bill of rights, and the building up of a public infrastructure that was in the best interest of this nation--I could go on an on. Document for me what the Republican party has contributed or done in the past forty years for the people of this nation. I see only a record of divide and conquer, gerrymandering and doing everything they can to prevent honest voting, creating unwarranted wars to satisfy their personal greed, destroying the opportunity for education, total privatization with no regulation so they can tax the people of this country by making them pay the "management" when they take over and bankrupt companies. Cohn, there is a true, rotten to the core problem with the dishonesty, corruption, and corruption, fear-mongering totalitarian policies that define the political right wing in this country. Talk about that next time. Bernie Sanders is attracting voters because he represents the antithesis of this right wing agenda. His momentum is going to increase, not get less.
44
You are so wrong about this. No one wants HC to be President. We need a voice for the people of America, not for the corporate titans and politicians. America (at least the little guy) has had enough.....
33
Paraphrasing from Miranda Priestly from "The Devil Wears Prada" -
"Our candidate (H Clinton) represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the political powers, when, in fact, you're choosing the candidate that was selected for you by the people in this room from a bunch of "candidates."
OK now I get it. I'm not supposed to think that anyone other than Hillary Clinton is a viable candidate, right?
"Our candidate (H Clinton) represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the political powers, when, in fact, you're choosing the candidate that was selected for you by the people in this room from a bunch of "candidates."
OK now I get it. I'm not supposed to think that anyone other than Hillary Clinton is a viable candidate, right?
23
Bernie Sanders is the first candidate to truly understand and care about the middle class of this country. He will not be bought by the rich. He is truly a man for the people and will be put in office as President by the people, one small donation at a time with no one to "owe" once he gets there. He represents all the good things this country stands for and promises to take care of the middle class and make sure everyone pays their fair share, most importantly to level the taxes so that the working middle class aren't carrying the burden as they are now.
33
The Hillary supporters remind me of people who like sushi. More specifically, when presented with the data-supported assertion that as humans continue to ravage the oceans, we'll be left with nature's version of a "giant bathtub", the sushi eaters respond with resounding and vacuous "I like sushi". As with the values-based Republicans, most Hillary supporters don't want to hear opinions that counter their "values-based" assessment of her. They don't want to hear that her top three donors make her complicit with a plutocracy/oligarchy model by association. Nor do they wish to hear that she went on the record as being resoundingly supportive of fracking last December, or that her default reaction to many scenarios in the middle east would be to send in troops. Americans do not want a candidate whose reaction to questions about their judgement is met with "stonewalling", and they certainly don't want a "coronation". Sanders has gone to great lengths to define his campaign as a manifesto against the current status quo, which maintains a disparity of wealth and continuous autonomy for a small segment of the population. He has a vision which most rank and file Americans can relate to, while Hillary presents no such plan. For those who feel disenfranchised from the current political process, I recommend that they watch Sanders' rally speech which he gave in Madison, WI on July 1st, now archived on YouTube.
25
2,500 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, the largest of any candidate in the state to this point
10,000 in Madison, WI, DOUBLE the next largest rally of any candidate in this cycle (Clinton's relaunch we 5,500 in NYC, a city of 8 million people)
8,000+ in Portland, ME tonight, a city of 66,000
And consider this: Obama won last time around by mobilizing the largest grassroots movement in modern political history. He was already a rising star in the Democratic party, having given a keynote speech in the 2004 DNC. By June 30, he had been campaigning for about 5 months, and participated in several nationally televised debates. He received donates from 180,000 people.
Bernie has 250,000 donors.
And he's been campaigning for half the time, with no national debates, and zero name recognition going into this election. And while you could say Clinton and Obama have both dominated him in terms of $ received at this point, history shows that past a certain point (once most people have heard your message), money can't buy votes. See Romney 2012, who outspent Obama by half a billion has still lost. https://www.ringoffireradio.com/2015/07/hillary-has-the-money-bernie-has...
TL; DR: Sanders is killing it thus far, and has a much better chance at winning this than most people realize
10,000 in Madison, WI, DOUBLE the next largest rally of any candidate in this cycle (Clinton's relaunch we 5,500 in NYC, a city of 8 million people)
8,000+ in Portland, ME tonight, a city of 66,000
And consider this: Obama won last time around by mobilizing the largest grassroots movement in modern political history. He was already a rising star in the Democratic party, having given a keynote speech in the 2004 DNC. By June 30, he had been campaigning for about 5 months, and participated in several nationally televised debates. He received donates from 180,000 people.
Bernie has 250,000 donors.
And he's been campaigning for half the time, with no national debates, and zero name recognition going into this election. And while you could say Clinton and Obama have both dominated him in terms of $ received at this point, history shows that past a certain point (once most people have heard your message), money can't buy votes. See Romney 2012, who outspent Obama by half a billion has still lost. https://www.ringoffireradio.com/2015/07/hillary-has-the-money-bernie-has...
TL; DR: Sanders is killing it thus far, and has a much better chance at winning this than most people realize
46
He was less swamped in fundraising numbers than iit might appear as well.
His campaign quarterly was a tally of only 8 weeks, whereas Clinton was reporting her haul for 12 weeks, 50% more time. I've heard thru the grapevine that B's fundraising continues apace with another 8 million raised a week later.
His campaign quarterly was a tally of only 8 weeks, whereas Clinton was reporting her haul for 12 weeks, 50% more time. I've heard thru the grapevine that B's fundraising continues apace with another 8 million raised a week later.
Maybe the reason that he's trailing among "moderates" is that they aren't really engaged this early in the contest and haven't really heard of him?
Very thin suppositions in this article.
Very thin suppositions in this article.
26
Perhaps if the New York Times and other media covered the issues rather than simply the horse race, Senator Sanders standing with moderate and conservative voters would improve. A lot.
44
If half of the articles (in the Times and elsewhere) covering the election horse race were simply devoted to candidates' stances on issues, Senator Sanders would be gaining ground even more quickly.
41
Oh Please! Yet another article trying to tear down Sanders' candidacy. Focus on the message and you'll see why his ideas resonate with so many people. Focus on the candidate and you'll see why people believe him to be genuine. He has been consistent on his ideas for decades and championed the little guy for decades. Focus on his words and you'll see that it is clear that he isnt simply equivocating or hedging on issues till he figures out the most "profitable" answer.
39
I truly like Bernie Sanders; he supports all or most of the important issues and policies I support.
But, in his 18-or-so years in Congress, has he been able to initiate and get approval for any major legislation that deals with those issues?
Being on the "right" side of issues is easy -- I know because I am! -- but getting Congress to pass legislation that will correct problems is a whole different matter. I need to know that Bernie has the political skills to achieve the results he so nobly cares about.
Being a Lone Ranger in Congress is interesting but more is needed at the presidential level.
But, in his 18-or-so years in Congress, has he been able to initiate and get approval for any major legislation that deals with those issues?
Being on the "right" side of issues is easy -- I know because I am! -- but getting Congress to pass legislation that will correct problems is a whole different matter. I need to know that Bernie has the political skills to achieve the results he so nobly cares about.
Being a Lone Ranger in Congress is interesting but more is needed at the presidential level.
6
Excellent comment. How in the world is Bernie going to get anything done?
I also don't think that Hillary's positions and Bernie's are so far apart. But Hillary has the wherewith all to actually accomplish something.
Bernie is Don Quixote. Great ideals but no real strength.
I also don't think that Hillary's positions and Bernie's are so far apart. But Hillary has the wherewith all to actually accomplish something.
Bernie is Don Quixote. Great ideals but no real strength.
2
Electability is certainly a factor and that's where Bernie has the advantage. Clinton would probably defeat Trump or Carson but that's about it.
10
And of course, part of his problem comes from articles like this one, that tell everyone to calm down and just vote the middle. I'll vote for him: all that comes to mind are cliches, I'm afraid. "Breath of fresh air," "Tells it like it is" and so forth. He doesn't need "handlers" to train him in the art of talking to "ordinary people" like us. Hillary rates as high on my personal "phonyometer" as any of the ludicrous GOP candidates. Call me old fashioned, but I think the American political scene right now is as plain an example of the battle of good against evil as you're ever going to see. We do not need fence-sitters.
40
Many of these moderate and conservative Democrats are simply unfamiliar with Bernie Sanders much as many were unfamiliar with Obama when he entered the primaries in the 2008 campaign. Bernie has a message that will and can resonate with black voters or anyone who feels disenfranchised much as did Obama. When I went to the Democratic causes in our state in 2008 the fuss was all about Hillary but by the end of the session Obama won our district votes after a number of people spoke to the issues. People at the caucus felt energized by Obama and only "safe" with Hillary. People look for hope for the future. I don't think that Hillary adequately conveys that message from her mansion and certainly none of the hoards running for the GOP nomination even come close. It is time for a fresh approach, one that Obama made a promise to but never could really deliver. Bernie is going to surprise you naysayers Nate. He has an actual proven track record that Obama never had.
22
It's always interesting to hear judgments on why candidates cannot succeed from commentators who probably did not know who they were a few weeks ago.
And what are this author's arguments? They have nothing to do with the issues, but with locations on a hypothetical scale of "liberalism". He harps on Sen. Sanders being a "self-described socialist". Sanders is running for the Democratic nomination, and therefore he must be a Democrat. How he has described himself personally matters little except to those who are stampeded by labels. The author is merely rehearsing a "slur" that Republicans would be expected to hurl at him.
For a Democratic primary voter, the central question should be whether they agree with him on the issues. The author of this article does not seem interested in issues, but I suspect that there are few that a "liberal" would disagree with.
The other important question is that of recognition. Here is Sanders main real challenge. But I would point out that a previous candidate was in the same position at a comparable stage of his race. His name was Bill Clinton.
And what are this author's arguments? They have nothing to do with the issues, but with locations on a hypothetical scale of "liberalism". He harps on Sen. Sanders being a "self-described socialist". Sanders is running for the Democratic nomination, and therefore he must be a Democrat. How he has described himself personally matters little except to those who are stampeded by labels. The author is merely rehearsing a "slur" that Republicans would be expected to hurl at him.
For a Democratic primary voter, the central question should be whether they agree with him on the issues. The author of this article does not seem interested in issues, but I suspect that there are few that a "liberal" would disagree with.
The other important question is that of recognition. Here is Sanders main real challenge. But I would point out that a previous candidate was in the same position at a comparable stage of his race. His name was Bill Clinton.
22
More important than the "liberal" label in 2008, was the feeling people had that Barack Obama was genuine. In every regard, Candidate Obama was slightly less liberal than Candidate Hillary Clinton. Nevertheless, more self-identified liberals voted for President Obama. Hillary Clinton has a tendency to say what she thinks will win her votes, while her positions on some policy remain a mystery.
What's not mysterious? Her support for the 1% and corporate America. Let them get bigger, squeeze out competition, and bust unions. Barack Obama offers the same support, but has never hidden from his views. Bernie Sanders, however, sees the "haves" as wielding too much power over politics, as stifling economic growth by concentrating wealth into their own hands at the expense of middle- and low-income workers.
People place value on being able to trust a candidate when she tells you what she would like to change. 40% of eligible voters don't vote, perhaps because they are disgusted with the obvious dishonesty. People voted for Barack Obama who had never participated in elections before. Maybe because he's black, but maybe some became voters because they believed him.
In a nutshell, I believe Bernie Sanders. I also happen to agree with him on all of his policy positions. Check out the "Bernie Sanders" page at wikipedia.org
What's not mysterious? Her support for the 1% and corporate America. Let them get bigger, squeeze out competition, and bust unions. Barack Obama offers the same support, but has never hidden from his views. Bernie Sanders, however, sees the "haves" as wielding too much power over politics, as stifling economic growth by concentrating wealth into their own hands at the expense of middle- and low-income workers.
People place value on being able to trust a candidate when she tells you what she would like to change. 40% of eligible voters don't vote, perhaps because they are disgusted with the obvious dishonesty. People voted for Barack Obama who had never participated in elections before. Maybe because he's black, but maybe some became voters because they believed him.
In a nutshell, I believe Bernie Sanders. I also happen to agree with him on all of his policy positions. Check out the "Bernie Sanders" page at wikipedia.org
33
Indeed. A primary of activists alone would have very strange results in EITHER party - the nominees would be a Socialist or quasi-Communist, vs. a Goldwater or quasi-Nazi. The American people as a whole, in both parties, are not (as yet, and thank God) any where near enough scared and angry as to elect such folks dogcatcher.
The conservative and market driven solutions to the nation's malaise offered by Republicans and embraced by moderate and conservative Democrats have led a situation where the vast amount of new wealth created has not expanded the economy in the U.S. enough for all to benefit proportionally as was the promise made to the people by those advocating those solutions. Worse these solutions have not allowed the country to maintain infrastructure and have led to a situation where there is serious discussion about slashing "entitlements", the very programs which form the basis for eliminating the worst impoverishments for the most people who are not rich. We are becoming a country that is losing it's ability to provide prosperity and opportunity for all, and Sanders solutions have provided a remedy for that in our history, already, so his support may not be as flimsy as this column proposes.
18
Mr.Cohn's analysis is very insightful and well done. Inherent in his argument are two flaws, however. The first is that all his assumptions for the 2016 election are solely built upon the immutability of past elections being projected to future elections. If such were the case, the American political landscape would forever be frozen in place. Obviously that is not the arc of any political or cultural change.
Secondly, he never defines any of his political pigeonholing. What is his definition of "liberal", "moderate" or "conservative", for example? What about self-described "libertarians"? His projected schema
is too detached from historical reality to be any more than an exercise in what has become pop punditry in this country. I do give him high marks for his intelligent attempt to find reason in the circus.
Secondly, he never defines any of his political pigeonholing. What is his definition of "liberal", "moderate" or "conservative", for example? What about self-described "libertarians"? His projected schema
is too detached from historical reality to be any more than an exercise in what has become pop punditry in this country. I do give him high marks for his intelligent attempt to find reason in the circus.
18
Nate- Your opinion is brilliant and it is important to have multiple viewpoints and ideas being expressed. That doesn't mean your 2008 analysis of a campaign that can/will be won by millenials and Gen Z on social media correct.
Urban Dictionary:
Top Definition
Nostradamus
A guy whose prophecies pertaining to the end of the world have been interpreted, proven wrong, and reinterpreted so many times that its surprising they haven't given up on him yet
Urban Dictionary:
Top Definition
Nostradamus
A guy whose prophecies pertaining to the end of the world have been interpreted, proven wrong, and reinterpreted so many times that its surprising they haven't given up on him yet
6
OK, I'm from Vermont, and am a big supporter of Bernie. Maybe I've got on my rose-colored glasses, but what I've seen of the way Bernie is supported by people who you might not expect, makes me know this ain't over. People don't know him, but will. The rural houses in Vermont with Bernie signs on the front lawn make me know that. I even have moderate Republican friends, who are listening, comment that Bernie seems pretty good. Moderate Republicans!! Just wait until people pay attention, and hear him....
81
I wish i had a dollar for every time I heard or read "Barack Obama can't win" in 2007. I'm going to search it right now and tell you what i found: 2,910,000 results
47
For many years I had a bumper sticker that read: "Don't vote, it only encourages them" and felt the deep cynicism of those who saw no real choice at the polls. Now there is a candidate that I can believe in and vote for: Bernie Sanders. I believe that all the Americans who feel disenfranchised from the American Dream, when hearing Bernie will feel he can truly represent us.
95
If HRC's campaign should unexpectedly implode, her wealthy backers would rush a Clinton clone into the race. And if by some miracle Bernie obtained the nomination these same folks would prefer any Republican to Sanders. Absent well-organized and class conscious voters, Mr. Cohn is correct that Bernie has no chance. But if given the opportunity I'm still voting for him.
19
I think Jim Webb will stand in the wings to pick up the pieces when Sanders flames out and Clinton drives her bandwagon into the ditch again. It will be a Webb-O'Malley dream ticket that will appeal to Democrats across the board, and maybe even some of the less fanatical Republicans who like Webb for his war record and square-jawed look, if nothing else.
2
This is an article that had to be written. As deftly noted by Mr. Cohn: "...But the only candidates who could threaten Mrs. Clinton’s path to the nomination would be ones who could break her grip on the party’s moderate wing...."
No moderate Democrat will vote for a self-proclaimed socialist and Senator Sanders is just that. To do so would be to invite a possible 49 state bloodbath at the hands of the massively funded Republican candidate in November '16.
No moderate Democrat will vote for a self-proclaimed socialist and Senator Sanders is just that. To do so would be to invite a possible 49 state bloodbath at the hands of the massively funded Republican candidate in November '16.
2
"Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure." HA! That line proves how far right the politics have swung in this country and/or how out of touch Nate Cohn is with reality.
74
Sanders is doing a great service to American politics.
The wide field of Republican candidates, few of which have any chance of ever becoming president, creates the illusion that the electorate is far more conservative than it really is.
By presenting views to the left of Hillary, he is doing his part to counterbalance the Republican effort to re-engineer the political spectrum of the United States by putting forward a vast array of fringe ideas that really don't resonate with voters unless they're incessantly repeated.
The wide field of Republican candidates, few of which have any chance of ever becoming president, creates the illusion that the electorate is far more conservative than it really is.
By presenting views to the left of Hillary, he is doing his part to counterbalance the Republican effort to re-engineer the political spectrum of the United States by putting forward a vast array of fringe ideas that really don't resonate with voters unless they're incessantly repeated.
13
This isn't strictly an issue of ideology. People are turned off by the political system period and Sanders is refreshing. I really don't know what difference there would be between a Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush Administration. Marginal at best. The NY Times pitches for the establishment, so this is no surprise really.
31
This "no difference" idea makes no sense. Hillary and Jeb are worlds apart on every single issue! I do not welcome a Bush appointment to SCOTUS or to Republican control of all branches of government. Unthinkable.
"He's the real deal" I hear over and over again from non-political friends. "I sent him money! I never do that!" And when the Black community finds out that Bernie worked with CORE and SNCC when he was at the University of Chicago (the NYTimes won't tell them!) and he was at the march on Washington with MLK they will join in. Bernis is real - he doesn't' speak from a focus-group vetted script. He says the same things he has been saying all his life! And don't underestimate grassroots Democrats - we won't need muchprodding to organize phone banks and precinct walkers! We are ready! Watch us! At the California Democratic Convention there was Bernie swag all over and Elizabeth Warren was the keynote speaker. Hillary was no where in sight! Feel the Bern!!!
110
Does he still believe that cervical cancer is caused by a paucity of orgasms?
1
The media love to cover the horse race but say little about who Sanders is, what he would do as President, how he would work with Congress, why he wants to be President, etc. There's no real scrutiny of what a President Sanders could mean for the country, for better or worse. The coverage of the "surge" is all just filler for a slow summer news cycle. It's not even clear if he qualifies to be on the ballot in every Democratic primary, including New Hampshire, and certainly not without a fight in some cases. That seems like a potential obstacle and something worth reporting on.
14
I think if Clinton wins the Democratic nomination, she will have to return more to the center to get elected especially if Rep decide on a moderate, level headed Rep. Two Republicans (one dressed as a moderate Dem) have recently won state elections in the heavily democraitc SF Bay Area...even super liberals can only go so far in CA.
1
The typical white, affluent, well educated Times reader is in denial about the problems for Sanders that you bring up.
I live among a lot of less educated older white people with working class backgrounds, and I have to say that from what I'm hearing, Nate is right.
The fact that Clinton has immense international experience, while Sanders has none, is only the icing on the cake.
I live among a lot of less educated older white people with working class backgrounds, and I have to say that from what I'm hearing, Nate is right.
The fact that Clinton has immense international experience, while Sanders has none, is only the icing on the cake.
6
Brookline is extremely affluent and educated.
1
But my particular bunch of friends, who include elderly and disabled people, are not.
1
Clinton's "immense international experience" includes being crashingly wrong about the Iraq War. Probably because she calculated that a vote for the war was a safer political position than a vote against the war.
At any rate, Bernie Sanders doesn't make those kinds of decisions based on cynical calculations.
At any rate, Bernie Sanders doesn't make those kinds of decisions based on cynical calculations.
Read the letter to the editor of NYT from Bernie's 1963 University of Chicago roommate:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/08/opinion/bernie-sanders-in-the-1960s-se...
I want him working to help fight for what I believe.
Bernie Sanders for President 2016!
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/08/opinion/bernie-sanders-in-the-1960s-se...
I want him working to help fight for what I believe.
Bernie Sanders for President 2016!
25
I suppose everyone in every election year says the same thing, but this is no ordinary election year. Sanders is the only one talking about the real issues, and in particular, the ever increasing gap between the very wealthy and everyone else, and the nature of our "democracy" today. Bernie Sanders has actually used the word 'oligarchy'. I have never run across a politician that told that kind of truth. I doubt he can win, but I am supporting him out of sheer amazement. Besides, if a self-proclaimed socialist won the presidency, it would put the fear of god into capitalists who have feared nothing since communism fell in Russia. We could use a little socialism right about now.
196
While the article draws on historical demographic realities, it largely ignores the reality of a fundamentally changing electorate. The difference that is driving Senator Sanders' popularity may be the same thing that the Occupy movement, Naomi Klein and Pope Francis have all recognized - that the global financial system has failed way too many people and too many nations, even the capacity of life on earth to absorb all our rapacious insults and wounds.
The past two elections brought a president who has built much in the way of a foundation for launching a new economy and a new, more sustainable society. Although the regional base of the Times encompasses the heart of profits from the status quo and some of those powers may wish it weren't so or may be unable to see beyond their own interests, it can't be disallowed that 2016 may continue developing a more promising future for our world, the disparate aspects of which each can not happen soon enough.
The past two elections brought a president who has built much in the way of a foundation for launching a new economy and a new, more sustainable society. Although the regional base of the Times encompasses the heart of profits from the status quo and some of those powers may wish it weren't so or may be unable to see beyond their own interests, it can't be disallowed that 2016 may continue developing a more promising future for our world, the disparate aspects of which each can not happen soon enough.
16
As we sadly have seen with Our current liberal President, we also need a Congress willing to work with him/her to get anything meaningful done. It makes no difference who is sitting in the White House if The GOP fills most of the seats in Congress. Hopefully the American people have learned their lesson with bad governance and will provide a Congress that can back the POTUS.
4
The liberalism of our current President has been missing in action for almost his entire term.
1
Spoken like a true pundit Mr. Cohn. Looking back can tell us some things about what is to come. But this isn't 2008. It's 2015 and BERNIE SANDERS is not Barack Obama. Unlike Obama, Bernie talks about requiring voters to stay engaged. Let's see if his message begins to leak into the groups you tend to lump together as "likely to". He may have a steep mountain to climb but he's got 15 months to make his case. Please don't write him off so soon.
26
Bernie Sanders is a magnet. But magnets only attract certain elements. If I were younger, sure, I'd be in the Bernie camp. But having gone through many electoral cycles, I well know that Bernie's candidacy, his magnetism, attracts a niche voter. Only. Sadly, actually.
My hope for Bernie's candidacy is that he has enough clout, enough magnetism, to bring his excited voters into the Clinton fold and to "attract" even Clinton further left. To me, that is the value of his candidacy. Bernie is a much better speaker, more fiery, more charismatic than Hillary. His presence, ultimately, can do a world of good for her campaign.
The Democrats MUST win in 2016. And I trust Bernie will go a long way to assist in that. Meanwhile he is "attracting" and energizing voters voters. Which I hope and pray he can deliver come November of 2016.
My hope for Bernie's candidacy is that he has enough clout, enough magnetism, to bring his excited voters into the Clinton fold and to "attract" even Clinton further left. To me, that is the value of his candidacy. Bernie is a much better speaker, more fiery, more charismatic than Hillary. His presence, ultimately, can do a world of good for her campaign.
The Democrats MUST win in 2016. And I trust Bernie will go a long way to assist in that. Meanwhile he is "attracting" and energizing voters voters. Which I hope and pray he can deliver come November of 2016.
5
If he attracts them only to end up delivering them to Hillary Clinton—and she does what I would expect, which is abandon populism once in office in favor of taking care of Wall Street—then it will only add to the sum total of disaffection and political cynicism among the public.
We are for Sanders precisely because we know that he, unlike Bill and Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, means what he says when he says it.
And I'm betting a lot of Americans—regardless of political label—are going to find that kind of candor and straight talk attractive.
We are for Sanders precisely because we know that he, unlike Bill and Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, means what he says when he says it.
And I'm betting a lot of Americans—regardless of political label—are going to find that kind of candor and straight talk attractive.
The only reason Mr. Sanders numbers are not even higher than they are is that many people still have not heard him. Most Democrats, if they hear both Mr. Sanders and Ms. Clinton, have little reason to vote for the latter.
29
Once again the NY Times tells us why Sanders cannot win.
And once again the daily numbers and surging support tell us the opposite.
You site black voters as key to Obama's win.
However, this newspaper and no other media that I have seen ever mention that Sanders, and of the current group of presidential hopefuls, only Sanders played a real role in the civil rights movement.
While at the University of Chicago, he was a student organizer for the Congress of Racial Equality and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. One of the actions he took was the coordination of sit-in protests against segregated campus housing. Sanders also participated in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
Black voters will know that unlike the others, he was actually fighting for full rights for all Americans when it really mattered.
And how about his unique appeal to mainstream, white voters?
He may surprise some in his nuanced views on gun control. He represents Vermont where guns are part of the local culture. He says that most gun owners are law abiding and that they need to be supported. He voted against a law that penalized gun manufacturers for assaults with their weapons. He also supports background checks for gun owners, banning semi-automatic weapons, and the elimination of loopholes for buyers at gun shows to evade regulations.
He is not some cookie-cutter, black and white politician.
And he will continue to gather support the more people hear his message.
And once again the daily numbers and surging support tell us the opposite.
You site black voters as key to Obama's win.
However, this newspaper and no other media that I have seen ever mention that Sanders, and of the current group of presidential hopefuls, only Sanders played a real role in the civil rights movement.
While at the University of Chicago, he was a student organizer for the Congress of Racial Equality and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. One of the actions he took was the coordination of sit-in protests against segregated campus housing. Sanders also participated in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
Black voters will know that unlike the others, he was actually fighting for full rights for all Americans when it really mattered.
And how about his unique appeal to mainstream, white voters?
He may surprise some in his nuanced views on gun control. He represents Vermont where guns are part of the local culture. He says that most gun owners are law abiding and that they need to be supported. He voted against a law that penalized gun manufacturers for assaults with their weapons. He also supports background checks for gun owners, banning semi-automatic weapons, and the elimination of loopholes for buyers at gun shows to evade regulations.
He is not some cookie-cutter, black and white politician.
And he will continue to gather support the more people hear his message.
51
I think you are underestimating the amount people want to address the surge of influence of money in politics AND traditional media outlets. With that decades long phenomena, there's now a follow on surge of skepticism for entrenched politicians and media and a resulting rise in open mindedness to alternative candidates and alternative sources of information. Just look at the comments sections to this very article... people are far more attuned to be skeptical that they may merely be reading an infomercial for an agenda, and far more responsive to the conversation we have with each other than the thesis of the article.
18
Conventional analysis yields conventional results.
Bernie is anything but conventional.
Bernie is anything but conventional.
30
I am a progressive but I wince at the naivete of progressives. They don't have a political bone in their body. Anyone can see Sanders will never be President. There just are not enough true liberals in this country to elect him. If progressives want a change in the system they have to put in much more work changing the public's hearts and minds (like the conservatives have done successfully, unfortunately). You can't just try to put in a leader at the top and forget about things. We don't have kings anymore that could wave the royal wand. We need a progressive mindset to spread through the culture and the media coverage before reaching for the top. It is like trying to do trickle down political change. Trickle down doesn't work for the economy and it doesn't work for politics.
5
That's a shallow, defensive analysis. Bernie has proven in Vermont that he can pull votes from moderates and conservatives.
There is a tremendous amount of anger in America and alienation from the system, not just among liberals and progressives. I believe Bernie is in touch with that zeitgeist, that temper of the times, in a way that Clinton is not.
My fear is that Clinton gets the nomination and then loses to a young Republican offering faux populism rather than the real humane deal offered by Sanders.
There is a tremendous amount of anger in America and alienation from the system, not just among liberals and progressives. I believe Bernie is in touch with that zeitgeist, that temper of the times, in a way that Clinton is not.
My fear is that Clinton gets the nomination and then loses to a young Republican offering faux populism rather than the real humane deal offered by Sanders.
this article might as well be titled "why the future cannot be different from the past". it totally ignores the fact that bernie sanders' large crowds will increase his exposure/name recognition; which will allow him to make his (persuasive) case to the american people. a large swath of the electorate hasn't even heard of sanders yet; when they do, his message about dealing with income/wealth inequality will resonate.
20
You seem to defeat your argument even as you make it, and I'm suspicious that your argument is somehow meant to make people believe that there's no point pursuing a Sander nomination.
I think you fail to consider that Sanders has been and will continue to enliven a population of voters who welcome a fresh voice and perspective on the nation. Given the 8 years of Bush followed by 8 years of congressional stalemate and a reactionary right funded by big business, I think that the nation could very well be ready for a Sanders -- certainly more provocative than a future of Hillary Clinton, whom I did support until Sen. Sanders entered the race.
Certainly, Clinton would be a far-cry better than anything the GOP has to offer, but until Sanders is out of it, he's got my complete support.
Your voice is one of the nay-sayers: "don't waste your time on Bernie; stick with Clinton." Not a very ambitious or visionary position, is it?
We'll see. As I recall, no one thought Obama could win the primaries, much less the election . . . good thing he tried; good thing folks stuck with him.
I think you fail to consider that Sanders has been and will continue to enliven a population of voters who welcome a fresh voice and perspective on the nation. Given the 8 years of Bush followed by 8 years of congressional stalemate and a reactionary right funded by big business, I think that the nation could very well be ready for a Sanders -- certainly more provocative than a future of Hillary Clinton, whom I did support until Sen. Sanders entered the race.
Certainly, Clinton would be a far-cry better than anything the GOP has to offer, but until Sanders is out of it, he's got my complete support.
Your voice is one of the nay-sayers: "don't waste your time on Bernie; stick with Clinton." Not a very ambitious or visionary position, is it?
We'll see. As I recall, no one thought Obama could win the primaries, much less the election . . . good thing he tried; good thing folks stuck with him.
24
The Times finally gets real: "Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure." Thank you for at least recognizing what IS.
2
His popularity only grows day by day. I don't even have to try and convince people to vote for him. I give them some links to his videos and his voting record and within a day they are usually on board. There's nothing the media is going to be able to do about it, because we have word of mouth, the truth, and the power of the people behind this campaign! BERNIE SANDERS 2016! #feelthebern
28
I believe the Times, the author and the MSM in general, somehow ignores the fact the electorate is fed up with politicians (see approval ratings across the board). Sick of their handlers/pollsters/stylists/hairdressers and the continuous stream of disingenuous BS they feed us to get elected, at which point they turn to do the bidding of their big donors. So say what you will about Bernie's stances on issues, you can't accuse him of being a typical politician, and that resonates across every demographic.
31
Unfortunately, Sanders' message is exactly what non white Democrats need to hear; the income inequality that keeps them from achieving modest levels of prosperity and the hope for a better future.
I guess movement liberalism is just too much for liberals to understand.
And let's not forget that Hillary won the popular vote over Obama in 2008, but Obama did better in the caucus states among delegates to the convention.
and let's not also forget that Hillary's husband was dubbed America's "first black president."
I guess movement liberalism is just too much for liberals to understand.
And let's not forget that Hillary won the popular vote over Obama in 2008, but Obama did better in the caucus states among delegates to the convention.
and let's not also forget that Hillary's husband was dubbed America's "first black president."
2
I think you underestimate how fed up people are, actually, with both parties, both beholden to corporate power and selling us out at every turn. You don't have to be much of a liberal to know it. And Sanders is the only viable candidate who is off the plantation. I intend to make your early denigration of his chances one of those predictions people are embarrassed about later.
39
My first vote in a Presidential election was for George McGovern, in 1972. My boyfriend -- now my husband -- and I sat up that night and watched Richard Nixon get re-elected in a landslide. Then we had Watergate. In 1968, I had campaigned for Gene McCarthy. Had McCarthy been nominated, he'd have lost to Goldwater. That would have been a trip to remember. The reality is that progressives do not win nation-wide in the U.S.
Had Robert Kennedy been nominated in 1968- and he would have been -- he'd have won. Why? Not because he was progressive. Kennedy would have prevailed, because the Kennedys could deliver the black and white-working class vote. They were perceived as tough on Communism by whites, and were themselves white ethnics, while African-Americans liked RFK, who was empathic and liberal.
Bernie is a 1960s-1970s liberal boomer. You think a white ethnic guy in PA will vote for him? "No."
Obama won because he had charisma, got virtually 100% of the black and youth vote, and was perceived by many as a conciliator. He did not win white ethnic men, but didn't need them. There is never going to be a comparable surge among blacks and kids for Sanders.
The Sanders movement is irritating, because the Sanders-backers are delusional. We cannot have another Nader. We cannot have another McGovern. I agree with Bernie on most issues, and would vote for him -- for Senator or Governor. Throwing away a Presidential vote on a fantasy is just dumb.
Had Robert Kennedy been nominated in 1968- and he would have been -- he'd have won. Why? Not because he was progressive. Kennedy would have prevailed, because the Kennedys could deliver the black and white-working class vote. They were perceived as tough on Communism by whites, and were themselves white ethnics, while African-Americans liked RFK, who was empathic and liberal.
Bernie is a 1960s-1970s liberal boomer. You think a white ethnic guy in PA will vote for him? "No."
Obama won because he had charisma, got virtually 100% of the black and youth vote, and was perceived by many as a conciliator. He did not win white ethnic men, but didn't need them. There is never going to be a comparable surge among blacks and kids for Sanders.
The Sanders movement is irritating, because the Sanders-backers are delusional. We cannot have another Nader. We cannot have another McGovern. I agree with Bernie on most issues, and would vote for him -- for Senator or Governor. Throwing away a Presidential vote on a fantasy is just dumb.
3
I was a skeptic at first as well. I didn't believe that Sanders' message would connect with people outside of the liberal left. I believe the unfolding reality belies that. He seems to have a gift for translating the message in a way that is broadening his reach toward the center and even right. People on both sides of that divide are fed up with policies that benefit none, but the monied classes. Full stop. Even John McCain has teamed up with Elizabeth Warren to introduce a bill reinstating Glass-Steagall.
I still think his chances of being the candidate are slim, but I've been pleasantly surprised by his run so far, I intend to vote for him in the primary and let's see what happens. It would be nice if the NY Times would do some more straight-up reporting on his campaign and not simply publish opinions that seem intended to increase his headwinds.
I still think his chances of being the candidate are slim, but I've been pleasantly surprised by his run so far, I intend to vote for him in the primary and let's see what happens. It would be nice if the NY Times would do some more straight-up reporting on his campaign and not simply publish opinions that seem intended to increase his headwinds.
23
Bernie Sanders is the obvious choice for the people. I've been getting 'Bernie's Buzz' email broadcasts for years, it was clear years ago that this is an incredibly devoted, intelligent, genuine politician with the true interests of the electorate at heart.
I've always been clueless as to why Hillary is so intent on being president. She's driven not apparently for any sound political vision or passion, but for some other personal reason, some need that so many politicians seem driven by, competitiveness, need to prove themselves, need for approval, who knows.
But notwithstanding all of the domestic policies, there is one overarching imperative: The USA needs to stop with its militarism. We can work out whatever is to happen with our huge domestic collective wealth, opportunity & resources, but this invading & occupying other nations of no threat to our borders must stop. The USA has big blood on its hands, it has supported brutal dictators, saturation bombings, illegal & covert interventions, 'nation building', coups, every manner of international militaristic horror.
This is why Hillary must not be entrusted with the Presidency, and why Barack Obomba was unsupportable in my opinion. At that time there was Dennis Kucinich, who like Bernie was a genuinely devoted politician with excellent ideas & sound alternative to constant US warmongering. While Obama was also a passionate politician, he's still a hawk. Hillary voted for the war, she's definitely out. Vote your heart.
I've always been clueless as to why Hillary is so intent on being president. She's driven not apparently for any sound political vision or passion, but for some other personal reason, some need that so many politicians seem driven by, competitiveness, need to prove themselves, need for approval, who knows.
But notwithstanding all of the domestic policies, there is one overarching imperative: The USA needs to stop with its militarism. We can work out whatever is to happen with our huge domestic collective wealth, opportunity & resources, but this invading & occupying other nations of no threat to our borders must stop. The USA has big blood on its hands, it has supported brutal dictators, saturation bombings, illegal & covert interventions, 'nation building', coups, every manner of international militaristic horror.
This is why Hillary must not be entrusted with the Presidency, and why Barack Obomba was unsupportable in my opinion. At that time there was Dennis Kucinich, who like Bernie was a genuinely devoted politician with excellent ideas & sound alternative to constant US warmongering. While Obama was also a passionate politician, he's still a hawk. Hillary voted for the war, she's definitely out. Vote your heart.
23
Remember the last time you smoked some weed? Yeah, you felt privileged and cool, just like back in college.
Now that you've had your fun with Bernie, get real and get to work for a Democrat who actually stands a chance of keeping the White House out of the hands of the crazies.
Now that you've had your fun with Bernie, get real and get to work for a Democrat who actually stands a chance of keeping the White House out of the hands of the crazies.
1
It's really too early to call this race, Nate.
I wasn't a social media follower until about 6 weeks ago when I heard about Sanders. If you go onto his social media accounts you'll see that he has a very broad base of support. Hard core Republican veterans ate voting for him because he was able to work with Republicans in the Senate to pass a veterans bill. There's a meet up in the red state of Alabama that initially had 30 people signed up, and now it's 400! And we are still a long ways from the primaries.
Folks who have never voted in their life because they never liked any of the candidates are now registering to vote so they can vote for Sanders. I show my friends and family one Bernie talk on YouTube, and they are hooked.
Americans are fed up with big money and corporations running our country, Bernie is the only candidate that resonates with a majority of Americans across party lines.
He's going to win, Bernie 2016!
I wasn't a social media follower until about 6 weeks ago when I heard about Sanders. If you go onto his social media accounts you'll see that he has a very broad base of support. Hard core Republican veterans ate voting for him because he was able to work with Republicans in the Senate to pass a veterans bill. There's a meet up in the red state of Alabama that initially had 30 people signed up, and now it's 400! And we are still a long ways from the primaries.
Folks who have never voted in their life because they never liked any of the candidates are now registering to vote so they can vote for Sanders. I show my friends and family one Bernie talk on YouTube, and they are hooked.
Americans are fed up with big money and corporations running our country, Bernie is the only candidate that resonates with a majority of Americans across party lines.
He's going to win, Bernie 2016!
26
Bernie Sanders has an amazing message that all should hear. Having the NYTimes predict his failure will not stop us from getting that message out. He's telling it like it is and I only wish that Elizabeth Warren was out stumping with him as a running mate!!!
28
While my pragmatic brain concedes Hillary probably wins the nomination, my idealistic brain is really excited that Bernie is running and running well. if for nothing else, it pushes the progressive agenda to the forefront and makes it easier for Hillary to embrace those ideas. In my view, the worst thing that could happen would be for Hillary to win the nomination and Bernie supporters checking out, leaving the presidency to any of the clown car (bus?) occupants from the RNC. No matter what we think of Hillary, she is a far, far better choice than anyone the other side has to offer (think Grand Canyon kind of gap).
4
It's true that Bernie's present lack of support from the African American community is a real barrier if his campaign is to move beyond Iowa and NH. But there are some other interesting dynamics unique to his candidacy that Cohn doesn't discuss. One is his support from many veterans, usually pretty conservative voting bloc and who are significant in NH, SC and Nevada.
As the Boston Globe noted in their article on Sanders and veterans:
"Entire Reddit threads are dedicated to how veterans can best pitch Sanders to other veterans.
“He is revered,” said Paul Loebe, a 31-year-old who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan during eight years of active duty and spends three hours a day updating a Facebook page promoting Sanders to veterans. “He’s very consistent with where he stands. He’s the first politician that I’ve believed in my life.”"
Boston Globe
If Bernie can appeal to veterans, could his economic message appeal to typically more conservative Democratic voters?
As the Boston Globe noted in their article on Sanders and veterans:
"Entire Reddit threads are dedicated to how veterans can best pitch Sanders to other veterans.
“He is revered,” said Paul Loebe, a 31-year-old who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan during eight years of active duty and spends three hours a day updating a Facebook page promoting Sanders to veterans. “He’s very consistent with where he stands. He’s the first politician that I’ve believed in my life.”"
Boston Globe
If Bernie can appeal to veterans, could his economic message appeal to typically more conservative Democratic voters?
22
I extremely doubt that US veterans are motivated to vote for Bernie Sanders.
1
When the black community finds out that Sanders marched with Dr. King at the same time Hillary Rodam was a young Republican for Goldwater, that support level could change, quickly.
1
Bernie has the luxury of being the liberal fantasy and can promise the moon. Simply because he knows he won't win.
This liberal is not wasting his time supporting a joke non starter candidacy, the media likes a good story so they pretend Bernie has a chance, which is BS. He wins huge crowds in liberal meccas like Madison and Portland, and that's all he wins.
The sooner all democrats coalesce around Hillary the better chance we have to keep the presidency in democratic hands.
This liberal is not wasting his time supporting a joke non starter candidacy, the media likes a good story so they pretend Bernie has a chance, which is BS. He wins huge crowds in liberal meccas like Madison and Portland, and that's all he wins.
The sooner all democrats coalesce around Hillary the better chance we have to keep the presidency in democratic hands.
5
This is all about labeling. When you begin by saying that Sanders is a socialist from Vermont you are writing a biased article. Even if he once called himself a socialist he never fit the definition. Sanders is a Social Democrat. If we just voted the issues, Sanders would win by a large margin and not just the primary. The times should create an interactive connect to issues to the candidate (without indicator language or labels) graphic, then we would see that Sanders is not outside the mainstream. A recent George Will article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/bernie-sanderss-socialist-charade... amazingly, puts this in perspective. In fact, Sanders might be the true bridge candidate between Repubs and Dems. Go Bernie!
27
Either one would be a nightmare for this country.
2
But the Republican clowns (anyone of them) would be good, really?
(Guess which party will win in California with its 55 electoral votes.)
(Guess which party will win in California with its 55 electoral votes.)
For proof of how Bernie Sanders is the liberal Ron Paul, all you have to do is to read the comments section of this article (or anything else online about Sanders). He has dozens and dozens of passionate supporters on the Internet who descend like thunder from the skies on anyone who casts aspersions on their hero or is electoral prospects - especially by using charts and graphs! Clearly Sanders' appeal cannot be quantified by mere data and he represents a brand new model of organization and issues that will galvanize hitherto alienated voters and carry him to great electoral heights! Or so says some guy that changed the oil in my car the other day.
5
Don't forget than insurgent candidates can sometimes have a big effect, even if they don't win an election or nomination, by shifting the agenda and terms of debate -- particularly if we consider carryover effects to the next round. George Wallace in 1968, or Ronald Reagan in 1976 (neither one of them favorites of mine, by a long shot) ran losing campaigns that still had lasting effects, particularly as other candidates (think Nixon, later in the '68 race) pick up on opportunities the insurgents have shown to exist --
6
Did anyone say something about a self-fulfilling prophecy?
6
I am struck by the fact that many articles report well-educated regions prefer Bernie Sanders and yet, our mainstream media refuses to participate in educating all regions of our country about Sanders' actual policies, instead trotting out labels, polls, opinions. Americans need to reflect about why our entire country is not considered well-educated and the role of public education as well as journalists in our collective civic education.
33
I am someone who is to the *left* of B Sanders, so I certainly prefer him to Sec. Clinton.
However, I don't think Sen. Sanders is serious; he seems to be a vainglorious old man desperate for a late life triumph.
My evidence that he is not serious ?
Today, on his official website, under "issues" there is, literally, *not one word* on foreign policy or immigration.
Not *one word* on social security
Not *one word* on health care
and his website has been up and running for a while now
how can he be taken seriously ?
it isn't like he doesn't have money or literate supporters
All those Sanders supporters - remember how you felt in Jan 2009 after you voted for Nader ?
LIBERALS stop wasting time on POTUS politics, and work on the state level
However, I don't think Sen. Sanders is serious; he seems to be a vainglorious old man desperate for a late life triumph.
My evidence that he is not serious ?
Today, on his official website, under "issues" there is, literally, *not one word* on foreign policy or immigration.
Not *one word* on social security
Not *one word* on health care
and his website has been up and running for a while now
how can he be taken seriously ?
it isn't like he doesn't have money or literate supporters
All those Sanders supporters - remember how you felt in Jan 2009 after you voted for Nader ?
LIBERALS stop wasting time on POTUS politics, and work on the state level
2
Another article about the horse race. You know, we could do with fewer of these and more substantive discussions about the policies these candidates are proposing - or even the fact that some of them are trying not to say anything substantive or are playing both ends against the middle. What's unfortunate is that the horse race articles seem to try and justify the non-substantive approach as "necessary" to appeal to primary voters and not offend general election voters. This makes the aforementioned strategy self-fulfilling and maybe self-serving. My advice to the Times writers? Eschew the urge to analyze strategy and spend more ink and electrons analyzing policy and the words of the candidates. More critique of the mealy mouthed and less understanding of their predicament. It's our predicament that really matters.
300
I'm so glad that Mr Cohn and the New York Times has determined the outcome of the Democratic primaries/caucuses without us having to deal with the bother of the voters weighing in!
As far as who's going to win the Democratic nomination, my answer is very simple: I don't know yet. But I also know that the New York Times doesn't (or at least shouldn't) know yet either.
As far as how Sanders could win if the Democratic electorate is more conservative than he is, the answer is pretty simple: He could appeal to the roughly 80% of voting-eligible Americans who are eligible to vote in primaries but don't (and if he wins, the 40% who could vote in general elections but don't). Assuming that the electorate is fixed in stone is a fundamentally incorrect idea.
As far as who's going to win the Democratic nomination, my answer is very simple: I don't know yet. But I also know that the New York Times doesn't (or at least shouldn't) know yet either.
As far as how Sanders could win if the Democratic electorate is more conservative than he is, the answer is pretty simple: He could appeal to the roughly 80% of voting-eligible Americans who are eligible to vote in primaries but don't (and if he wins, the 40% who could vote in general elections but don't). Assuming that the electorate is fixed in stone is a fundamentally incorrect idea.
297
The problem is that a lot of electoral preferences don't change all that much; someone who describes himself as "conservative" is not suddenly going to decide that Sanders is a better fit for his political stances than Clinton. For better or worse, "socialism" is a poisoned word in American politics and that carries significant penalties.
These sort of things aren't set in stone, of course. But they can reliably be said to be set in molasses; slow moving and unlikely to change without some sort of radical event. Of course, that isn't something the NYTimes, or anyone, is going to foresee or predict.
These sort of things aren't set in stone, of course. But they can reliably be said to be set in molasses; slow moving and unlikely to change without some sort of radical event. Of course, that isn't something the NYTimes, or anyone, is going to foresee or predict.
1
Remember: the Times endorsed Christine Quinn for Mayor of New York City!! Even though it was abundantly clear that Bill De Blasio was the candidate New Yorkers really needed and wanted. The Times' not-so-stealth condescension in its coverage given to Bernie Sanders (see July 4th profile), shows once again that it's out of touch/out of tune with the zeitgeist.
4
It would be refreshing to read any article about Mr. Sanders which does not use the labels "socialist," "radical," or even "more liberal." Many of us independents read Mr. Sanders's statements and say "that's true." What he is not is a cookie-cutter politician like Ms. Clinton and almost all of the Republican candidates. What Mr. Cohn's analysis never mentions is "character," and the fact is that many people consider Mr. Sanders to be far more honest, and far more committed to core beliefs, than Ms. Clinton. To the extent that the media calls the election a popularity contest, this works in Mr. Sanders's favor. Minus the media's constant labeling, I see Mr. Sanders as relatively centrist, and as a far more appealing candidate than either this article or the NY Times believes.
494
A-Freaking-Men
4
Mr. Sanders describes himself as a socialist, why shouldn't the media? For better or worse, only a submicroscopic percentage of Americans identify as socialist. This does not bode well for Mr. Sanders' chances of being elected.
Dan Kravitz
Dan Kravitz
2
You got it exactly right. Next week the label "unelectable" will be next to socialist and radical as he speaks to 10,000 "white progressive voters" while the Secretary of State speaks to 245 college students hoping for an internship at the Clinton Foundation.
4
At this stage of the primaries, Paul Tsongas and Howard Dean and Dick Gephardt were the people to watch. Last I checked, they never made it past Super Tuesday in their runs.
Clinton is in for a rude awakening. She is a scandal magnet for the mainstream press and her tiring speeches are turning off moderates, millennial and those weary of a Coronation. Knowing many women who would be described as feminists who yawn when she is mentioned is also a dangerous indication of her viability.
While people are currently in the Bernie Bubble, it will eventually dawn on primary voters that Americans are not going to vote for a self-described Democratic Socialist. To talk oneself into thinking that's not so is delusional.
Keep an eye on Martin O'Malley as he steps it up in the next months. His executive progressive record matches everything Sanders yells about with actions, not mere words. Even Bill Clinton once told O'Malley he'd be President one day
Clinton is in for a rude awakening. She is a scandal magnet for the mainstream press and her tiring speeches are turning off moderates, millennial and those weary of a Coronation. Knowing many women who would be described as feminists who yawn when she is mentioned is also a dangerous indication of her viability.
While people are currently in the Bernie Bubble, it will eventually dawn on primary voters that Americans are not going to vote for a self-described Democratic Socialist. To talk oneself into thinking that's not so is delusional.
Keep an eye on Martin O'Malley as he steps it up in the next months. His executive progressive record matches everything Sanders yells about with actions, not mere words. Even Bill Clinton once told O'Malley he'd be President one day
15
Maryland, and especially Baltimore, is one of the worst messes in the country. That will prove fatal to O'Malley's chances.
1
Am I missing something? Isn't there an elephant (donkey) in the room?
Bernie Sanders is Jewish and that probably dooms any chance he has of becoming President or even his party's nominee.
Bernie Sanders is Jewish and that probably dooms any chance he has of becoming President or even his party's nominee.
9
I'll put it this way: Nobody has (openly) criticized Bernie Sanders for being Jewish. Nobody criticized Joe Lieberman for being Jewish either, when he was Al Gore's running mate.
13
That point, which I believe is true, is politically incorrect to talk about in the liberal NY Times.
All those nasty people worried about Jews controlling the world (you think anti-semitism has actually gone away?) would come out in droves against Sanders.
Republican racist type dog whistles can be used against Jews as well as Blacks. It's already incorporated into White Supremacist dogma.
All those nasty people worried about Jews controlling the world (you think anti-semitism has actually gone away?) would come out in droves against Sanders.
Republican racist type dog whistles can be used against Jews as well as Blacks. It's already incorporated into White Supremacist dogma.
1
A recent (June 2015) Gallup poll found 91% of voters polled would vote for a Jewish presidential candidate. Doomed? I think you are missing something.
You're right again, Nate. I do like Bernie Sanders. He's transparent. But I am old enough to remember the "Dump Johnson" movement in the late '60's. It didn't work because there were a lot of moderate Democrats for the war in Vietnam. One professor I had claimed that there will never be any Liberal leadership. McCarthy and McGovern came close, but no cigar. Bernie Sanders is in that fine Liberal tradition.
As you explain, Hillary Clinton represents that vast trove of moderate voters. They are liberal in the sense that the GOP brands them liberal, but the GOP drops the ball when they fail to understand that there *has* been a "Reagan realignment", but that realignment really started with Jimmy Carter. The moderate Democrat is a tad more conservative (again, despite the screaming and yelling on Fox News to the contrary). He or she has a sense "not to go too far" which is why it is the *Right* that has pulled too far to the extreme. It's the Right that has caused the polarization in this country. They disdain moderation.
The fact of the matter is that both the Left and the Right are in the "moderation predicament". Ted Cruz can't get far with inflammatory rhetoric, equally as can't Huckabee, Santorum and the other true believer candidates, thus Jeb Bush is claiming that he is the one to win on the national scale.
I'll bet you a beer at Heartland that it's a Bush-Clinton race. We're in that funk, to quote Bill Clinton.
As you explain, Hillary Clinton represents that vast trove of moderate voters. They are liberal in the sense that the GOP brands them liberal, but the GOP drops the ball when they fail to understand that there *has* been a "Reagan realignment", but that realignment really started with Jimmy Carter. The moderate Democrat is a tad more conservative (again, despite the screaming and yelling on Fox News to the contrary). He or she has a sense "not to go too far" which is why it is the *Right* that has pulled too far to the extreme. It's the Right that has caused the polarization in this country. They disdain moderation.
The fact of the matter is that both the Left and the Right are in the "moderation predicament". Ted Cruz can't get far with inflammatory rhetoric, equally as can't Huckabee, Santorum and the other true believer candidates, thus Jeb Bush is claiming that he is the one to win on the national scale.
I'll bet you a beer at Heartland that it's a Bush-Clinton race. We're in that funk, to quote Bill Clinton.
8
You say you're old enough to remember that the "Dump Johnson" movement didn't work? I guess you forgot that it DID work! LBJ dropped out of the campaign in March 1968, two weeks after Gene McCarthy nearly beat him in New Hampshire and Bobby Kennedy jumped in the race. Maybe you were remembering the "Dump the Hump" movement to defeat Hubert Humphrey; that failed, yes. Largely because of Sirhan Sirhan.
"But I am old enough to remember the "Dump Johnson" movement in the late '60's. It didn't work because there were a lot of moderate Democrats for the war in Vietnam."
Huh? Perhaps your Boomer faculties have faded too much. I remember watching this in March 1968, after Eugene McCarthy revealed LBJ's electoral weakness and Robert Kennedy entered the race: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOs7BjZrgqY
Huh? Perhaps your Boomer faculties have faded too much. I remember watching this in March 1968, after Eugene McCarthy revealed LBJ's electoral weakness and Robert Kennedy entered the race: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOs7BjZrgqY
I get so sleepy when looking at color coded maps of the US.
Sanders 2016!
Sanders 2016!
72
I am always very wary of people who are too far from the centre, whether they are on the left or on the right!
4
The Sanders progressive agenda used to be the Democrat's center positions before everything in both parties shifted to the right in the past few decades. Let's get back to having a true Dem party.
Bernie teams up with Paul or someone from the south...
4
Bernie teams up with Jim Webb.
Democrats, and later, the electorate at large, voted for a black man named Barack Hussein Obama as President of the United States. Twice.
Democratic Nominee and President Sanders is no more far-fetched.
Democratic Nominee and President Sanders is no more far-fetched.
139
Zactly Jeff!
In 1968 I worked for the candidacy of Eugene McCarthy who, like Sanders, challenged the mainstream Democratic Party. In 1972 I worked for George McGovern. It's hard to forget hearing the words "I shall not seek, and will not accept...." and the elation we felt that our work had mattered. Sadly, our work for McCarthy and McGovern, while important perhaps in the greater scheme, resulted in 8 years of Nixon.
I can't help thinking we are in the same place again. I've followed Bernie Sanders from Mayor to the Senate. I applaud Vermont for sending us such a principled individual to speak for liberals across the country.
But I fear that while he will raise important issues and may move the Democratic platform to the left, much as McCarthy did re Vietnam, he cannot win in the general. And it is that fear that prevents me from supporting Sanders wholeheartedly, the fear of Republican controlled legislative and executive branches. Even more frightening than 4 or 8 years of Republican control is the potential for long term damage done by a conservatively packed Supreme Court as liberal members finally step down.
I caution Sanders supporters to recognize these issues and to understand the ramifications of a Sanders candidacy. Obama has been accused of being a socialist; Bernie Sanders is one. Finally, whoever does become the Democratic candidate please please support them. Do not drop out, do not sacrifice the future. Remember the lessons of '68 and '72 and the Nixon era.
I can't help thinking we are in the same place again. I've followed Bernie Sanders from Mayor to the Senate. I applaud Vermont for sending us such a principled individual to speak for liberals across the country.
But I fear that while he will raise important issues and may move the Democratic platform to the left, much as McCarthy did re Vietnam, he cannot win in the general. And it is that fear that prevents me from supporting Sanders wholeheartedly, the fear of Republican controlled legislative and executive branches. Even more frightening than 4 or 8 years of Republican control is the potential for long term damage done by a conservatively packed Supreme Court as liberal members finally step down.
I caution Sanders supporters to recognize these issues and to understand the ramifications of a Sanders candidacy. Obama has been accused of being a socialist; Bernie Sanders is one. Finally, whoever does become the Democratic candidate please please support them. Do not drop out, do not sacrifice the future. Remember the lessons of '68 and '72 and the Nixon era.
42
There have have been polls showing that 80% of Republicans agree with Sen. Sanders core campaign principles. I believe he will reinvigorate the Democratic base - some people who haven't voted for years. I am a lifelong Democrat and would love to see a female President, but I think Hillary Clinton will destroy the Democratic Party. Those who don't want a corporatist President will leave the party for good if she gets the nomination. I don't think these lessons from fifty years ago are relevant today.
5
Nixon was NOT President for 8 years; he resigned.
However, point taken. And the long tail from McGovern led to the failures of Carter and then TWELVE years of Reagan and Bush 41.
Americans are not going to vote for an elderly, white Jewish socialist. They are not. This is a fact. Anyone who cannot see this, deserves whatever they get for wasting their vote.
However, point taken. And the long tail from McGovern led to the failures of Carter and then TWELVE years of Reagan and Bush 41.
Americans are not going to vote for an elderly, white Jewish socialist. They are not. This is a fact. Anyone who cannot see this, deserves whatever they get for wasting their vote.
Donald S. - "Obama has been accused of being a socialist"
And didn't Obama win ... twice?
And didn't Obama win ... twice?
The Sanders phenomenon occurs every few years -- think Gene McCarthy in 1968 -- and lasts for a while, but ultimately it is as certain as the sun rising tomorrow that he cannot hope to approach Hillary Clinton. HIs use is to keep her at least a little honest, pull her to the left (in primary season), and give some interest to the Democratic side of the process. Beyond that: nada. (And he is too liberal for the VP slot.)
5
The idea that his candidacy is primarily (pun intended) about winning is awfully dim.
9
.
.
As indicated in the piece and in many Comments, Senator Sanders seems likely to get votes he has earned: from people who care about the issues he has emphasized, from people who wish for a more inclusive process that does not include "anointments", etc.
And he SHOULD get those votes.
What interests me, but is not addressed in the piece, is the extent to which Democrats vote for candidates who have been involved in party-building. The party now has a crisis among Governorships and State Legislatures. Will voters go for a candidate who has done more to increase party registration and party funds? If so, that favors Secy Clinton. Will voters go for a candidate who has stood apart from the Democratic Party establishment, figuring this candidate will change the dynamics of Dems. v. GOP in favor of the Dems in all-important down-ballot races? If so, that favors Sen. Sanders.
I wish to see that discussed. I would suggest that none of the Commenters thus far knows the answer. It seems likely that Clinton supporters will argue the first option and Sanders supporters will argue the second.
I suppose it won't matter if Senator Sanders is not a registered Democrat in his home jurisdiction. When I checked last year, he wasn't. How can someone get delegate votes at the Convention if he's not a Party member?
.
As indicated in the piece and in many Comments, Senator Sanders seems likely to get votes he has earned: from people who care about the issues he has emphasized, from people who wish for a more inclusive process that does not include "anointments", etc.
And he SHOULD get those votes.
What interests me, but is not addressed in the piece, is the extent to which Democrats vote for candidates who have been involved in party-building. The party now has a crisis among Governorships and State Legislatures. Will voters go for a candidate who has done more to increase party registration and party funds? If so, that favors Secy Clinton. Will voters go for a candidate who has stood apart from the Democratic Party establishment, figuring this candidate will change the dynamics of Dems. v. GOP in favor of the Dems in all-important down-ballot races? If so, that favors Sen. Sanders.
I wish to see that discussed. I would suggest that none of the Commenters thus far knows the answer. It seems likely that Clinton supporters will argue the first option and Sanders supporters will argue the second.
I suppose it won't matter if Senator Sanders is not a registered Democrat in his home jurisdiction. When I checked last year, he wasn't. How can someone get delegate votes at the Convention if he's not a Party member?
2
I am middle class, white and probably what you’d call a conservative Democrat.
I don’t agree with some of Bernie Sanders’ positions on issues. But I find him compelling to listen to. It is refreshing hearing a politician speak persuasively from the heart. It almost doesn’t matter that some of his ideas are a bit too progressive for me. He compels me to be more open minded... and the dismal results of the status quo doesn’t hurt either.
I think that the Nation is hungry for a woman President, and that gives Hillary a huge advantage. But is she the right woman for the job? For many reasons, I feel that she is not. If I were Mr. Sanders I would address that. He needs to convince the large and diverse demographic groups in the Democratic party that it’s okay to vote for an older white guy. Particularly if that older white guy will work tirelessly for their causes.
I don’t agree with some of Bernie Sanders’ positions on issues. But I find him compelling to listen to. It is refreshing hearing a politician speak persuasively from the heart. It almost doesn’t matter that some of his ideas are a bit too progressive for me. He compels me to be more open minded... and the dismal results of the status quo doesn’t hurt either.
I think that the Nation is hungry for a woman President, and that gives Hillary a huge advantage. But is she the right woman for the job? For many reasons, I feel that she is not. If I were Mr. Sanders I would address that. He needs to convince the large and diverse demographic groups in the Democratic party that it’s okay to vote for an older white guy. Particularly if that older white guy will work tirelessly for their causes.
121
Sen. Sanders is not going to be elected President, and he knows it. He is running to push Democrats further to the left, and he will succeed at this, taking Hillary with him. The American people are already as far left as they want to go and will elect a Republican. Say hello to President Bush.
7
i certainly hope you are wrong, Stanton. Please, please: Not another Bush in the White House...
President Bush, because rich people need more money?
1
Bernie for Vice President!
7
Never. And even if he were offered the position as running mate for a cndidate Clinton, i would hope he'd be too smart to accept it. What better way to neutralize and muzzle an genuine advocate for the working classes than to make him a VP.
If Tea Party types read his platform instead of dismissing him as a Socialist they would agree with him more often than not. The Tea Party began in the name of fairness and personal responsibility, for not bailing out those who lost everything in the financial meltdown (hello Banks and Wall Street). He is not anti-Gun although he is for gun controls that the NRA supported until recently. He wants them to be able to educate their children and provide health care for them until they are 26 years old. So do many Republicans, but they have no mechanism to pay for it in their vague plans. We can use Bernie. If he can create Sanders Republicans, he will win.
68
I am just as tired of ultra-rich DEMS as I am ultra-rich Repubs - BOTH of which have RUINED this democracy for the middle-class by turning it into a Plutocratic Oligarchy. I'm sick of gazillionaires running this country and the momentum won't die for the likes of me. I don't like everything Bernie says, but I don't like ANYTHING the ultra-wealthy try to cram down my throat anymore!
147
No Question. Everyone knows this. Whether they care to agree or not.
Clinton Shouldn't be considered a shoe in. Her name is carrying her, just like GW Bush in 2000.
Sanders is the candidate America needs right now to right the ship.
I value freedom of opinion, as this article clearly has the right to state, however the media mostly has an agenda and it appears this author is wagering on Clinton, while attempting to drive Bernie's odds gaining the nomination down.
Keep googling Sanders, Keep talking about Sanders, Keep bringing his name up in your conversations. Because I'd wager on this: almost every person who hears Bernie's message, will cast a vote for Bernie.
Vote Bernie 2016
Sanders is the candidate America needs right now to right the ship.
I value freedom of opinion, as this article clearly has the right to state, however the media mostly has an agenda and it appears this author is wagering on Clinton, while attempting to drive Bernie's odds gaining the nomination down.
Keep googling Sanders, Keep talking about Sanders, Keep bringing his name up in your conversations. Because I'd wager on this: almost every person who hears Bernie's message, will cast a vote for Bernie.
Vote Bernie 2016
158
Um, I'm a registered Democrat and I know his message, and I don't like it. I'm a moderate Democrat who looks at Sanders and sees Howard Dean 2: Electric Boogaloo. He can't win, and I'm glad.
We will all soon see that the real issue is a revolution coming to our towns and its name is Bernie Sanders.
94
I understand the numbers that the article is citing, but I have to say that I think the author is underestimating the level of frustration out there with the corruption in government. I have never voted for a democrat in my life, but I just changed my party affiliation to democratic so that I can vote for Bernie in the primary, and I am actually excited about him as a candidate. He seems like the only one running who isn't bought and paid for by big business. Don't underestimate the willingness of people to vote a little more left than they are accustomed to if the candidate seems like the real deal.
And regarding his draw among african-american voters, Sanders has a wonderful, long-standing civil rights record and marched with Dr. King. Hopefully once that starts getting out there he will gain more traction with that block.
And regarding his draw among african-american voters, Sanders has a wonderful, long-standing civil rights record and marched with Dr. King. Hopefully once that starts getting out there he will gain more traction with that block.
314
I am counting that many voters will be like me and my 3 sons: We never voted in primaries but will support Sanders in the democratic primary. In terms of money, we have given Sanders already 5 times more that we gave to Obama in the entire 2008 campaign (we gave Obama nothing in 2012 because of his record in first 4 years).
Unlike Clinton and all the republicans, Sanders is real. His life proves who he is.
Unlike Clinton and all the republicans, Sanders is real. His life proves who he is.
225
Funny thing, Mr. Sanders – the "radical" – is making more sense to Americans than anyone else, including Ms. Clinton and they are responding to him accordingly.
I guess we have all become radicalized by to many years of poor governance and political slight-of-hand that profits parties that lie far beyond the average American.
I guess we have all become radicalized by to many years of poor governance and political slight-of-hand that profits parties that lie far beyond the average American.
129
I'm currently supporting Bernie because he speaks to my strong,very Liberal idealism,which makes a part of his natural political base.I'll continue supporting him at least until the first debate between the Democrats.BUT,as well as being very idealistic,I'm also pragmatic ,more so than usual.I agree with Mr. Cohn that Bernie is unlikely to widen his base beyond us mostly White,mostly affluent Liberals to be the nominee.His campaign will likely have lost most of the current momentum by next summer when my state's Presidential primary takes place,which is when my pragmatism kicks in.There is NO GOP candidate who I could come close to voting for,so in the end I will,without reservation,vote for the eventual Democratic nominee,who I expect will be Hillary.
As to Bernie's relatively surprisingly strong showing in the crowds he's drawing and in polls,I agree with what Chris Matthews yesterday suggested,that this far ahead of the election we're sending messages ,rather than choosing a nominee,yet.From what I've heard Hillary genuinely say,she's gotten the right message,which is that it's safe for her to show her real liberalism on many issues.Not perfectly for someone as liberal as me,but easily enough so.
As to Bernie's relatively surprisingly strong showing in the crowds he's drawing and in polls,I agree with what Chris Matthews yesterday suggested,that this far ahead of the election we're sending messages ,rather than choosing a nominee,yet.From what I've heard Hillary genuinely say,she's gotten the right message,which is that it's safe for her to show her real liberalism on many issues.Not perfectly for someone as liberal as me,but easily enough so.
17
Rob,
It's not about 'liberal', it's about the hold the banks and Wall street have on Washington. That is the real issue. Look at how the banks are holding Greece hostage. They have more power (and internationally) than our elections! We cannot let the idea that what we want is a traditionally considered liberal (what? Gun control? Gay marriage?) lead us in the wrong direction. We have to get our country back. Watch Krugman and Warren's interview if you don't believe that they have a hand in every item that's decided in congress. It's a travesty.
Please: think beyond 'liberal or conservative' labels! This is bigger than that.
It's not about 'liberal', it's about the hold the banks and Wall street have on Washington. That is the real issue. Look at how the banks are holding Greece hostage. They have more power (and internationally) than our elections! We cannot let the idea that what we want is a traditionally considered liberal (what? Gun control? Gay marriage?) lead us in the wrong direction. We have to get our country back. Watch Krugman and Warren's interview if you don't believe that they have a hand in every item that's decided in congress. It's a travesty.
Please: think beyond 'liberal or conservative' labels! This is bigger than that.
1
That base can broaden quite quickly if the Times was to do a modicum of research and report that when Sanders was marching with Dr. King, Hillary Rodham was a young Republican for Goldwater.
1
I believe the author's analysis of prior elections is good, and I do not believe that Bernie Sanders will win the Democrat nomination to be its presidential candidate.
But, to think that he will not do well is probably a mistake. It appears he is already pushing Hillary into taking more liberal positions than she has in the past. Many wonder if she really believes in some of her new found beliefs or is just trying to take oxygen out of Bernie Sanders campaign. And, we should not underestimate how many Americans want truth in government. When they hear Bernie Sanders speak directly, without weasel words or qualification, about our problems and what he would do to solve them, they believe he is speaking the truth - whether they agree with all of his solutions or not.
But, to think that he will not do well is probably a mistake. It appears he is already pushing Hillary into taking more liberal positions than she has in the past. Many wonder if she really believes in some of her new found beliefs or is just trying to take oxygen out of Bernie Sanders campaign. And, we should not underestimate how many Americans want truth in government. When they hear Bernie Sanders speak directly, without weasel words or qualification, about our problems and what he would do to solve them, they believe he is speaking the truth - whether they agree with all of his solutions or not.
26
I too like Bernie Sanders. I like that he does not throw bombs at other candidates and says that he likes Hilary. I understand the desire of many to see the likes of Sanders in the Whitehouse, but we certainly need him to continue in the Senate. We can't have it both ways. I have toyed with the notion of Sanders as Vice-President. This way we might get the best of both
approaches to governing, but I am not sure he would be able to replicate the excellence of Joe Biden. But perhaps he would be a good VP.
approaches to governing, but I am not sure he would be able to replicate the excellence of Joe Biden. But perhaps he would be a good VP.
Please, report on the issues, e.g. Bernie´s 12 step agenda.
1.Rebuilding Our Crumbling Infrastructure
2.Reversing Climate Change
3.Creating Worker Co-ops
4.Growing the Trade Union Movement
5.Raising the Minimum Wage
6.Pay Equity for Women Workers
7.Trade Policies that Benefit American Workers
8.Making College Affordable for All
9.Taking on Wall Street
10.Health Care as a Right for All
11.Protecting the Most Vulnerable Americans
12.Real Tax Reform
1.Rebuilding Our Crumbling Infrastructure
2.Reversing Climate Change
3.Creating Worker Co-ops
4.Growing the Trade Union Movement
5.Raising the Minimum Wage
6.Pay Equity for Women Workers
7.Trade Policies that Benefit American Workers
8.Making College Affordable for All
9.Taking on Wall Street
10.Health Care as a Right for All
11.Protecting the Most Vulnerable Americans
12.Real Tax Reform
446
I totally agree with you. People care more about polling numbers and what Hillary eats at Chipotle than actual issues.
13
I totally agree; Bernie is so much more about the issues;
Which aren't "revolutionary" nor "radical."
The dismissive tripe this past weekend in the Times' as well as this
piece disregard his realistic 12 Step agenda.
Which aren't "revolutionary" nor "radical."
The dismissive tripe this past weekend in the Times' as well as this
piece disregard his realistic 12 Step agenda.
1
These are very general. Anyone can "wish" for these things. Has Sanders explained how, exactly, he would accomplish these things in the real world? Are Americans suddenly going to start liking Obamacare, especially after all their premium hikes? How will "college for all" get paid for? A better question is who is going to pay for all this?
All you poor Bernie-maniacs as delusional. The most likely outcome is that he comes close to winning in Iowa, stays somewhat competitive in New Hampshire and is crushed when the campaign moves into the bigger states. He doesn't have the organization and financing to compete when we get to the Super/Titanic/whatever Tuesday battles with multiple primaries coast to coast.
This article also doesn't mention the expectations game...Hillary is such a favorite for the nomination that Sanders can "win" Iowa by coming within 4 or 5 points of Hillary. In other words an unexpectedly close race would give him lots of momentum and get the punditry all up in arms.
The problem for Sanders as I see it is that he is peaking too early...I have no doubt that Hillary's people are quietly fanning the flames of Bernie-mania, and of course all the fanatics who support him are buying into the trap hook line and sinker. The press is systematically building expectations that Sanders will either win Iowa or at least be very competitive there. This is rapidly shifting the expectations mantle onto the Sanders campaign. Don't be surprised to see more and more quotes from Hillary's people about how well he is doing, how worried they are, etc. 3 months ago if he came within 10 percent of Hillary on Caucus Night it would have been a win...expectations go up and up and he needs to do better and better...making it more and more likely that Hillary looks like a winner in Iowa.
Bye bye Bernie!
This article also doesn't mention the expectations game...Hillary is such a favorite for the nomination that Sanders can "win" Iowa by coming within 4 or 5 points of Hillary. In other words an unexpectedly close race would give him lots of momentum and get the punditry all up in arms.
The problem for Sanders as I see it is that he is peaking too early...I have no doubt that Hillary's people are quietly fanning the flames of Bernie-mania, and of course all the fanatics who support him are buying into the trap hook line and sinker. The press is systematically building expectations that Sanders will either win Iowa or at least be very competitive there. This is rapidly shifting the expectations mantle onto the Sanders campaign. Don't be surprised to see more and more quotes from Hillary's people about how well he is doing, how worried they are, etc. 3 months ago if he came within 10 percent of Hillary on Caucus Night it would have been a win...expectations go up and up and he needs to do better and better...making it more and more likely that Hillary looks like a winner in Iowa.
Bye bye Bernie!
5
Did you say the same thing about Obama in 2008?
14
...and hello status quo in a pants suit.
1
If being a "socialist" means creating a fair tax rate, making education a priority again and putting our money toward caring for the most vulnerable members of our society - children, the elderly, veterans, working families - SIGN ME UP. Bernie remembers the core American tenet: That if you work hard and play by the rules, you'll be able to take care of your family, retire in security and see your children achieve their dreams. That's what I want for my family. Apparently a lot of other Americans do too. The Times did an actual piece on how Rick Perry could win the presidency - but Bernie Sanders is too much of a longshot?? Give me a break. I think your political gauge is off, time to recalibrate.
603
there is no sector of the mass market press that isn't bought and paid for by the oligarchy, and the NYT is the newspaper of the oligarchy. It's a good paper, but it is pro-oligarchy. It's not surprising that the ruling classes don't know what to make of Sanders.
3
I was on Facebook last night, checking in with all of my people. One of my VERY conservative friends had posted his results from one of those click bait political polls. His results stated that he agreed with Rick Santorum 93% of the time. I was disappointed, but not terribly surprised- and I clicked on the link- and was shocked to see that my arch-conservative friend "agreed" with Bernie Sanders 60% of the time! Which to me shows that either Sanders' agenda is far less "liberal" than the mainstream media would have us believe...or my dear friend is completely confused and no longer knows what he believes anymore (which is quite possible as well).
45
Or maybe liberals don't realize how far the conservative movement has gone in attacking crony capitalism and special interests.
It is interesting, too, that the two candidates who have come out against excessive immigration, and in favor of more jobs for Americans, are Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump.
It is interesting, too, that the two candidates who have come out against excessive immigration, and in favor of more jobs for Americans, are Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump.
7
If he agrees with Santorum 93% of the time, he isn't merely confused: he's delusional.
10
it's more that many issues are truly non partisan but everybody loves to pick a tribe.
"Mrs. Clinton is a liberal Democrat by any measure." No, not by any measure!
346
First, don't associate the former First Lady with her husband's NAFTA and welfare "reform" policies. Her policy agendas in her husband's admin was for some form of universal health care as well as children's and women's issue. Her disastrous vote to authorize the Iraq War aside, she has a pretty solid liberal rating in her votes as a Senator.
Cozy with WalMart, pro-war hawk, tight with Big Ag, friend of the big banks, in the pocket of Wall Street... Time to turn in your slide rule, Nate Cohn.
1
Yes, my jaw dropped when I read that as well. Hillary Clinton a liberal Democrat?
She, who never met a war she didn't like?
She, who didn't oppose Cheney/Bush torture or NSA spying on the American people?
She, who's to the right of AIPAC on Israel/Palestine?
She, who corruptly hangs out a quarter of a million dollar feedbag before she'll grace your auditorium with her evasive mealy-mouthed platitudes?
If that's what it takes to be a liberal Democrat, then I say to hell with it.
She, who never met a war she didn't like?
She, who didn't oppose Cheney/Bush torture or NSA spying on the American people?
She, who's to the right of AIPAC on Israel/Palestine?
She, who corruptly hangs out a quarter of a million dollar feedbag before she'll grace your auditorium with her evasive mealy-mouthed platitudes?
If that's what it takes to be a liberal Democrat, then I say to hell with it.
This is probably a correct analysis. But the real points is that it just shows how rigged the primary process has been. Hillary looks entirely vulnerable but not centerist Democrat is willing to challenger her.
5
Another Times article tearing down Sanders as if they are puppets of Clinton. How can Sanders win? Well, my son, for one, is very excited about him and will vote for him, but absolutely will not vote for Clinton no matter how much I reason with him about lesser of two evils. And there are many like him in their 20s, completely cynical (and rightly so) about mainstream candidates and unwilling to vote for them. And I know many middle class, middle aged, liberal folks who don't live in Madison or Burlington (I'm in Princeton) who are excited about someone who speaks the truth. But the media will do its best to dismiss Sanders rather than contrast his ideas with Clintons.
367
The millennials, who have yet to show up politically, seem to be excited about Sanders. The young people who I know are actually talking about registering and voting... for Sanders. This could change the political map.
4
I'm my 20s, love Sanders, don't trust Clinton. If Clinton wins the nom, I'm not about to go vote for Bush, but I don't see myself voting for Clinton. Would try and stay openminded about the "lesser of two evils" thing, but would take a whole lot of convincing. I see Clinton as a political opportunist, who would say anything to get elected. All these people who say, "Bernie's useful because he can draw Clinton to the left" just prove my point -- I don't want a candidate who moves positions with the polls. If anything, I'd respect Clinton more for standing her ground.
Never been politically active before, but some friends and I have started a group at our school to support Bernie's candidacy.
Never been politically active before, but some friends and I have started a group at our school to support Bernie's candidacy.
2
I grew up in Princeton. It is another liberal bubble, just like Madison or Burlington.
We will see. I'm voting for Sen. Sanders and sending him money as I can. I think his popularity will grow with the groups you mention when they hear his ideas. He addresses what's important, and he does not belong to Wall Street.
109
If this were 2008 or 2012, the analysis might be right. As it is, this will be a year of the Big Surprise (the 2nd one for HRC).
27
Coming soon: "Why Bernie's Lead in the Polls Can't Last... We Think."
55
LOVE it!!! Except I'd say... "....we HOPE" ...
This could actually be a campaign and even an election based on integrity.
98
You underestimate the anti-dynastic ABC (anyone but another Clinton or Bush for that matter) vote. Hillary is a scary candidate for many and the only way she would win a national election is if the GOPs managed to field an even scarier, more deeply in the pockets of... banks, foreign governments, whatever and less appealing adversary.
I remember me actually registering myself 'democrat' only so that I could cast my vote against Hillary back in 2008. I generally don't care who gets to be the next Prez because they all pick up from wherever their predecessor left off, regardless of party, but even the thought of Empress Clinton the Second energized me enough to register democrat and pick Obama at the primary.
I remember me actually registering myself 'democrat' only so that I could cast my vote against Hillary back in 2008. I generally don't care who gets to be the next Prez because they all pick up from wherever their predecessor left off, regardless of party, but even the thought of Empress Clinton the Second energized me enough to register democrat and pick Obama at the primary.
34
Do you really think that George W. Bush picked up from where Bill Clinton left off in 2000? Do you really think Reagan picked up from where Carter left off? Do you really think FDR picked up from where Hoover left off?
Denver isn't Madison. He drew over 5k people here. I don't think he'll win the nomination, either. But I'm so very glad he's running and will support him until I have to turn to somebody else. Likely Clinton. Sigh...
33
Don't do it! Hold this ship steady. He CAN win if we give it our all. Indeed I don't see any other chance to right the wrongs created by the Robber Barons - of which Hillary is one.
1
Thanks for the analysis of likely voters. I hope Sanders unleashing the sleeping giant of non-voters who would steamroll Hillary so badly it would take her many advisers a week to spin.
152
Sanders doesn't stick his hand in the air to see which way the political winds are blowing before he makes a statement on an issue. This is very contrary to the majority of today's politicians. He doesn't owe his soul to the lobbyists and the money changers and his advocacy for average Americans far exceeds that of HIllary Clinton.
The pundits can and will say what pleases them, but voters make the decisions. And voters are sick of the way Washington is not working.
The pundits can and will say what pleases them, but voters make the decisions. And voters are sick of the way Washington is not working.
316
Who is this Bernie Sanders you speak of? I haven't seen much about him on the NYTImes Politics Page.
274
Best comment here. Thanks
10
You are 100% correct. The Times's coverage of Sanders' campaign has been stinting and almost bereft of policy discussion.
2
Can Hillary win without Bernie's supporters? The Democratic Party has relied upon its left, but not given us anything, no minimum wage hike, no infrastructure rebuilding. You can ignore people for only so long.
194
yes, she will win, with or with out the hard core.
1
More naysaying from the MSM. I don't believe the author understands the magnitude of working people's anger.
425
who are the "working people"? The service workers? Federal and State employees? The financial services and IT? that's the point, there is no "working class".
2
Precisely so. No one except Bernie is paying attention to the economic frustration of the working classes. It will be a force in the 2016 election.
17
What Sanders needs to do upset the thesis of this article and win the presidency is to persuade Michelle Obama to be his running mate. And Michelle would be an excellent first female president in 2024.
27
Yes, that's exactly what we need! Another presidential candidate running on her husband's coattails.
8
OMG, a dream come true!!
1
Not built to last? So all his supporters are just going to NOT support him any longer at some point in time? I doubt that happens.
82
I think the writer is stating that Clinton's supporters are in the states that come later in the primary season. Iowa and NH have hard core progressive bases that dominate the primary election. As she gets to the larger, populated states her base will come out. I am interpreting.
At this point in the election cycle Clinton vs. Obama, no one believed he would win.
We know how that turned out.
We know how that turned out.
195
Obama had the Wall Street money behind him early on, and was feted on the cover of Time magazine in October 2006, before any but a handful of people ever heard of him.
"That’s why John Edwards, a liberal Southerner who appealed to progressive activists and white conservatives, and Mr. Obama, the first black candidate with a serious chance of winning the nomination, posed such serious threats to her in 2008. So far, Mr. Sanders does not."
So far, Mr. Cohn. So far. That doesn't necessarily mean the campaign is not built to last. Thus far, voters who have been introduced to Sanders have been coming over to his side in greater and greater numbers. There is nothing particularly substantial in your analysis that says he cannot win other voters too.
So far, Mr. Cohn. So far. That doesn't necessarily mean the campaign is not built to last. Thus far, voters who have been introduced to Sanders have been coming over to his side in greater and greater numbers. There is nothing particularly substantial in your analysis that says he cannot win other voters too.
123
I remember 7-8 years ago there was a blog called "Stuff White People Like", which humourously documented the likes and cultural tastes of well educated, high income white people in liberal enclaves like Burlington VT and Madison WI. Bernie Sanders campaign would certainly be included. But if he's going to have to do more if he wants to win the nomination or else he's going to end up being the national version of Zephyr Teachout, the woman who ran against Andrew Cuomo in last year's NY Democratic primary, whose base was also the Stuff White People Like demographic.
8
stuff white people like is hilarious. thanks for the reminder!
Charles, and, just like with Zephyr Teachout, the Times was in the tank for the establishment drone. Remember how the Times criticized Cuomo for killing the Moreland Commission, praised Teachout lavishly, then declared her "not ready to govern," yet refusing to make a primary endorsement?
As they said in "Twin Peaks," "it is happening again."
Had the Times looked at Teachout's policy platform, instead of just saying she couldn't win, or wasn't ready to govern, THAT election might have been very different.
And after he was elected, the legislatures in NY and NJ passed identical bills to reform the corrupt Port Authority, and both Cuomo and his brother from another mother Christie vetoed those reforms. Now aren't we glad the Times insisted on the establishment candidate?
With no money, Cuomo refusing to debate her, and no coverage from papers like the Times, she STILL pulled 36% in the primary. Imagine if the Times hadn't dismissed her out of hand.
As they said in "Twin Peaks," "it is happening again."
Had the Times looked at Teachout's policy platform, instead of just saying she couldn't win, or wasn't ready to govern, THAT election might have been very different.
And after he was elected, the legislatures in NY and NJ passed identical bills to reform the corrupt Port Authority, and both Cuomo and his brother from another mother Christie vetoed those reforms. Now aren't we glad the Times insisted on the establishment candidate?
With no money, Cuomo refusing to debate her, and no coverage from papers like the Times, she STILL pulled 36% in the primary. Imagine if the Times hadn't dismissed her out of hand.
1
I think you are wrong- watch it happen.
91
Why don't you do a column on why a reporter was embedded with Hillary's campaign 3 years before the election? The editor who assigned the reporter said it was because Hillary was "the closest thing we have to an incumbent."
Now please explain how the "objective data" show Sanders is going to lose.
Now please explain how the "objective data" show Sanders is going to lose.
288
> Now please explain how the "objective data" show Sanders is going to lose.
[raucous laughter]
Wait... You weren't actually expecting any, were you?
[raucous laughter]
Wait... You weren't actually expecting any, were you?
4
Maybe, just maybe, when people start to hear Bernie's message about family values and the need for paid leave for new mothers, or his message about income inequality, or jobs being exported overseas, or student loan debt, or the decline of the middle class, and then these same people look at a potential race between two status quo candidates, that these people may finally do what's best for their own well being and not reward an overly entitled one percenter with no vision or passion.
283
It is unfortunate that Sanders supporters (of whom I am one) feel compelled in our polarized climate to attack Hillary. She will probably be the only thing standing between us and a Republican president.
7
"...people may finally do what's best for their own well being and not reward an overly entitled one percenter with no vision or passion."
indeed! I agree that we need to ensure that Jeb Bush is not elected. But thank goodness that your laundry list of democratic principles is also passionately held by Hillary Clinton. She has been putting forth these ideals for a quarter century.
indeed! I agree that we need to ensure that Jeb Bush is not elected. But thank goodness that your laundry list of democratic principles is also passionately held by Hillary Clinton. She has been putting forth these ideals for a quarter century.
2
Yes, a real concern, but I'm just as worried about Hillary's self-destructive tendencies. She may not get the nomination as much by her own hand as from a credible challenger. If she does get the nomination, please don't think the election is hers to lose.
1
The issue of inequality is becoming a much greater issue than anyone really appreciates, because it represents too little return on their labor and too little opportunity to improve themselves for the vast majority of people. It is becoming obvious that the rich and corporations can prosper without contributing proportionally to the rest of the country. It is becoming increasing clear that if one is not rich one is unlikely to get ahead, anymore. The solution is things like lowering the costs of higher education to make it affordable, assuring that shared risks programs like universal health care, full material support for the vulnerable, infrastructure that is universally available to all, and that all points to a greater involvement by society through government. Clinton represents the Democrats who held some hope that allowing the private sector to function with less government and to free up more capital through lower taxes would achieve greater economic expansion and greater prosperity for all, but the reality is not kind to this hope. The tendency of wealth to accumulate amongst the wealthy is greater than the willingness of the wealthy to risk it on achieving a lot more of it by reinvesting it when the economy becomes slow. The need to reinvigorate economic activity and to assure that the wealth circulates so that it contributes to economic expansion is not driven by markets but by societies as a whole. Sanders brings that perspective back into our national discussion.
173
This is one of the best-articulated comments I have ever read. I am surprised it is not a NY Times Pick. I agree with it almost point by point, except for your first one. My impression is that large numbers of Americans DO appreciate the danger of growing inequality, because there is a lot of public discussion of it. There is a lot of private discussion of it also, at least among people I am acquainted with, and that includes some pretty conservative ones.
9
Affluent professionals in the suburbs are certainly not going to support Sanders. This is a far greater problem for the Democrats.
For many years, the top 10% in income have paid the bulk of the taxes. Most of these are two-income professional couples living in states like New York and California. With state income tax and property tax, they pay close to 50% in tax on their incomes of $200-500K. Nevertheless, they have been the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party.
Once they hear 90% income tax, and realize that Sanders means them, it is game over for the Dems. You can't really get the turkeys to keep voting for Thanksgiving, and that's what Sanders is asking.
For many years, the top 10% in income have paid the bulk of the taxes. Most of these are two-income professional couples living in states like New York and California. With state income tax and property tax, they pay close to 50% in tax on their incomes of $200-500K. Nevertheless, they have been the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party.
Once they hear 90% income tax, and realize that Sanders means them, it is game over for the Dems. You can't really get the turkeys to keep voting for Thanksgiving, and that's what Sanders is asking.
14
Not true, my husband and I are in the top ten percent of income earners and we are voting for Sanders. My brother who is a radiologist is voting for Sanders. My parents who are also in the top ten percent of income earners are voting for Sanders. We are voting for him because he wants to lift Americans out of the dump. He stands for what we stand. Like he says, no American who works 40 hours a week should be living in poverty. My family is happy to be taxed for the greater good. This works in Scandinavian countries, and it can work here.
44
@PM - That's not how the world works. In the long run, with millions of voters, the vast masses will cast their votes for their economic interest. While individuals can be self-sacrificing, large blocs of voters will act otherwise.
1
For many years, the top 10% in income have paid the bulk of the taxes.
That's only true if you leave out all sales and payroll (FICA) taxes.
Nevertheless, they have been the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party.
No, they haven't been: By far the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party demographically speaking are mostly poor black women (with black men close behind). They vote at a much higher rate than other demographics, even though they tend to face greater barriers to voting than almost every other group of people in the country (much longer waiting times, active opposition by Secretaries of State, etc).
That's only true if you leave out all sales and payroll (FICA) taxes.
Nevertheless, they have been the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party.
No, they haven't been: By far the most faithful supporters of the Democratic Party demographically speaking are mostly poor black women (with black men close behind). They vote at a much higher rate than other demographics, even though they tend to face greater barriers to voting than almost every other group of people in the country (much longer waiting times, active opposition by Secretaries of State, etc).
8
The pro-Hillary camp, in which the Times figures large, is going through the classic Kubler-Ross stages of grief.
First stage was denial. Sanders is a marginal long-shot.
Second stage is bargaining. It's where we are now. Ok, Sanders is here but if we write hit pieces with the right kind of demographic twaddle, he will lose.
Unfortunately, there are three stages to go. But someday, the Hillary camp will accept (stage five) that never in her dreams will she get ten thousand people at an Iowa rally. Unless she pays them, that is.
First stage was denial. Sanders is a marginal long-shot.
Second stage is bargaining. It's where we are now. Ok, Sanders is here but if we write hit pieces with the right kind of demographic twaddle, he will lose.
Unfortunately, there are three stages to go. But someday, the Hillary camp will accept (stage five) that never in her dreams will she get ten thousand people at an Iowa rally. Unless she pays them, that is.
389
I think you are in stage one.
This is one of the funniest and most insightful posts I've seen in here in a long time.
2
Bernie got ten thousand people at a Madison, WI event, (first paragraph) not Iowa.
If the press were less controlled by the so called "corporatocracy" we would here a less one sided view of this election. Year after year they pick their candidate and ignore others. We saw them do it to Ron Paul, an independent and now to Bernie Sanders. I will support Bernie. I do not agree with all of his policies, but he has not changed his message in all the years I have listened to him. He is a rarity in contemporary politics. He honestly believes in his message as opposed to every other current politician that sways to the polls. You have to credit the man's integrity. I disagree with his assumption that all banks must be broken up. All banks are not the same. The real issue is the revolving door of governmental appointments going to Goldman Sachs' employees. These individuals have an undue influence on policy. Once you remove the banks influence, smart regulation will reign them in. Breaking them up only makes the US less competitive on the world stage. No foreign government is looking to break up their banks. Those banks would just step in and fill the void left by the US Banks.
132
Note Cohn's two basic points;
(1) Bernie Sanders can't win the nomination because the moderates and conservatives don't like what he says. Proof? Clinton is leading by huge ("yooge") marines in moderate and conservative areas.
(2) Moderates and conservatives aren't paying attention and dont' know what Sanders is saying.
So, putting them together, moderates and conservatives don't like what Sanders is saying and they don't know what he is saying.
The Clinton supporters among Times editors are now so desperate to stop Bernie-mentum that they hope that nobody notices the contradictions.
(1) Bernie Sanders can't win the nomination because the moderates and conservatives don't like what he says. Proof? Clinton is leading by huge ("yooge") marines in moderate and conservative areas.
(2) Moderates and conservatives aren't paying attention and dont' know what Sanders is saying.
So, putting them together, moderates and conservatives don't like what Sanders is saying and they don't know what he is saying.
The Clinton supporters among Times editors are now so desperate to stop Bernie-mentum that they hope that nobody notices the contradictions.
367
The analysis of Mr. Cohn is based on all the conventional categories. But Bernie Sanders is basing his appeal on a category that American politicians and pundits typically avoid as if it were the plague - the working class. His campaign is about class conflict, those who work for wages vs. those whose wealth derives from their investments, the 1%. This approach has been taboo in US politics for generations. It will confound the conventional categories as Bernie appeals to conservatives, moderates and leftists, who collectively come to the realization that he is advocating for their economic interests; higher education paid for by taxes, single payer health care, regulating the big banks, expanding social security, taxing the rich and fighting income inequality.
499
When have working class conservatives ever voted for their self interests? The Republican Party is still in business largely because of the masses that vote against their own best self interests at every turn. You avoid the real issue, which is that anybody who wins the democratic primary needs to win more than white progressives. Just ask Howard Dean.
8
While the 1 percent versus the 99 percents sounds great, the reality is the country is a hodge podge of socio economic, race, gender, ethic, sexual, religious and other differences. There is no center holding the middle community. We are now a country of interests and it's sad.
You nailed it. I wish I had written your comment!
1
Bernie is a very good politician and he knows how to whip up his base, which is evident by his preening in mostly affluent, progressive, academia white enclaves. The issue that I have with Sanders right now is largely through no fault of his own: it's the media. I am always put off by a candidate that the media has chosen as "the one." While Bernie may regularly heel to the press by answering questions, the press never asks him about deep policy positions or to contrast himself with the Republicans. Instead the press does largely "push poll" type interviews and superficially focuses on his cause célèbre of income inequality. But a presidency is not a dictatorship so the press might start asking Mr. sanders how he would set his socialist agenda alight within the realities of partisan politics of DC. Not to mention that most Americans recoil at any whiff of "socialist European type" governance. Unless Mr. sanders starts to get out of his comfort zone and until the press actually dissects and scrutinizes him the way they do Mrs. Clinton and other candidates, I can't really take Bernie Sanders seriously.
21
Seriously, have you looked at Sanders' history? Let's see, where to start:
In a period in the 1990s when the Congress was dominated by one of the most right-leaning groups in recent history, Sanders passed more amendments than any other congressman. Not just any other Democrat, ANYONE else.
Libertarian, conservative Republicans across the country "revere" Sanders. That's a quote from several veterans cited in news articles. 11% of the Democratic vote in South Carolina is made up of veterans. 11%. That's 11% for Sanders right off the bat in South Carolina.
Do a little homework and look at how many other examples you can find of Sanders "working across the aisle."
As far as "fair" media coverage, look at the ABC news interviews this morning with Sanders' supporters. They describe one as a "far left progressive" and offer the following for proof the man is far left: "He wants to expand social security, raise the minimum wage, build up infrastructure,e tc.
Now, where have we heard that before? Oh yes, the 1956 Republican Party platform (look it up online if you want to see how virtually every news source misrepresents the US as a "Center right" country - meaning, a neoliberal country).
Please do some fact checking before resorting to useless labels like "socialist European type governance".
In a period in the 1990s when the Congress was dominated by one of the most right-leaning groups in recent history, Sanders passed more amendments than any other congressman. Not just any other Democrat, ANYONE else.
Libertarian, conservative Republicans across the country "revere" Sanders. That's a quote from several veterans cited in news articles. 11% of the Democratic vote in South Carolina is made up of veterans. 11%. That's 11% for Sanders right off the bat in South Carolina.
Do a little homework and look at how many other examples you can find of Sanders "working across the aisle."
As far as "fair" media coverage, look at the ABC news interviews this morning with Sanders' supporters. They describe one as a "far left progressive" and offer the following for proof the man is far left: "He wants to expand social security, raise the minimum wage, build up infrastructure,e tc.
Now, where have we heard that before? Oh yes, the 1956 Republican Party platform (look it up online if you want to see how virtually every news source misrepresents the US as a "Center right" country - meaning, a neoliberal country).
Please do some fact checking before resorting to useless labels like "socialist European type governance".
67
Wanna know his positions on policy? Go to Wikipedia and research Bernie Sanders.
9
It is hard to scrutinize Bernie because of his voting record. He has been consistent for 40 years. Bernie Sanders has actually answered many of your questions. He has consistently set himself apart from the Republicans. Some people are upset that he won't run a smear campaign. He refuses to do so. Reporters have tried very hard to get him to say negative things about Hillary or the Republicans. Instead, he wants this election to be about the issues that we face. The biggest one is that being income inequality. That seems to be the central issue that the majority of Americans care about. Most people don't know what Democratic Socialism is. That is why they recoil. Once they realize that it runs in line with their ideals, they will be on board with Bernie. Even 28% of republicans said they would vote for a "socialist" because they see the situation the America is in. As far as the presidency goes, Bernie has addressed this as well. He knows that he cannot take on the establishment alone. To paraphrase, he said that after being elected president, the grass roots movement has to continue. The people will have to get involved in politics by calling their congressmen to make sure their voices are heard. In his words: "If politics is so unimportant, then why do corporations spend so much in elections and contributions?" What you don't see with other candidates in interviews are their agendas and how they plan to fix the economy.
18
Thanks Nate. A data filled, color-code map, column that is absolutely meaningless. As with all things Sanders in the NYT's, just label him a "socialist" or a "radical", note how Hillary is destined to get the nomination, and move on. So much data, so many statistics, supporting Sanders' inevitable demise.
Maybe you are right and you can pat yourself on the back when it all comes tumbling down. But why not at least once discuss the issues and explain why some people support Sanders on those issues, while others do not.
Instead of just taking the lazy way out by labeling Sanders a "socialist" or "radical", why not talk policy and the difference between the candidates? Why not delve into why a Country in which 99% of the folks are on the wrong end of the economic equation keep electing bought off candidates who ONLY cater to the top 1%.
Nope. Best to stick with stats and color-coded maps showing inevitability. That is the safest route and if for some reason--gasp--Sanders does emerge as a "serious" candidate you can refer to all of your data and color-coded maps to show how no one, I mean not one intelligent person, could have ever seen it coming.
After all, why should any of us care a wit about living wages for all, single payer healthcare, family leave, debt free higher education, increased job opportunities for Blacks?
Now back to the data and color-coded maps showing Hillary's inevitable nomination.
Maybe you are right and you can pat yourself on the back when it all comes tumbling down. But why not at least once discuss the issues and explain why some people support Sanders on those issues, while others do not.
Instead of just taking the lazy way out by labeling Sanders a "socialist" or "radical", why not talk policy and the difference between the candidates? Why not delve into why a Country in which 99% of the folks are on the wrong end of the economic equation keep electing bought off candidates who ONLY cater to the top 1%.
Nope. Best to stick with stats and color-coded maps showing inevitability. That is the safest route and if for some reason--gasp--Sanders does emerge as a "serious" candidate you can refer to all of your data and color-coded maps to show how no one, I mean not one intelligent person, could have ever seen it coming.
After all, why should any of us care a wit about living wages for all, single payer healthcare, family leave, debt free higher education, increased job opportunities for Blacks?
Now back to the data and color-coded maps showing Hillary's inevitable nomination.
985
chill out.
he was just pointing out the obvious, that obama became the nominee in 08 only because he got 98% of the black vote (after racebaiting the Clintons and their supporters ) and that hillary will surely be the nominee in 2016.
dont have a cow.
she will be great.
he was just pointing out the obvious, that obama became the nominee in 08 only because he got 98% of the black vote (after racebaiting the Clintons and their supporters ) and that hillary will surely be the nominee in 2016.
dont have a cow.
she will be great.
6
Thanks ScottW. Another invective-filled, meaningless rant from an internet commentator. In case you have not realized, the Upshot focuses on statistics and polls, not policy debates, so perhaps you should take your criticisms elsewhere.
4
Anon--underscoring the entire column is the author's belief Sanders' unstated "socialist" policies would never be accepted by mainstream "moderate" Democratic voters. So if a columnist is going to wrap statistics and data in labels such as "socialist", "moderate," "liberal", "progressive", it is best to matters what polices underpin each label.
14
You make the mistake of assuming there is a finite number of Democratic primary voters, some less liberal than others. But Sanders is making inroads among people who haven't voted Democratic in a long time.
They have the potential to significantly increase the number of primary voters if they register as Democrats before the primaries. In fact, it appears that some are registering as Democrats so they will be able to vote for Bernie Sanders in the primaries.
They have the potential to significantly increase the number of primary voters if they register as Democrats before the primaries. In fact, it appears that some are registering as Democrats so they will be able to vote for Bernie Sanders in the primaries.
417
Agreed, but it behooves the Sanders campaign to convince the ethnic minorities that's he not just another old white man trying to rule the world. Hillary's name recognition far surpasses Bernie's, and that alone will propel her to the nomination unless Bernie can secure the black and Latino vote. Fingers crossed, Bernie!
12
Yes! This is the first time that I and my whole family will register as voters and will vote (guess for whom)?
11
I'm an ex republican who is now a registered democrat. My values haven't changed, but in todays ultra right, 1% dominated world, I'm considered to be a socialist!
17
I just dont see how Sanders fortunes dont improve. Here is a piece of information that I will share about my political leanings. I have been a registered Republican since I am 18. I grew up and live in NYC/metro, a social progressive, but economically conservative. I am supporting Sanders, and have never voted Democrat in any single Presidential election over the last 30 yrs. Why? Because Sanders has integrity and part of any machine. I probably disagree with him on most economic policy but I agree with him in one major way. The banks must be broken up. I will gladly pay higher taxes, and bear a higher regulatory burden just to see the bank cartel broken. The "tax" on the public by bank behavior is intolerable, and I believe the savings the public would receive by ending the bank's reckless conduct far exceeds the income tax and regulatory burdens Sanders would seek. Clinton and all Republican candidates are 2 sides of the same coin, they are bought and paid for my corporate and financial interests. Until your analysis can explain how a lifelong Republican will vote for Sanders, your analysis cant be deemed reliable.
710
Best to consider whether he would be able to actually achieve what he's calling for. A laundry list of "should do's" is not quite the same as executable policy recommendations.
I like him and find him sincere, but he really is a professional complainer. When asked how he will get something accomplished, he just launches into more complaining, which is highly seductive. And, unfortunately, the media doesn't really press, which is how we got Obama with all his unchallenged promises.
Since Congress is not going to change for Bernie Sanders, it's not clear how Sanders plans to get all these wonderful things done.
I like him and find him sincere, but he really is a professional complainer. When asked how he will get something accomplished, he just launches into more complaining, which is highly seductive. And, unfortunately, the media doesn't really press, which is how we got Obama with all his unchallenged promises.
Since Congress is not going to change for Bernie Sanders, it's not clear how Sanders plans to get all these wonderful things done.
6
It is fallacious to compare an Obama/Clinton race with a Sanders/Clinton race.
Barrack Obama and Hillary Clinton are two sides of the exact same DLC / Third Wave / Corporatist coin, representing almost entirely-identical positions about how to best preserve the status quo. In 2008, they were seventh and eighth, respectively, on my list of the eight Democratic candidates contending for my vote in the New Hampshire Presidential Primary.
By comparison, Bernie Sanders is a completely different currency. For one thing, he's unashamedly telling the truth about the economic situation that most of us in this country have been facing for quite a long time now. He's not running to prop up the banks or the military contractors or the status quo. He's running to *CHANGE* The status quo.
And that could make all the difference.
Barrack Obama and Hillary Clinton are two sides of the exact same DLC / Third Wave / Corporatist coin, representing almost entirely-identical positions about how to best preserve the status quo. In 2008, they were seventh and eighth, respectively, on my list of the eight Democratic candidates contending for my vote in the New Hampshire Presidential Primary.
By comparison, Bernie Sanders is a completely different currency. For one thing, he's unashamedly telling the truth about the economic situation that most of us in this country have been facing for quite a long time now. He's not running to prop up the banks or the military contractors or the status quo. He's running to *CHANGE* The status quo.
And that could make all the difference.
672
I always enjoy it when progressives lump "less educated and more religious" together in one political sentence. Note to progressives, can you change the theme to "less academically certified educated". There many forms of education and academics is just one of them, not the be all, end all. This is one problem that is not emphasized enough.
32
I agree entirely with Benkarkis. Hypothetically, if there were valid statistical correlation between the two (and I don't suspect there is), they're still two descriptors that indicate two separate traits. Lumping them together is an implied judgement, and not a favorable one at that!
Also, I understand the analysis as it's presented, however for any meaningful change for the better, the status quo must be disrupted, so as a fervent non-cynic, I don't care for the exercise. It may be defensible, but I don't think it adds to the prospects for improvement in the quality of life for a large group of voters. I'm interested in things that will actually help.
Changing the CONTEXT of the discussion is necessary for real beneficial change to occur. At least that's my two cents.
Also, I understand the analysis as it's presented, however for any meaningful change for the better, the status quo must be disrupted, so as a fervent non-cynic, I don't care for the exercise. It may be defensible, but I don't think it adds to the prospects for improvement in the quality of life for a large group of voters. I'm interested in things that will actually help.
Changing the CONTEXT of the discussion is necessary for real beneficial change to occur. At least that's my two cents.
11
Indeed. Those "less academically certified educated" voters are also called the working classes, exactly the type who Sanders appeals to. Unlike, say, those "affluent, well-educated, socially liberal but fiscally moderate " voters who might possibly even vote primarily on something akin to gender.
39
What do you propose? That all citizens to be given final exams to determine who is educated or not?
More seriously, in this context, "educated" means precisely what you don't like: having an "official" education ... having DEMONSTRATED some level of education.
More seriously, in this context, "educated" means precisely what you don't like: having an "official" education ... having DEMONSTRATED some level of education.
13
Is he electable? Of course he is, ALL he needs is votes.
Elections should be about us voting for what is right, NOT voting to ensure the success of a party. Otherwise, nothing will EVER change.
Shame on Nate Cohn for such a biased (pro-clinton) article. Maybe Nate should try to understand rather than explain, maybe he should read rather than write, maybe he should ask rather than tell. IMO.
The Upshot? Keep going the way you are going NYT, you are quickly losing my readership. Not that you would care, and maybe that's the point.