Nicely done, Mr. Blow. I too have been so heartened and impressed with my HS Senior's passion for the Bern (and his involvement in the political process, how long has it been since young people got so worked up -- not really since Vietnam, I think income inequality and the destruction of the middle class has become the new battle cry.) It is nice to see people involved again and our family has also had had some lively discussions. I like most of what Bernie says. Probably more so than HRC who I support. The one part of your article that really bothers me is this 'where there is fire' idea. Here you give in to the 30 year Republican smear machine. They continue to churn out their Putin-like propaganda -- if there are enough lies, one of them must be true -- to real effect. They even have someone as astute as you doubting Hillary's veracity and that is a real shame.
93
During the 2008 campaign, David Geffen, for whom I have the utmost respect, said of the Clintons “Everybody in politics lies, but they do it with such ease, it’s troubling.” That Charles M. Blow's children sense that Hillary Clinton is not as authentic as Bernie Sanders reinforces my belief that David Geffen hit the nail on the head (he also has backed off his endorsement of Clinton since Sanders got in the race). I am close to Clinton's age but am totally behind Sanders. I am as idealistic now as I was when I was the same age as Charles M. Blow's children. It's good to know they are paying attention to the details that will make their votes so important in 2016.
72
Perhaps a generational difference is about Sanders as a visionary vs Clinton as an Old Time incrementalist. The arguments that Sanders is asking for too much that can not be easily or immediately realized indicates an affection or mental obstruction favoring a Take It Easy Way forward because the obstacles are too overwhelming to do more. Predictions that the Sanders assumptions regarding how his ideas will be paid for assume that those ideas are not subject to changes based on future experience and events.
The same Go The Old Way Slow argument was used against Dr. King, against Nelson Mandela, this nation's founders and so many others who have challenged the Old Ways. We don't know what the future holds, no matter who sits in the Oval Office, but listening to advocates for more-of-the-same-ism is not unexpected but disappointing. The same kinds of so-called "young people" or "young-in-heart people" during World War Two became our Greatest Generation. We still ask our youth to put their lives on the line in service of the nation, but we in our supposed-wisdom are relectant to give them credit for intelligence as they hope for something more than the status quo.
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
The same Go The Old Way Slow argument was used against Dr. King, against Nelson Mandela, this nation's founders and so many others who have challenged the Old Ways. We don't know what the future holds, no matter who sits in the Oval Office, but listening to advocates for more-of-the-same-ism is not unexpected but disappointing. The same kinds of so-called "young people" or "young-in-heart people" during World War Two became our Greatest Generation. We still ask our youth to put their lives on the line in service of the nation, but we in our supposed-wisdom are relectant to give them credit for intelligence as they hope for something more than the status quo.
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
44
I grew up with Korea, Viet Nam and on and on. As a young population, with a draft, we were proactive and protesting. The draft involved almost every class. Subsequently soldiers experienced one six month tour. Our current military service is averaging 2-4 tours. I am a psychologist who has been trained to work with wounded soldiers. Many of their lives have literally been ruined. These enlisted soldiers generally originate from the "lower middle class. Rarely is the war up front and personal. Thank you for pointing out that Sanders pronouncing action against war "for" young people. I am a white woman in a black church where I am accepted and loved. Remembering that I am white with the cultural imprinting of racism helps me to grow in my understanding of pervasive racism. I do not think this current field of candidates "gets"the depth and destruction. I abhor the idea of living in a socialist and, what would evolve a more racist country. I know from personal experience that Socialism compartmentalizes one's status based upon capability for productivity that has a limited perspective on the needs of the individual.
3
My 18 year old 1st time voter is voting for Sanders . My 25 year old , who voted for Obama, is voting for Sanders. All of their friends are voting for Sanders. My husband and I,who voted for Obama, voting for Sanders. The majority of our friends, voting for Sanders.
In this family, and in our neighborhood, it is all about what we all have experienced for years now. Not just the young people. We have watched massive lay offs. The ones that are lucky enough to get hired in their 50s or 60s, take a tremendous pay cut. Retirement accounts, and college savings accounts, decimated. Our kids, working hard academically, and working hard physically, to help with college costs. Parents, having to decide whether to fund their retirement account, or help their kids get a college education.Most choose to fund their kid's education, knowing that they will be working in jobs they hate, if they can keep their jobs, well into their 70s.Then their are the families, that the kids joined the military as a way to eventually get to college, to fight these senseless wars. Well most in this area, came back broken, with brain injuries, amputations, and no futures, several came back in coffins.
Speaking for my family and friends, we all are more than OK, that Bernie is a "one issue candidate". This time in America, it really is all about income equality.
In this family, and in our neighborhood, it is all about what we all have experienced for years now. Not just the young people. We have watched massive lay offs. The ones that are lucky enough to get hired in their 50s or 60s, take a tremendous pay cut. Retirement accounts, and college savings accounts, decimated. Our kids, working hard academically, and working hard physically, to help with college costs. Parents, having to decide whether to fund their retirement account, or help their kids get a college education.Most choose to fund their kid's education, knowing that they will be working in jobs they hate, if they can keep their jobs, well into their 70s.Then their are the families, that the kids joined the military as a way to eventually get to college, to fight these senseless wars. Well most in this area, came back broken, with brain injuries, amputations, and no futures, several came back in coffins.
Speaking for my family and friends, we all are more than OK, that Bernie is a "one issue candidate". This time in America, it really is all about income equality.
131
As they say, Mr. Blow, 'the apple doesn't fall far from the tree' and this was a wonderful column today, very thoughtful and timely.
Having grown up in a family where politics and issues were often discussed at the dinner table I have struggled at times with my own beliefs. When I was 18 I supported McCarthy for many of the reasons younger voters support Sanders. Part of me wants to support him and the other part wants to support Clinton. I'm just not there yet with either. Supporting a repug other than Kasich is just not a question.
The truth is, we are ripe for a revolution of some kind. Our kids tend to go in that direction for many reasons. Your kids are thoughtful as many are and don't see through the lens we older folks do. I know what I used to respond to in elections and somewhere in me that still lives.
I guess as we get older we get more pragmatic and we understand leadership and the ability to get things done is more important than ideas sometimes.
I wish your twins a good experience voting the first time. The future belongs to them and to see through the farce that is the current GOP bodes well for them.
Having grown up in a family where politics and issues were often discussed at the dinner table I have struggled at times with my own beliefs. When I was 18 I supported McCarthy for many of the reasons younger voters support Sanders. Part of me wants to support him and the other part wants to support Clinton. I'm just not there yet with either. Supporting a repug other than Kasich is just not a question.
The truth is, we are ripe for a revolution of some kind. Our kids tend to go in that direction for many reasons. Your kids are thoughtful as many are and don't see through the lens we older folks do. I know what I used to respond to in elections and somewhere in me that still lives.
I guess as we get older we get more pragmatic and we understand leadership and the ability to get things done is more important than ideas sometimes.
I wish your twins a good experience voting the first time. The future belongs to them and to see through the farce that is the current GOP bodes well for them.
13
Comparing Bernie to FDR or Mandela is ridiculous. He's a senator for cris' sake and without a super great legislative record! I think his proposals are sophomoric- in that implementing them is not something anyone can explain. I do not understand Hillary and why she would, once again, put herself through the ringer. Are there trust issues? Sure. Is there also plenty of documentation concerning her work with women, children, liberal causes? Sure. Despite all her short comings and activity choices, she is the best candidate and I like your son Mr BLow, do not think Bernie is electable in a general election
48
The Clintons do have deeper connections and a more active history of involvement. In reality, both candidates probably support the same justice reforms. The question is, who could actually get more of those done. Economics is what really lies firmly beneath the unexpectedly high performance of the Sanders effort. Young people and their parents are staring down up to a hundred thousand and more in college costs and debt. It can't help but sound fantastic to have this burden entirely vaporize in an instant. Health insurance and deductibles would also go poof. He is a great guy, but his candidacy is a Santa Claus fantasy of instant gratification. He claims to wave a magic wand and fix the two single greatest cost burdens of middle and lower class families outside of housing, promising they will instantly dissapear. Add to all of that, higher social security payments for grandma and a rapid doubling of the minimum wage. Though he is generally honest, Bernie is still essentially trying to buy this election with tens of trillions of dollars in spending and extremely questionable economics. Yes, we can tax the rich more. No, we can't blow up the economy in the process and succeed. True progress takes time and effort, Santa simply won't be dropping it down the chimney all at once. Hillary is honest and intelligent enough to know that, to understand how real progress is made.
45
I like your children, Charles. They sound as sensitive and intelligent as their father. I remember my kids at their ages, and I also remember myself at that age. My political positions when I was in my late teens had very little room for subtlety or shades of gray: good/bad, black/white. Bernie Sanders has a simple, clear message, and it's a highly moral message....of course it appeals to those young people whose idealism is untarnished. But, I also voted for George McGovern, so I have to take some responsibility for the election of Richard Nixon.
The most important thing is that we don't alienate young people from the political process. They will learn cynicism in due time, probably.
The most important thing is that we don't alienate young people from the political process. They will learn cynicism in due time, probably.
17
Charles,
I spent the late 80s and 90s in Chicago and was awestruck by how post racial Montreal and Toronto had become when I returned. I had left Montreal when a brown or black person on campus was a point of pride in the new Quebec. Now the Universties of Montreal, Mcgill and Sherbrooke look like Chicago without the ghettoization. Now small social units on campus are multiracial, multireligious and look like the world.
I am amazed that Bernie is considered a radical here in a Western Democracy Bernie is simply centrist and represents what is and Hillary was the new beginning a generation ago.
I spent the late 80s and 90s in Chicago and was awestruck by how post racial Montreal and Toronto had become when I returned. I had left Montreal when a brown or black person on campus was a point of pride in the new Quebec. Now the Universties of Montreal, Mcgill and Sherbrooke look like Chicago without the ghettoization. Now small social units on campus are multiracial, multireligious and look like the world.
I am amazed that Bernie is considered a radical here in a Western Democracy Bernie is simply centrist and represents what is and Hillary was the new beginning a generation ago.
28
I sympathize with Clinton supporters. I get it. And I consider myself a feminist. But I look at Hillary's record and I also see that, perhaps to overcompensate for her gender, she has been eager to start wars (not just Iraq but arming the Syrian rebels and bombing Lybia.) Is this because she feels she has to look tough? Who knows. She has been unusually cozy with Wall Street. Is this because she feels like she has to compete harder for fundraising because she's a woman? Maybe. Maybe she feels those compromises were necessary. But what is left of a person's soul who makes compromises that include bombing children, or arming people who will commit war crimes? Who is she, these days? I know who she thinks she is, but I don't trust even that -- even with women and children's issues. Will she truly fight for us? Did she fight for the 100,000 children killed unnecessarily in Iraq? Or did she make a political compromise? Will she again?
Hillary wants to behave like the worst kind of hypermasculine man, with all the war-mongering and backdoor-dealing that implies, and then shame women into voting for her because she's a woman. Sorry. No thank you. It isn't "your time" Hillary. You don't get to sit on the board of Walmart and bomb innocent children and then put on a feminist halo and tell us that we young women just don't "get it."
Hillary wants to behave like the worst kind of hypermasculine man, with all the war-mongering and backdoor-dealing that implies, and then shame women into voting for her because she's a woman. Sorry. No thank you. It isn't "your time" Hillary. You don't get to sit on the board of Walmart and bomb innocent children and then put on a feminist halo and tell us that we young women just don't "get it."
40
I hope you told them that the only way, in a civilized society, to effect radical change is to vote for it. That's what the Republicans did, and how they got Ronald Reagan. The effects of Reagan's policies are still undermining us, and the effects of Sanders's changes would still be supporting us a generation after the vote.
And I hope you told them that there are many older people (myself and my own family and friends) who are even older than Hillary yet strongly support Bernie -- the state of Vermont, for example.
And I hope you told them that there are many older people (myself and my own family and friends) who are even older than Hillary yet strongly support Bernie -- the state of Vermont, for example.
27
In this case, there is no fire -- consider the smoke. As a woman in a male-dominated profession myself, I remember the attacks against Hillary well. She disrespected cookies in response to a barrage of sexist questions -- oh no, make her bake. She killed a colleague to cover-up her affair with him -- oh, but wait, she also was a lesbian. Oh no, she traded stock!! Someone fired someone in the travel office! They had a Christmas card list -- surely a mark of evil. And she lost money in a Whitewater deal!!!
There never was a fire. It was a ridiculous barrage of mean-spirited, sexist nonsense. Probably the same group of people as the birthers.
There never was a fire. It was a ridiculous barrage of mean-spirited, sexist nonsense. Probably the same group of people as the birthers.
51
I think one explanation for the generational divide is the lack of awareness in new voters of how LONG it takes for a chance like this to come around again once you let it slide by.
A lot of us knew the heavy price that would be paid when just a tiny percentage too few of us supported Al Gore. A decade lost on so many things (global warming readiness, war avoidance) that mattered. A whole decade; just lost for good.
And why? Mostly because he was boring. He was old news. We were restless for something new.
Some people only see a crucial crossroads in the rearview mirror, too late. Us Hillary supporters see it right now.
Bernie will cost us dearly.
A lot of us knew the heavy price that would be paid when just a tiny percentage too few of us supported Al Gore. A decade lost on so many things (global warming readiness, war avoidance) that mattered. A whole decade; just lost for good.
And why? Mostly because he was boring. He was old news. We were restless for something new.
Some people only see a crucial crossroads in the rearview mirror, too late. Us Hillary supporters see it right now.
Bernie will cost us dearly.
48
Baby boomers sold out the subsequent generation through economic restructuring, now they're surprised we don't want to vote for Hillary? Get a clue...We'd all like a woman president but only the most privileged "feminist" can afford to bask in Hillary's symbolism. DNC powerbrokers and media elites' takedown of Bernie Sanders is going to cost them the general election. Poor whites will go to Trump. We need multiracial working class solidarity, not neoliberal identity politics.
19
Bernie Sanders voters see that 35 years of Reaganomics has been great for the very rich, not so much for the middle and working classes.
Republicans try to say it is globalization but look at Germany or Denmark or all the rest. They have faced the same globalization all these years and yet you won’t find people in those countries working two part-time minimum wage jobs, below the poverty line and with no health care.
You will not find the inequality we have.
And they have better economic mobility than the US, that ability to pull one’s self up by our bootstraps.
Forbes ranks Denmark number 1 country to do business and ranks the US number 22.
We rank 20 in education, 27 in infant mortality and Mississippi ranks the same as Botswana for infant mortality.
We have the highest incarceration rate in the world and it costs about the same as a year at a state university to keep a person in prison that the rest of us are paying, plus the additional police and judicial costs.
Bernie Sanders voters say if those countries can do it, why can’t we?
Republicans try to say it is globalization but look at Germany or Denmark or all the rest. They have faced the same globalization all these years and yet you won’t find people in those countries working two part-time minimum wage jobs, below the poverty line and with no health care.
You will not find the inequality we have.
And they have better economic mobility than the US, that ability to pull one’s self up by our bootstraps.
Forbes ranks Denmark number 1 country to do business and ranks the US number 22.
We rank 20 in education, 27 in infant mortality and Mississippi ranks the same as Botswana for infant mortality.
We have the highest incarceration rate in the world and it costs about the same as a year at a state university to keep a person in prison that the rest of us are paying, plus the additional police and judicial costs.
Bernie Sanders voters say if those countries can do it, why can’t we?
35
Interesting insights on the generational themes and the influence and impact of politics .
Of course Race and Gender issues are intersectional and cuts across the generational gap.
Amazing how some truths never change regardless for people of color when we confront Race and Gender narratives in America circa 2016
Of course Race and Gender issues are intersectional and cuts across the generational gap.
Amazing how some truths never change regardless for people of color when we confront Race and Gender narratives in America circa 2016
2
Very insightful article, thank you. I've had conversations with my own children (two voting age, the other, soon) about this year's presidential race, along with other young adults. Some support Sanders, others prefer another candidate but what's encouraging is that they are all engaged to a degree I have never experienced of their generation.
Now that we have a whole new demographic group this year's election stands to be different than any other in recent memory, whatever the outcome of the primary.
It seems to me the genius of Bernie Sanders is to tap into our youth in a way that nobody before him has done. Many politicians have dismissed young adults because they vote in low percentages, without asking why they feel so disenfranchised. Sanders correctly recognizes young voters as the future of our country, and has keyed in on the issues that matter most to their generation.
I don't know yet if he can win the primary, or the general election, but there is no question I will be watching this closely, as I hope my children do as well.
Now that we have a whole new demographic group this year's election stands to be different than any other in recent memory, whatever the outcome of the primary.
It seems to me the genius of Bernie Sanders is to tap into our youth in a way that nobody before him has done. Many politicians have dismissed young adults because they vote in low percentages, without asking why they feel so disenfranchised. Sanders correctly recognizes young voters as the future of our country, and has keyed in on the issues that matter most to their generation.
I don't know yet if he can win the primary, or the general election, but there is no question I will be watching this closely, as I hope my children do as well.
7
Well I was going to identify myself as not quite "um, older" but I just looked Charles up and I see he is 6 years YOUNGER than I am so I guess I know what category I fit in at least vis a vis this column :)
I wanted to weigh in on your comment re the generational divide among women and voting for Hilary. I really don't understand why anyone of any age would vote for someone for PRESIDENT OF THE US based on gender. My vote will be for the person whom I think most qualified for the position.
Ironically, my first time voting was 1984 when Mondale selected Ferraro as his running mate. I felt that he selected her only to get the female vote. As a female, I felt this insulted my intelligence and this drove me to my (to date) only Republican vote.
I came of age after the woman's rights movement and have never felt professional discrimination (I work in banking) which may inform my thoughts on this issue. I assume this applies to your children's thinking as well.
I wanted to weigh in on your comment re the generational divide among women and voting for Hilary. I really don't understand why anyone of any age would vote for someone for PRESIDENT OF THE US based on gender. My vote will be for the person whom I think most qualified for the position.
Ironically, my first time voting was 1984 when Mondale selected Ferraro as his running mate. I felt that he selected her only to get the female vote. As a female, I felt this insulted my intelligence and this drove me to my (to date) only Republican vote.
I came of age after the woman's rights movement and have never felt professional discrimination (I work in banking) which may inform my thoughts on this issue. I assume this applies to your children's thinking as well.
2
Lord Charles, I really enjoyed your article. Finally the esteemed opinion writers are atleast acknowledging the presence of presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. I have been following presidential runs since Saint Reagan. I have voted for Ralph Nader in the past although fully knowing that his getting the nomination was impossible.
What has happened today, happens only once in a generation and I am very grateful/blessed to see the political revolution. I am fortunate to interact with people of all walks of life, the elite, the everyday Americans, baby boomers and the millennials so I have idea of what the most important issues are.
Bernie marched with Dr King when HRC was with Goldwater. Bernie understands the two biggest challenges being faced by both the baby boomers as well as the millennials. Bernie wants to provide universal healthcare and wants to reform the campaign finance process. Both HRC and Republicans are completely tone deaf on this issue. Bernie is humane, compassionate and will spend much more percentage time talking to everyday Americans as he has no vested interests.
Feel the Bern !! Bernie 2016 !!
What has happened today, happens only once in a generation and I am very grateful/blessed to see the political revolution. I am fortunate to interact with people of all walks of life, the elite, the everyday Americans, baby boomers and the millennials so I have idea of what the most important issues are.
Bernie marched with Dr King when HRC was with Goldwater. Bernie understands the two biggest challenges being faced by both the baby boomers as well as the millennials. Bernie wants to provide universal healthcare and wants to reform the campaign finance process. Both HRC and Republicans are completely tone deaf on this issue. Bernie is humane, compassionate and will spend much more percentage time talking to everyday Americans as he has no vested interests.
Feel the Bern !! Bernie 2016 !!
18
Your comments about the "smoke" around Hillary remind me that at our age (she and I) we've lived actively too long not to have plenty of baggage for exploration and reconsideration. Actually I've frequently noticed how helpful and considerate our ex-presidents behave... maybe always voting for the youngest is a way to bolster kindness and broader minds with more ex-presidents.
2
Our children are wise in their own way. they have a fresh insight, but perhaps not as much experience.
To me Bernie Sanders represents the idealistic side of us and Hillary the more practical. If they could both be President it would be a happy day. As it is Democrats should passionately support either as our candidate considering the stakes for our nation.
Thank goodness for our youth who are our future. I only wish we as the older generation had left the world in a better condition than we have.
To me Bernie Sanders represents the idealistic side of us and Hillary the more practical. If they could both be President it would be a happy day. As it is Democrats should passionately support either as our candidate considering the stakes for our nation.
Thank goodness for our youth who are our future. I only wish we as the older generation had left the world in a better condition than we have.
13
Looking at the candidates for president -- and seeing, on the republican side a rash of unqualified ideologues, and on the democratic side, two _longtime_ political actors where one candidate who has been relentlessly smeared and the other somewhat niche in appeal -- it occurs to me how few qualified political participants we now have.
I'm not the first to notice how cynicism and dirty politics and moneyed interests have made politics a place where no sane person wants to go.
I'm not the first to notice how cynicism and dirty politics and moneyed interests have made politics a place where no sane person wants to go.
3
Excellent presentation of perspectives, Charles.
4
Mr. Blow,
I appreciate your writing.
I appreciate your writing.
7
I am one of those who find it difficult to trust Hilary Clinton. No, it is not due to the Republicans clumsy attempts to smear her with Benghazi or the private email server (with the Patriot Act and the NSA, what server is "private" anymore? And since the Courts ordered them made public, they clearly are not private). My issues rest with her past voting record, policies she has endorsed, the Clinton foundations acceptance of donations from foreign governments, wars she has voted for, and her strong ties to the financial sector. So let's stop minimizing those who express trust issues to being dopes for the Republicans. I believe, and this is unfortunately true for almost all politicians, she will say what she thinks, and her consultants and pollsters say she should think, the voters want to hear. Then, if elected, go about their business of supporting big business over the people of this country and military adventures overseas. It's a real shame too. Since I agree she is the most experienced candidate and this country could stand to have a woman President.
53
Charles why is rejected fealty on the basis of gender alone confusing? Allegiance based on gender or race is the most insular, simplistic and dumbed-down type of thinking there is. It is a credit that your kids avoid that kind of pseudo- intellectual cesspool. Parents always hope their kids do better than them, so congratulations on that.
Now it's your turn, when will you you turn off your own racism and sexism and start seeing people for the content of their character?
Now it's your turn, when will you you turn off your own racism and sexism and start seeing people for the content of their character?
4
I read Kate Cronin-Furman and Mira Rapp-Hooper's article on Vox yesterday and immediately thought "this isn't written for me." This in part explains the Clinton's luke warm response from millennial women especially young women of color. The authors conceded that they wrote their article for 'educated' (meaning white and middle class) women, but even young white women are rooting for another candidate. What is going on?!
Maybe I have some insight to this, seeing that I am a millennial woman. Just ask any millennial what issue they feel 'urgently' about and the issue of sexual reproductive rights or glass ceiling is unlikely to be on anyone's top 3. You see, what once use to be an issue of urgency for feminists is now regarded as a point of rhetoric used by political leaders. Certainly I am irritated, even annoyed at the attempt to defund planned parenthood and the glass ceiling that very successful women hit when they get to that point in their career. For anyone to say "well you're young, you don't know how hard it gets as you get to be an older woman," you are simply not listening. When it's time to be angry about this 'glass ceiling,' I will be angry about it, but at this point as a young person I simply want opportunities, a living wage, affordable housing, and to keep what ever dream I dreamt in college intact.
Maybe I have some insight to this, seeing that I am a millennial woman. Just ask any millennial what issue they feel 'urgently' about and the issue of sexual reproductive rights or glass ceiling is unlikely to be on anyone's top 3. You see, what once use to be an issue of urgency for feminists is now regarded as a point of rhetoric used by political leaders. Certainly I am irritated, even annoyed at the attempt to defund planned parenthood and the glass ceiling that very successful women hit when they get to that point in their career. For anyone to say "well you're young, you don't know how hard it gets as you get to be an older woman," you are simply not listening. When it's time to be angry about this 'glass ceiling,' I will be angry about it, but at this point as a young person I simply want opportunities, a living wage, affordable housing, and to keep what ever dream I dreamt in college intact.
74
Hillary is our Nixon. The constant emphasis on 'enemies,' 'conspiracies' working against her, the bleating about fighting, war, combat, scars, how victimized she is, etc. is deeply unattractive. This stuff inspires no one.
She said in the recent Vogue that her problems as a candidate are people still not being ready for a female candidate. Like Nixon, she's always making excuses for herself. Like Nixon, she claims she's poor at campaigning because she's not the kind of person who's good at advocating for herself - a joke coming from one of the most entitled people running for president in my lifetime.
The lies, scandals, cover-ups, ethical lapses, the deeply creepy partisans who surround her, pushing her husband and daughter onstage when she gets into trouble.
Nixon was smart, tough and very experienced too. Tied with W. for worst president in my life time.
Hillary Millhouse Clinton.
She said in the recent Vogue that her problems as a candidate are people still not being ready for a female candidate. Like Nixon, she's always making excuses for herself. Like Nixon, she claims she's poor at campaigning because she's not the kind of person who's good at advocating for herself - a joke coming from one of the most entitled people running for president in my lifetime.
The lies, scandals, cover-ups, ethical lapses, the deeply creepy partisans who surround her, pushing her husband and daughter onstage when she gets into trouble.
Nixon was smart, tough and very experienced too. Tied with W. for worst president in my life time.
Hillary Millhouse Clinton.
12
This seems spot on.
You can lead or you can manage. Hilary strikes me as a manager, and Sanders as a visionary who might be able to lead, who knows.
But either way, voting first and foremost on the basis of gender is not responsible. I'm talking as a woman who has combatted sexism all her life, and who voted for Barak Obama on the basis of is platform and not for the color of his skin.
But either way, voting first and foremost on the basis of gender is not responsible. I'm talking as a woman who has combatted sexism all her life, and who voted for Barak Obama on the basis of is platform and not for the color of his skin.
8
The Democratic party has moved so far away from being the party of the people, of the working class, of those who are not "winners" of the system, that it took a candidate like Bernie to remind us of what could be. I seriously doubt that millennials (myself included) would be so skeptical about Hillary had Bernie not come along and demonstrated what a real progressive agenda looks like.
Of course everyone has their own reasons for choosing a candidate, but my opinion is that the problems we face today, unlike in previous elections, cannot wait another eight years to be addressed. We need to attack climate change head on, NOW, and Bernie Sanders is the only candidate who can truly stand up to the corporate interests impeding the necessary massive reforms. Ditto for wages, health care, and college debt: if Hillary were to win the presidency and drag her feet on these issues, there's a good chance she'd face riots by the time the midterms rolled around.
Of course everyone has their own reasons for choosing a candidate, but my opinion is that the problems we face today, unlike in previous elections, cannot wait another eight years to be addressed. We need to attack climate change head on, NOW, and Bernie Sanders is the only candidate who can truly stand up to the corporate interests impeding the necessary massive reforms. Ditto for wages, health care, and college debt: if Hillary were to win the presidency and drag her feet on these issues, there's a good chance she'd face riots by the time the midterms rolled around.
11
I'm sad to hear your children, who are just beginning their adult lives, feel that the policy proposals of Bernie Sanders are unattainable.
I read the following recently, "almost everything valuable about human civilization has been built on the ability of people to work in a methodical and sustained way towards distant goals, even in the absence of immediately gratifying results."
This is what Bernie Sanders represents, he has been fighting for the same ideals for the past 30 years and he is asking all of us who believe in a better future to join with him now.
If you shoot for the moon but only reach the stars that will still be an accomplishment.
I read the following recently, "almost everything valuable about human civilization has been built on the ability of people to work in a methodical and sustained way towards distant goals, even in the absence of immediately gratifying results."
This is what Bernie Sanders represents, he has been fighting for the same ideals for the past 30 years and he is asking all of us who believe in a better future to join with him now.
If you shoot for the moon but only reach the stars that will still be an accomplishment.
16
I, my wife, and all of my siblings are 60+, and we know almost nobody in our peer group who feels comfortable with another Clinton (or Bush) Presidency. As we learn more about all the candidates, our support for Bernie Sanders grows. Simply put, we do not believe that any of the other candidates actually understand what is wrong with our political process, nor do they have any genuine solutions except for "more of the same." We are completely perplexed by Clinton supporters, who to a person cannot give us any real policy rationale for supporting her other than "it is her turn, and we want a woman in the White House." We are hoping for a woman as well, but those we believe have the experience as well as the honor, integrity and record of concern for working Americans (Barbara Boxer, Elizabeth Warren) have stayed clear of the race. It is heartening that so many young folks are supporting Sanders, but you may be surprised by how many of us old codgers are also feeling the Bern.
22
The fact that your family has been sharing these views and debating them will put your kids miles ahead of most Americans as they participate in the political process.
But there is another thing I hope you discuss with your children, and if you haven't I'd ask that you do so.
As an older person, I don't see much "hope" in Bernie Sanders' candidacy. Why? Because if he's elected, Congress will destroy his every effort and his "revolution" will be stillborn.
Why is this so? Because young voters failed to turn out in 2010 and 2014. They were not inspired. They got busy. Whatever. They failed to give Bernie (and Barack) a Congress that could be worked with. It is difficult for a president to affect domestic issues, especially the economy, without Congress. As long as Tea Party adherents dominate and intimidate and attempt to destroy our system of government, the best we can get will be gridlock.
Every election is important, all the way down to the local level. To win, you must show up. I hope your kids will understand this, and persuade their young friends of it as well.
But there is another thing I hope you discuss with your children, and if you haven't I'd ask that you do so.
As an older person, I don't see much "hope" in Bernie Sanders' candidacy. Why? Because if he's elected, Congress will destroy his every effort and his "revolution" will be stillborn.
Why is this so? Because young voters failed to turn out in 2010 and 2014. They were not inspired. They got busy. Whatever. They failed to give Bernie (and Barack) a Congress that could be worked with. It is difficult for a president to affect domestic issues, especially the economy, without Congress. As long as Tea Party adherents dominate and intimidate and attempt to destroy our system of government, the best we can get will be gridlock.
Every election is important, all the way down to the local level. To win, you must show up. I hope your kids will understand this, and persuade their young friends of it as well.
103
I read a lot about how parents say that they are voting for Bernie because their kids want them to. This only proves that parents today are more interested in being seen as cool and hip rather than being the adult in the room. These are the same parents who allow their teens and their friends to drink alcohol in the home because they think it makes them cool parents.
2
Old people not supporting Bernie is a coincident indicator.
Old people tend to get tired, give up, stop having original ideas or sell out.
I'm working on old, 61, and my contemporaries who are still paying attention, and who still have hope, are backing Bernie.
Old people tend to get tired, give up, stop having original ideas or sell out.
I'm working on old, 61, and my contemporaries who are still paying attention, and who still have hope, are backing Bernie.
14
I was born during Truman's administration so I qualify as one of the "old ones".
I have been waiting my entire adult life to vote for someone like Bernie Sanders and most of my friends lean that way as well. Including my 91 year old best friend, a rabid right wing liberal. Well, maybe not him.
If Clinton is the nominee I will gladly vote for her, but I'm hoping that we get the revolution Bernie is calling for, because that will shake up the very foundation of our trouble. And our trouble can be seen in miniature in Flint, Michigan.
What we are seeing in Flint is the microcosm of the koch bothers, alec plan to privatize our commons and sell US our water (and every other resource they can steal) back to US for a sizable profit.
The 1%ers, who are aptly caricatured by the kochs, are so taken with their own greed and need to own it all, they are blind to the graves they dig for themselves. They obviously think themselves immune to revolution, either the American style or the French style. We must show them how wrong they are this coming November.
My kids, in their 20's, are very taken by Bernie and it IS because he is authentic and consistent and fair.
I have been waiting my entire adult life to vote for someone like Bernie Sanders and most of my friends lean that way as well. Including my 91 year old best friend, a rabid right wing liberal. Well, maybe not him.
If Clinton is the nominee I will gladly vote for her, but I'm hoping that we get the revolution Bernie is calling for, because that will shake up the very foundation of our trouble. And our trouble can be seen in miniature in Flint, Michigan.
What we are seeing in Flint is the microcosm of the koch bothers, alec plan to privatize our commons and sell US our water (and every other resource they can steal) back to US for a sizable profit.
The 1%ers, who are aptly caricatured by the kochs, are so taken with their own greed and need to own it all, they are blind to the graves they dig for themselves. They obviously think themselves immune to revolution, either the American style or the French style. We must show them how wrong they are this coming November.
My kids, in their 20's, are very taken by Bernie and it IS because he is authentic and consistent and fair.
19
President Bill Clinton's dalliances with an intern and other women did indeed happen. He weakened his Presidency and hurt our nation because of that conduct. But I don't see anything at all to the smears of Hillary Clinton. In this respect she is a victim, just as John Kerry was by the swift boaters, and just as President Obama has been for his entire time in office. Unfortunately, smear campaigns work. They poison the water. And even Mr. Blow says at the end of this essay that with Hillary Clinton, he wonders if that much smoke could mean there is some fire. I'll say this for the Republicans. They know how to do a great smear job, and they know how to tell outright lies and eventually get people to believe that there is some truth in them. It pains me to say so, but Bernie Sanders and his followers are becoming pretty good at it, too.
13
Apparently Bernie is 'electable' when it comes to the primaries.
The only reason Hillary has any traction is because her name's 'Clinton.' Her only raison d'etre as a candidate is she's a woman - which we see just isn't enough to get her elected. Any other candidate running after taking millions in payment from Wall Street for a few speeches would have been driven from the race this year. Hillary hasn't only because some women voters show great loyalty to her.
Otherwise, she's a terrible candidate. The appearance of impropriety as far as the Clinton's finances will be used to defeat her in the fall - sad because we desperately need to keep the White House. I'm sorry she was determined to run after her 2008 defeat and her constant ethical issues like the email controversy - a typical Clinton error born of bad judgement and entitlement.
Sanders may not defeat her but many are hoping. Bernie's proving to be a hardworking, inspiring and honest candidate - her opposite. And Bernie is running for us, not his personal aggrandizement to fulfill his personal 'destiny' or because he feels entitled by marriage or personal wealth propelling him. I'm donating to and will do anything to help him. This country needs him badly.
BTW, I've met Hillary. I'm a 63 yr old feminist. I'm her constituency but a better candidate is running against her. My 87 yr old mother supports Bernie too. Hillary should be really worried!
Feelin' the bern!
The only reason Hillary has any traction is because her name's 'Clinton.' Her only raison d'etre as a candidate is she's a woman - which we see just isn't enough to get her elected. Any other candidate running after taking millions in payment from Wall Street for a few speeches would have been driven from the race this year. Hillary hasn't only because some women voters show great loyalty to her.
Otherwise, she's a terrible candidate. The appearance of impropriety as far as the Clinton's finances will be used to defeat her in the fall - sad because we desperately need to keep the White House. I'm sorry she was determined to run after her 2008 defeat and her constant ethical issues like the email controversy - a typical Clinton error born of bad judgement and entitlement.
Sanders may not defeat her but many are hoping. Bernie's proving to be a hardworking, inspiring and honest candidate - her opposite. And Bernie is running for us, not his personal aggrandizement to fulfill his personal 'destiny' or because he feels entitled by marriage or personal wealth propelling him. I'm donating to and will do anything to help him. This country needs him badly.
BTW, I've met Hillary. I'm a 63 yr old feminist. I'm her constituency but a better candidate is running against her. My 87 yr old mother supports Bernie too. Hillary should be really worried!
Feelin' the bern!
14
Mr. Blow, one dad to another, it sounds like you've raised some great kids.
5
Thank you for a lovely column.
5
Mr. Blow should not be surprised that some young women don't support Hillary Clinton any more than he should not be surprised that some blacks don't support Clarence Thomas. Race and gender are not the most important factor is deciding one's vote.
6
I see many young people frustrated with the economy. That frustration is the driving force that supports Sanders. Today's voting age young adults can't afford a mortgage, know that rents are to high, have crippling college debt, and lousy job prospects. Sanders's message hits home for them.
12
Kids are very aware and see adults who have entrenched views and are protecting their resources. The viewpoint of youth is not really unique. The real question is why are some adults' viewpoints so restricted? Is it age, tiredness, or maybe it's that their positions of power and influence filter their judgement? Go ask a kid.
6
AS A CHILD OF THE 60s, I have watched the pendulum swing much farther to the Right than it ever has to the Left in the US. Had you told me that the then-extremist Goldwater would be viewed as a moderate, I would have laughed, as many of my contemporaries would have done. While I grant you that the Bern is far more informal and clearly generates more positive feelings, I have a hard time understanding why younger voters have little use for Hillary's intellect, determination, incomparably varied experience and global advocacy for women. I guess that they've accepted the mud that's been slung on the wall and has stuck to Hillary's image. And you'll never convince me that Bern is a more effective feminist than Hillary. His style is predictable, as he loudly denounces the assumptions of his debating partner, identifying some problem accurately and then dropping the whole thing into the maw of revolutionary ideas and history. I think that people are uncomfortable by Hillary's speaking with such clear authority and mastery of the facts and by her gravitas. Her serious demeanor, though, is no match for audiences that want some sparks of energy, some laughs and cheers from campaigners. All right, so Hillary's not such a great cheerleader, while Bern is quite good generating cheers. Hillary's gone around the globe finding ways to save the lives of women and children with clean burning stoves. With humility. What's Bern done for them? Some good I'm sure, but less than Hillary.
9
Thank you so much for opening up about your family. It helps to see where we are all coming from. I am sort of older, and a longtime Democrat. One question? Where were your children when we had our last economic meltdown, 2008? This for me is a bit of a starting point, that is closer than 9/11 that speaks to me about what our established society did to itself. No one was arrested. Huge amounts of money were passed out to the financial world and all those people that are running for President were somehow standing by and witness to this horror. No one is talking about this accept Senator Sanders. It could happen again. Go Bernie!
4
There is very little racism in the US. It's generally measured at 15% of the population -- just below the 18% anti-Semitism rate. Where does Blow get these ideas?
And what is "systemic racism"? The US is the only country in which a majority fought a bloody war (more caucasian anti-slavery civil war deaths than our losses in WWI and WWII combined), in which the majority constitutional amendments and later, laws to assure civil rights, that imposes mandatory minority preferences into law for employment and education-- is hardly "racist."
And what is "systemic racism"? The US is the only country in which a majority fought a bloody war (more caucasian anti-slavery civil war deaths than our losses in WWI and WWII combined), in which the majority constitutional amendments and later, laws to assure civil rights, that imposes mandatory minority preferences into law for employment and education-- is hardly "racist."
2
The youngsters that came into adulthood in the late 2000s are probably going to cope with a lifelong earning deficit due to the Great Recession (and no fault of their own). They are also saddled with greater-than-inflation increases in college costs and healthcare. So free college tuition and zero up-front cost healthcare sounds good, as does a believer candidate who has not yet borne the costs of savage Republican attacks. They are not concerned with how these promises will be achieved, or if they even can be achieved. They know that this is what they want, and only one candidate is promising it. So they are mostly for Sanders.
Older voters are more experienced in the ways of the world, and are therefore more pragmatic. After living through the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and part of the 2010s, they know that the 90s and the 2010s were infinitely better. They know that progress is mostly not achieved by revolution, but by steady, determined, and many times incremental efforts. With four Supreme court slots at stake, they are not in the mood for fanciful gambles. So they are mostly for Hillary, who they expect to deliver a third and fourth Obama term.
Older voters are more experienced in the ways of the world, and are therefore more pragmatic. After living through the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and part of the 2010s, they know that the 90s and the 2010s were infinitely better. They know that progress is mostly not achieved by revolution, but by steady, determined, and many times incremental efforts. With four Supreme court slots at stake, they are not in the mood for fanciful gambles. So they are mostly for Hillary, who they expect to deliver a third and fourth Obama term.
4
Well if the kids want Hillary they have no regard for ethics and no regard for authority (Occupy Wall Street Movement). They sound like great future socialists who will be part of the grand revolt. You are doing a great job.
1
Thank you, Mr. Blow, for sharing your family's insight on this confusing election season. It's a tough one for most of us, and a spectacle I hope to never see repeated in the future.
I understand the attraction to Sanders by young people (and by that, as an "elder", I mean anyone under the age of 30). I was a McGovern supporter when I was 17, and I was devastated by the election of the nefarious Nixon - the best people are not always the "electable" ones.
But as for the Clinton "scandals", I have to say that in regard to the most recent ones (Benghazi and the email controversies), I believe that both are well-planned tools created by the GOP to defeat Clinton. Republicans seized upon the Benghazi attack initially to defeat Obama, then found it useful to continue the charade well into Clinton's candidacy. They found creative ways to justify their $4.5 million dollar "investigation" into what was clearly a unpreventable attack on a remote diplomatic installation in a volatile region Libya - no reasonable person could place blame on the Administration. The email issue, too, has been used as a tool to defeat Clinton - she wasn't hiding anything, she didn't jeopardize national security - it is a GOP farce, and they will continue to pursue as long as it proves useful to them. It's dirty politics, and it sometimes works, especially when the party receives support from right wing television and radio.
I understand the attraction to Sanders by young people (and by that, as an "elder", I mean anyone under the age of 30). I was a McGovern supporter when I was 17, and I was devastated by the election of the nefarious Nixon - the best people are not always the "electable" ones.
But as for the Clinton "scandals", I have to say that in regard to the most recent ones (Benghazi and the email controversies), I believe that both are well-planned tools created by the GOP to defeat Clinton. Republicans seized upon the Benghazi attack initially to defeat Obama, then found it useful to continue the charade well into Clinton's candidacy. They found creative ways to justify their $4.5 million dollar "investigation" into what was clearly a unpreventable attack on a remote diplomatic installation in a volatile region Libya - no reasonable person could place blame on the Administration. The email issue, too, has been used as a tool to defeat Clinton - she wasn't hiding anything, she didn't jeopardize national security - it is a GOP farce, and they will continue to pursue as long as it proves useful to them. It's dirty politics, and it sometimes works, especially when the party receives support from right wing television and radio.
12
I have reservations about every single candidate running in both parties. I worry that Bernie shouts too much and on one issue, that Hillary is vulnerable to GOP vindictive prosecutions and has too many super delegates beholden to her to make the nominating process honest. Don't even mention the problems with the GOP bunch!
My candidate dropped out. Martin O'Malley is young, principled, accomplished. Unfortunately he's a middle class white guy with not much of a back story, virtually no funding, and therefore not much of an organization. I'm really sad to have lost the opportunity to vote for him.
My candidate dropped out. Martin O'Malley is young, principled, accomplished. Unfortunately he's a middle class white guy with not much of a back story, virtually no funding, and therefore not much of an organization. I'm really sad to have lost the opportunity to vote for him.
4
Charles,
There isn't a generational divide, you are repeating the meme of older prefer Hillary (evidently all older people possess divine wisdom when they turn a certain age) and the young prefer Bernie. This was all thought up by establishment media based on specious polls. This article taken as a whole is just another shot at disparaging Bernie's credibility and dividing people to increase Hillary's odds. The support for Bernie is cutting across all ages and demographics. Face it, you know Bernie's the best candidate, and probably the best we seen in many, many years.
There isn't a generational divide, you are repeating the meme of older prefer Hillary (evidently all older people possess divine wisdom when they turn a certain age) and the young prefer Bernie. This was all thought up by establishment media based on specious polls. This article taken as a whole is just another shot at disparaging Bernie's credibility and dividing people to increase Hillary's odds. The support for Bernie is cutting across all ages and demographics. Face it, you know Bernie's the best candidate, and probably the best we seen in many, many years.
12
Mr. Blow, try searching Bernie Sanders online (Slack or Reddit or Youtube) to learn what is going on with the Sanders campaign. You'll discover a tsunami of volunteers. They are coding; they are creating posters, signage, brochures, music, videos, ads; they are phone banking; they are canvassing; and more. Also online, there are many informative videos showing Bernie at senate hearings; talking with Killer Mike; discussing Martin Luther King jr. with Cornell West and Nina Turner; giving speeches at various venues; etc. There is so much that is readily available online to inform the voting public why Bernie Sanders is authentic, is honest and why he attracts so many people (not just young folks).
14
BRAVO for you, Charles. You have said it pretty much all, and very well. I am "Free, 'White', and 78", hopefully a feminist (with two daughters and 2 grand-daughters). So I came of age in the 50's and early 60's, and my lens for equity was the civil rights struggle, and then the hope offered to our country by JFK and MLK.
I am ready for one-more round, with Bernie, to enable our country to reach for what it could and should be. Hillary will never do it, but if I have to, I will hold my nose once again and vote for her instead of the Maniacs.
As Bobby was fond of saying, "Some people look at the world and say, 'Why.' I look at the world and say, 'Why not?' "
I am ready for one-more round, with Bernie, to enable our country to reach for what it could and should be. Hillary will never do it, but if I have to, I will hold my nose once again and vote for her instead of the Maniacs.
As Bobby was fond of saying, "Some people look at the world and say, 'Why.' I look at the world and say, 'Why not?' "
3
Bernie is only unelectable if we don't vote for him. If we let the Powers-That-Be, i.e. the Establishment, lead us into circuitous thinking. Bernie can be elected. The question is, will he be able to lead Congress to go for the changes he is advocating? He may not. Neither will Hillary, so on this they are tied. But Bernie may not have all the ugly negative baggage that Hillary carries (yes, Bill, I mean you) and some Republicans might be willing to work with Bernie. After all, they have known this likable idealist for years. So let's not let the pro's and the status quo types quench our idealism (a trait NOT to be ashamed of) and our zeal and willingness to work for the change we so desperately need.
7
I'm tired of having old Socialist men wag their fingers at me and act as if they are superior and all-knowing. Bernie has had his beliefs, many of which I agree with, for over 20 years in Congress. Where is the coalition he formed of like-minded people working together to accomplish these things? Where are the small steps along the way to the goal? And yet he disses Planned Parenthood as part of the establishment (classic--anything you don't care much about can be thrown under that bus) and mumbles his way through on our national gun crisis. These are not the positions I want from a liberal standard bearer. I think most of us older generation folks know a Bernie or two, and see in him something we recognize and often agree with. Woodstock was great. But it doesn't feel as if Bernie has been authentically wrestling with the issues of contemporary life, or offers something we can rely on it in an international leader.
7
Here is some insight on a slice of the young electorate:
I have been watching my kids struggle with college costs that have inadequate financial aid so they work during the year which means they have to take less credits. College bureaucracies that really don't care about them that much as they just want the money. Rich alumni that are only interested in the football team or a big building with their name on it. Campus and city police that hand out $20 to $30 parking tickets to young poor people with a zeal unmatched anyplace else in the city. Understanding that you can go to war and get shot at 18 but you cannot drink until 21 so here is another $200 to $300 ticket. The drumbeat message that "you cannot succeed without a college education" combined with stories of college graduates not finding a job and having from $30,000 to $100,000 in debt. Knowing that at 26 years of age I can't carry them on my insurance.
They love Sanders because virtually nobody else cares about their challenges, listens to them or is on their side except their parents. Everyone is preying on them and not giving anything. Financial aide has just caused education inflation and is absorbed in higher prices every year.
These young adults need lifelines not anchors thrown at them. Sanders gets it. Everyone else..........doesn't care.
I have been watching my kids struggle with college costs that have inadequate financial aid so they work during the year which means they have to take less credits. College bureaucracies that really don't care about them that much as they just want the money. Rich alumni that are only interested in the football team or a big building with their name on it. Campus and city police that hand out $20 to $30 parking tickets to young poor people with a zeal unmatched anyplace else in the city. Understanding that you can go to war and get shot at 18 but you cannot drink until 21 so here is another $200 to $300 ticket. The drumbeat message that "you cannot succeed without a college education" combined with stories of college graduates not finding a job and having from $30,000 to $100,000 in debt. Knowing that at 26 years of age I can't carry them on my insurance.
They love Sanders because virtually nobody else cares about their challenges, listens to them or is on their side except their parents. Everyone is preying on them and not giving anything. Financial aide has just caused education inflation and is absorbed in higher prices every year.
These young adults need lifelines not anchors thrown at them. Sanders gets it. Everyone else..........doesn't care.
8
It may well be that the conspiracy to create something out of nothing with respect to Whitewater has tainted Hillary with the young electorate, which would be a shame, since it really was a fabrication. But there might be some other reasons, which Hillary should be called account for. Take the $675,000 in speaking fees from Goldman Sachs in 2013. Does anyone believe Hillary wasn't planning to run when she gave those talks? Did she really need more than the $100+ million she and Bill had collected in speaking fees since 2001? What can one conclude, except that Hillary thought she was guaranteed the nomination, and that being closely associated with Goldman would not be a problem?
Perhaps that's the sort of thing the heirs of Occupy are thinking about when they say they don't trust Hillary.
Perhaps that's the sort of thing the heirs of Occupy are thinking about when they say they don't trust Hillary.
5
Older people: The world you have inhibited has been changing for the worse for many decades. Younger people realize that it is insanity for a society to keep doing the same thing and expect different results. If we believe it and fight for it we CAN make big changes. That is what the political revolution is about; people coming together to take their country back from corporate oligarchs.
Don't believe the doubters! Change is imperative and quite possible. I believe in the power of WE THE PEOPLE.
Don't believe the doubters! Change is imperative and quite possible. I believe in the power of WE THE PEOPLE.
5
I have been thinking about this article and my own kids since I read it. I was a feminist and attorney who raised four boys in a rather conservative area of a conservative state. I have two Gen X'rs and two Millenials. The older ones are liberal and the younger ones are more conservative.
I can remember when a woman could not get a legal abortion. I can remember when women were overtly discriminated against.
I believe the fact that the kids take for granted those things we parents had to fight for, makes it easier for the conservative kids to be conservative.
The problem I have with the kids' politics is that the I have a conservative who will not talk to his liberal brother. Over politics!
I believe the Republicans are to blame for the politicization of everything. There is no more respecting another's politics. You've got to either agree with the Republicans or you are the enemy.
That makes it all the more important for Democrats and other liberals to vote against these people who want to take away our rights. The Democrats are too civil with Republicans and it's time we all recognized that.
I can remember when a woman could not get a legal abortion. I can remember when women were overtly discriminated against.
I believe the fact that the kids take for granted those things we parents had to fight for, makes it easier for the conservative kids to be conservative.
The problem I have with the kids' politics is that the I have a conservative who will not talk to his liberal brother. Over politics!
I believe the Republicans are to blame for the politicization of everything. There is no more respecting another's politics. You've got to either agree with the Republicans or you are the enemy.
That makes it all the more important for Democrats and other liberals to vote against these people who want to take away our rights. The Democrats are too civil with Republicans and it's time we all recognized that.
10
Great piece. When Ta-Nehisi Coates (grudgingly) admitted that he was voting for Sen Sanders, he cited the impact his son had on him. The youth have hope and when we listen it's contagious.
7
Sanders voted yes on the 1994 Crime bill , but it is important to note the context and his concerns about the bill:
“….speaking about the Clinton crime bill on the floor of the House of Representatives in April of 1994, he pushed back against the idea that harsher penalties would decrease the crime rate.
“Mr. Speaker, all the jails in the world — and we already imprison more people per capita than any other country — and all of the executions in the world, will not make that situation right,” he said. “We can either educate or electrocute. We can create meaningful jobs, rebuilding our society, or we can build more jails. Mr. Speaker, let us create a society of hope and compassion, not one of hate and vengeance.”
He did, however, eventually vote for the sweeping bill because of one component. “I have a number of serious problems with the crime bill,” he said that June, “but one part of it that I vigorously support is the Violence Against Women Act — we urgently need the 1.8 billion dollars in this bill to combat the epidemic of violence against women on the streets and in the homes of America.”
“….speaking about the Clinton crime bill on the floor of the House of Representatives in April of 1994, he pushed back against the idea that harsher penalties would decrease the crime rate.
“Mr. Speaker, all the jails in the world — and we already imprison more people per capita than any other country — and all of the executions in the world, will not make that situation right,” he said. “We can either educate or electrocute. We can create meaningful jobs, rebuilding our society, or we can build more jails. Mr. Speaker, let us create a society of hope and compassion, not one of hate and vengeance.”
He did, however, eventually vote for the sweeping bill because of one component. “I have a number of serious problems with the crime bill,” he said that June, “but one part of it that I vigorously support is the Violence Against Women Act — we urgently need the 1.8 billion dollars in this bill to combat the epidemic of violence against women on the streets and in the homes of America.”
12
Mr. Blow,
I am a father and businessman - the father part is my favorite. You are a wonderful father.
I am a father and businessman - the father part is my favorite. You are a wonderful father.
5
I just asked my 25-year-old son who he would vote for. He said Hillary and called Bernie a loudmouth full of empty promises. I'm glad that I educated him and his brother so well. But to me who remembers the horrors of the USSR voting for or supporting somebody who calls himself a socialist is totally out of the question, regardless of what I think of the feasibility of his programs. If Sanders is a nominee, watch people like me appearing in Republican ads talking about poverty, camps, governmental intrusions, strangled economy, and the millions who marched in the streets to get rid of a socialist government. I know what socialism is, and it is not Norway.
4
A very interesting theme, which could be the object of a nationwide multi-generational survey: politics in the family.
I migrated to the US from South America in 1969 for graduate education. Stayed here in professional practice (architecture) and academic appointments, retiring recently. My wife's background is conservative Republican WASP from upstate New York. We have two daughters and two sons, who are now raising their own families, adding seven grandchildren to tribe, which is distributed geographically from southwest to northwest.
Without exception, our three generations are all liberal thinkers and have a progressive outlook. Political conversation, and now activism, is a constant investment in our lives; who influences whom is a dynamic flux that could be researched and recorded for posterity. My wife's evolution toward the ultra progressive end of the political spectrum is noteworthy.
Without exception, we all support Bernie Sanders. We identify deeply with most of his substantial positions: economy, education, social justice, climate change and international policy. We unequivocally trust his words and admire his life of altruistic public service.
The question of electability was discussed more frequently at the beginning but is now subsiding. It was an argument that needed fine-tuning if our convictions were to prevail, fortunately the momentum of the campaign is reinforcing the resolve — we all 'feel the Bern.'
I migrated to the US from South America in 1969 for graduate education. Stayed here in professional practice (architecture) and academic appointments, retiring recently. My wife's background is conservative Republican WASP from upstate New York. We have two daughters and two sons, who are now raising their own families, adding seven grandchildren to tribe, which is distributed geographically from southwest to northwest.
Without exception, our three generations are all liberal thinkers and have a progressive outlook. Political conversation, and now activism, is a constant investment in our lives; who influences whom is a dynamic flux that could be researched and recorded for posterity. My wife's evolution toward the ultra progressive end of the political spectrum is noteworthy.
Without exception, we all support Bernie Sanders. We identify deeply with most of his substantial positions: economy, education, social justice, climate change and international policy. We unequivocally trust his words and admire his life of altruistic public service.
The question of electability was discussed more frequently at the beginning but is now subsiding. It was an argument that needed fine-tuning if our convictions were to prevail, fortunately the momentum of the campaign is reinforcing the resolve — we all 'feel the Bern.'
7
Younger voters are idealistic and really believe that Sanders can accomplish his more than ambitious programs. They have not had time to become cynical and practical. They clearly don't realize what is at stake in this election, because they haven't had time to understand that the Republicans really will take away the things young people take for granted, such as a woman's right to choose and the social safety nets. All those years of hard won progress that came at great sacrifice, tremendous courage, and a lot of sweat is on the line. I admire Sanders fire in the belly, but what has Sanders accomplished while in Congress? Hillary Clinton is the most qualified person to be our next President, baggage aside. Hillary has proven herself in terms of understanding foreign policy, as Secretary of State, and she has the most chance, slim though it may be, of working with a Republican controlled Congress. Bernie Sanders ideas are indeed the hoped for ideal, and a Republican controlled Congress would tear every one of them to shreds.
Some of us who are older or just plain old like myself, are cynical enough to see the writing on the wall. I will support and vote for whoever the Democratic nominee is, and I hope younger voters will do the same. However, I really do believe that Hillary Clinton has the best chance of defeating the Republican nominee whoever he is, in the fall. I state this with great fear and much hope, because never have the stakes been higher.
Some of us who are older or just plain old like myself, are cynical enough to see the writing on the wall. I will support and vote for whoever the Democratic nominee is, and I hope younger voters will do the same. However, I really do believe that Hillary Clinton has the best chance of defeating the Republican nominee whoever he is, in the fall. I state this with great fear and much hope, because never have the stakes been higher.
15
If Obama was our first mixed-race president, why can't we have a mixed-up-sex president?
Thank you for sharing your family conversation, one taking place in many American homes. As a 74 year old woman, I enthusiastically side with the young who support Bernie Sanders. He has been true to his word for his entire career, unlike his opponent, Mrs. Clinton, who tailors her words to the audience in front of her, and changes her views with the times and the polls. She is beholden to, and one of, the rich and pòwerful who fund her campaign. To me, the choice is clear.
9
My hat off to you, that while discussing politics (the art of the possible), you were careful not to insult your kids' intelligence by telling them how to think. Sure hope the same open-mindedness goes for religious thought and action, a choice one makes by believing in something that requires suspension of what makes us human, reason. That we still have 'blindspots' leading to racism and other prejudices, no question about it; it will require re-educating ourselves, reminders of our tribal tendencies to favor our own (even with altruism and self-sacrifice) and fight/destroy "the other", all with the same thought of belonging, justice and social fairness, to maintain an established order, cultural taboos and all. This is why it is so hard to get rid of our subconscious 'evil', especially if our way of life is deemed the right one. And our current crop of charlatan politicians seems eager to exploit one's prejudices, to advantage. We must resist.
" .......... how one father came away with a deeper respect for the thoughtfulness & thoroughness of his children."
You have analysed the generational perspectives perfectly.
I understand (@ age 75), 'cause despite age, there remains an 18 year old idealist in all of us.
You have analysed the generational perspectives perfectly.
I understand (@ age 75), 'cause despite age, there remains an 18 year old idealist in all of us.
2
Charles Blow writes:
"I have a 22-year-old son who voted in the 2012 presidential election and 18-year-old girl/boy twins for whom this will be their first chance to vote. (I don’t ask them whom they voted for or will vote for. We talk broadly about issues and candidates.)"
***
If someone is old enough to vote, get drafted, pay taxes, etc.: they are old enough to politely decline to reveal their votes.
So, why all the secrecy about NOT asking for whom they vote?
"I have a 22-year-old son who voted in the 2012 presidential election and 18-year-old girl/boy twins for whom this will be their first chance to vote. (I don’t ask them whom they voted for or will vote for. We talk broadly about issues and candidates.)"
***
If someone is old enough to vote, get drafted, pay taxes, etc.: they are old enough to politely decline to reveal their votes.
So, why all the secrecy about NOT asking for whom they vote?
1
Very nice article: my general impression is of an “authentic” telling of your young adult (children’s) political beliefs. I personally am confident there is no real fire for the many decades of smoke created around Hillary. In the book “Dark Money” by Jane Mayer what you have instead is something that’s relatively new in the world. Instead of the political flare-up of the moment lasting for a few years (common in America’s history), what you have is a business investment of hundreds of millions of dollars over many decades to smear the political opposition, in this case Clintons. These huge funds generated lots of puffery when there was, in fact, no fire. It might take a seasoned hand such as yourself to explain that to your children.
5
You really don't see that your incessant preaching that Bernie's ideas are impossible to implement have become part of your children's beliefs? There is still time to undo the damage. Nothing is impossible if we want it, notwithstanding the conservatives. Stop preaching the conservative lies and try something positive for a change!
3
I am a 60-something woman and Sanders supporter. Like most women in my age group, I have experienced sexism from men. But, I have also been the target of vicious backstabbing by overly ambitious women in my workplace, who tried to get ahead by trampling on other women. So, in my experience women do not necessarily help other women and I don't see a president Hillary Clinton necessarily helping other women. As with every voter, my choices are influenced by my life experiences.
I have participated in a number of Bernie Sanders events. What has impressed me about his young supporters is that they are not starry-eyed daydreamers. They know why they support Bernie Sanders and they are working hard to put him in office. For example, to get on the primary ballot in Indiana, presidential candidates must obtain 500 petition signatures of registered voters from each of the nine congressional districts. The signatures must be certified by county clerks and then filed with the Secretary of State. This requires considerable organization. I collected some signatures, but the young people really took the lead in organizing the petition drives and getting the required documents where they needed to be by the statutory deadlines. They have continued their involvement int the political process by filing candidacy forms to be delegates to the state and national conventions. I am very encouraged.
I have participated in a number of Bernie Sanders events. What has impressed me about his young supporters is that they are not starry-eyed daydreamers. They know why they support Bernie Sanders and they are working hard to put him in office. For example, to get on the primary ballot in Indiana, presidential candidates must obtain 500 petition signatures of registered voters from each of the nine congressional districts. The signatures must be certified by county clerks and then filed with the Secretary of State. This requires considerable organization. I collected some signatures, but the young people really took the lead in organizing the petition drives and getting the required documents where they needed to be by the statutory deadlines. They have continued their involvement int the political process by filing candidacy forms to be delegates to the state and national conventions. I am very encouraged.
5
The young will forever be more idealistic while the "old" compared to the pragmatisms of "older" people. Young generations tend to get duped with false narratives that, seem to fit their ideals, yet when the layers get peeled the facts reveal themselves to the young.
I can think of two concrete examples: Hillary Clinton and BLM. Hillary is morally bankrupt just as BLM doesn't care abut all black people.
At least your kids have it right about Hillary. Interesting.
I can think of two concrete examples: Hillary Clinton and BLM. Hillary is morally bankrupt just as BLM doesn't care abut all black people.
At least your kids have it right about Hillary. Interesting.
2
I have a 21 year old daughter. She too is for Sanders. She has never known a time when girls and women did not dominate schools including colleges and even graduate schools. I also agree she believes life is a lot more bleak for her or her friends than earlier generations. Someone offering "magic" to cure these problems is very appealling.
It election has shown two things are true. First, Republican propaganda works. Why do people believe someone who ran for election twice and was confirmed as Secretary of State is untrustworthy other than Republicans have been lying about the Clintons' for younger people's entire lives. Second, feminism is really a fraud.
It election has shown two things are true. First, Republican propaganda works. Why do people believe someone who ran for election twice and was confirmed as Secretary of State is untrustworthy other than Republicans have been lying about the Clintons' for younger people's entire lives. Second, feminism is really a fraud.
16
It's impossible to be excited about Hillary. Neither the message or the messenger are vaguely inspirational or trustworthy. No wonder young people have so little interest in her.
But can Bernie really beat the Republicans this Fall? Polls now about hypothetical match ups are useless. After a couple hundred million in TV ads depicting him as an old, crackpot socialist from New York will we lose the White House. And if so, the Supreme Court and the country.
But can Bernie really beat the Republicans this Fall? Polls now about hypothetical match ups are useless. After a couple hundred million in TV ads depicting him as an old, crackpot socialist from New York will we lose the White House. And if so, the Supreme Court and the country.
5
I think it's exactly the wrong approach to assume that where there's smoke, there's fire regarding the multiple investigations of Hillary. I'm not a particular supporter, but I can recognize political persecution. Think about (for example) Whitewater, Travelgate, Filegate, Vince Foster, the Clinton Foundation, Benghazi, the email server. These have been investigations by government officials, mostly with political motives behind them, for the last thirty years or so. They have turned up no indictable offenses. Can you imagine any political figure operating at the highest levels of government for three decades who could withstand this level of determined and politically vicious scrutiny? I'm sure there have been a few, but not many.
The woman has been under a microscope for her entire political career. Give her some credit, not suspicion, because her record remains clean.
The woman has been under a microscope for her entire political career. Give her some credit, not suspicion, because her record remains clean.
17
This is a sweet, refreshing glimpse at Mr. Blow's family, and I appreciate his reflections.
I'd like to offer a suggestion for all, including Mr. Blow, who are puzzled by millennial failure to identify election of a female president as a watershed moment. What I've found among many in this age group is a true lack of bias about race, ethnicity and gender. They don't hesitate to voice support for a 74-year-old white guy because they see his positions, not his age. As they don't penalize him for his years, they likewise don't understand awarding a woman an advantage just for being a woman. It rather proves to me that we've ushered in a generation that, while dealing with extreme uncertainty in their leaders, the future of the planet, and whether the economy will prove reliable enough to let them count on a job so they can settle down and marry, have either shucked off or failed to absorb the bigotry of older generations.
They're fighting for their futures, quite literally, while an older generation wants to score a one-time milestone. I'd say the kids have the upper hand in this argument, and I pray they prevail.
I'd like to offer a suggestion for all, including Mr. Blow, who are puzzled by millennial failure to identify election of a female president as a watershed moment. What I've found among many in this age group is a true lack of bias about race, ethnicity and gender. They don't hesitate to voice support for a 74-year-old white guy because they see his positions, not his age. As they don't penalize him for his years, they likewise don't understand awarding a woman an advantage just for being a woman. It rather proves to me that we've ushered in a generation that, while dealing with extreme uncertainty in their leaders, the future of the planet, and whether the economy will prove reliable enough to let them count on a job so they can settle down and marry, have either shucked off or failed to absorb the bigotry of older generations.
They're fighting for their futures, quite literally, while an older generation wants to score a one-time milestone. I'd say the kids have the upper hand in this argument, and I pray they prevail.
4
I respect and admire Bernie and I have no need to denigrate his supporters whose POV I understand --but I will be voting for Hillary. The attack ads against Bernie write themselves. Regardless of how warm and fuzzy progressives might feel about his policy ideas, there is an entire nation of people, including the very few persuadables on whose votes this election could depend, who have a viseral response to the word socialism and to the idea of 'free stuff" or concerns about a 75 year-old-man taking on a job that swiftly ages much younger men. Young people might think "Scandinavia" when they hear the word socialism. Many others will not be so sanguine. Young women might not find feminism an adequate reason to vote for Hillary, but many people(check out the most recent Pew poll on this subject) will find "socialist' an adequate reason to NOT vote for Bernie.
This race could easily go to Republicans. Hillary represents the best chance of preventing that.
This race could easily go to Republicans. Hillary represents the best chance of preventing that.
4
Win or lose, Bernie Sanders' message will leave an indelible impression that we have a rigged economic system desperately in need of cleaning up. The problem is if either Hillary or Trump/Cruz succeed President Obama, it will be business as usual regardless of Hillary's pronouncements that she (a recipient of Wall Street's riches) will spearhead a reformation. let alone a revolution.
1
I agree with your Children Sanders is un-electable. My physician a Republican refused to read NYT ( unbelievable) never listens to NPR , but I always enjoy my conversation with him while at visit. Yesterday he surprised me by saying he does not care for any of the Republican candidates not even John Kasich hometown governor.
According to him made me laugh his reason for Bernie not electable among other things the Senator went to Moscow for his honeymoon.
See the Republicans keep track of every details of Mr. Sanders but never go after him and some are quietly supporting him for the same reason.
They are genuinely afraid of Hillary Clinton.
According to him made me laugh his reason for Bernie not electable among other things the Senator went to Moscow for his honeymoon.
See the Republicans keep track of every details of Mr. Sanders but never go after him and some are quietly supporting him for the same reason.
They are genuinely afraid of Hillary Clinton.
5
I'm really intrigued by the analysis, in all quarters, of why Sanders appeals to young people. Quite frankly, it's somewhat fruitless analysis IMO because the answer seems quite obvious:
1) Sanders is promising free public college to all if he's elected. Take that one promise away - seriously - and then do the polling of these young voters. How to afford college and then not graduate in debt (that's the concern of the post-grad young Sanders voter) is probably one of the biggest sources of stress in a young American's life. Sanders is promising he'll take that stress away. He cannot. But until someone breaks that down to them, many young people will favor him.
2) Most of the young people supporting Bernie Sanders right now are part of the establishment, though many would not refer to themselves in that way. No matter what race, sex, or ethnic background, they come from middle-class, upper-middle-class, or wealthy homes. There is no risk for them in supporting an 'anti-establishment' candidate; in fact, this may be the only tiny rebellion of their lives thus far. And make no mistake - they assume that if Sanders doesn't win a general election, their lives will continue on the same upward course they're currently on, even if a Republican ultimately defeats him. They're not visualizing what will happen to the courts, to their local/federal laws, to social programs currently in place if a Republican wins.
Sadly, that's the mistake that both young and old are making right now.
1) Sanders is promising free public college to all if he's elected. Take that one promise away - seriously - and then do the polling of these young voters. How to afford college and then not graduate in debt (that's the concern of the post-grad young Sanders voter) is probably one of the biggest sources of stress in a young American's life. Sanders is promising he'll take that stress away. He cannot. But until someone breaks that down to them, many young people will favor him.
2) Most of the young people supporting Bernie Sanders right now are part of the establishment, though many would not refer to themselves in that way. No matter what race, sex, or ethnic background, they come from middle-class, upper-middle-class, or wealthy homes. There is no risk for them in supporting an 'anti-establishment' candidate; in fact, this may be the only tiny rebellion of their lives thus far. And make no mistake - they assume that if Sanders doesn't win a general election, their lives will continue on the same upward course they're currently on, even if a Republican ultimately defeats him. They're not visualizing what will happen to the courts, to their local/federal laws, to social programs currently in place if a Republican wins.
Sadly, that's the mistake that both young and old are making right now.
8
Maureen Dowd has a grasp of the HRC questions. The Republicans -- as they inevitably will -- take an ember and portray it as a general alarm fire. Most of HRC's difficulties are self-induced.
"Hillary Clinton often brags about surviving unending political attacks, but others see too much smoke for there to be no fire. The continued investigations added to my children’s mistrust of her. Maybe that’s what Republicans want; maybe some of their leeriness is warranted; maybe there is some place between smear campaign and smoking gun where reasonable people can be reasonably apprehensive."
Mr. Blow, I thought you were above this kind of hazy accusation and lazy conclusion gathering. This is where you guide your children to do their own research and decide for themselves if there's "fire" or not. Better yet, you should lead by example.
Mr. Blow, I thought you were above this kind of hazy accusation and lazy conclusion gathering. This is where you guide your children to do their own research and decide for themselves if there's "fire" or not. Better yet, you should lead by example.
3
Many of Bernie's supporters are children of Hillary supporters. That describes me and my kid, but our dialog is a bit more nuanced than some.
What really bothers me about the BernieBro things we see in these columns is the extraordinary childishness of "well if I don't get everything I want, I want the Republicans to win ... that will serve you right for not giving me everything I want."
My kid doesn't say that kind of thing, and I wonder how much of the ostensibly BernieBro stuff we see in these columns are actually written by Republicans and 50-centers ... clearly a bunch, particularly the more vicious Hillary-hate.
I'm white, I remember McGovern, I remember all the struggles of the years to get here, and I remember all the great debacles of what electing bad Republican presidents have done to us. They haven't all been terrible -- GHWB stands out in my mind as a man I didn't vote for but who was an honest conservative President who didn't gratuitously harm his country -- but Nixon, Reagan, and GWB all did terrible things. Looking at the current Republican contenders ... I fear them all, even Kasich.
Surely as a black man, you understand how much civil rights cost, how uneven and perilous that progress is, even today.
What troubles me about the Bernie-movement is the belief that enormous change can be imposed on a divided public where those opposed are right in front of all our faces, and in fact in control of the house and senate ... snap!
What really bothers me about the BernieBro things we see in these columns is the extraordinary childishness of "well if I don't get everything I want, I want the Republicans to win ... that will serve you right for not giving me everything I want."
My kid doesn't say that kind of thing, and I wonder how much of the ostensibly BernieBro stuff we see in these columns are actually written by Republicans and 50-centers ... clearly a bunch, particularly the more vicious Hillary-hate.
I'm white, I remember McGovern, I remember all the struggles of the years to get here, and I remember all the great debacles of what electing bad Republican presidents have done to us. They haven't all been terrible -- GHWB stands out in my mind as a man I didn't vote for but who was an honest conservative President who didn't gratuitously harm his country -- but Nixon, Reagan, and GWB all did terrible things. Looking at the current Republican contenders ... I fear them all, even Kasich.
Surely as a black man, you understand how much civil rights cost, how uneven and perilous that progress is, even today.
What troubles me about the Bernie-movement is the belief that enormous change can be imposed on a divided public where those opposed are right in front of all our faces, and in fact in control of the house and senate ... snap!
8
The adults had their way in 68 - peace with honor, they said. How did that work out?
As an older white woman, I agree wholeheartedly with your children, Charles. Though, while I haven't and won't vote for or against anyone because of sex or race, I would be proud to see the US finally accept a woman as president.
1
I'd like to indulge this portion of the conversation with Mr Blow's children for a moment.
'The particular phenomenon of young women expressing no fealty for Clinton on the basis of gender is a head scratcher for many older Americans, particularly pioneering feminists, who have been part of the struggle to bring women’s rights as far as they’ve come"
I can understand how it is difficult to reconcile the fact that women and men who identify as feminists do not support the candidate who has the best chance in our nation's history to be the first female president. But to me, the issue is very straightforward; we support Bernie because he is the candidate who better represents our views. It has nothing to do with gender.
If we consider a hypothetical scenario where Elizabeth Warren were running against Hillary instead, would the discussion of sexism come into play? Who could argue that you are sexist or discriminatory for supporting Warren over Clinton? She holds many of the same positions that Senator Sanders does, and has been the biggest advocate of the progressive agenda in the Senate for several years now.
The way I see it young people, and especially young women, who decide to support Bernie are displaying what feminism is really about, treating everyone with the same dignity and respect they deserve as a human being. And when we look at the Democratic primary, only 1 candidate is worthy of our support.
Feel the Bern
'The particular phenomenon of young women expressing no fealty for Clinton on the basis of gender is a head scratcher for many older Americans, particularly pioneering feminists, who have been part of the struggle to bring women’s rights as far as they’ve come"
I can understand how it is difficult to reconcile the fact that women and men who identify as feminists do not support the candidate who has the best chance in our nation's history to be the first female president. But to me, the issue is very straightforward; we support Bernie because he is the candidate who better represents our views. It has nothing to do with gender.
If we consider a hypothetical scenario where Elizabeth Warren were running against Hillary instead, would the discussion of sexism come into play? Who could argue that you are sexist or discriminatory for supporting Warren over Clinton? She holds many of the same positions that Senator Sanders does, and has been the biggest advocate of the progressive agenda in the Senate for several years now.
The way I see it young people, and especially young women, who decide to support Bernie are displaying what feminism is really about, treating everyone with the same dignity and respect they deserve as a human being. And when we look at the Democratic primary, only 1 candidate is worthy of our support.
Feel the Bern
4
Thank you Mr. Blow. I first read Gail, and laughed through my fears. Then Linda Greenhouse, and nodded at her incisive analysis, stripping away the phony accolades to brilliance and intellect and revealing the racist and partisan core. Then Nick, with his sensibility and insight into what needs to be next. I also read Mr. Douthat, and shook my head at his tone deaf partisanship, posing as some kind of righteous sensibility. Then, I turned to this. Decency and honesty. Not that the others necessarily in their own way, didn't try for the same, but this was the cherry on top of a morning's pondering. When we can get back to the thoughts that flow from the mouths of babes, perhaps we can also get back to what is the best of our nature and the highest promise for our future. Thank you.
I much appreciate Mr. Blow's insights into his own family's conversation. I am even older than Mr. Blow. (Much, much older, I would wager.) I think I can appreciate some of "what motivates younger people." If I were young, I would resent the disproportionate funneling of public resources toward people my age. I would worry about the woeful lack of vision from the Clinton campaign. I would question the six-figure speaking fees because "that was what they were offering."
As for the Clintons, I wouldn't trust them as far as I could throw a Buick over a ten-foot wall. It isn't so much Benghazi, Whitewater,"filegate" or "travelgate. I can write those off as part of the GOP slime slathering of anybody they can sort out to hate. The problems are the people the Clintons surround themselves with (David Brock? Give us a break!) and what comes out of Hillary's own mouth: on the Bosnian tarmac "under fire," leaving the White House "dead broke" but with the people's silverware.
To the young, authenticity means something. So it does to me. So I'll be joining my daughter in voting for Bernie Sanders come March.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
As for the Clintons, I wouldn't trust them as far as I could throw a Buick over a ten-foot wall. It isn't so much Benghazi, Whitewater,"filegate" or "travelgate. I can write those off as part of the GOP slime slathering of anybody they can sort out to hate. The problems are the people the Clintons surround themselves with (David Brock? Give us a break!) and what comes out of Hillary's own mouth: on the Bosnian tarmac "under fire," leaving the White House "dead broke" but with the people's silverware.
To the young, authenticity means something. So it does to me. So I'll be joining my daughter in voting for Bernie Sanders come March.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
6
All Democrats are unified in ensuring that a Republican nominee from this GOP mixed nut assortment does not set foot in the oval office. The real question as far as "All in My Family" should be how did the Republican party manage to come up with this many inept scary uncles worse than GW Bush.
4
BOTH DYNASTIC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES FLUNK THE JUDGMENT TEST
We have before us two dynastic candidates, Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush, for the Presidency, and both fail the judgment test. It is now commonly acknowledged that the Iraq invasion was a disastrous operation resulting in hundreds of lives and trillions of dollars wasted. Jeb Bush has repeatedly told us he greatly respects his brother’s judgment and would do the same thing, given the intelligence available at the time. This, in spite of the fact that it was obvious, even then, that Saddam Hussein was not Osama bin Laden and that the invasion was undertaken for all the wrong reasons. And Hillary Clinton voted to support the invasion. What more needs to be said?
Beyond this, Mr. Blow, I suggest you take to heart Cornel West's wonderful recent article "Why Brother Bernie is Better for Black People than Sister Hillary." I think Mr. West is in my generation (mid-70's).
We have before us two dynastic candidates, Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush, for the Presidency, and both fail the judgment test. It is now commonly acknowledged that the Iraq invasion was a disastrous operation resulting in hundreds of lives and trillions of dollars wasted. Jeb Bush has repeatedly told us he greatly respects his brother’s judgment and would do the same thing, given the intelligence available at the time. This, in spite of the fact that it was obvious, even then, that Saddam Hussein was not Osama bin Laden and that the invasion was undertaken for all the wrong reasons. And Hillary Clinton voted to support the invasion. What more needs to be said?
Beyond this, Mr. Blow, I suggest you take to heart Cornel West's wonderful recent article "Why Brother Bernie is Better for Black People than Sister Hillary." I think Mr. West is in my generation (mid-70's).
6
What a dismally narrow-minded discussion! I understand that it is a family conversation but why should it even be in NYT? I read through to the end, hoping for some glimpse of insight or broad conclusion but there is just a report on the Blow family, in which, truth to be told, I am profoundly uninterested. But I can draw conclusions myself and if Mr. Blow's children are representative of the Sanders voters, both young and old (the ones on my Facebook feed are all in their 60s), they dispaly the same lack of education, curiosity and broad perspective that I came to expect. Young people living in a global world - don't they have FB friends in other countries (my kids do)? Don't they ask themselves what impact Sanders presidency will have on the world? (The answer is disastrous). What about the dismal record of socialism in other countries? Not a question that occurs to them. Terrorism is "bad people"? Give me a break! My sons who are a little older than the Blow kids at least know enough to consider these issues. They are not fans of Sanders - or of anybody else running on either side, to be honest. But the low intellectual level of this fluffy piece of family trivia is enough to make you afraid of the outcome of this election.
3
"They like Bernie Sanders and don’t fully trust Hillary Clinton, though they don’t believe Sanders is electable and would therefore “settle for” Clinton in that case, as my youngest son put it."
It appears to me that you have smart, thoughtful children. BTW this is not a knock against Bernie Sanders. I was a big fan of Mr. Sander's while he was in the Senate. It is just that I value keeping control of the While House over voting just based on my ideals.
It appears to me that you have smart, thoughtful children. BTW this is not a knock against Bernie Sanders. I was a big fan of Mr. Sander's while he was in the Senate. It is just that I value keeping control of the While House over voting just based on my ideals.
3
I think your children are trying to tell you something. Listen to them. After all their longer lives will be more affected by the negatives in their country than your shorter one.
And the chance they have had to obtain good educations which is one of Bernie Sanders' dreams will benefit other black children whose fathers may be out of work.
And the chance they have had to obtain good educations which is one of Bernie Sanders' dreams will benefit other black children whose fathers may be out of work.
2
If you had asked any "serious" political commentator in, say, 1964, whether the far-right agenda (John Birch Society, etc.) was "possible to implement" they would have laughed in your face. FF to 2016, and it's here. Times change. 40 years ago gay marriage would have seemed totally, absolutely impossible. It's here. If something were done about the gerrymandering of Congress Sanders's agenda would certainly seem less "Impossible." It's "impossible" if you declare it so. The Republicans have never made that mistake about their agendas.
2
Charles, you're not that old. Most of my family and friends are voting for Bernie, because we ARE older than you. The recession hit us at a time, when it makes little sense to train in a new field, to spend gobs of money to go back to school and when age discrimination is alive and well.
Bernie's supporters are those who were crushed by the Great Recession, are being devastated by income inequality, the high costs of college and healthcare or those who empathize with them. Hillary supporters, tend to have a secure job and healthcare, like yourself, and for some reason cannot see the road to misery that the US is headed for. When people can't save for their retirement, put their kids through college, get healthcare...what do you think that's going to look like, starting in a decade?
That's the dividing line for Hillary and Bernie.
Bernie's supporters are those who were crushed by the Great Recession, are being devastated by income inequality, the high costs of college and healthcare or those who empathize with them. Hillary supporters, tend to have a secure job and healthcare, like yourself, and for some reason cannot see the road to misery that the US is headed for. When people can't save for their retirement, put their kids through college, get healthcare...what do you think that's going to look like, starting in a decade?
That's the dividing line for Hillary and Bernie.
6
I don't like comparing generational cohorts. I am a boomer and a very frustrated progressive from one of the most progressive periods in our history. Despite that, we had issues that were as important as the "rights" of our period. The military industrial complex and war, surveillance (mostly FBI then), and the negative side to capitalism where deeper issues and harder to engage. Then the establishment nicely co-opted our tactics and marginalized our issues. Probably, the democratic party decision to align with corporations and the finance industry did more to alter the trajectory of progressivism in this country than any attempts by conservative America to push back. Then 40 years of chipping away at civil rights, the safety net, our education systems, and all of our infrastructure brings us to 2016. Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren emerge as old/new progressives bringing needed leadership and voice to the muted influence of progressive ideas. Now, millions of boomers can join millions of millennials and inject a needed progressive view into a corrupted political arena
7
The 'electability' charge misunderstands the political science of today's national elections, indeed all national elections for some time.
The electorate is partisan and entrenched. There are vanishingly few people who honestly weigh both Democratic and Republican candidates. Even those people who don't officially register with a party, reliably prefer one party or the other. The specific agenda and qualifications of the nominees do not move preferences from one party to another. Not anymore.
A substantial portion of the Democratic electorate are young and/or transient (apartment dwellers). For these people to vote, they must first register to vote at their current address. This is an administrative burden, and requires a motivational call-to-arms from the Democratic candidate. The most successful motivator of recent memory is Obama. Gore and Kerry were weak motivators, even though lots of reliable Democratic voters were very enthusiastic about them.
Sanders has demonstrated that he can motivate people to register and vote. Hillary has been holding onto the Democratic voters who are older, voting at the same address, and who will vote for the eventual Democratic nominee.
Accordingly, in today's political reality, it's actually Sanders who is more electable. He's earning the registration and vote of the Democrats who may or may not vote. Any Democrat who wants to win in November, should support the Democrat who motivates potential voters to vote.
The electorate is partisan and entrenched. There are vanishingly few people who honestly weigh both Democratic and Republican candidates. Even those people who don't officially register with a party, reliably prefer one party or the other. The specific agenda and qualifications of the nominees do not move preferences from one party to another. Not anymore.
A substantial portion of the Democratic electorate are young and/or transient (apartment dwellers). For these people to vote, they must first register to vote at their current address. This is an administrative burden, and requires a motivational call-to-arms from the Democratic candidate. The most successful motivator of recent memory is Obama. Gore and Kerry were weak motivators, even though lots of reliable Democratic voters were very enthusiastic about them.
Sanders has demonstrated that he can motivate people to register and vote. Hillary has been holding onto the Democratic voters who are older, voting at the same address, and who will vote for the eventual Democratic nominee.
Accordingly, in today's political reality, it's actually Sanders who is more electable. He's earning the registration and vote of the Democrats who may or may not vote. Any Democrat who wants to win in November, should support the Democrat who motivates potential voters to vote.
5
I propose that Hillary Clinton was attacked repeatedly and unfairly in the past for her politics and her gender, much the way Barack Obama has been attacked repeatedly and unfairly because of his race and his politics. I was reading the newspapers and news magazines back when Hillary was first pilloried. The stories never came to anything. They always had the fingerprints of right wing ideologues behind the allegations. It is sad to hear Mr. Blow write that just the shear number of smear campaigns suggests that there must have been malpractice on her part. That suggests that the number of insults to President Obama suggest that there must be some truth to all the ridiculous and racists attempts to insult, diminish this great president, and to stop his success even at the cost of hurting the country.
7
My children are in their mid-forties. They have experienced the brunt of redistribution of wealth to the wealthiest in an ongoing diminishment of America, a country that, for a time, seemed to be moving toward social democracy. I have been present to see the same during my lifetime, while witnessing also, the histories of the Clinton's in politics. Many here say that Clinton skepticism is the sole product of subversive Republican making. My view is that Mrs. Clinton has, for years, buttered her bread at the expense of the poor and middle class. Here today when she needs our votes, and gone tomorrow after she has received those votes. The Clintons are political predators, Mr. Blow. Senator Sanders will be there today and tomorrow, as he has proven through years in fighting for, and legislating for, a more equitable America for my family, inclusive of two beautiful grand-boys and two equally beautiful god-daughters. The stakes are high and yes, we are moving again toward social reform in this election, an election in which my family is voting for Senator Sanders.
6
Hilary Clinton sat on the board of Walmart while employees attempted to unionize. Her silence on the issue was in direct contrast to her claiming she has relentlessly worked towards helping families. It was total disregard for those employees who were robbed of their dignity by seeking government subsidies in order to put food on their tables, health care. It also shifted the responsibily Walmart had in paying a living wage onto every tax payer in this country. That corporation destroyed small businesses, relied on government subsidisies, thrived due to NAFTA and created a playbook for future exploration of the American worker while propelling the Walton family to the pinnacle of one of the wealthiest in America. Clinton States she has experience, her relationship with big banks, vote on the Iraq war, reign as Secretary of State, overt support of the Arab Spring cell phones in Egypt, NGO's, Libya created absolute instability everywhere the US was involved. The Clinton Foundation, using influence for cash, business Bill Clinton helped transact while she was Secretary of State should be investigated. She spent her time after her tenure of Secretary of State hustling for money by giving speaches, it would have been better spent traveling throughout small towns to view the decline of America. I'm amazed Senator Sanders can restrain himself so well debating with the ultimate opportunist.
Hopefully he will be elected in order for the spin to stop on all of Congress.
Hopefully he will be elected in order for the spin to stop on all of Congress.
10
One thing from your several excellent observations really struck me. Your children have never really known a time when we were not at war. Yet, that striking reality seemed folded away beneath the corresponding fear of terrorism, as if one, constant war was the natural consequence of the other.
Yours is not the only column to reflect this correlation. It is the dominant theme in all of main stream media. Few question it, fewer examine it, but all repeat it, subtly and overtly. It's as if constant war is normal.
We occasionally revisit our awareness of what war means. Yesterdays story about our bunker buster bomb in Baghdad briefly reminded us what it means to incinerate human beings. But there's never a real sense that we are connected to that suffering. Certainly little reference that we might be causing much of it.
I cannot look at film on the Vietnam War and see the stock scenes of massive napalm explosions without shuddering and wondering how a people could have endured that madness, both those who were its target and those who were dropping it.
Yet I fear that today's youth have been anesthetized by video games and propaganda to not see the suffering of war. I fear young and old alike cannot comprehend the numbers of the dead. Our military avoids those statistics for good reason. I also fear our next president will be no more sensitive to these issues than our present one. And I fear what this loss of our humanity will look like in twenty years.
Yours is not the only column to reflect this correlation. It is the dominant theme in all of main stream media. Few question it, fewer examine it, but all repeat it, subtly and overtly. It's as if constant war is normal.
We occasionally revisit our awareness of what war means. Yesterdays story about our bunker buster bomb in Baghdad briefly reminded us what it means to incinerate human beings. But there's never a real sense that we are connected to that suffering. Certainly little reference that we might be causing much of it.
I cannot look at film on the Vietnam War and see the stock scenes of massive napalm explosions without shuddering and wondering how a people could have endured that madness, both those who were its target and those who were dropping it.
Yet I fear that today's youth have been anesthetized by video games and propaganda to not see the suffering of war. I fear young and old alike cannot comprehend the numbers of the dead. Our military avoids those statistics for good reason. I also fear our next president will be no more sensitive to these issues than our present one. And I fear what this loss of our humanity will look like in twenty years.
2
Thank you, Mr. Blow, for this insightful article about how your children think and feel. One simply has to remember that the "black" experience is different that the "white" experience, which makes your article even more poignant. However, let's move the conversation to another level. Over one-half of America's population shares a common experience - sexual discrimination against women. I support Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton because she is the most qualified candidate, with the most national and international political capital, to lead America and I am thrilled that we finally have a woman of her stature and experience to vote for. Young women today simply do not seem to understand how our male-dominated society has worked against them. It is time for women they admire like Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and some of the other younger women who have had to fight their way up the male-dominated ladder to speak out and support the first woman in American history to take the top spot in OUR country. Young women who work in the online game arena talk openly about discrimination - they need to reach out to younger women and explain how sexual discrimination has hurt them. NOW is the time for women or all ages and races to come together and say we have had ENOUGH!
12
Let us not forget that the fundamental principle of democratic self-government, in the times of John Locke and Thomas Paine, was considered a head-in-the-clouds fantasy that would never work. Our nation of America was founded on that head-in-the-clouds fantasy. And our founding citizens MADE it work, by trial and error, by reason and passion, by two steps forward and one step back. And by doing so, the American head-in-the-clouds experiment in democracy changed the world.
Our young people understand this. Many of my generation have forgotten it. I gladly accept the demonstrated leadership of the Millennial Generation in this 2016 election - they are showing us the way to America's next era.
Our young people understand this. Many of my generation have forgotten it. I gladly accept the demonstrated leadership of the Millennial Generation in this 2016 election - they are showing us the way to America's next era.
14
The young always want to do exactly the opposite of what their parents are doing. The question is whether or not they will hold onto their ideals as they age. Most of my boomer generation did not. As soon as the money started rolling in, they changed their tune. Bernie Sanders for President!
18
I'm glad that none of this matters; but if it did, isn't it comforting to know that Mr. Blow--a run-of-the-mill liberal (of course) NYT columnist/dad is showing his children what open-mindedness is ( a "hallmark" of being a lib)? The Republicans are uninteresting and even scary to his children, so Mr. Blow, what?, digs a little deeper as to why (especially since two of them are Latino, one is a woman, and one is an African-American), or simply allows their laser focusing on the Democrats.
Which is it, Mr. Blow?
I thought so.
Which is it, Mr. Blow?
I thought so.
2
Mr. Blow's children are not alarmed by the ethnicity or gender of the Republican candidates. Rather, they are reacting with fear and revulsion to the policy proposals put forward by the Republican candidates.
It was their opinion, not his. Not all children agree with their fathers. Nor is indoctrination limited to families. The more important means of collective brainwashing today is the Newspaper. My father, an enlightened Republican, would by a Boy Band Album and eat a meal composed entirely of human feces if the Wall Street Journal extolled their virtues.
Actually, two of the Republican candidates are not Latino. They are Cuban-American, which is seen as totally different from Latino. Ask any non-Cuban.
1
I'd sure enjoy the kinds of discussions you have with your family around the table. However, if my son told me he'd "settle" for any candidate, I would ask him to consider what that "settling for" really means. He's too young to give up on ideals. Besides, idealism and pragmatism go hand in hand. Ideals are the lifeblood of every paragraph of pragmatically dry text in every policy document and law we create. Ask our founders. Your youngest son is too young to worry about "electability"; democracy at its best is not about gaming the system. If Senator Sanders were to trail behind him long coattails, who really knows what could happen?
9
First, Charles, congratulations on raising 3 great kids. I have similar observations of my 25 year old daughter. Let's keep in mind that Sanders' detailed racial justice program (that you referenced back in August before your sneering 'hearing the King himself' dismissal which continues to perplex me) was incorporated in response to the Black Lives Matter protest where he gave up the stage to them. If that is pandering then what isn't pandering? If you are not black then you are either a panderer or a racist? (As I facetiously posted on another forum, perhaps the black community would like Sanders better if he changed his name to Deion?). As for Clinton and her mistrust issues, she could go a long way towards combating those if she would detail her proposals on the debate stage as Sanders does, rather than self-indulgent rehearsed politesse designed to limit her surface area of attack, which she must know will not help her against whoever emerges from the Stupid Party.
7
Perhaps you don't listen. Hillary is accused of being a "policy wonk" for laying out her programs and explaining how they will be implemented. Sanders, on the other hand, never answers a question, knowing he cannot pay for the programs he is promising. I always love his response to questions on foreign policy, "she voted for the Iraq war", I guess that explains it.
1
One theme left out is my grown children's deep skepticism, about almost everything. Which in turn has created a self-reliance that sees no government or company, or religion supporting their moral and material well-being. As my son once said in the context of his career and his wife's career, "we are pretty much in this on our own."
9
I understand your sons point. My partner and I are freelancers. A path we chose because we found being an employee meant not having any real job security, only the privilege of paying for benefits we rarely, if ever got to use. A company will work you to death without so much as a cost of living increase, but the day you get sick or your child gets sick and you need time off, suddenly you find yourself getting poor performance reviews or pushed out of a job. No candidate, not even Sanders or Clinton has really addressed what the average working person in this country experiences day in and day out trying to meet all of their personal and financial obligations. Those of us who make too little to ever be wealthy or even rich, but make just enough that "we are pretty much in this on our own."
13
Yes, but people didn't feel that way between the days of FDR and Nixon. People disagreed openly with OUR government but didn't try to destroy it. That is democracy and that is what we want to return to, isn't it? We will not get there until socially conscious women step up and take on at least half the leadership roles in America. Having a highest-qualified woman as President is the best start.
4
@Wcdessert Girl
I am surprised you say that Bernie hasn't addressed these economic issues.
When I listen to Sanders, that is the first thing I hear, that the system has been rigged for the wealthy at the expense of the rest of us and that needs to be fixed.
I am surprised you say that Bernie hasn't addressed these economic issues.
When I listen to Sanders, that is the first thing I hear, that the system has been rigged for the wealthy at the expense of the rest of us and that needs to be fixed.
1
Well I want Hillary for President and Bernie as the Vice!!!
That makes me for forever young!
Hillary for her brains and practicality,and Mr Sanders to keep the drumbeat for economic justice!
America needs this winning team to right the ship and sail into a more just future!
God save the Nation! That's the middle class nation of hardworking stiffs.
President Obama, whom I deeply admire,missed the boat on middle class justice. The hostile republican congress holds a lot of the lost baggage on middle class progress,so we witness the rise of Trump.
Racism,sexism and wealth in all it's glory,produces a Trump candidacy.
.
That makes me for forever young!
Hillary for her brains and practicality,and Mr Sanders to keep the drumbeat for economic justice!
America needs this winning team to right the ship and sail into a more just future!
God save the Nation! That's the middle class nation of hardworking stiffs.
President Obama, whom I deeply admire,missed the boat on middle class justice. The hostile republican congress holds a lot of the lost baggage on middle class progress,so we witness the rise of Trump.
Racism,sexism and wealth in all it's glory,produces a Trump candidacy.
.
12
I too have thought that Hilary as POTUS and Bernie as VP would be great. They would balance each other out, would have more leverage in DC, and therefore, would be far more effective as a team.
7
Carole - you're a uniter, not a divider!
Count me in!
Count me in!
God i hope not. Sanders would be better in the Senate than neutered and muzzled by Clinton as VP. Like he's really going to be able to rail about bought and sold government from that position. Also, realistically, 2 old people as potus and VP is not a good look, or a smart one.
Young adults, like my 22 year old daughter, are focused on social issues. Hence the attraction to Sanders.
Wait until they get into the working world and see how diminished their paychecks will be to pay for all of Sanders's programs.
They feel the Bern today, but will get burned as they age.
Wait until they get into the working world and see how diminished their paychecks will be to pay for all of Sanders's programs.
They feel the Bern today, but will get burned as they age.
19
If Denmark can do it why can't we?
Plus a single payer option just means I will pay the Medicare policy instead of Blue Cross. It won't cost any more than I am already paying and probably about 10% less.
And it would help if corporations would actually pay taxes instead of finding ways to leave their money in Ireland and the Cayman Islands.
Plus a single payer option just means I will pay the Medicare policy instead of Blue Cross. It won't cost any more than I am already paying and probably about 10% less.
And it would help if corporations would actually pay taxes instead of finding ways to leave their money in Ireland and the Cayman Islands.
4
If we don't fix the system and get the money and cronysim out of politics, they may not have paychecks to complain about. Is returning to the same tax codes and collegiate system that we had during the 50s, an era that people seem to look back on as a happy and prosperous time when people had security nad hope, really such a bad goal?
2
From the December NYT, http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/13/opinion/campaign-stops/all-politicians...
Hillary shows very well as a truth-teller in this graph, as does Bill. I am convinced that the mistrust of her comes more from Republican bashing than anything she has done. Her emails were scrutinized, but not other Secretaries of State's. How different is she, really from other politicians who have worked hard and done a pretty good job of things? The distrust and even dislike of her is more emotional, IMO, than rational.
The younger generation takes some things for granted that mine could not (1960s). During the 2000 campaign, I saw in the local paper an op-ed piece by a right wing writer suggesting it was time to take the vote back from women. The undercurrent is there. Sexism in the work place is still in full swing. We don't have equal pay for equal work yet at all. We could lose the right to choose, even the unfettered right to birth control. That's huge. We have a lot to do and a lot to protect. I would hate to see women lose what they gained and have to fight for it all over again. Not that Hillary would herself necessarily be able to change things, but that she would show the next generation, those who are children now, that it is normal to have a woman in the White House, that we could take that for granted at some point in the not-too-distant future.
Hillary shows very well as a truth-teller in this graph, as does Bill. I am convinced that the mistrust of her comes more from Republican bashing than anything she has done. Her emails were scrutinized, but not other Secretaries of State's. How different is she, really from other politicians who have worked hard and done a pretty good job of things? The distrust and even dislike of her is more emotional, IMO, than rational.
The younger generation takes some things for granted that mine could not (1960s). During the 2000 campaign, I saw in the local paper an op-ed piece by a right wing writer suggesting it was time to take the vote back from women. The undercurrent is there. Sexism in the work place is still in full swing. We don't have equal pay for equal work yet at all. We could lose the right to choose, even the unfettered right to birth control. That's huge. We have a lot to do and a lot to protect. I would hate to see women lose what they gained and have to fight for it all over again. Not that Hillary would herself necessarily be able to change things, but that she would show the next generation, those who are children now, that it is normal to have a woman in the White House, that we could take that for granted at some point in the not-too-distant future.
31
"I am convinced that the mistrust of her comes more from Republican bashing than anything she has done." So the fact that she has enriched herself by accepting obscene "speaking fees" from Wall Street right up until she announced her candidacy does not seem to matter to you? Doesn't give you some concern about her honesty when she says she will reign in their greedy behavior? Guess not.
1
The Republicans are scared of Hillary Clinton so comes the smear game and silently supporting Sanders who will be trounced by Republicans if he wins the nomination.
1
Your children are either remarkably pessimistic and cynical or they've been indoctrinated by having one of the most rabid Sanders attackers as their dad.
4
Michael, since you're a Sanders backer, I have to ask why you are all so nasty, because we who back Hillary are not. You might ask how this reflects on your candidate.
2
First, the "through thoughtful" children of the writer of this always insightful column means they didn't fall far from their exceptional paternal tree. Second, using visualization to imagine who among the presidential candidates I can comfortably in my mind's eye see in the Oval Office making serious domestic/foreign policy decisions, meeting with foreign leaders, dealing with ISIS and other catastrophes, interacting with obstinate Republicans, giving the State of The Union address, the only person that keeps showing up is Hillary. Trying to imagine any other candidate in that role; participating in those often life or death decisions creates an inner disturbance. And although Hillary Clinton is imperfect like the rest of us, in my opinion she is head and shoulders the most qualified, capable and experienced. And those are the qualities most employers are looking for when they hire someone.
43
Hear, Hear bkay!
2
But we aren't hiring an employee. We are electing a representative. That "hiring" nonsense came from none other than Bill Clinton, the neo-liberal. Hillary's vote on the Iraq war disqualifies her from the Oval Office. When I imagine her as president, I imagine thousands of dead civilians.
1
Clinton vs Sanders debate reminds me of the recent NYT article about gifted children who go on to exemplary but not transformational careers. Clinton being the gifted child has gone on to be a dedicated public servant but her campaign has shown her to be highly rehearsed and rigid and status quo, which will not serve her well in these times where the one thing both sides can agree on is that the country is going in the wrong direction. Sanders has shown the superior capacity for critical thinking that will serve him well in taking on whoever emerges from the right wing wrecking crew.
I think it's sad your children are pickled in right wing lies and left wing smears about Hillary. When your children pointed out the Bernie was involved in the Civil Rights Movement implying that Hillary was not, did you point out to them that Hillary not only talked the talk, but walked the walk. She went to SC to work with Marian Wright Edelman and the Children's Defense Fund and then stayed in the South working for racial equality for twenty years until she moved to Washington. Bernie left Chicago in 72' and moved to all white VT and hasn't had to deal with POC for forty years. And I think it's heart-breaking that your daughter doesn't understand the importance of electing a pro-choice, Democratic woman president or that your son who calls himself a Feminist does either. 44 presidents and all of them men. There is no woman on the horizon who can do it. The hardest working, the smartest, the most caring and compassionate, but she isn't authentic enough for them. Bernie gets to scream and wave his arms and fudge his numbers and it's Hillary who is policed for every false move. Sexism much? I'll say! Hillary is who we've got and thank heavens for that.
And the Goldwater Girl rap on the sixteen year old Hillary I already see in the comment thread, sheesh, give it a rest. Elizabeth Warren was a Reagan Republican until she was in her forties and you Bernie never bring that up, do you?
And the Goldwater Girl rap on the sixteen year old Hillary I already see in the comment thread, sheesh, give it a rest. Elizabeth Warren was a Reagan Republican until she was in her forties and you Bernie never bring that up, do you?
167
"Bernie left Chicago in 72' and moved to all white VT..." — you talk about lies and smears, here with racist undertones.
1
I am concerned that each cohort follows a different set of social media channels. The Sanders campaign has a good understand of those channels and is able to communicate to millenials the points they want to emphasize. For example, they focus on Bernie's participation in the civil Rights Movement in the 1960's and don't discuss what he did once he moved to VT. They talk about Bill Clinton's legislation regarding incarceration in the 1990's and don't mention that Bernie supported it. They make sure everyone knows what Hillary was doing when she was in high school but don't note that she has been committed to Civil Rights from the time she graduated from Wellesley through the current time. And, as you say, who knew that Elizabeth Warren was a Reagan Republican?
Hillary's campaign has to break through but the social media landscape/echo chamber and history of Republican smears stacks the deck against her.
Hillary's campaign has to break through but the social media landscape/echo chamber and history of Republican smears stacks the deck against her.
1
Was that the same time period in which she was on the board of Walmart, or before?
3
Decades from the now the Obama presidency will likely be "weakened by the decades of questions" about his legitimacy as a President. That's what the rabid Right do in America. They keep questioning to create smoke even where there is little or no fire. These false doubts seep into popular culture. A cancer eating away at the roots of our democracy. Ask your children wether it's right to fault Obama—or Hillary—for the relentless attacks by those malign interests who oppose any vision for America other than their own narrow self-interest.
12
Being all smoke and no fire is the knock on Obama already.
He has proven himself to be less-than-effective in governing domestically, and he as been sitting idly by as an important part of the world devolves back the the 8th Century.
The question is whether or not we should continue to have less-than-effective governance and to sit by while a part of the world returns to the Dark Ages.
I am not sure that the first of these cn be accomplished by any candidate in either party, but I am sure that if either Clinton or Sanders is elected, we will end up with equally unfocused and far more dangerous situations in matters of foreign affairs.
He has proven himself to be less-than-effective in governing domestically, and he as been sitting idly by as an important part of the world devolves back the the 8th Century.
The question is whether or not we should continue to have less-than-effective governance and to sit by while a part of the world returns to the Dark Ages.
I am not sure that the first of these cn be accomplished by any candidate in either party, but I am sure that if either Clinton or Sanders is elected, we will end up with equally unfocused and far more dangerous situations in matters of foreign affairs.
2
What a good insight! The attacks you speak of become part of the atmosphere we breathe, to where the media doesn't even question where the "conventional wisdom" comes from.
Your twins Charles are fortunate to be able to cast their first vote, this election will be a memorable one.
There is another teen so dear to me my friends seventeen year old daughter, a ballet dancer, volunteers at hospital, "A" student, kind and compassionate young woman is looking up to Hillary Clinton. Oh Sanders she thinks the Senator is too old ( 75 next year) always spitting at his mouth.
This is her time but she can not vote for her choice of the President.
There are hundred thousands of young woman has no time to join rallies or go for photo op with the candidates as those teens are doing with Mr. Sanders. But they are smart enough to know Hillary is the best candidate to be the next President of the Country who happens to be a woman.
There is another teen so dear to me my friends seventeen year old daughter, a ballet dancer, volunteers at hospital, "A" student, kind and compassionate young woman is looking up to Hillary Clinton. Oh Sanders she thinks the Senator is too old ( 75 next year) always spitting at his mouth.
This is her time but she can not vote for her choice of the President.
There are hundred thousands of young woman has no time to join rallies or go for photo op with the candidates as those teens are doing with Mr. Sanders. But they are smart enough to know Hillary is the best candidate to be the next President of the Country who happens to be a woman.
10
I am a senior citizen and yet I support Sanders. Like your offspring, I am willing to "settle for" Hillary if I must, but ONLY if I must.
I have also been a feminist ever since there was such a thing, but I feel it is invalid to base one's vote for Hillary solely on her lack of a Y-chromosome. It is her seeming eagerness to compromise with Republicans ("...know how to get things done") that gives me pause, fearful of what New Deal or Great Society measures she might forfeit for some pet project of hers.
I do, however, believe it would be valid to support her because of the notion that she is likelier to beat a Republican in November, but I do not accept this premise as factual. Polls right now show otherwise, and Bernie Sanders evokes far more enthusiasm from the Democratic base, which translates in more election day boots on the ground, a higher Democratic turnout, and better results both at the top of the ticket and down-ticket.
I would vote FOR Bernie. I would vote for Hillary as a vote against what Republicans have to offer. A positive vs. a negative.
I only wish Liz Warren had thrown her hat in the ring.
I have also been a feminist ever since there was such a thing, but I feel it is invalid to base one's vote for Hillary solely on her lack of a Y-chromosome. It is her seeming eagerness to compromise with Republicans ("...know how to get things done") that gives me pause, fearful of what New Deal or Great Society measures she might forfeit for some pet project of hers.
I do, however, believe it would be valid to support her because of the notion that she is likelier to beat a Republican in November, but I do not accept this premise as factual. Polls right now show otherwise, and Bernie Sanders evokes far more enthusiasm from the Democratic base, which translates in more election day boots on the ground, a higher Democratic turnout, and better results both at the top of the ticket and down-ticket.
I would vote FOR Bernie. I would vote for Hillary as a vote against what Republicans have to offer. A positive vs. a negative.
I only wish Liz Warren had thrown her hat in the ring.
23
Senator Elizabeth Warren is not ready to be President yet and will make an excellent Senate Majority Leader when we elect only socially conscious democrats and independents to take over OUR government on November 8 and every election before and after. I'll fight for her over corporate boy Chuck Schumer.
2
It's possible that younger people are responding to the present reality of Hillary Clinton - and her husband - as opposed to the decades-old mythology.
12
We have what amounts to four generations in our little close-knit family. I am the Baby Boomer, the grandmother, at coming up on 62. My oldest daughter is the Generation Xer, the mother, coming in at 40. My oldest daughter is an older Millennial at 24. My granddaughter is a younger Millennial who will be 18 a few months before the general election. And we're all voting for Bernie.
I think we all have a sense that he will not be able to implement all of his plans, but if he is elected, and if he can move us one step beyond where we are now, given that Congress will do their best to obstruct his path even though he's white, that is one step beyond where we are now and in the right direction for all of us- white, black, young, old, male and female. If we wanted things to remain the same, we'd vote for Hillary, and we may if Bernie doesn't get nominated. And if we wanted to go backwards in time, to anywhere from 1690 to 1960, we'd vote for a Republican, and we really don't want to do that.
I think we all have a sense that he will not be able to implement all of his plans, but if he is elected, and if he can move us one step beyond where we are now, given that Congress will do their best to obstruct his path even though he's white, that is one step beyond where we are now and in the right direction for all of us- white, black, young, old, male and female. If we wanted things to remain the same, we'd vote for Hillary, and we may if Bernie doesn't get nominated. And if we wanted to go backwards in time, to anywhere from 1690 to 1960, we'd vote for a Republican, and we really don't want to do that.
24
How could anything ever be the same when, after 240 years WE finally have a woman as the most qualified candidate and elect her? It changes EVERYTHING!
3
@njglea Why would having a woman in the White House "change everything" all on its own? Did Margaret Thatcher as Prime Minister make everything wonderful for the UK? Is Germany a feminist paradise because of Merkel? Did the election of President Obama end racism? Don't be silly.
2
That is probably as reasonable a 'quick and dirty' summary of the issue as you can make. Hillary, for reasons almost certainly partly related to the endless republican smear, 'swift-boating' campaigns, but also almost certainly partly due to the perception of Clinton family hubris, arrogance and entitlement, is very damaged goods. So damaged that one has to wonder if her only hope of election is the nomination by the republicans of Trump or Cruz.
On the other hand Bernie Sanders, for all his George McGovern purity and perceived honesty is probably not electable no matter who he runs against. One can barely imagine the glee and excitement, and creativity, with which Koch bros. operatives will fashion campaign ads based simply on Bernie shown saying "I am a socialist".
To those who have no real life experience with political campaigns, or whose real life knowledge of presidential politics is solely based on what was perhaps the most unlikely and unique presidential election in history, all things seem possible. They aren't, and the better question to ask at any age is: "Which is worse- Hillary Clinton or Ted Cruz (or any other republican candidate when combined with a republican congress)?".
On the other hand Bernie Sanders, for all his George McGovern purity and perceived honesty is probably not electable no matter who he runs against. One can barely imagine the glee and excitement, and creativity, with which Koch bros. operatives will fashion campaign ads based simply on Bernie shown saying "I am a socialist".
To those who have no real life experience with political campaigns, or whose real life knowledge of presidential politics is solely based on what was perhaps the most unlikely and unique presidential election in history, all things seem possible. They aren't, and the better question to ask at any age is: "Which is worse- Hillary Clinton or Ted Cruz (or any other republican candidate when combined with a republican congress)?".
8
How cynical. There is no comparing the qualifications of Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton with TC. None. She is an intellectual and socially conscious giant next to him.
2
I'm always surprised that so many people acknowledge the damage to the Clintons by the smears and their own greedy selves then go on to suggest that Sanders is unelectable. Yikes folks. Outside of the east coast plenty of us think she is unelectable. Remember how surprised the Northeast was to discover Teddy Kennedy wasn't a national shoe-in?
1
I am 69 years old and have been waiting for someone like Sanders to run for president my entire adult life. I suspect he's been waiting for this moment too, but given his age and experience, he's decided the day has come and he's the only one willing to stand up and take on the obscenely rich in order to reset our path forward.
Hillary is the Johnny-come-lately in this race. She may be younger, but her thinking is much much older. "Period"...as Rubio would say.
Hillary is the Johnny-come-lately in this race. She may be younger, but her thinking is much much older. "Period"...as Rubio would say.
29
That's ridiculous. While Senator Sanders was doing a stellar job for all those years in Congress and local politics Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton was out conquering a hostile world - and she still is. She's the woman for the job!
2
I'm 70 and feel the same. Let's mark carefully Bernie's words. He says he won't be able to achieve our dreams without a political revolution which means we have to pledge ourselves to activism at every level, local state and federal. Special interests drive government on each and they must be denied.
So did you get in and work hard for McGovern in your tweties?? Did you like the results if that effort?
Wow! My children are the same ages as yours and we have the same types of political discussions/conclusions...Thanks for sharing!
7
Smart children.
You could learn a lot from them.
You could start by not having as a starting point, your divisiveness of what you characterize as the 'obtuseness of youth'.
The so called 'adults' have left them a monumental mess.
You could learn a lot from them.
You could start by not having as a starting point, your divisiveness of what you characterize as the 'obtuseness of youth'.
The so called 'adults' have left them a monumental mess.
9
I suggest a quick re-read...I believe he wrote "obtuseness TO youth" referring to older folks' obtuseness.
As a 21-year-old male, I really enjoyed this piece. Thanks for sharing!
5
My 16-year-old (white male) son characterizes the race as a bunch of sell-outs and a socialist. I've impressed on him the idea that one should always vote but he insists he would sit this primary out as well as the general election. Worse, he doesn't see the point of voting in midterms. In Massachusetts that doesn't do a whole lot of damage, but if that feeling is widespread among the young that's a problem for Clinton and the Democrats if she and they need a high turnout among the young in the general.
I think a parliamentary system with a much simpler ballot would help here. At least every election would be for a head of government. Certainly with their anemic turnout the midterms don't fulfill their intended function to keep the House close to the people's opinions, and gerrymandering just makes it worse.
For my part, when I was 16 I was incensed that my informed opinion didn't count as much as the obviously ill-informed adults who could vote and I resolved to vote in every election, even for dogcatcher. It's always been a mystery to me why all teenagers don't feel the same.
On the Republican side, all of my 12-year-old son's friends make fun of Donald Trump. They think he's a joke. They can't say his name without cracking up.
I think a parliamentary system with a much simpler ballot would help here. At least every election would be for a head of government. Certainly with their anemic turnout the midterms don't fulfill their intended function to keep the House close to the people's opinions, and gerrymandering just makes it worse.
For my part, when I was 16 I was incensed that my informed opinion didn't count as much as the obviously ill-informed adults who could vote and I resolved to vote in every election, even for dogcatcher. It's always been a mystery to me why all teenagers don't feel the same.
On the Republican side, all of my 12-year-old son's friends make fun of Donald Trump. They think he's a joke. They can't say his name without cracking up.
4
"...a bunch of sell-outs and a socialist." Is 'socialist' lumped with sell-outs meant as an insult? It shows an 'exceptional' or stereotypical lack of education and maturity. Nevertheless, he is only 16 and has no choice but to sit out.
1
"...maybe there is some place between smear campaign and smoking gun where reasonable people can be reasonably apprehensive."
This. If only Elizabeth Warren was not the sole progressive in America to not feel the acute effects of Clinton fatigue...
This. If only Elizabeth Warren was not the sole progressive in America to not feel the acute effects of Clinton fatigue...
1
Charles Blow has written a terrific column which promises nothing, but delivers a great deal. His relationship with his kids is what every father hopes for. He and his wife obviously have raised their children, now young adults, right.
What is important about this column is the lesson that if we make the effort to impart values in our children, they usually return the favor as adults. We just have to listen to them and be wise enough to accord their views respect.
What is important about this column is the lesson that if we make the effort to impart values in our children, they usually return the favor as adults. We just have to listen to them and be wise enough to accord their views respect.
4
I'm on the cusp of generations, almost too old to be a millennial but not quite old enough to be a Gen Xer. I understand this completely. Women 10 years younger than me still believe they can do anything. Sexism exists for them but they don't believe it isn't something they can't overcome. I start to get questions from them in groups I'm a part of for professionally mentoring women and they are indigent almost at the casual and persistent sexism they experience. I admire their belief that this is an oddity to fight aggressively. As women enter their middle 30s, we're almost beaten down by the constant persistent sexism that we experience every day. We know what "authentic" means in a way that a woman of 23 doesn't yet know. I know this sounds ageist and condescending. I think young women think that to their own detriment. It's not easy to explain the lived experience of being a minority in this country to people who haven't experienced it before. Part of me is glad that younger women don't expect to have the experience that I have had. I hope that they are right. Part of me has seen too much to think there is any real chance that they are right. Which is why I'll be voting for Hillary and why I think in a few years lived experience will cause many of these women to view their votes a bit differently.
9
How could Mr. Blow have discussed the fact that many people don't trust Hillary Clinton without mentioning the prime problem in many people's minds: the "speaker's fees" from Wall Street? It seems that among her supporters in the media there is a consistent refusal to mention them. Why?
2
Blow
It's rare you say anything I would agree with but your discussion with your kids is something that far too many people do not have. I commen you. I had a 2 hour phone conversation with my youngest last week. It was nice to see her interest and some really good questions
But I have to say this. For the life of me I do not see how any one could vote for Sanders. How can he possibly promise so much without increasing the debt dramatically? There is no free anything. Someone has to pay and to him it's the evil 1%. Well if he hit's them with a 90% rate where will the money come from for businesses to expand, new markets, training, new equipement, stock dividends. Where? Free tuition? How nice. The average student debt is $35,000. Don't sign if you can't pay. I paid for my education, bacherlor's and master's. We lived like paupers for years. I resent people thinking they are owed anything. You are owed a paycheck for putting in a good days work. I will not take anything I did not earn. I will not take anything on the backs of others hard work. That's pathetic and incredibly lazy
Sanders did nothing in Congress. I checked the last 3 Congresses and he did not get one bill out of committee. He may be principled and that's fine. But there is no way the Democratic establishment wants him as the candidate any more than the RNC wants Trump. If Bernie get's elected I am honestly moving my money offshore. He is not going to get mine for his social experiments. Not a chance
It's rare you say anything I would agree with but your discussion with your kids is something that far too many people do not have. I commen you. I had a 2 hour phone conversation with my youngest last week. It was nice to see her interest and some really good questions
But I have to say this. For the life of me I do not see how any one could vote for Sanders. How can he possibly promise so much without increasing the debt dramatically? There is no free anything. Someone has to pay and to him it's the evil 1%. Well if he hit's them with a 90% rate where will the money come from for businesses to expand, new markets, training, new equipement, stock dividends. Where? Free tuition? How nice. The average student debt is $35,000. Don't sign if you can't pay. I paid for my education, bacherlor's and master's. We lived like paupers for years. I resent people thinking they are owed anything. You are owed a paycheck for putting in a good days work. I will not take anything I did not earn. I will not take anything on the backs of others hard work. That's pathetic and incredibly lazy
Sanders did nothing in Congress. I checked the last 3 Congresses and he did not get one bill out of committee. He may be principled and that's fine. But there is no way the Democratic establishment wants him as the candidate any more than the RNC wants Trump. If Bernie get's elected I am honestly moving my money offshore. He is not going to get mine for his social experiments. Not a chance
5
You are forgetting that everything Sanders is promising has already been delivered by many other countries, and it's always been done at a reasonable price. Canada and most of Northern Europe has free healthcare and used to have virtually free public universities, and those countries generally have less debt and similar taxes to the US. Sanders isn't selling a fantasy, he's selling reality.
Hillary OR Bernie: The Republicans deregulated our manufacturing to move overseas, started an unnecessary, tragic war that led to today's massive instability in the Mid-East, crashed the economy while the top 4% doubled their wealth and think political correctness and controlling womens' bodies are the major issues.
To Mr. Blow's children - vote Democratic whoever wins the nomination.
To Mr. Blow's children - vote Democratic whoever wins the nomination.
13
Gee, and here I thought that NAFTA was one of Bill Clinton's biggest projects.
Are his children incapable of thinking for themselves?
Before turning away from Sanders because he is thought to be unelectable, Americans should recall this citation from John F Kennedy's address at Rice University, September 12 1962: “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard".
It's time to regroup under a leader capable of inspiring Hope of a better world.
It's time to regroup under a leader capable of inspiring Hope of a better world.
12
Families! And family values! The British establishment, rancid with adultery, once used a love-affair to destroy the career and life of an Irish politician. The man was Parnell, the time was that when Ireland was still in the UK, and the Irish Party held a balance of power in the House of Commons. Come election day, sons, pro-Parnell, were known to hide the boots of their fathers, anti-Parnell. Nevertheless, Parnell lost. The resulting bitterness was captured by James Joyce and other writers.
1
Bless their hearts, but millennials are too naive to understand that red state America will never, ever elect a socialist Jew---and he'll be a "Marxist Jew" by the time the GOP propaganda machine is finished with him; they have not even started yet---to the presidency. Unless they want a Republican president, they'd better warm up to the idea of at least voting for Clinton in the general election. If they really believe there's no difference between a Democrat and a Republican, their parents and our education system have failed to train them to think.
5
"No We Can't" is not a winning platform.
I appreciate your article. I wish people would recognize that to supportive of Bernie's ideas and goals and then dismiss them as unattainable or that he is unelectable is to give up before even getting started. One must take a stand and be brave - If not us who? If not now when?
10
That's what we all thought about George McGovern when we were young. What a mess that made.
9
Do you remember the bumper sticker: "Don't blame me I'm from Mass.?" Well we may have lost but we stood for the right and just and that counts morally and transcends history. Joanna
The mess was re-electing the 'I am not a crook' Richard Nixon.
Idealism was given a chance with Kennedy, and paid off!
Obama promised first 'hope' and less so when re-elected. He had an almost impossible fight with relentless obstructionist republicans and little support from weak in the spine democrats, nevertheless he brought the country back from a near disastrous financial and moral bankruptcy.
The so-called 'American dream' is predicated on idealism, if you give up there is no dream left — go Bernie!
Idealism was given a chance with Kennedy, and paid off!
Obama promised first 'hope' and less so when re-elected. He had an almost impossible fight with relentless obstructionist republicans and little support from weak in the spine democrats, nevertheless he brought the country back from a near disastrous financial and moral bankruptcy.
The so-called 'American dream' is predicated on idealism, if you give up there is no dream left — go Bernie!
2
My oldest who is 30, definitely does not like Bernie's platform. My 26 year old, is struggling with the choice. She thinks Bernie will have trouble getting anything done, but does like his platform. Neither of them care about gender. Both are concerned about elect-ability. My oldest says she wishes that Obama could just stay as president for one more term.
3
Dear Mr Blow. I too am an older generation person - in fact, nearly twice as old as you. I've know Bernie for 35 years and strongly support his candidacy.
That said, I believe Hillary would be a fine President and will certainly vote for her if she wins the nomination.
However, Those of us maturing in the 50's and 60's were inculcated with one of two paradigms.
Success in life was either measured by how much money one accumulated before death, or how much good for society one could do during their lifetime. Hillary chose both but I think money took precedence. And it is grossly apparent at what happens when money takes precedence over all else. Charles and David Koch are the world champions at achieving staggering wealth but have made great strides towards destroying the future of mankind in the process.
Bernie is the real deal for helping all people have the opportunity to set and try to attain their own goals. Yes it is a supremely difficult goal, but he wants to start the process. It is just like Obamacare. An enormous undertaking but the process has been started and it will improve gradually over time with wonderful results for the huge majority of our citizens and our country.
The plan Bernie is promoting and that so many of our younger idealists are supporting is quite similar. Retake control of America's elections, finances, legislature and original principles. Openness, freedom of expression and equal opportunities for all.
Go Bernie.
That said, I believe Hillary would be a fine President and will certainly vote for her if she wins the nomination.
However, Those of us maturing in the 50's and 60's were inculcated with one of two paradigms.
Success in life was either measured by how much money one accumulated before death, or how much good for society one could do during their lifetime. Hillary chose both but I think money took precedence. And it is grossly apparent at what happens when money takes precedence over all else. Charles and David Koch are the world champions at achieving staggering wealth but have made great strides towards destroying the future of mankind in the process.
Bernie is the real deal for helping all people have the opportunity to set and try to attain their own goals. Yes it is a supremely difficult goal, but he wants to start the process. It is just like Obamacare. An enormous undertaking but the process has been started and it will improve gradually over time with wonderful results for the huge majority of our citizens and our country.
The plan Bernie is promoting and that so many of our younger idealists are supporting is quite similar. Retake control of America's elections, finances, legislature and original principles. Openness, freedom of expression and equal opportunities for all.
Go Bernie.
18
Maybe you miss the more obvious point that some of us, irrespective of age or sex just don't trust Ms. Clinton, and how much evidence she's provided to doubt her. Does a feminist lead the bimbo eruption squad to enable her husband's sexual escapades? Does a progressive vote for the war or take money from banks and if so, does that mean I have to trust her? I'm 64, never voted for a republican but the Clintons have all but destroyed the liberal wing of the party so why should I or for that matter, you, or Mr.Krugman, back her? What does age have to do with it?
7
As an educator, I'm not at all surprised by your children's thinking process on the election. Moreover, it seems that we both find this process troubling, in many ways. In the last decade I have seen an erosion in the level of respect for expertise. Thus, it wouldn't matter how many endorsements a candidate were to win because personal opinion holds as much value as expert opinion (including the opinion of those who have worked with both Democratic candidates). The NYT just did a piece on this phenomena and the media is partially to blame. In addition, younger people have learned to cherry pick the facts that support their opinion rather than gather the facts so that they can formulate a solid argument (why don't they look at a list of accomplishment from the last decade for example). Finally, they fail to understand the biases they hold when evaluating the candidates- those based on their identities (gender, race, ethnicity) as well as those the media has created (Fox News and "balanced reporting"). Unfortunately, these factors also are preventing their candidate from getting vetted properly if he is the nominee. Although a Clinton supporter, I would like to truly evaluate Sanders in case he is the nominee but can't because his followers keep shielding him from a real critique of his plans (I'm sorry but the numbers just don't add up). I can't see this ending well for him, them, or me.
8
"As an educator, I'm not at all surprised by your children's thinking process on the election. Moreover, it seems that we both find this process troubling, in many ways."
I am myself an educator, and I take away a completely different impression of the "thinking process" that was described. Sounds like these young people are actively seeking out facts and forming judgement based upon their firmly held beliefs.
I am myself an educator, and I take away a completely different impression of the "thinking process" that was described. Sounds like these young people are actively seeking out facts and forming judgement based upon their firmly held beliefs.
1
The establishment politicians, including Clinton, always talk about the US being the greatest and most powerful nation on earth. But, when the comparison is made between the US and all other major industrialized countries, which provide universal health care, all of the sudden the US isn't the greatest. Oh, the response is that it won't work in the US. Well, what Sanders keeps saying is, how can we be the greatest nation on earth and NOT provide universal health care? That is a very logical argument that his supporters have picked up on.
4
The biggest take away from Blow's all in the family moment – it reinforces that the apple never falls far from the tree. Blow is a liberal Democrat and so are his children.
If anything, it is off-putting that Blow makes the following statement about his children’s take on the candidates: "First, they are unimpressed by the Republican candidates for president, and are even afraid of some. That means that our discussions can be narrowly focused on the Democratic race."
The off-putting part is not that Blow and his children have their particular partisan bias. Rather, it’s that they don't even discuss the merits or demerits of the various Republican candidates, given that the eventual nominee is just as likely to be President as a Democrat.
Other than that, Blow's column today really didn't offer much new insights on the youth vote specifically or the election in general.
Posted ~9am
If anything, it is off-putting that Blow makes the following statement about his children’s take on the candidates: "First, they are unimpressed by the Republican candidates for president, and are even afraid of some. That means that our discussions can be narrowly focused on the Democratic race."
The off-putting part is not that Blow and his children have their particular partisan bias. Rather, it’s that they don't even discuss the merits or demerits of the various Republican candidates, given that the eventual nominee is just as likely to be President as a Democrat.
Other than that, Blow's column today really didn't offer much new insights on the youth vote specifically or the election in general.
Posted ~9am
1
The polls say Sanders beats Trump by a wider margin than Clinton, but many people still believe that Clinton is more electable.
This is a grave mistake. Clinton is roundly and widely hated, and many people have said to me that they would vote for anybody but her or stay home if she were nominated.
In my family, I am 68, but supported Sanders before my 35 year old daughter came around.
I am deeply afraid that there will be a Clinton victory, leading to a loss of the election to Republicans. Ms. Clinton is not only scarred, but carries around Wall Street and big money baggage that weight her down like suitcases full of gold. When she was asked to release transcripts of her speeches to Goldman Sachs, she replied, "I'll look into it." Is she still looking?
This is a grave mistake. Clinton is roundly and widely hated, and many people have said to me that they would vote for anybody but her or stay home if she were nominated.
In my family, I am 68, but supported Sanders before my 35 year old daughter came around.
I am deeply afraid that there will be a Clinton victory, leading to a loss of the election to Republicans. Ms. Clinton is not only scarred, but carries around Wall Street and big money baggage that weight her down like suitcases full of gold. When she was asked to release transcripts of her speeches to Goldman Sachs, she replied, "I'll look into it." Is she still looking?
10
Democrats, like yourself, created the monster aka Hillary. Good luck putting your "genie" back in the bottle.
1
Now excited for the day my kids can vote! Your column lays our perfectly why Bernie has so much momentum. I am technically an elder Millenial but I feel much more like a member of the Gen X. Because I'm vocal about supporting Hillary and have volunteered for a couple of years for the party (ya know, Establishment Canvasser) I hear from a lot of Bernie supporters. Like your kids, this election has shown me where my heart lies. I understand the feeling people get, their eyes glaze over and they're thinking, "here goes Hillary..lying... I don't like her...I don't trust her." It is the same feeling I get when I listen to Bernie, my eyes glaze over and I feel like I'm listening to liberal talk radio...or back in college listening to another old white guy with an elite, protected role in society sell me a revolution. Thankfully I would also go to Women's Studies lectures and learn about entrenched gender and racial bias in academia. My heroes are the female senators and all the women serving in the state legislatures around the country. They aren't serving because they have a uterus and it isn't easy to do what they do. Progressives concerned with creating an inclusive society should stop trashing Hillary using the same sexist critiques/double standards that our local female candidates are continually subjected to.
Sidenote: It would be great to hear more about X in the news...almost all the political analysis makes this a Boomers vs Millenials race.
Sidenote: It would be great to hear more about X in the news...almost all the political analysis makes this a Boomers vs Millenials race.
3
It is no wonder that your children have concerns about Hillary Clinton's "trustworthiness" and "authenticity." Those concerns are testament to the brilliant job the media has done in drumming that narrative into the minds of people who don't actually listen, watch or most importantly, READ what Hillary Clinton has said, done and proposes to do. You have colleagues at the New York Times who have absolutely no hesitation in exposing their obsessive bias and hatred against this very accomplished, experienced and qualified politician and leader.
It is no wonder that less maturity and life experience would buy into the false narrative. As parents, it is our job to guide our children by making sure they are as fully informed as possible before they make important decisions. That's not an easy task, but it is a critical parental responsibility. If my kids came at me with "I can't trust Hillary Clinton" I would demand chapter and verse to back up those assertions.
It is no wonder that less maturity and life experience would buy into the false narrative. As parents, it is our job to guide our children by making sure they are as fully informed as possible before they make important decisions. That's not an easy task, but it is a critical parental responsibility. If my kids came at me with "I can't trust Hillary Clinton" I would demand chapter and verse to back up those assertions.
7
This Op-Ed touches on the core issue concerning Hillary, trust. When news agencies covering the primary in Hew Hampshire, asked voters what was the driving force in their selection, they answered, "Truthful" and "Trustworthiness. " When was the last time you heard that being the main concern in an election. The economy was second, You could have picked the winner before the first ballot was cast. You don't have to go all the way back to Whitewater. She claimed she was shot at in the Bosnian airport. She excused it as a lapse in memory. Do you believe that someone forgets about something like that? Her memory being jogged by the reports of news agencies with her and a movie showing she and her daughter walking calmly from the plane. Then Benghazi and the attempt to blame a movie on the attack knowing that was not true. It is saying that a woman claiming sexual assault should be believed, when those who crossed Bill's path, tell of her stifling them and their claim. Maybe the biggest claim now being challenged is the one that she is there for the African Americans. More and more of them are looking at what they gained under the Clintons and realized it is found wanting. In fact, they are looking at the laws passed under Clinton which have made some things worse. So the question comes down to if she was elected, could we trust her. New Hampshire said," Not a chance." Now we have a 74 year old socialist winning young people in large part because of trust.
3
Hillary Clinton is a self-interested conniver, always on the edge of scandal, whose principal accomplishment has been enriching herself and her equally self-interested husband. We don't need a replay of a second-rate telenovela.
3
Mr. Blow thank you for reminding your readers that Sanders voted for the 1990s crime bill. Sanders of course also voted against key gun control bills such as the Brady bill and for closing the now called Charleston loop hole. Sanders also voted against immigration reform in 2007. He never ever mentioned racial inequality in recent years until now that he needs the black vote. No candidate is completely pure but I do wonder how Sanders avoids scrutiny of his 25 years in congress.
7
Your children as you describe them, Charles, are wise beyond their years, especially when compared to my Boomer companions. I was seven when the Korean truce was declared and I have absolutely no recall of that war, M*A*S*H notwithstanding. Politics never really penetrated my conscious until I was in Vietnam. I had always considered myself Republican up to that time, but the combination of Nixon's lies and the carnage I saw 10 miles from Cambodia changed my political perspective 180 degrees.
Today, your son will not have to be involved in a shooting war (with another country/ideology, can't say what might occur here) unless he enlists. The decision to go to an all volunteer military after the Vietnam debacle was, and remains today, a mistake. I think a strong case can be made for that action being one of the reasons that have brought us to the state of modern American political discord we live with today.
Your kids, all kids, deserve better than what we have saddled them with.
Today, your son will not have to be involved in a shooting war (with another country/ideology, can't say what might occur here) unless he enlists. The decision to go to an all volunteer military after the Vietnam debacle was, and remains today, a mistake. I think a strong case can be made for that action being one of the reasons that have brought us to the state of modern American political discord we live with today.
Your kids, all kids, deserve better than what we have saddled them with.
3
You say no conclusions can be drawn, but you clearly point to one: the endless smear campaigns by Republicans against Hillary Clinton have had their intended effect. They have created generalized distrust among voters, including you and your children, even though, as you admit, they have created smoke but never anything more.
5
Charles, maybe you and your children have condoned and anointed the smear campaign of lies against the Clintons that the Republicans have waged for years.
By a very wide margin, Hillary Clinton is the most experienced, capable, and smartest of the candidates for President from either party.
By a very wide margin, Hillary Clinton is the most experienced, capable, and smartest of the candidates for President from either party.
4
Dick Cheney and Henry Kissinger were also experienced, capable and smart. What they, and Hillary, lack is judgement.
1
I enjoyed the article but was curious why you wouldn't ask them who they will vote for?
My 33 year old son and my 31 year old daughter have had wonderful thought provoking conversations about the candidates. When my son and daughter in law participated in the Iowa caucuses (as well as bringing their children to observe) I posted on Facebook how proud I was that they participated and modeled to their neighbors and their children what an open democratic process looks like.
I think you would do well to engage; after all you may surprise them (or vice/versa) and continue this wonderful expression (and example) of our right of free speech.
My 33 year old son and my 31 year old daughter have had wonderful thought provoking conversations about the candidates. When my son and daughter in law participated in the Iowa caucuses (as well as bringing their children to observe) I posted on Facebook how proud I was that they participated and modeled to their neighbors and their children what an open democratic process looks like.
I think you would do well to engage; after all you may surprise them (or vice/versa) and continue this wonderful expression (and example) of our right of free speech.
All in the person ?
Would the young idealistic hopeful Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders offer political support and passion for the 68 year old and 74 year old politicians that they both have become while running for President of the United States in 2016 ?
Would the young idealistic hopeful Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders offer political support and passion for the 68 year old and 74 year old politicians that they both have become while running for President of the United States in 2016 ?
2
My first opportunity to vote, in 1968, gave me one option, Hubert Humphry. I sat it out. I and my generation were filled with moral outrage over the Viet Nam war. Economically, however, we were secure: negligible debt, a sexual revolution,; the Beatles enticing us to tune in and turn on; plenty of jobs, or graduate school with tenure to follow. Today there is a different and more serious youth outrage.
Our children are saddled with debts resonant of a moral tale—the father sells his business to his son and then richly lives off the son’s toil. Our children are righteously angry. Their futures have been mortgaged (with my generation’s complicity) to the .01%. Their anger is driven by economics, a more enduring and potent anger, I hope, than the moral-social anger that I carried into adulthood. And I am determined to vote with them.
As for the Clintons, they have always been on our side, but also constantly on the make, Bill to get laid, and Hillary to get lucre. It is unseemly. But for this side of Hillary’s character she could be waltzing into the presidency. It appears to me that the pundit class has neither tuned in to the depth of the anger boiling out of our children nor the visible rot rising from Hillary’s choices.
Our children are saddled with debts resonant of a moral tale—the father sells his business to his son and then richly lives off the son’s toil. Our children are righteously angry. Their futures have been mortgaged (with my generation’s complicity) to the .01%. Their anger is driven by economics, a more enduring and potent anger, I hope, than the moral-social anger that I carried into adulthood. And I am determined to vote with them.
As for the Clintons, they have always been on our side, but also constantly on the make, Bill to get laid, and Hillary to get lucre. It is unseemly. But for this side of Hillary’s character she could be waltzing into the presidency. It appears to me that the pundit class has neither tuned in to the depth of the anger boiling out of our children nor the visible rot rising from Hillary’s choices.
9
I'm not so certain that the old rules apply anymore, if in fact they ever applied broadly. For example I find Hillary "masculine" in many respects, especially in her support of Bush and the invasion of Iraq in 2003, and Sanders "feminine" in his opposition to our (now clearly discredited) intervention.
Make any sense?
Make any sense?
3
The Republicans are too busy right now trying to preserve the dry rot of their party to waste a moment paying attention to either Hillary or Bernie.
After they have decided which R candidate has the least worms in his brain, they will then focus their spew, lies, innuendo, and unholy gobs of Kochbucks on them.
Have your children read, "Dark Money" by Jane Mayer, Charles? Nothing (in recent memory) explains the collapse of this country better. When Clinton stated there was "a vast right-wing conspiracy" out to get her, she was absolutely right. When it's said that Mitch McConnell decided to get Obama the day after he took office and that he would be obstructed no matter what he said or did, that was true. When "political correctness" is sneered at by the R's, there is a reason: There ARE matters that are politically correct... and, oh, how the Republicans hate that.
Our nation is racist, it is sexist. It is unequal. And the top 10% intends for it to remain that way. They are making just waayyy too much money hauling our tax-money into their bank accounts. They really do want to utterly dismantle every remaining law of protection. They are greedy. They have worms in their brains.
I'm a little old white woman. I'm left of Bernie. I see neither Bernie nor Clinton giving me what I want - Constitutional equality - but both have my vote for I know exactly where the putrid values of the R's want to take this nation.
Yeah, I liked this column.
Good kids.
After they have decided which R candidate has the least worms in his brain, they will then focus their spew, lies, innuendo, and unholy gobs of Kochbucks on them.
Have your children read, "Dark Money" by Jane Mayer, Charles? Nothing (in recent memory) explains the collapse of this country better. When Clinton stated there was "a vast right-wing conspiracy" out to get her, she was absolutely right. When it's said that Mitch McConnell decided to get Obama the day after he took office and that he would be obstructed no matter what he said or did, that was true. When "political correctness" is sneered at by the R's, there is a reason: There ARE matters that are politically correct... and, oh, how the Republicans hate that.
Our nation is racist, it is sexist. It is unequal. And the top 10% intends for it to remain that way. They are making just waayyy too much money hauling our tax-money into their bank accounts. They really do want to utterly dismantle every remaining law of protection. They are greedy. They have worms in their brains.
I'm a little old white woman. I'm left of Bernie. I see neither Bernie nor Clinton giving me what I want - Constitutional equality - but both have my vote for I know exactly where the putrid values of the R's want to take this nation.
Yeah, I liked this column.
Good kids.
8
Much has been written about the generational divide between older Clinton supporters and younger Bernie supporters on the other. I'm 60 and support Bernie, so I guess that makes me either young at heart or as some have said, naive.
As we grow older, we often get trapped into patterns of thinking. We can become set in our ways. The experience we gain is filtered through our consciousness, assumptions about how the world works, and what it all means. For many, the solace of familiarity is more comforting than the challenges or real change and uncertainty.
Young people tend not to be so constrained by orthodoxy. They see the world through fresh lenses, and are less likely to accept old ways of doing things without examining whether of not they make sense, or if there might be a better way. To use a shopworn cliche, they are able to think outside the box.
Another aspect of the generational divide in this country is that millenials are the first generation whose economic prospects are less than their parents. Trying to get ahead with a college degree puts them in debt, their first introduction to cowboy capitalism. They struggle to find affordable healthcare. Many jobs don't pay a living wage. They face the existential threat of climate change, which they rightly see that previous generations have simply ignored and kicked the can down the road, with potentially disastrous consequences.
Any wonder they gravitate toward Bernie?
As we grow older, we often get trapped into patterns of thinking. We can become set in our ways. The experience we gain is filtered through our consciousness, assumptions about how the world works, and what it all means. For many, the solace of familiarity is more comforting than the challenges or real change and uncertainty.
Young people tend not to be so constrained by orthodoxy. They see the world through fresh lenses, and are less likely to accept old ways of doing things without examining whether of not they make sense, or if there might be a better way. To use a shopworn cliche, they are able to think outside the box.
Another aspect of the generational divide in this country is that millenials are the first generation whose economic prospects are less than their parents. Trying to get ahead with a college degree puts them in debt, their first introduction to cowboy capitalism. They struggle to find affordable healthcare. Many jobs don't pay a living wage. They face the existential threat of climate change, which they rightly see that previous generations have simply ignored and kicked the can down the road, with potentially disastrous consequences.
Any wonder they gravitate toward Bernie?
70
How is Bernie not on the other side of the generational divide? Whatever makes younger people support Bernie rather than Hillary it's not generational.
1
David, as another older white guy, I prefer "optimistic" to "naive." Though maybe they are the same! In 2008 I was optimistic that Obama could shift the system more that Clinton would. In 2016 I am optimistic that Sanders would shift the system a little more. I do think a woman president - any woman president - would also shift the system a bit. And I look forward to that day. But for now I think the system needs to be shifted, or at least challenged, in a manner different than diversity. At the root, Sanders runs on the idea that the system is fatally corrupted by money in politics. Every other issue flows from that. The evident disenfranchisement of many voters on the left (looking to Sanders) and on the right (looking to Trump), suggests that a majority of Americans support this view. Nobody within the system seems willing to even talk about it. Maybe the system needs a shove from without.
One could call that naive. I prefer optimistic. My optimism turned out to be OK with Obama. I'm going to stick with it, because I prefer optimism to its alternative, cynicism!
One could call that naive. I prefer optimistic. My optimism turned out to be OK with Obama. I'm going to stick with it, because I prefer optimism to its alternative, cynicism!
1
As the father of a 24 and 25 year olds, I understand their support for Sanders. Bernie is the only candidate who is pushing policies that will actually help young people--single payer, tuition free public higher education, $15 minimum wage, family leave benefits, etc. Things available in most civilized countries that every NYT's pundit tells us we just cannot afford, or could never get through Congress.
No matter that there is always money for war, weapons systems, the latest security apparatus, etc. A trillion a year on the military industrial complex is not even debated.
Mr. Blow--you should have to explain to your children why you support a candidate who tells your children they will "never, ever" have single payer healthcare. It is good enough for everyone 65 and over, but too expensive to cover all citizens. Explain how this makes sense when we spend lots more than every other country who offers single payer.
Explain why $1.2 trillion in student debt is acceptable. How when you went to school it was relatively cheap, and in many states tuition free, but now kids asking for the same benefit are criticized for wanting "free stuff."
Providing a better life for our children was always part of the American dream. Explain to your children why that dream applied to you, but not your children.
You have a lot of "splaining" to do Mr. Blow (reference to your column about "Bernie splainers") about why your children should have no hope for change.
No matter that there is always money for war, weapons systems, the latest security apparatus, etc. A trillion a year on the military industrial complex is not even debated.
Mr. Blow--you should have to explain to your children why you support a candidate who tells your children they will "never, ever" have single payer healthcare. It is good enough for everyone 65 and over, but too expensive to cover all citizens. Explain how this makes sense when we spend lots more than every other country who offers single payer.
Explain why $1.2 trillion in student debt is acceptable. How when you went to school it was relatively cheap, and in many states tuition free, but now kids asking for the same benefit are criticized for wanting "free stuff."
Providing a better life for our children was always part of the American dream. Explain to your children why that dream applied to you, but not your children.
You have a lot of "splaining" to do Mr. Blow (reference to your column about "Bernie splainers") about why your children should have no hope for change.
13
I think kids are for Sanders for the same reason old white guys are for Trump. They know they're being lied to in both instances, but at least the lies are the ones they want to hear. And what they want to hear is that a candidate for president seems to care more about the country he is campaigning to lead than his own desire to lead it.
Clinton and the rest of the Republican field besides Trump only say things they think will make them electable. Sanders and Trump say things that would ordinarily preclude them from serious consideration as candidates so have some tincture of authenticity.
Besides all that, it really is time for some sort of politico-economic revolution in America. Entrenched interests are too entrenched. Something's gotta give. Kids can see it because they haven't yet subjugated their idealistic impulses in order that they might get along by going along. Old white men (and women) see it because they have been slowly disenfranchised, and there's nothing like irrelevance to clarify the mind.
What is really striking about all this is that Sanders/Trump supporters seem to still believe that their voice matters. Wouldn't it be remarkable if come November their belief is realized, and the two are on the ballot? It would be a political race for the ages.
Clinton and the rest of the Republican field besides Trump only say things they think will make them electable. Sanders and Trump say things that would ordinarily preclude them from serious consideration as candidates so have some tincture of authenticity.
Besides all that, it really is time for some sort of politico-economic revolution in America. Entrenched interests are too entrenched. Something's gotta give. Kids can see it because they haven't yet subjugated their idealistic impulses in order that they might get along by going along. Old white men (and women) see it because they have been slowly disenfranchised, and there's nothing like irrelevance to clarify the mind.
What is really striking about all this is that Sanders/Trump supporters seem to still believe that their voice matters. Wouldn't it be remarkable if come November their belief is realized, and the two are on the ballot? It would be a political race for the ages.
30
S.D. Keith
Trump and Sanders should not even be in the same sentence. I'm not sure whether or not you are saying that Sanders is lying but he isn't and never has. I hope that Sanders and Trump are the candidates because Trump wouldn't stand a chance.
Trump and Sanders should not even be in the same sentence. I'm not sure whether or not you are saying that Sanders is lying but he isn't and never has. I hope that Sanders and Trump are the candidates because Trump wouldn't stand a chance.
4
You should be very happy that your daughter is "expressing no fealty for Clinton on the basis of gender". It means that she has learned to think for herself and to choose on the basis of policies rather than voting on the basis of externals.
6
I think Mr. Blow's children views are very reflective of the younger generation's sentiment towards Hillary Clinton. Nobody likes a dishonest untrustworthy liar with decades of baggage and scandal. Also no one likes a candidate that changes positions to mimic the other candidate - it doesn't come across as genuine or 'authentic'. For example, does anyone really think Hillary after being on the board of Walmart for six years has really always cared about raising minimum wage. Of course not, but now she does? Does she have no loyalty to Walmart after being paid by them for six years? The same for her claim that she will reign in the big banks. Would she really put Goldman Sachs under punitive restrictions after being paid nearly a million dollars for a couple hours of work? Does she have no loyalty or gratitude? I think like Blow with Trump I will now refrain from calling Hillary Clinton by name but instead refer to her as the least trustworthy Democratic candidate.
7
I am 26, a woman, and an under paid community college teacher. What makes me not trust Bernie is his timing. Why did he wait until Hillary was the only one running? Why is he running as a democrat? Why is he calling this a revolution when really it is a political campaign? Why is he running as a non politician when he has been one for years? How is HE the one that can meet all these promises?
There is something fishy about his campaign and the promises he makes that makes me wonder how authentic he really is.
On the other hand, I think Hillary is extremely authentic: she is tough, she is smart, and she knows how to get it done. What other kind of authenticity do we need?
The young are not only the most idealistic, they are also the most prone to believe conspiracy theories and believe that their lives experience is the status quo. Bernie is feeding into their anger and educating many of them for the first time about politics, causing many of them not to trust or respect many of the major rights leaders of our history. This doesn't sit well with me.
There is something fishy about his campaign and the promises he makes that makes me wonder how authentic he really is.
On the other hand, I think Hillary is extremely authentic: she is tough, she is smart, and she knows how to get it done. What other kind of authenticity do we need?
The young are not only the most idealistic, they are also the most prone to believe conspiracy theories and believe that their lives experience is the status quo. Bernie is feeding into their anger and educating many of them for the first time about politics, causing many of them not to trust or respect many of the major rights leaders of our history. This doesn't sit well with me.
10
YES. Surely he could have waited at least 4 years, if not 8. Why did he feel THIS had to be his year? How many democrats are secretly in the "anybody but her" camp supporting him? He came from nowhere and when it finally looks like Clinton may have a chance, he shows up? Fishy is one word for it.
1
“This is a father trying to better understand the political awakening and sensibilities of his own children, and trying to understand what informs their leanings.”
“What informs their leanings”? Try looking in the mirror. It seems you did a decent job, raising your kids. They obviously have the capacity to weigh the facts and make their own decisions. The idea of looking at the future and seeing new possibilities is what being young is all about. Remember?
“What informs their leanings”? Try looking in the mirror. It seems you did a decent job, raising your kids. They obviously have the capacity to weigh the facts and make their own decisions. The idea of looking at the future and seeing new possibilities is what being young is all about. Remember?
6
Sanders is a secular Jew committed to true equality for all people and as such is genuinely given his life to people of color feminism the poor the working class. He actually has integrity. He does NOT accept a million dollars from Goldman Sachs to enrich himself for stupid speeches.
Hillary has sold herself out. Thus she has shown that she can and has been bought. Her greed and ego have triumphed over her image management of being of service to others. She is half of the dream not the whole dream. She is running as the ghost of Obama. She is no Obama
Your kids have it right. I think Sanders is not realistic about some things. But so was Obama not realistic about some things. But it take an idealist to overcome the far right of the racist Republican Party we now have that is becoming a party of demagogues.
Hillary has sold herself out. Thus she has shown that she can and has been bought. Her greed and ego have triumphed over her image management of being of service to others. She is half of the dream not the whole dream. She is running as the ghost of Obama. She is no Obama
Your kids have it right. I think Sanders is not realistic about some things. But so was Obama not realistic about some things. But it take an idealist to overcome the far right of the racist Republican Party we now have that is becoming a party of demagogues.
15
I'm older than you Mr. Blow and I support Berine Sanders and I think there are many others like me!
12
This thoughtful article offers important, broader insights captured in the microcosm of the family. I just want to add, as an older American, that as I find myself inspired by the message and commitment of Bernie Sanders, I can't help recall the disappointment of being young and inspired by George McGovern. Has the country changed enough to avoid a similar outcome?
4
Mr. Blow I am probably older than you and I sit firmly with your children's views. My greatest fear is that somehow in all of this craziness we will end up with one of those Republicans in the White House.
6
My three kids are 19, 26 & 27. The oldest a girl with some investment in Hillary winning as a woman, the middle son solidly for Hillary and the youngest feeling the Bern. I am a grateful that they have such good choices. All candidates have flaws but at least the dems are conversant in issues and policies.
I am completely confident in the young people of today and seriously disappointed in the world my generation is leaving them. If young people realize the degree to which they have been shortchanged by their parents' cohort we will be lucky if all we get is Bernie......
I am completely confident in the young people of today and seriously disappointed in the world my generation is leaving them. If young people realize the degree to which they have been shortchanged by their parents' cohort we will be lucky if all we get is Bernie......
4
As an older person, I think I know better. As a naturalized US citizen of Asian decent who have lived in four different countries, I think I know better. Our struggles are not merely conceptual. Feeling-good and righteousness are luxury to us. As a registered Democrat, I never like those "liberals". Extremists from both parties are merely identical twins in different names only. Was the other candidate just too good to be one of us before the election? Should I point out the obvious that he was not even a democrat? We were asked to understand his position on gun control because he is from a gun loving rural state. Guess what, in the real world where we live in, we know better that we should just suck it up. Nobody will hear our reasonings. In our daily struggles, we need to keep the highest standard possible in order to survive. Discriminations come when we make mistakes. The unequal treatment of the Chinese police officer Mr. Liang says it all! I support Hillary because together we will break glass ceilings (discriminations) one at a time!
6
I don't always agree with Mr. Blow, but I commend him for writing this article. Very thoughtful and well-written, I thought. I also was impressed with his piece about telling black folks who to for. That's their business and no one else's. It's patronizing to tell them what's in their best interests. They can and will decide for themselves.
3
In 1968 young people refused to vote for one of the great liberals of the 20th century, Hubert Humphrey, because he had been LBJ's vice-president. As a result, Nixon won a close election. We got more war and progressives lost the Supreme Court. In 1972 the youth were drawn to the McGovern revolution. He carried one state. In 2000 it was the Nader revolution. Bush won Florida by a handful of votes. We got 911, two wars, and economic disaster. Young people who don't learn the lessons of history are doomed to repeat these catostrophic mistakes.
16
Yes, he supported progressive Democratic programs, but McGovern wasn't a lefty. He was an ordained Methodist minister, decorated WWII bomber pilot who (unlike Nixon and the chicken hawks who followed such as Bush 43 and Cheney) had experienced the heartbreak and devastation of war (his close friend and navigator was killed while flying with a different pilot). Simply, he was against the Vietnam War.
He was savaged bybeing outspent 3:1 by the Republican attack machine (and some wonder why Hillary, who volunteered for McGovern ,needs a superpac?), and not taken seriously by the press corps (who gave equal weight to McGovern's statements of fact and Nixon surrogates' lies) and today this child of South Dakota with a doctorate in history who built the SD Democratic party still is widely dismissed as a fringe candidate.
But your point is well-taken Victor. The Republicans will throw a billion dollars of negativity against any Democrat. We were too hard on Humphrey, Nader voters handed us a disaster, and Democrats who stayed home in 2010 gave the Statehouses and the Congress to the Republicans through gerrymandering.
We will have to stick together and stick up for for the Democratic nominee. The press will not do its job, just parroting attacks on Clinton (which have been effective in tarnishing her) or Sanders (await months of hammers and sickles even though no one is more anti-Communist than the socialists who had to put up with those thugs at labor meetings)
He was savaged bybeing outspent 3:1 by the Republican attack machine (and some wonder why Hillary, who volunteered for McGovern ,needs a superpac?), and not taken seriously by the press corps (who gave equal weight to McGovern's statements of fact and Nixon surrogates' lies) and today this child of South Dakota with a doctorate in history who built the SD Democratic party still is widely dismissed as a fringe candidate.
But your point is well-taken Victor. The Republicans will throw a billion dollars of negativity against any Democrat. We were too hard on Humphrey, Nader voters handed us a disaster, and Democrats who stayed home in 2010 gave the Statehouses and the Congress to the Republicans through gerrymandering.
We will have to stick together and stick up for for the Democratic nominee. The press will not do its job, just parroting attacks on Clinton (which have been effective in tarnishing her) or Sanders (await months of hammers and sickles even though no one is more anti-Communist than the socialists who had to put up with those thugs at labor meetings)
3
Congratulations Mr. Blow on raising thoughtful, independent children.
I hope they are taking the initiative to talk directly to you, too, about issues and candidates in this year's election. You might find their arguments as compelling as you've presented them to us here.
Am I detecting a slight change of tone in your thinking about Bernie Sanders? And in Mr. Kristof's today, too? Could it be we are seeing a change even at the Times?
I hope they are taking the initiative to talk directly to you, too, about issues and candidates in this year's election. You might find their arguments as compelling as you've presented them to us here.
Am I detecting a slight change of tone in your thinking about Bernie Sanders? And in Mr. Kristof's today, too? Could it be we are seeing a change even at the Times?
11
Your well-chosen words sound pretty much like the kind of conversation that most (of us) well-grounded thoughtful people might be experiencing ... as a supporter of feminist ideals, I would most likely be prone to favor Hillary Clinton over a male candidate (of either party) whom I disagree with ... however, when a male candidate comes along, who happens to stir long-dormant idealistic and probably unrealistic notions that get my blood flowing again, who would expect me to select “feminism” as the primary focus? Perhaps, if feminist leaders from my generation could imagine how they might perceive today’s world through the eyes of their own youthful selves, they might be better equipped to connect with and resolve the apparent rejection of feminism by today’s generation. As a 70-plus-year-old Jewish white guy from the Bronx, I would feel right at home talking to you and your family about these issues.
3
"...they generally believed that his positions would most likely be impossible to implement."
WHY? True, the Republicans would be intractable at every turn if they continue to hold majorities. Other than that, why is the "impossible to implement" meme about Bernie's broad, sweeping policies meant to benefit the citizens of this country expected to be swallowed by the rest of us without challenge?
Could someone please delve into the odds FDR faced when he put the New Deal in place? Would anyone have believed emancipation possible? Hitler was overthrown. Apartheid was stopped. The impossible happens all around us, all the time.
In fact, to quote Nelson Mandela, "It always seems impossible until its done."
I am sick and tired of the intellectual and moral laziness in this country. We deserve health care. Our children deserve to be educated to their highest abilities without drowning in debt. We deserve a living wage, and companies who pay their fair share of the tax bill. We need fair elections, and money out of politics.
We need and desperately deserve someone on our side who will fight for the "impossible." And when you look closely, the "impossible" that Bernie is talking about is a very simple concept -- securing again the fundamental rights owed to all citizens of this country regardless of status, wealth, or connection. It's only impossible, when we think it is.
WHY? True, the Republicans would be intractable at every turn if they continue to hold majorities. Other than that, why is the "impossible to implement" meme about Bernie's broad, sweeping policies meant to benefit the citizens of this country expected to be swallowed by the rest of us without challenge?
Could someone please delve into the odds FDR faced when he put the New Deal in place? Would anyone have believed emancipation possible? Hitler was overthrown. Apartheid was stopped. The impossible happens all around us, all the time.
In fact, to quote Nelson Mandela, "It always seems impossible until its done."
I am sick and tired of the intellectual and moral laziness in this country. We deserve health care. Our children deserve to be educated to their highest abilities without drowning in debt. We deserve a living wage, and companies who pay their fair share of the tax bill. We need fair elections, and money out of politics.
We need and desperately deserve someone on our side who will fight for the "impossible." And when you look closely, the "impossible" that Bernie is talking about is a very simple concept -- securing again the fundamental rights owed to all citizens of this country regardless of status, wealth, or connection. It's only impossible, when we think it is.
27
One thing is for certain: elect a talented, gifted, knowledgeable woman as president of the United States and the world will soon learn what gender bias (or male privilege) REALLY looks like. Prepare for utter embarrassment as an American. Hard to believe, but it's apparently more difficult for us to think of electing a female president than a man of color. Bravissimo to President Obama and prayers and hopes for Hillary Clinton as our first female president. She, like Obama, is ready and capable. Love you, Obama.
11
My two children are in their 30s and their lives don't get any easier with age. Both are saddled with crushing student loans and could never afford to buy a house. Each plans to have only one child because of the prohibitive cost of child care. They are sick of endless war, failing schools, crumbling bridges, and Wall Street greed. Both support Bernie.
One reason they do not support Hillary is they cannot fathom why she stayed with Bill after his multiple affairs and her very public humiliation during the Lewinsky drama. Nor will they forget Hillary's slut shaming of Bill's accusers. They do not believe she is a feminist role model, just a right-center self-absorbed political opportunist.
One reason they do not support Hillary is they cannot fathom why she stayed with Bill after his multiple affairs and her very public humiliation during the Lewinsky drama. Nor will they forget Hillary's slut shaming of Bill's accusers. They do not believe she is a feminist role model, just a right-center self-absorbed political opportunist.
29
Smart kids, NancyL.
Exactly how old were your children during the "scandal"? Such adult indignation!!
2
Thanks Charles. You wrote the perfect column for a father to read as his teenage son prepares for school. This generational divide among Democrats is profound. I appreciate that you took the time to listen to your children and shared their thoughts with your readers.
I believe Sanders can win, but I'll fall in with Clinton if she wins the primaries. The Republicans have no vision for a better future. Just more heat and debt and anger. Good luck selling that to teenagers at the breakfast table.
I believe Sanders can win, but I'll fall in with Clinton if she wins the primaries. The Republicans have no vision for a better future. Just more heat and debt and anger. Good luck selling that to teenagers at the breakfast table.
7
Remember the book 'what's the matter with Kansas?' About why people vote against their own best interests. That's how I feel when speaking to the snti-Hillary movement. Why is Bernie trustworthy? Because he doesn't pander ? Only when he voted against the Brady bill because his Vermont constituency likes guns. His record is thin, after all who in Congress or anywhere spends attention to a guy from a small all white state. Hillary has a 'huge' record that is constantly being examined. She has actually done somethings & occasionally something goes wrong but she's dared to stick her neck out.
When I hear 'I can't vote for her JUST because she is a woman' I want to shout, she is not just any woman, she is a dedicated professional who has worked hard for this country.
If younger people think there is parity between men & women: look at our Congress -- there are 20 female Senators out of 100. & the proportions in the House are same. Are women 20% of our Congress because they are 20% of the population or only 20% as smart as men? The myth of female equality marches on!
When I hear 'I can't vote for her JUST because she is a woman' I want to shout, she is not just any woman, she is a dedicated professional who has worked hard for this country.
If younger people think there is parity between men & women: look at our Congress -- there are 20 female Senators out of 100. & the proportions in the House are same. Are women 20% of our Congress because they are 20% of the population or only 20% as smart as men? The myth of female equality marches on!
16
Sanders has explained in detail his vote against the Brady bill, as a vote against legitimate gun dealers being held liable for a crime committed by an individual who purchased a firearm legally. He has also pledged to reconsider a new bill that better addresses that deficiency.
I read Charles Blow regularly, but this time, it's a pleasure to read his informal, familial observations. Too many Disney princesses. But seriously, as I am an older white woman, I have to go with the workhorse Mrs. Clinton and not the sympathetic, Occupy Wall Street, Mr. Sanders. Democrats must win this election and not torpedo it Nader-style.
16
In the end, it may be between Sanders and Cruz.
That this is even possible shows just how divided a country we live in and how it is next to impossible for any President to function effectively.
Makes you wonder just how much longer we can survive as one country.
Only in America.
That this is even possible shows just how divided a country we live in and how it is next to impossible for any President to function effectively.
Makes you wonder just how much longer we can survive as one country.
Only in America.
I've thought a lot about this both in relationship to the young people I know and to myself at that age.
And I'll be honest, I probably would have been a supporter of Bernie Sanders when I was in my twenties. I wanted to change the world. I wanted everyone to get a fair shake. I didn't see the downside because I had nothing to lose by burning down the house. My rationale would have been we can build it better.
Meanwhile I've lived a life. I not only have something to lose, I can see how it will devastate others. Things have gotten progressively grayer. The nuance bothers me. I see pitfalls that no one mentions. Realism has replaced idealism. I've been downstream cleaning up the mess of too many grand ideas where no one ever bothered with the details.
And because I'm a liberal at heart I worry about all of the people whose lives will be worse. Who will suddenly become unemployable because their job no longer exists. The admins, the med techs, the financial aid advisers and millions of regular people who will get 5K dollars in unemployment and a pat on the head as the rug is yanked out from under their lives.
I understand the rich rule the country and taking them down won't be easy. But I also understand our best course is to chip away at them the way they chipped away at us. Untangle the knot rather than hack it carelessly away.
In the end we might look to Russia. They implemented Communism in a grand sweep. We all know how that turned out.
And I'll be honest, I probably would have been a supporter of Bernie Sanders when I was in my twenties. I wanted to change the world. I wanted everyone to get a fair shake. I didn't see the downside because I had nothing to lose by burning down the house. My rationale would have been we can build it better.
Meanwhile I've lived a life. I not only have something to lose, I can see how it will devastate others. Things have gotten progressively grayer. The nuance bothers me. I see pitfalls that no one mentions. Realism has replaced idealism. I've been downstream cleaning up the mess of too many grand ideas where no one ever bothered with the details.
And because I'm a liberal at heart I worry about all of the people whose lives will be worse. Who will suddenly become unemployable because their job no longer exists. The admins, the med techs, the financial aid advisers and millions of regular people who will get 5K dollars in unemployment and a pat on the head as the rug is yanked out from under their lives.
I understand the rich rule the country and taking them down won't be easy. But I also understand our best course is to chip away at them the way they chipped away at us. Untangle the knot rather than hack it carelessly away.
In the end we might look to Russia. They implemented Communism in a grand sweep. We all know how that turned out.
10
Older feminists like Hillary Clinton because all her life she has been fighting for women to get a seat at the table. Sanders and younger women, though, see the whole dining room as corrupt and unfair and want to upend the whole thing. Hillary is like the current British monarchy, which created headlines for its groundbreaking decision to alter its line of succession to include females as equals; Bernie would no doubt prefer to abolish the crown altogether.
7
Congratulations on having raised three thinking people. I'm also on the older side of the divide, but as a woman and a strong Sanders supporter, I have less trouble understanding your feminist children's lack of automatic support for the female candidate. I assume they would also be uninclined to support a Michelle Bachmann or Sarah Palin candidacy, even if one of them were vying to be the first woman president. The fact that in the centuries of our existence as a nation, we have never had a woman as our leader is offensive to feminists and any fair-minded people, of course, and it's a problem that needs to be addressed. But is it the defining problem of this moment in American history? For me, the problems of economic and social injustice, including the unleashed power of private wealth to corrupt our government, the deeply entrenched racial oppression, and the frightening overreach of our militarized police, are immediate and urgent threats to the people and to our democracy. Therefore, I support Bernie Sanders. And all the voices telling me he's unelectable or his policies are politically impossible be damned. I'm sure they said the same to the revolutionaries who founded this country, and to those who fought to their dying breath to end slavery. They did it anyway.
14
"If not us, then who? If not now, then when?"
1
Part of the narrative against HRC is that we now live in a post-feminist era. Women's rights are assured. Who needs a female president? The symbolism would be redundant, and substantive gains for women would no longer be necessary.
But I say: just take a look at what's going on in the southern part of our own hemisphere. The still patriarchal Roman Catholic Church is doubling down on its no abortion as well as no contraception stances in the wake of the Zika epidemic. The control of women's bodies and lives is still very much with us. And lest anyone think that these Neanderthalian orientations are limited to Latin America, refocus one's vision on today's Republican Party.
The fight for women's equality is far from over. If anything, women's rights are under heightened assault. Anyone who thinks otherwise is living a delusional fantasy.
But I say: just take a look at what's going on in the southern part of our own hemisphere. The still patriarchal Roman Catholic Church is doubling down on its no abortion as well as no contraception stances in the wake of the Zika epidemic. The control of women's bodies and lives is still very much with us. And lest anyone think that these Neanderthalian orientations are limited to Latin America, refocus one's vision on today's Republican Party.
The fight for women's equality is far from over. If anything, women's rights are under heightened assault. Anyone who thinks otherwise is living a delusional fantasy.
5
Twenty-five years of unending attacks from the right, and personal embarrassments over her husband's infidelities have re-shaped Hillary into a paranoid, trepidacious and awkward self-presenter, causing her to resort to cautious over-parsing, tone-deaf dismissiveness, and off-key delivery. She seems to burst out laughing wildly, or shout when she means to show passion. Her attempts at wit are often flat and she comes across as a geek or nerd much of the time.
I'm her age. I couldn't stand her weirdness and flailing attacks on hope in 2008 , and it just made Obama more attractive. But she was not only gracious in defeat--she did what so many women do when they get knocked down: she got with the boys team and worked twice as hard. Not only has she earned my respect, I actually find her endearingly consistent in her awkwardness. I'll have no problem voting for her.
And I have no problem with Bernie, either. But if he wins only because of Hillary-fatigue, rather than a sweeping movement that turns out even more voters than Obama did (no mean feat, and as yet not achieved)--than there's a real chance for the Republican candidate. And that will suck.
I'm her age. I couldn't stand her weirdness and flailing attacks on hope in 2008 , and it just made Obama more attractive. But she was not only gracious in defeat--she did what so many women do when they get knocked down: she got with the boys team and worked twice as hard. Not only has she earned my respect, I actually find her endearingly consistent in her awkwardness. I'll have no problem voting for her.
And I have no problem with Bernie, either. But if he wins only because of Hillary-fatigue, rather than a sweeping movement that turns out even more voters than Obama did (no mean feat, and as yet not achieved)--than there's a real chance for the Republican candidate. And that will suck.
3
I can understand how you children have come to these conclusions. I think a lot of this comes down to "familiarity breeds contempt". Hillary has been in the world's eye for a long time, in many roles. I think it unfair to judge her on support for a police 20+ years ago, things change and people's opinion change. Bernie has been under the radar, so now he is a new voice, new face, making many undoable promises. What I do not understand, and you did not address, is why young people want to live in a socialist state. Yes, some things are included but you pay a big price in taxes and the involvement of the government in your everyday life. I want a middle of the road person, one who will not give away the store but will not throw kids, the poor and the retired under the bus. Who respects the planet we live on and can work with world leaders without starting wars and getting our children killed. I think Hillary can do these things.
4
"They like Bernie Sanders and don’t fully trust Hillary Clinton, though they don’t believe Sanders is electable and would therefore “settle for” Clinton in that case, as my youngest son put it."
Settling for someone you don't trust is an awful situation that many democratic voters face. It will lead many democrats to not show up in the general election because there is no passion for the candidate. Because the DNC treated this campaign as a coronation for one of the candidates, it only has itself to blame. It is all setting up for a republican win.
Settling for someone you don't trust is an awful situation that many democratic voters face. It will lead many democrats to not show up in the general election because there is no passion for the candidate. Because the DNC treated this campaign as a coronation for one of the candidates, it only has itself to blame. It is all setting up for a republican win.
5
Charles M Blow should read Madison's Federalist 10, which speaks to the dangers of "factions." The entire progressive liberal Marxist Democratic Party is built on the notion that everyone belongs to a faction that is in some way disenfranchised.
Better to teach your children that to claim to be for minority rights they must first be for individual rights because the individual is the smallest minority.
The progressive liberal Marxist Democratic Party's sole influence is envy. In every culture, envy is recognized as immoral or a sin.
Better to teach your children that to claim to be for minority rights they must first be for individual rights because the individual is the smallest minority.
The progressive liberal Marxist Democratic Party's sole influence is envy. In every culture, envy is recognized as immoral or a sin.
1
Your children view Bernie Sanders as "authentic" but "they don’t believe Sanders is electable and would therefore 'settle for' Clinton."
Back in 2008, not many, including your newspaper, thought a guy named Barack Hussein Obama was electable and the Times "settled for" Hillary Clinton in the primary, saying Mrs. Clinton was "best choice for the Democratic Party as it tries to regain the White House."
That didn't quite work out well for Mrs. Clinton or the Times.
Bernie Sanders was given no chance a few months ago, but he tied Hillary in Iowa and beat her in NH and millions have supported him with small donations.
As for why your children (and others) "don’t fully trust Hillary Clinton," this may have something to do with it:
"Hillary Clinton has questioned why he [Obama] didn’t walk out on the Rev. Jeremiah Wright Jr.; why he 'denounced' but didn’t 'reject' Louis Farrakhan; and whether he is too chummy with the former radical Bill Ayers."
That is from your column dated May 3, 2008.
Now, Hillary has no better friend than Obama. The Clintons will say anything to get elected.
Given several opportunities to hit Mrs. Clinton over the head with her email problems, Senator Sanders demurred. Even when the Clintons attack him, he merely says he is disappointed but repeats that he has known the Clintons for decades and likes and even respects them.
Authentic Sanders vs opportunistic Clinton. That's the choice that your children and other Democratic voters face.
Back in 2008, not many, including your newspaper, thought a guy named Barack Hussein Obama was electable and the Times "settled for" Hillary Clinton in the primary, saying Mrs. Clinton was "best choice for the Democratic Party as it tries to regain the White House."
That didn't quite work out well for Mrs. Clinton or the Times.
Bernie Sanders was given no chance a few months ago, but he tied Hillary in Iowa and beat her in NH and millions have supported him with small donations.
As for why your children (and others) "don’t fully trust Hillary Clinton," this may have something to do with it:
"Hillary Clinton has questioned why he [Obama] didn’t walk out on the Rev. Jeremiah Wright Jr.; why he 'denounced' but didn’t 'reject' Louis Farrakhan; and whether he is too chummy with the former radical Bill Ayers."
That is from your column dated May 3, 2008.
Now, Hillary has no better friend than Obama. The Clintons will say anything to get elected.
Given several opportunities to hit Mrs. Clinton over the head with her email problems, Senator Sanders demurred. Even when the Clintons attack him, he merely says he is disappointed but repeats that he has known the Clintons for decades and likes and even respects them.
Authentic Sanders vs opportunistic Clinton. That's the choice that your children and other Democratic voters face.
7
Charles, You might reconsider the merits of teaching your children the right thing to do should be dismissed as unrealistic if there is an easier path. You must also know that repeating a lie over and over does not make it true. Such things reveal much about integrity and character.
It would be different if any NYTimes reporter rolled up their sleeves and wrote an article actually arguing why Sanders is not a serious candidate, -making the case as to why its radical to return to banking regulations our country already had as law most of the 20th century, or why its pie in the sky to be the last developed nation to adopt the health care the rest of the world is already using. When this paper asserts that it is childish to think government could and should curtail the special interests, without explanation, I do not think it helps HRC as intended. But looking at Sanders specific policy proposals, its clear why the paper keeps repeating the accusations rather than attempting explanation.
So the NYTimes has adopted the Fox news approach to politics, -repeating unfounded narratives until people accept them as fact. Not only has the paper assumed this will work on its readers, evidently it sees no danger here in tarnishing its reputation. Time will tell.
It would be different if any NYTimes reporter rolled up their sleeves and wrote an article actually arguing why Sanders is not a serious candidate, -making the case as to why its radical to return to banking regulations our country already had as law most of the 20th century, or why its pie in the sky to be the last developed nation to adopt the health care the rest of the world is already using. When this paper asserts that it is childish to think government could and should curtail the special interests, without explanation, I do not think it helps HRC as intended. But looking at Sanders specific policy proposals, its clear why the paper keeps repeating the accusations rather than attempting explanation.
So the NYTimes has adopted the Fox news approach to politics, -repeating unfounded narratives until people accept them as fact. Not only has the paper assumed this will work on its readers, evidently it sees no danger here in tarnishing its reputation. Time will tell.
6
What seems striking is that we speak of Sen. Sanders' electability and ignore the fact that with the current government in both Congress and the states, his agenda would be impossible to implement.
Keep in mind that in 2008 President Obama was the inspiring, transformative candidate. He was elected in large part because of the youth vote, and had a majority in both houses of congress. In spite of this, he had to limit his programs. The stimulus was smaller than it should have been and too much of it was in the form of tax cuts, and the Affordable Care Act lacked the Public Option. These were the limits imposed by politics. Governors refused infrastructure projects that were part of the stimulus and refused to approve the expansion of Medicaid that was part of the ACA.
After chanting "yes we can" we were disappointed, and so, in 2010, the same young idealists stayed home, and the Republicans gained seats in the House and Senate, and 20 state legislatures flipped from Democrat to Republican. With congressional districts gerrymandered to favor Republicans and many voters removed from the rolls for lack of an approved identification card, there is no way the Democrats can regain the House. Even if Senator Sanders is elected the idealistic young voters will face disappointment.
Secretary Clinton is not an inspirational candidate, but she knows the limitations of the presidency. The young will have to vote now, and in every election to restore progressiveism.
Keep in mind that in 2008 President Obama was the inspiring, transformative candidate. He was elected in large part because of the youth vote, and had a majority in both houses of congress. In spite of this, he had to limit his programs. The stimulus was smaller than it should have been and too much of it was in the form of tax cuts, and the Affordable Care Act lacked the Public Option. These were the limits imposed by politics. Governors refused infrastructure projects that were part of the stimulus and refused to approve the expansion of Medicaid that was part of the ACA.
After chanting "yes we can" we were disappointed, and so, in 2010, the same young idealists stayed home, and the Republicans gained seats in the House and Senate, and 20 state legislatures flipped from Democrat to Republican. With congressional districts gerrymandered to favor Republicans and many voters removed from the rolls for lack of an approved identification card, there is no way the Democrats can regain the House. Even if Senator Sanders is elected the idealistic young voters will face disappointment.
Secretary Clinton is not an inspirational candidate, but she knows the limitations of the presidency. The young will have to vote now, and in every election to restore progressiveism.
11
Mr Blow, you give the usual arguments, but omit those that are most important to me. First, there is the question of foreign policy. Mrs Clinton's approach is too militaristic. Her ideas for intervention in the Middle East failed as much as did those of George Bush. Then there are her ties to Wall Street. Why are you not concerned with the conflict of interest? I could care less about Whitewater and Travelgate, and I suspect that young people feel the same.
7
As a young African American woman I am disheartened by the anti-Hillary stance of so many young women. No, you should not vote for Clinton because she is a woman. But to act as though gender inequality is not a serious issue is a fallacy. We are one of the few rich countries of the western world that has not had a female leader, where women still make less money than men for the same and at times better work, continue to find doors closed and low ceilings in the highest paying industries, and have to choose between furthering careers or having a family.
I feel that Clinton has proven her support of African Americans over the years. Clinton has discussed actual measures to work against systemic racism and discrimination in education and employment, as well as in the criminal justice system. Sanders talks about the disproportionate amount of Blacks in prison in our country. And I agree that no one's life should be ruined for minor infractions made in youth, but people don't go to prison for years for small drug possession. In the south Bronx where I grew up, we were glad to see the most violent people get locked up and terrified when they came home. In a country with well over 300 million documented citizens, 2.3 million people (of all races) in prison or less than 1 percent of the pop is not an epidemic of incarceration.
I feel that Clinton has proven her support of African Americans over the years. Clinton has discussed actual measures to work against systemic racism and discrimination in education and employment, as well as in the criminal justice system. Sanders talks about the disproportionate amount of Blacks in prison in our country. And I agree that no one's life should be ruined for minor infractions made in youth, but people don't go to prison for years for small drug possession. In the south Bronx where I grew up, we were glad to see the most violent people get locked up and terrified when they came home. In a country with well over 300 million documented citizens, 2.3 million people (of all races) in prison or less than 1 percent of the pop is not an epidemic of incarceration.
9
I usual don't agree with Mr. Blow's columns, but this one resonates. It's well written and honest about a family's interpretation of the complex problems facing this country, and how we all process them, and the politicians who promise to solve them.
All I can add is that none of us have the answers. And personally I'm conflicted about who is the best candidate. But what I like about this election is that lots of subjects that are being raised and discussed, that affect us, and that we have a chance to evaluate the candidates' responses and policies to them.
It sounds like your family is headed by a dad who can be proud of his and their approach to this mess that is this election. You and your kids may or may not agree, or vote for the "best" candidate, but don't worry, and be proud. You've set a great example in this case.
All I can add is that none of us have the answers. And personally I'm conflicted about who is the best candidate. But what I like about this election is that lots of subjects that are being raised and discussed, that affect us, and that we have a chance to evaluate the candidates' responses and policies to them.
It sounds like your family is headed by a dad who can be proud of his and their approach to this mess that is this election. You and your kids may or may not agree, or vote for the "best" candidate, but don't worry, and be proud. You've set a great example in this case.
2
I have two thoughtful daughters in mid-twenties and they both strongly support HIllary.. I find it incomprehensible to say that it would not be a huge step for women to elect a woman who is qualified, smart, and pro-women and oldish to boot. There is not only overt sexism in the country, but an unconscious sexism that affects perception and tone. Women are judged on attributes that would escape notice in a man, and the spectrum of what is deemed attractive in a woman is far narrower. Some younger generations of women are better able to "have it all" or at least they hope can (and I hope they can too), as in to be classically feminine and not judged as weak for it--but the older generation of professional women had far stricter lines that they had to walk. (For example, when I was a young attorney years ago, had to wear pin stripe skirt suits with bowed blouses to show (i) that I was professional, but (ii) not threatening.) The point is that many older women have a different perspective on how Hillary developed the style that she has and the history that she has--and so are accepting of aspects of her that grates on the young and the male. (And yes, the young and male do a lot to define what is cool in the culture.) I worry that people magnify trust issues for Hillary because they look for an excuse for the fact that they just don't like certain aspects of her style.
7
Your kids were unimpressed by the Republican candidates for president? Please tell me that you did not persuade them with your ultra liberal, left leaning tendencies. I'm sure that you had nothing to do with your children's fear and cowardice of Republican candidates.
1
As a lifelong Republican voter, I'm right there with those kids.
Anyone who supports HIllary Clinton, as Blow obviously does, is not "ultra liberal" or "ultra left." She is right of center.
Follow the Money.
How can Clinton be one of us when she gets $250,000 speaking to companies who dislike her and accepting hundred of millions from Wall Street and banks?
Hillary has succeeded not because she is a feminist but because she is more aggressive than most men.
How can Clinton be one of us when she gets $250,000 speaking to companies who dislike her and accepting hundred of millions from Wall Street and banks?
Hillary has succeeded not because she is a feminist but because she is more aggressive than most men.
2
Is there something qrong with that?
1
Pandering? Bernie Sanders promises that whenever anyone dies in police custody it will automatically trigger a federal investigation. I fail to see how that could be called pandering.
6
Fine piece, but there is a missing element in the "thoroughness and thoughtfulness" of your children. It is the history of socialism.
3
Great kids. Great Dad. Didn't mention her (you're in trouble), but no doubt, there is a Great Mom involved in making those kids great.
1
I'm 63. I cast my first presidential vote for McGovern. He lost, 49 states to one, and Nixon got a disastrous second term. Bernie is McGovern on steroids. The Republicans are salivating at the chance of framing him as a rabid Marxist who will explode the debt, steal your savings, and bloat the size of Big Government. Given the millions of low or no information voters, that task won't be hard. The Democrats who get elected to the White House are center-left, just the territory Hillary has staked out. Wake up Bernie supporters: politics is the art of the possible, not the impossible. And every one of you Sanders supporters who say you'll never vote for Clinton, take a good hard look at the Right Wing crazies running for president and imagine what the country - and the courts - will suffer under any one of them. Any one of them will make George W Bush look like JFK. Get real, and fast.
9
Republicans are also salivating at the chance of framing a Clinton debate in terms of her emails, Benghazi, her foundation, her husband, her untrustworthiness and her unaccomplishment. And either candidate, and by extension, every liberal, as the root of all evil in this country, killing jobs, declaring war on oil and coal, shredding the Constitution, our allies no longer respect us, our enemies no longer fear us. To that end they will break all the rules of debate decorum. Sanders has shown the mental agility and aptitude for critical thinking and controlling the conversation, that will serve him well in combating those tactics. Clinton with her rigid and rehearsed talking points approach will not get a word in edgewise in that scenario.
Mr. Blow, I was very impressed by your determination not to be someone who says their children invented sex. (Watch what older people say- it really is that silly). To your children, I would point out that after 6 years of investigating bill and Hillary, all the republicans got was a sex scandal which could have been pinned on most of the presidents we had over 200+ years as a country. If Hillary had done any of the horrendous crimes the Grumpy Old Party has accused her of, she would be in jail.
1
We only need to see the current example of the smear machine as it has relentlessly attacked President Obama to imagine the long term effect of the same machine that has been attacking the Clintons, and Hillary specifically, since the 90s. Is there any truth, any fire, to the smoke that has arisen around Obama? IS he really illegitimate? IS he a constitution-busting fascist? Now how do you think Obama will be viewed after 20 years of this consistent vitriol from an opposing party? Will the children of today view Obama as if 'there MUST have been/must BE something off about him'. After twenty years of the Clinton poisoned kool-aid being served, everyone seems to have taken a sip. And yet, the current 'smoke' around Obama can show us that the smoke of Hillary's past is not actually fire, but just the same smoke screen we see today.
7
No comparison. The Clintons were under investigation over and over. Bill had to surrender his law license for a time. Obama has only been the object of the same off-balance garbage every president has.
Both of my kids will be voting for the first time. The first, because he hasn't found a candidate that spoke to him yet. He did not buy the idea that he should vote for a candidate to prevent a candidate from getting elected. This was not motivating enough for him. He believes in Sanders so much, he went to Iowa to volunteer.
My second is worried about climate change. He is upset that we 'very serious people' weren't considerate enough to leave the planet in good shape. For him, Hillary's history on fracking and her money from the fossil fuel industry has been enough of an indication of her true direction.
I am so happy to have engaged children! Bernie has started something Yuuuuge!
My second is worried about climate change. He is upset that we 'very serious people' weren't considerate enough to leave the planet in good shape. For him, Hillary's history on fracking and her money from the fossil fuel industry has been enough of an indication of her true direction.
I am so happy to have engaged children! Bernie has started something Yuuuuge!
12
Charles, I particularly like that instead of asking your children, who are you going to vote for, you choose instead to talk broadly about issues and candidates.
You tell us that "The one area where they struggled with both candidates was on the issue of racial and social justice." I suggest that you might pursue that issue by asking them to think much more carefully about the approaches to those issues presented by Clinton and Sanders.
In countless recent comments at several columns, we have tried to explain that Sanders wants to create programs that help all rather than some particular ethnic group or groups. You have not seemed to understand that. So why don't you ask them if they think that Universal Health Care might provide more benefits in the long run for the less well off in your children's self-declared ethnic group.
And, by the way, I suggest that before you start that discussion you and your children read this Science and Society article in Science (2/5): "Taking Race Out of Human Genetics" (I would add 'and medicine' after 'Genetics'). One of the authors is Dorothy Roberts, black but not African American, a scholar I have been trying to get you to read for at least 3 years. "Now's The Time"
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual-citizen - USA-SE
You tell us that "The one area where they struggled with both candidates was on the issue of racial and social justice." I suggest that you might pursue that issue by asking them to think much more carefully about the approaches to those issues presented by Clinton and Sanders.
In countless recent comments at several columns, we have tried to explain that Sanders wants to create programs that help all rather than some particular ethnic group or groups. You have not seemed to understand that. So why don't you ask them if they think that Universal Health Care might provide more benefits in the long run for the less well off in your children's self-declared ethnic group.
And, by the way, I suggest that before you start that discussion you and your children read this Science and Society article in Science (2/5): "Taking Race Out of Human Genetics" (I would add 'and medicine' after 'Genetics'). One of the authors is Dorothy Roberts, black but not African American, a scholar I have been trying to get you to read for at least 3 years. "Now's The Time"
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual-citizen - USA-SE
4
Despite Ken Starr and the constant digging of the GOP, none of the investigations against Secretary Clinton have produced much of anything but rumor which, as Mr Blow suggests, has done its damage. It's a win win for the GOP.
In my opinion, Clinton is the only one who has deep experience plus the strength necessary to navigate these extremely troubled times.
In my opinion, Clinton is the only one who has deep experience plus the strength necessary to navigate these extremely troubled times.
7
Sometimes you will hear Hillary Clinton say she, not Sander's is the true underdog in the elections.
How so? She comes into the race perceived as an establishment politician, when candidates from both parties rail against anything conventional- when of course they are nothing but.
White males have difficulties with her and many woman may be somewhat uncomfortable with a female President. And her only genuine competition are.....white males.
She is vilified for almost everything. She is Ms. Trilateral. Ms. Pro Israel. Ms. Murder. Ms. Infidelity and Sex Crime defender. Ms. You name it...she's it. She takes on the sins of her husband, and seemingly everyone else. And it doesn't matter that it's all lies...a gullible public and partisan Left either perceive smoke where there is no fire- or just plain lie.
She struggles with the youth vote, in part because she refuses to reduce issues and people to simple terms, stereotypes and anger and struggles with the balance between saying too much or too little on issues.
Her Democratic competition: A 25 year politician- who has proposed nothing particularly controversial and has satisfied his ultra-Liberal Vermont constituency constituency over the years- gun control and all. It's tough to be Liberal in a super Liberal white state- not!
So if Hillary should emerge from the primaries and win the general election- in this vituperative politically poisoned environment- it will be a major accomplishment.
How so? She comes into the race perceived as an establishment politician, when candidates from both parties rail against anything conventional- when of course they are nothing but.
White males have difficulties with her and many woman may be somewhat uncomfortable with a female President. And her only genuine competition are.....white males.
She is vilified for almost everything. She is Ms. Trilateral. Ms. Pro Israel. Ms. Murder. Ms. Infidelity and Sex Crime defender. Ms. You name it...she's it. She takes on the sins of her husband, and seemingly everyone else. And it doesn't matter that it's all lies...a gullible public and partisan Left either perceive smoke where there is no fire- or just plain lie.
She struggles with the youth vote, in part because she refuses to reduce issues and people to simple terms, stereotypes and anger and struggles with the balance between saying too much or too little on issues.
Her Democratic competition: A 25 year politician- who has proposed nothing particularly controversial and has satisfied his ultra-Liberal Vermont constituency constituency over the years- gun control and all. It's tough to be Liberal in a super Liberal white state- not!
So if Hillary should emerge from the primaries and win the general election- in this vituperative politically poisoned environment- it will be a major accomplishment.
4
Go, young generation! We should all be proud of you.
3
Why should "all" be proud? Is life supposed to be a grade school popularity contest?
1
I grew up in a different time, which I will try to do a better job of describing to my Millennial children.
No doubt the horrific events of 9/11 have inspired fear of terrorism. They should inspire fear of somnolent government failing to read memos and other obvious clues to malevolence in the works. That is less likely today.
But my version of fear was being dragged unwillingly off to a foreign jungle based on a lottery and asked to kill the locals by the millions, of coming home in a body bag (50,000 of them), missing limbs or psychologically traumatized to a country that largely detested my actions. A total of 3 million US men ended up in Vietnam, disproportionately blacks and less educated whites.
As the horror of Vietnam receded, we Baby Boomers entered the 1980s early in our careers and watched jobs disappear by the millions as unemployment reached 11%. That was the beginning of the great Inequality from which many never again found their footing, disproportionately veterans.
So if we take a more pragmatic approach to politics, we might be remembering when Humphrey lost to McGovern in the primaries, dooming the US to Nixon and greater escalation of Vietnam and secret wars.
I find no reason to distrust Hillary. But I do admire the Clintons for actions over words. Their speaking fees go to the Clinton Foundation focused on global problems, a better use for Wall Street money than political campaigns. Her policy choices as President are transparent and practical.
No doubt the horrific events of 9/11 have inspired fear of terrorism. They should inspire fear of somnolent government failing to read memos and other obvious clues to malevolence in the works. That is less likely today.
But my version of fear was being dragged unwillingly off to a foreign jungle based on a lottery and asked to kill the locals by the millions, of coming home in a body bag (50,000 of them), missing limbs or psychologically traumatized to a country that largely detested my actions. A total of 3 million US men ended up in Vietnam, disproportionately blacks and less educated whites.
As the horror of Vietnam receded, we Baby Boomers entered the 1980s early in our careers and watched jobs disappear by the millions as unemployment reached 11%. That was the beginning of the great Inequality from which many never again found their footing, disproportionately veterans.
So if we take a more pragmatic approach to politics, we might be remembering when Humphrey lost to McGovern in the primaries, dooming the US to Nixon and greater escalation of Vietnam and secret wars.
I find no reason to distrust Hillary. But I do admire the Clintons for actions over words. Their speaking fees go to the Clinton Foundation focused on global problems, a better use for Wall Street money than political campaigns. Her policy choices as President are transparent and practical.
13
Too bad, as I was reading I was excited that there had been no mention of race - then there it was. Black and white, all day and all night.
1
You should be proud that your children are thinking about their future rather than their parent's past. You should think of them when in the voting booth.
6
"When we need the best-educated workforce in the world, yes, we are going to make public colleges and universities tuition-free." Sen. Bernard Sanders.
No mystery there, Mr. Blow.
No mystery there, Mr. Blow.
13
Charles, perhaps it's important to talk with your children about propaganda and manipulation, when they "feel" Hillary must have done something wrong to be investigated repeatedly. Useful questions:
Who started/conducted the investigations?
Were the investigators neutral or partisan?
Did the investigations find anything?
What motivated the repeated investigations?
What is it fair to conclude about the targets?
Does being targeted make you guilty?
For decades, Republicans have systematically tried to knock out the strongest Democratic players. The people going after the Clintons are the same ones who refuse to examine Scott Walker's role in tainting Flint's tap water.
They are trying desperately to discredit the most qualified, tough and experienced woman ever to run for President simply because none of their candidates can beat her. The Republicans have spent decades building this narrative. And sadly, your children are buying it. You might want to prepare them for the appalling lies and smears that will be thrown at Sanders 24/7 if he is the nominee.
Who started/conducted the investigations?
Were the investigators neutral or partisan?
Did the investigations find anything?
What motivated the repeated investigations?
What is it fair to conclude about the targets?
Does being targeted make you guilty?
For decades, Republicans have systematically tried to knock out the strongest Democratic players. The people going after the Clintons are the same ones who refuse to examine Scott Walker's role in tainting Flint's tap water.
They are trying desperately to discredit the most qualified, tough and experienced woman ever to run for President simply because none of their candidates can beat her. The Republicans have spent decades building this narrative. And sadly, your children are buying it. You might want to prepare them for the appalling lies and smears that will be thrown at Sanders 24/7 if he is the nominee.
13
Wonderful of you, Charles Blow, to share with us the thinking of your childrn during this fraught time in America. yes, the Repblicans want your children's MIllennial and Gen X political affections. They constantly sow seeds of discontent and loathing of our great President Barack Obama. And Hillary Clinton is bearing the baggage of too many Clinton scandals, Bill's impeachment and lies, Hillary's vast ambition, accoplishments and entitlement to be our first female President. How fine your young adult children have come to believe in"Black Lives Matter". Terrorism and the threat of terror is in their memory and heart banks. Interesting that they view Bernie Sanders as the more "authentic"Democratic candidate, though he is alas unelectable. Thank you for your personal story about your family, our and your bright hopes for the future!
2
Many of us think Hillary Clinton is the unelectable one.
Why didn't you ask them months ago, before the " here's why blacks won't vote for Sanders" columns?
22
The thing I find astonishing is that the older vote for Hilary.
In 1964, she was an activist for Goldwater. This was just after he had voted against LBJ's desegregation bill and carried only the Deep South, including Alabama and Mississippi, in the LBJ national landslide.
In the late 1970s Arkansas was one of the key three states for ratfication of ERA. My late wife was the leading NOW feminist working for ratification. She absolutely detested Hillary, as do all her feminist friends. She said Hillary never lifted a finger for ERA ratification. She said Hillary never did one thing in her life for women's rights
Then gay marriage was supposedly a civil rights issue on the level of desegregation (what utter nonsense), but in any case she finally came out for it only in 2012.
In economics, she would give Robert Rubin his fifth term as President--the Rubin who under Obama tripled the market and according to the Fed lowered wages for the bottom 90%. That is where most minorities are. Obviously Occupy Wall Street is for a President who would follow Obama in appointing only Citigroup officials. They occupy Wall Street
And finally all we need is the first woman President who rose on the back of her husband. Obama should give her an Agnew deal for dropping out.Then he could resign himself and President Biden could appoint Elizabeth Warren as VP. That would give the Democrats a remote chance in November.
In 1964, she was an activist for Goldwater. This was just after he had voted against LBJ's desegregation bill and carried only the Deep South, including Alabama and Mississippi, in the LBJ national landslide.
In the late 1970s Arkansas was one of the key three states for ratfication of ERA. My late wife was the leading NOW feminist working for ratification. She absolutely detested Hillary, as do all her feminist friends. She said Hillary never lifted a finger for ERA ratification. She said Hillary never did one thing in her life for women's rights
Then gay marriage was supposedly a civil rights issue on the level of desegregation (what utter nonsense), but in any case she finally came out for it only in 2012.
In economics, she would give Robert Rubin his fifth term as President--the Rubin who under Obama tripled the market and according to the Fed lowered wages for the bottom 90%. That is where most minorities are. Obviously Occupy Wall Street is for a President who would follow Obama in appointing only Citigroup officials. They occupy Wall Street
And finally all we need is the first woman President who rose on the back of her husband. Obama should give her an Agnew deal for dropping out.Then he could resign himself and President Biden could appoint Elizabeth Warren as VP. That would give the Democrats a remote chance in November.
21
I totally agree with you, except for one thing, I can't really hold Clinton's background as a Goldwater girl against her. She would have been around 17 or 18 at the time, everyone should be allowed the freedom to make regrettable choices as a teen. Lizzie Warren used to be a Republican, Rick Perry used to be a Democrat. Go figure.
5
Elizabeth Warren was a Reagan Republican until she was in her forties and the only person on the Democratic side who voted in Congress for the Crime Bill and against immigration reform is Bernie Sanders.
6
Rose on the back of her husband? You didn't notice her work in the senate and as Secretary of State? I guess a mere woman couldn't have her own track record. And why would we take Warren out of the senate? She is needed there. Do you honestly think Biden would be better than Obama? In November, both Obama and Biden will be gone. How would your suggestion give Dems a better chance in the election?
Great column and thanks for sharing the thoughts of your children with us. And I can certainly understand their interest in Bernie.
25
If you like the way things are—inequality and war—vote for Hillary Clinton. On the other hand, if you believe America can be better and more humane, vote for Bernie Sanders.
119
I see you are writing from Sverige. Sen. Sanders positions on the issues must seem very mainstream and common sense to you. As they do to me because I have seen how a social democratic philosophy of government can work well during my years working here in NYC for a Swedish company with most of my coworkers Nordic citizens. I spent enough time at the home office in Stockholm to get a feel for how people live; I speak some Swedish and of course virtually everyone there speaks English.
Unfortunately most US citizens have not had that experience. They have always lived where inequality is normal, indeed valued, and frequently in a state of (usually distant) war. They have great trouble believing that it would be possible to have things any differently. Here we hand out meager social benefits only to the very poor until old age. Working class and middle class people's experience is that they don't get government benefits; many of the younger ones have been led to believe that even Social Security (federal elder pensions) won't be there for them. Many cannot imagine "dismantling our strong defenses", that is, stopping being the misguided police and/or muggers of the world. If you told them the truth, that corporate tax rates are lower in Sweden than in the US they would be sure you were lying. With those mind sets many of those people will never vote for Sen. Sanders. It's not that they like the way things are. It's that they think the only choice is between that and worse.
Unfortunately most US citizens have not had that experience. They have always lived where inequality is normal, indeed valued, and frequently in a state of (usually distant) war. They have great trouble believing that it would be possible to have things any differently. Here we hand out meager social benefits only to the very poor until old age. Working class and middle class people's experience is that they don't get government benefits; many of the younger ones have been led to believe that even Social Security (federal elder pensions) won't be there for them. Many cannot imagine "dismantling our strong defenses", that is, stopping being the misguided police and/or muggers of the world. If you told them the truth, that corporate tax rates are lower in Sweden than in the US they would be sure you were lying. With those mind sets many of those people will never vote for Sen. Sanders. It's not that they like the way things are. It's that they think the only choice is between that and worse.
6
Voters have a choice between allowing the situation to stay the same under Hillary Clinton—inequality and war—or casting their vote for a hope for positive change with Bernie Sanders.
The oligarchs (who want their perks to remain) and The Important People tell you that Clinton is not making hollow promises and only she can win. Sanders, by contrast, tells you what he has always stood for and offers America the chance for positive change.
The polls say Sanders can win in November regardless of the Republican nominee. They say that Clinton may very well put a Republican in the Oval Office. The voters will decide whether they want a Democrat in the White House or somebody who will turn America into a global pariah.
The oligarchs (who want their perks to remain) and The Important People tell you that Clinton is not making hollow promises and only she can win. Sanders, by contrast, tells you what he has always stood for and offers America the chance for positive change.
The polls say Sanders can win in November regardless of the Republican nominee. They say that Clinton may very well put a Republican in the Oval Office. The voters will decide whether they want a Democrat in the White House or somebody who will turn America into a global pariah.
1
What basis do you have for your claims about Clinton. And what do you,think will happen if Republicans beat Bernie in the general?
I really wish someone would focus on the millennials that are NOT for Bernie Sanders. My 20 somethings and their friends (women and men) are all in for Hillary, see her as the most qualified, knowledgeable and capable leader. They have not fallen for the cult of Bernie, despite being very far left in their political leanings. To them, he is smoke and mirrors and his followers exemplify the entitlement mantra that seems to defy their generation -- I'm going to get free college! free health care! They feel there is a lot of group think involved, that it's "cool" to be feeling the Bern without a lot of analysis of what he is saying. My daughter, in particular, is disheartened by her female cohort as they don't understand the systemic sexism that is playing out in this election and has created a false narrative throughout the years about Secretary Clinton. And hell yes, she is voting for Hillary because she's a woman, not just because of what that would represent, but because of how she would govern.
247
Preferring a candidate who is closer to one's ideal vision isn't joining a "cult." This sounds--in nicer language--so much like all of the Facebook shouters who accuse liberals of having "drunk the Kool-Aid." Your daughter sounds interesting and bright and to have thought deeply about her decision. Charles's daughter, too.
2
Not all young people are intelligent.
1
You speak the words right out of my mind.
That said, I like Bernie Sanders. I like his 'vision'. Do I think that vision is a realistic one, heck no, but it's a nice one anyway.
I'm a Hillary supporter because for all the things they are throwing at her, if she were a man, none of these 'faults' would be a issue.
That's not to say that Clinton doesn't have her faults. But what POL doesn't.
And yes, I do believe deeply that many college students saddled with mountain size college debts, the idea of free tuition is a worthwhile 'Christmas' wish. So is free health care.
The reality is none of these things will ever happen. Even with a DEM Congress at the helm, it ain't gonna happen.
Perhaps in time, free community college might become a reality, and some people fortunate enough to get lucrative grants or scholarship programs is very conceivable, but free college for all....it ain't gonna happen.
Hillary Clinton, for the most part, is a realist.
Bernie Sanders is a dreamer.
That said, I like Bernie Sanders. I like his 'vision'. Do I think that vision is a realistic one, heck no, but it's a nice one anyway.
I'm a Hillary supporter because for all the things they are throwing at her, if she were a man, none of these 'faults' would be a issue.
That's not to say that Clinton doesn't have her faults. But what POL doesn't.
And yes, I do believe deeply that many college students saddled with mountain size college debts, the idea of free tuition is a worthwhile 'Christmas' wish. So is free health care.
The reality is none of these things will ever happen. Even with a DEM Congress at the helm, it ain't gonna happen.
Perhaps in time, free community college might become a reality, and some people fortunate enough to get lucrative grants or scholarship programs is very conceivable, but free college for all....it ain't gonna happen.
Hillary Clinton, for the most part, is a realist.
Bernie Sanders is a dreamer.
5
Thanks for sharing - to you Charles and more importantly to your family. Young members of Blow Family must be encouraged to think 'out of box and independently'. That is where our salvation lies as an enduring country and nation.
Hillary's trouble - let her sort out. Convincing Young Generation - that is going to be at least as hard a problem as like what she will face in the Oval Office. So let her work through. Let Hillary 'earn' her nomination. Otherwise, Bernie might be better than Donald too.
Hillary's trouble - let her sort out. Convincing Young Generation - that is going to be at least as hard a problem as like what she will face in the Oval Office. So let her work through. Let Hillary 'earn' her nomination. Otherwise, Bernie might be better than Donald too.
3
“The surest way to corrupt a youth is to instruct him [or her] to hold in higher esteem those who think alike than those who think differently.” -- Nietzsche
Sanders 2016!
Sanders 2016!
32
The younger generation of voters, especially women are not interested in old school POLS like Hillary Clinton. Snake oil, smoke and mirrors don't attract them just because she is a woman or for that matter anyone who alludes to being, black, transgender or atheist. It's not about that at all for most voters who today demand authenticity, not pandering to them or raping their minds like opportunist masquerading as activists. Hillary is an expert chameleon and everyone watches how she instantly adapts to the shade of the moment. Today's young voting age citizens don't even vote - look at the dinosaur choices they have on the left, if these young voters are at least looking for someone young like them, they need to pivot right where that candidate is pummeled for being too young and inexperienced.
6
Young people of every generation always believe that they have discovered the world as it really is, where previous generations have been duped. Every generation looks at its predecessors as "dinosaurs." That is both the blessing and the curse of youth - combining fresh perspectives with lack of appreciation for the perspectives that went before.
But when young people say things like, Hillary Clinton is "raping their minds," I can only roll my 59-year-old eyes.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
But when young people say things like, Hillary Clinton is "raping their minds," I can only roll my 59-year-old eyes.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
7
What your children and those of us in our fifties who are leaning toward Sanders are saying is that identity politics is not a great way to choose candidates who represent our ideals, our positions on the issues, or our hopes for the future. I'm female, feminist, a parent, and an old fart. A person with Clinton's track record (both Clintons) does not have my support. It's not generational.
50
Amen. We are glad you sat down with your kids to have this conversation (very few columnists in NYT seem to have asked their own kids). The young are very perceptive. Our kids in their mid 20s (older than yours, also products of the 1990s) led us to Bernie. My kids voted for the 1st time in their lives, for Mr Obama. Today in 2016, they will vote for Bernie Sanders because he projects the vision of a place they want for our country, so badly. My daughter, sensitive to political correctness, color issues, contributes to OBS (organization for black struggle) and Black Lives Matter, initiated her own environmentalist persons of color movement in college and is a big fan of Michelle Alexander's writings. My daughter is a feminist but will never vote for Hillary, because "Mrs Clinton has not spoken out against her husband's welfare reform, and she has said nothing about reversing the policies that conflict completely with her claims of feminism and social justice.”
Charles, we should remember that the years 2009, 2010 saw peaks in number of high school students graduating to enter college. These same kids have now finished college, saddled with student loans, finding a hostile marketplace, have seen their middle aged parents struggle with jobs, health care, housing mortgages for complex reasons outside their control. Not to mention wars, America's exceptionalism blah blah. They see it clearly, the political and economic system is rigged for the wealthy and powerful.
Charles, we should remember that the years 2009, 2010 saw peaks in number of high school students graduating to enter college. These same kids have now finished college, saddled with student loans, finding a hostile marketplace, have seen their middle aged parents struggle with jobs, health care, housing mortgages for complex reasons outside their control. Not to mention wars, America's exceptionalism blah blah. They see it clearly, the political and economic system is rigged for the wealthy and powerful.
163
We don't trust Hilary because of who she is now, not the past scandals. New lies pop out of her mouth almost every day. I believe she will say anything to get elected. It's hard to see that ruthless ambition and not be concerned. She had her time eight years ago; it's time for a new vision--and a honest one leader with integrity. And, you don't have to be young to want that.
48
I had wanted her to be president eight years ago. She seemed to have had the middle class in mind during the housing crisis back then. Now is a different time. Perhaps she has had so many privileged opportunities and never the chance to come into her own.
Mr Blow, I am shocked that your offspring are voting Democratic. That was sarcasm, by the way.
4
Living on the south side of seventy, I always chuckle at the notion that only the young support Bernie. I hold fervently to the hope he will be elected, for I have children and grand-children for whom his policies will be life-changing in the most positive ways.
As for Hillary being the first woman President, it has nothing to do with feminism. She has chosen to play the shadow games of politics her whole career. Bernie has not. One is in it for the power and glory, one for the people.
As for Hillary being the first woman President, it has nothing to do with feminism. She has chosen to play the shadow games of politics her whole career. Bernie has not. One is in it for the power and glory, one for the people.
96
Bernie has been in office for 24 YEARS. What has he accomplished - other than his sudden conversion to being a Democrat. Is that not playing politics?
9
The most striking and important aspect of this discussion is that young people today are more engaged in the political process than they have been in a generation. For nearly 20 years, anytime I would try to engage a 20 something about the political scene, I would get the standard, "I don't know anything about that" answer. "I don't vote" was another one. Times have changed, finally.
Back is the days of Vietnam, the younger crowd, my crowd, was heavily involved in politics. We had much to lose. We were dying. Lots of us were dying. When you are in high school and you see young guys in wheel chairs wearing green army clothes, you take notice. You notice the weekly body counts that number in the hundreds.
Nineteen year olds aren't filling body bags today as then, but there is a threat facing all young people. They can't afford college and there are few jobs for them. Many live at home until they are 30. College debt is crushing them.
Bernie sanders speaks to these problems and they are listening. Bernie's campaign is activating them. They have so much to lose if they don't get involved.
The free college thing probably wont happen, but affordable college could happen. The young understand that. They understand you can't live on $12/hr.
This is what is so encouraging about the Sander's campaign. He wants to push the nation in a direction that will provide a future for the young. Waking them up is his great contribution even if he loses.
Back is the days of Vietnam, the younger crowd, my crowd, was heavily involved in politics. We had much to lose. We were dying. Lots of us were dying. When you are in high school and you see young guys in wheel chairs wearing green army clothes, you take notice. You notice the weekly body counts that number in the hundreds.
Nineteen year olds aren't filling body bags today as then, but there is a threat facing all young people. They can't afford college and there are few jobs for them. Many live at home until they are 30. College debt is crushing them.
Bernie sanders speaks to these problems and they are listening. Bernie's campaign is activating them. They have so much to lose if they don't get involved.
The free college thing probably wont happen, but affordable college could happen. The young understand that. They understand you can't live on $12/hr.
This is what is so encouraging about the Sander's campaign. He wants to push the nation in a direction that will provide a future for the young. Waking them up is his great contribution even if he loses.
54
I work as a volunteer for Bernie Sanders and have noticed a shift over time regarding Bernie Sanders and the opinion held by voters.
The unelectable meme has been pushed very hard by media pundits, Clinton surrogates, the DC Villager class and any number of NYT Writers- not all editorial.
For a long time it was the first thing shown in our faces when we brought Bernie up. Commonly it would be phrased like this:
"You ARE supporting the Democratic nominee whomever it is? " as a prerequisite to the continued conversation as if it were just an exercise in politeness as no serious person could fathom anybody other than Hillary getting the nomination. See, it is more implied than spoken, but it is quite obviously there.
We are not hearing that any more. Bernie seems to have earned his stripes with Democrats and most Hillary supporters on the street now accede that he is a serious candidate and electable. That has yet to happen among the media pundits, but the shift is ongoing.
I write this from Arkansas, where the Clintons are well known and early voting is already underway. I also live just outside Memphis Tennessee and near the fastest growing county in Mississippi, which gives me an exposure to the electorate of 3 southern states. The shift in attitudes toward Bernie is happening and is plainly noticeable- not just among the young.
If Super Tuesday were little farther out I would say Ms Clinton is in trouble here, but she is still ahead and March 1 is very close.
The unelectable meme has been pushed very hard by media pundits, Clinton surrogates, the DC Villager class and any number of NYT Writers- not all editorial.
For a long time it was the first thing shown in our faces when we brought Bernie up. Commonly it would be phrased like this:
"You ARE supporting the Democratic nominee whomever it is? " as a prerequisite to the continued conversation as if it were just an exercise in politeness as no serious person could fathom anybody other than Hillary getting the nomination. See, it is more implied than spoken, but it is quite obviously there.
We are not hearing that any more. Bernie seems to have earned his stripes with Democrats and most Hillary supporters on the street now accede that he is a serious candidate and electable. That has yet to happen among the media pundits, but the shift is ongoing.
I write this from Arkansas, where the Clintons are well known and early voting is already underway. I also live just outside Memphis Tennessee and near the fastest growing county in Mississippi, which gives me an exposure to the electorate of 3 southern states. The shift in attitudes toward Bernie is happening and is plainly noticeable- not just among the young.
If Super Tuesday were little farther out I would say Ms Clinton is in trouble here, but she is still ahead and March 1 is very close.
32
I don't know whether Bernie is "electable" or not .. there's a long way to go to the election. A lot about whether he could be elected (presuming he gets the nomination) depends on what might lie ahead.
But what I do know is that Bernie's big ideas are hopeless in the coming presidential cycle, probably hopeless even if he could be a two-term president, or somebody running on his legacy continued his path.
The problem for progressives (and I am a progressive, you cannot take that away from me) is that the Republicans control the house through gerrymandering. In the last election more votes were cast for Democratic house candidates than Republican ones, but the Republicans have a choke-hold on the house. No progressive agenda big or small is going to get through until that is broken.
If one does this the traditional way it cannot be broken until after 2020, and progressives would need to control governorships and statehouses to do it. That is a long hard battle, and there is then a danger of just doing unto others ....
It would be much better if the battle could be taken to a higher plane -- fight for non-partisan districting. That would draw some center-right or even conservative support.
But anything here is a long hard slog. And the Bernie "vote for me and everything will change tomorrow" ... is lala land.
But what I do know is that Bernie's big ideas are hopeless in the coming presidential cycle, probably hopeless even if he could be a two-term president, or somebody running on his legacy continued his path.
The problem for progressives (and I am a progressive, you cannot take that away from me) is that the Republicans control the house through gerrymandering. In the last election more votes were cast for Democratic house candidates than Republican ones, but the Republicans have a choke-hold on the house. No progressive agenda big or small is going to get through until that is broken.
If one does this the traditional way it cannot be broken until after 2020, and progressives would need to control governorships and statehouses to do it. That is a long hard battle, and there is then a danger of just doing unto others ....
It would be much better if the battle could be taken to a higher plane -- fight for non-partisan districting. That would draw some center-right or even conservative support.
But anything here is a long hard slog. And the Bernie "vote for me and everything will change tomorrow" ... is lala land.
Your children seemed to have been absent from school when they took up the study of 20th century political history. Virtually every "socialist" movement from National Socialism in 1930's Germany/Italy to the United SOCIALIST Social Republic, to Mao and Castro and Pol Pot, Chavez and North Korea has ended in totalitarian regimes. Besides being as absurdly detached from economic reality as Donald Trump's "terrific...fabulous" ideas for creating jobs, Sanders sounds more superficial with every repetition of his single economic panacea: raise taxes.
6
None of the "movements" that you cite governed as democratic socialists. They were fascists or communists who hijacked the S word. Democratic socialism is a philosophy of government currently practiced in Scandinavia and to varying extents elsewhere. In Scandinavia DS has had considerable success in fostering societies where virtually everyone lives above the poverty line (some far above it) where people work hard and well when they are working but have some leisure time as well, and where workers are not subject to employment at will. They have equitable systems of law, in some details fairer than ours in the US. They are in no danger of becoming totalitarian. On the other hand there is a scary amount of blood lust emanating from some of our "mainstream" Presidential candidates.
1
Stephanie. Are you deliberately trying to equate every hierarchical regime (the Nazis, the Communists, and dictators) to democratic socialism, or do you just not understand the difference between 'hierarchical' and 'equalitist'?
Every group you listed set up their organization as a ladder, those on the top (for whom they set all rewards) and those further down the ladder's rungs (for whom they set all punishments. They all were a mix of authoritarianism, totalatarianism, and dictatorship and utterly non-inclusive.
Social democracy or democratic socialism is the opposite of what you name.
The citizens vote on what concerns them. Racism is out. So is sexism. The wealth collected by taxation goes back into the society: schools, roads, medical care, etc. It doesn't go into the pockets of the 1% just because the 1% bought politicians to rig the system to funnel the tax-money to them.
Now, consider this last fact: There's nothing more unstable than a ladder. They fall over all the time. Check your list and remember that: ladders fall.
Every group you listed set up their organization as a ladder, those on the top (for whom they set all rewards) and those further down the ladder's rungs (for whom they set all punishments. They all were a mix of authoritarianism, totalatarianism, and dictatorship and utterly non-inclusive.
Social democracy or democratic socialism is the opposite of what you name.
The citizens vote on what concerns them. Racism is out. So is sexism. The wealth collected by taxation goes back into the society: schools, roads, medical care, etc. It doesn't go into the pockets of the 1% just because the 1% bought politicians to rig the system to funnel the tax-money to them.
Now, consider this last fact: There's nothing more unstable than a ladder. They fall over all the time. Check your list and remember that: ladders fall.
2
Despite these movements having the world "socialist" in them they more closely resemble fascism in how they were carried out and impacted the populace. More so, these movements and their ideologies is exactly what Donald Trump espouses, so your comparison of the two is invalid. Bernie Sander's socialism is a move towards the current European Structure, which has been far more successful in economic growth where it has been done well (eg. Germany, Sweden, Iceland, etc). In fact since the UK has pushed for more capitalistic policies aka the Austerity taxes they have seen further economic decline. What Bernie Sanders suggest is a political and economic revolution for the US, which means big government and higher taxes, yes, but will also lead to more equality and fairer distribution of wealth. His ideas are in no way "superficial", but concepts that have proven extremely potent when done right. I direct you to study the Icelandic economic structure and still tell me Bernie is wrong.
2
What is this fixation on the 90"s crime bill? Mass incarceration? Don't commit a crime and you won't be incarcerated. Is that too much to ask?
6
Just dropping in to say Mr. Blow no longer has credibility to me. Not so much for his spurning Bernie Sanders, but for his support of Hillary "bow wow" Clinton.
11
Brilliantly argued, as usual.
So you'll be voting Trump/Cruz?
2
In the past ten years, I have met a few people under 30 who don't even think about voting. Ever. It is always shocking to me and my efforts to impress upon them how important , and sacred, is the right to vote usually ends up with them scanning a menu more intently. It's all Ho Hum. They don't find it interesting and more troubling, they don't think it matters. How have we come to this?
So, Mr. Blow, your own children give me hope. You are obviously doing a good job as Dad.
So, Mr. Blow, your own children give me hope. You are obviously doing a good job as Dad.
8
It has come to this because many enfranchised adults, and not just the young, see the 2 parties as identical on 80% of the issues, with the rest being noise. While this may not be entirely true, they don't see any 'mainstream' candidate enacting change that will attack those issues such as inequality of opportunity that they see as primary in importance. Many have also written off the idea that they are part of a larger community (the country) and have adopted an attitude of live local, think local. If they get fired up by someone such as Sanders they may show up, but after they see the tactics used against him in order to anoint the mainstream candidate I'm pretty sure they retreat back to their former, understandable apathy.
When have we NOT been at war, since late 1941? Seems to me we've been involved in active armed conflict the overwhelming majority of the time of my life, which corresponds with that period. So many problems at home have gone unaddressed because we so foolishly focus on imposing our beliefs and values on people scattered all over the globe. What a terrible waste of lives and of opportunity.
12
Maybe Hillary's shortcomings would be easier to understand if mainstream publications like the NYT would do their job and report the news.
The NYT missed a big one yesterday: the 5th anniversary of the Western-backed uprising against Libya, once one of the leading countries on the continent.
Now Libya is a failed state, a humanitarian catastrophe.
Amnesty International said that NATO coalition members need to be, "held to account for the horrors that have unfolded in Libya."
It can't be stated often enough: not only was Libya Hillary's idea, but she had to battle Defense Secretary Robert Gates to pursue this policy because Gates tried to argue we had no national interest there and shouldn't engage in regime change.
Remember Hillary's famous comment in the fall of 2011?
"We came, we saw, he died."
What about the ghoulish photo of a wildly grinning Hillary posing with Libyan rebels holding up two fingers in a symbol of victory?
Was that picture taken before or after Qaddafi was sodomized with a bayonet?
Jeffrey Goldberg, writing for The Atlantic on 8/10/14, said that Hillary pointed to the "success" of overthrowing Qaddafi. Iraq, Hillary explained, was stupid because we had no plan about what to do afterward, unlike Libya.
Between Hillary's actions in Libya, and the fact that the Clinton Foundation has received millions from Middle-Eastern countries and defense contractors, it becomes obvious that Hillary's judgment is simply catastrophic.
Why can't the NYT report this?
The NYT missed a big one yesterday: the 5th anniversary of the Western-backed uprising against Libya, once one of the leading countries on the continent.
Now Libya is a failed state, a humanitarian catastrophe.
Amnesty International said that NATO coalition members need to be, "held to account for the horrors that have unfolded in Libya."
It can't be stated often enough: not only was Libya Hillary's idea, but she had to battle Defense Secretary Robert Gates to pursue this policy because Gates tried to argue we had no national interest there and shouldn't engage in regime change.
Remember Hillary's famous comment in the fall of 2011?
"We came, we saw, he died."
What about the ghoulish photo of a wildly grinning Hillary posing with Libyan rebels holding up two fingers in a symbol of victory?
Was that picture taken before or after Qaddafi was sodomized with a bayonet?
Jeffrey Goldberg, writing for The Atlantic on 8/10/14, said that Hillary pointed to the "success" of overthrowing Qaddafi. Iraq, Hillary explained, was stupid because we had no plan about what to do afterward, unlike Libya.
Between Hillary's actions in Libya, and the fact that the Clinton Foundation has received millions from Middle-Eastern countries and defense contractors, it becomes obvious that Hillary's judgment is simply catastrophic.
Why can't the NYT report this?
42
Mr. Blow, thank you for your insights. Interesting column.
It is about fairness and making decisions on the merits. It is not about "isms" anymore. Maybe humanism where everyone is treated fairly. And, where we give a hand up to those who need it.
Boomer for Bernie
It is about fairness and making decisions on the merits. It is not about "isms" anymore. Maybe humanism where everyone is treated fairly. And, where we give a hand up to those who need it.
Boomer for Bernie
24
All the talk of racial, gender and generational divisions is off the mark. Here is the real division: security versus the unknown. The people who lean towards Hillary, will do so because they have security; job security, financial security, or social security. The rest will either vote for Sanders or may be to tired to vote at all.
11
Why do you assume only financially secure people vote for Hillary? I am not financially secure, a GOP victory would make me worse off, and I'm voting Hillary until Bernie can show me a realistic path to 270 electoral vores in the general election.
Mr. Sanders is the only hopeful candidate running... and because of that he has captured the imagination of those raised in a culture of fear and scarcity. Most young voters have heard that we should be vigilant at all times ("if you see something, say something"), that our resources are dwindling, that they should never expect to collect any social security, and that gunman might invade their school at any moment.
The Republicans amplify fear and scarcity. They want to be afraid of five-year old war-torn immigrants, to be armed so we can fight off crazed car-jackers, and to devise our own means of retirement funding and health care because the government should stay out of our lives. Their message is not one that would appeal to anyone hoping for a better world.
Ms. Clinton seems to accept the world as it is and bases her campaign on the fact that she's not a fear-mongering and austerity minded Republican. A platform of "I'm not as bad as any of the Republicans" does not ignite anyone's imagination... especially the imagination of a young voter who would sooner stay home than vote for more of the same.
Mr. Sanders believes now as he has for decades that the "world as it is" is unfair to women, minorities, and those unlucky enough to have been born in the 99%. He's described a way to change the system, to make it fairer, and to inject hope and abundance instead of fear and scarcity. No one should be surprised at his rise.
The Republicans amplify fear and scarcity. They want to be afraid of five-year old war-torn immigrants, to be armed so we can fight off crazed car-jackers, and to devise our own means of retirement funding and health care because the government should stay out of our lives. Their message is not one that would appeal to anyone hoping for a better world.
Ms. Clinton seems to accept the world as it is and bases her campaign on the fact that she's not a fear-mongering and austerity minded Republican. A platform of "I'm not as bad as any of the Republicans" does not ignite anyone's imagination... especially the imagination of a young voter who would sooner stay home than vote for more of the same.
Mr. Sanders believes now as he has for decades that the "world as it is" is unfair to women, minorities, and those unlucky enough to have been born in the 99%. He's described a way to change the system, to make it fairer, and to inject hope and abundance instead of fear and scarcity. No one should be surprised at his rise.
100
Bernie describes the goals but he doesn't actually say how they can possibly move towards reality given an obdurate Congress insistent on non-governing or direct obstruction. I am very much afraid that whichever Democratic candidate might be elected, progress is stalled until the 2020 census or until more Republicans awaken from their FOX induced hypnotic state. I predict that a year into a Democratic Presidency, people will be blaming the candidate for not being able to move the Congress and for not doing X, Y, or Z on the international front. Who you vote for counts, but the world in which they must move probably counts even more.
5
Yes, and while he was believing she was out there DOING. No contest.
3
Yes, Bonnie, it will take some time to restore democracy but we have to hang in there and do all we can to make it so. A democrat for President and a socially conscious democrat/independent controlled Senate this election are just the start. WE must stay engaged and DEMAND the changes we want to see regardless of who we elect.
1
This column has a nimbleness to it that's often sadly lacking these days.
While the media are trying to separate everyone into camps depending on whom they favor, families are doing the opposite. They are talking and listening.
Thanks, Mr Blow, for this column. It reflects my own experiences with my kids and young relatives.
Parents tend to give their voting-age kids the credibility that much of the media does not.
While the media are trying to separate everyone into camps depending on whom they favor, families are doing the opposite. They are talking and listening.
Thanks, Mr Blow, for this column. It reflects my own experiences with my kids and young relatives.
Parents tend to give their voting-age kids the credibility that much of the media does not.
10
Nimble? Try daisy-gathering. It was all I could do to read to the end. And I'm a parent of a 19 year old who shows up at my house with his friends to watch the debates.
1
For their entire lives, dating back to January 25, 1993 when Bill Clinton chose Hillary Clinton to head his health care task force, young people have heard a barrage of negative criticism about Hillary Clinton. Whether they have been aware of it or not, it has influenced their perception of Secretary Clinton. Now, as young people pay serious attention to politics, they find Bernie Sanders to be more honest and authentic – he is, after all, the fresher face. However, what will really hurt Hillary Clinton with young voters is the nominating process itself. Despite Bernie Sanders’ impressive win in New Hampshire, and the virtual tie in Iowa, Hillary Clinton has a huge lead in the delegate count thanks to the super delegates. Young people will stay away from the polls in November if they perceive that Senator Sanders did not get a fair shake, and right now, the Democratic Party is feeding the perception that the nomination battle is rigged. It’s time to take the superdelegates out of the equation, and allow for true democracy in the Democratic Party nomination. May the best candidate win.
8
It's not thoughtfulness if anyone still ignores the hand of the right wing in the endless attacks on the Clintons. The Clinton administration, by the way, led to more prosperity and peace than any other postwar presidency. Before accepting the Scaife-led slurs, think about the equally outrageous campaign against John Kerry's war record during his presidential campaign.
As to the Sanders idealists, I was young once and idealistic, and by scorning Hubert Humphrey, we got Richard Nixon elected, twice.
As to the Sanders idealists, I was young once and idealistic, and by scorning Hubert Humphrey, we got Richard Nixon elected, twice.
19
Ha! How true!
3
You're the man who wrote the column decrying Berniesplaining to African Americans, no? Rightly so, it's incredibly patronizing to explain to anyone how they should vote or what's best for them. So you can surely understand how Hillarysplaining by feminists and establishment apparatchiks to women and the young can be just as offensive and patronizing.
I'm female and a lot older then your kids, but it's more than a bit disingeneous to blame the antipathy towards Clinton on Republicans. It's not too difficult to observe that any potential candidate whose first action on taking office was to set up a private server, to allow the financials of the family foundation skate uncomfortably close to conflict of interest with the State Dept, and whose first actions out of office were to line up a string of obscenely paying speeches with the architechts of inequality as, at the very best, suspect. Let alone utterly contemptuous of both the electorate and the administration she served under. Add to that doing 180s on so many positions she'd previously espoused doesn't exactly inspire confidence either. Give the kids and Sanders supporters some credit, they really aren't that stupid.
As a Sanders supporter, i do find myself frustrated at the nebulousness of his platform. It's past time for him to pay attention to the economists, hire a few, and hammer out some plans. Better to find and correct the flaws sooner rather than later. At least he starts from the right place.
I'm female and a lot older then your kids, but it's more than a bit disingeneous to blame the antipathy towards Clinton on Republicans. It's not too difficult to observe that any potential candidate whose first action on taking office was to set up a private server, to allow the financials of the family foundation skate uncomfortably close to conflict of interest with the State Dept, and whose first actions out of office were to line up a string of obscenely paying speeches with the architechts of inequality as, at the very best, suspect. Let alone utterly contemptuous of both the electorate and the administration she served under. Add to that doing 180s on so many positions she'd previously espoused doesn't exactly inspire confidence either. Give the kids and Sanders supporters some credit, they really aren't that stupid.
As a Sanders supporter, i do find myself frustrated at the nebulousness of his platform. It's past time for him to pay attention to the economists, hire a few, and hammer out some plans. Better to find and correct the flaws sooner rather than later. At least he starts from the right place.
13
I am not comfortable casting a vote for a man who is ten years older than I am, not for President of the United States.
8
Bernie Sanders may be chronologically older than Hillary Clinton, but he's more youthful in his demeanor, his call for (revolutionary) change, and his openness. Clinton struggles, I think, with giving undecided voters a positive reason to vote for her. Strategy may appeal to Clinton herself and her campaign staff as a basis for making decisions, but not everybody uses strategy as the primary consideration and strategy is not an inspiring rallying cry. I am somewhat serious in wondering whether a candidate from a political partnership known for "triangulation" overestimates how much other people are like-minded.
6
As First Lady, Mrs. Clinton was the first (in memory) to proclaim ''a vast right wing conspiracy,'' which sounded a little nutty at the time.
It turns out that she was correct and that it has gotten ever more pernicious over time.
While no particular fan of either Clinton, what must it be like to be targeted by the evil propaganda machinery of the right for decades? What habits of mind result (a private email server?)
The Gowdy Benghazi inquisition did not lay a glove on Secretary Clinton and the email controversy so far seems to be a retrospective squabble between intelligence agencies over what should have been classified at some point in the past.
But, unlike Sanders, at least she knows what she is up against.
It turns out that she was correct and that it has gotten ever more pernicious over time.
While no particular fan of either Clinton, what must it be like to be targeted by the evil propaganda machinery of the right for decades? What habits of mind result (a private email server?)
The Gowdy Benghazi inquisition did not lay a glove on Secretary Clinton and the email controversy so far seems to be a retrospective squabble between intelligence agencies over what should have been classified at some point in the past.
But, unlike Sanders, at least she knows what she is up against.
49
Fine if you want to play the victim card for Hillary. But when demcratic primary voters in New Hamphsire who valued honesty most in their candidate were asked who they favored, only one in ten said Hillary. Maybe I am missing something but that is a serious problem for the democrats. After all, this is still somewhat of a popularity contest and she just isn't popular. It will lead to low turnouts in November.
Yes I remember that as well. I think she first used it in proclaiming that the claims that her husband Bill was having sex with an intern as part of 'a vast right wing conspiracy'.
2
The ida that young women on a college campus don't experience sexism even as rape is a major problem often swept under the rug tells me that young women are embarrassed to admit when sexism happens, like it is a weakness.
And while you can vote for whoever you please and be a feminist, you can't call yourself a feminist, and then not regard it as crucial to move more women into positions of power. If women are not the ons making decisions for themselves, you are just advocating for more humane treatment of people you still believe to be second class citizens. (and yes you can be a women and still think of yourself this way.)
And that's the problem, women are second class citizens so their problems and needs are too. We don't have the social standing to talk about our problems openly unless they are bleeding wounds. Actually, advocating for equality that is clearly not important.
And this is def. Sanders position. He used the same "you shouldn't vote for somebody just because she is a women" line when he ran for gov. of Vermont against a very progressive candidate. (He was a third party, and he lost.). Isn't this just a way to reduce a candidate from their excellent qualifications to "just a women"? How does that no reinforce our second-class citizenship with every repetition?
And while you can vote for whoever you please and be a feminist, you can't call yourself a feminist, and then not regard it as crucial to move more women into positions of power. If women are not the ons making decisions for themselves, you are just advocating for more humane treatment of people you still believe to be second class citizens. (and yes you can be a women and still think of yourself this way.)
And that's the problem, women are second class citizens so their problems and needs are too. We don't have the social standing to talk about our problems openly unless they are bleeding wounds. Actually, advocating for equality that is clearly not important.
And this is def. Sanders position. He used the same "you shouldn't vote for somebody just because she is a women" line when he ran for gov. of Vermont against a very progressive candidate. (He was a third party, and he lost.). Isn't this just a way to reduce a candidate from their excellent qualifications to "just a women"? How does that no reinforce our second-class citizenship with every repetition?
55
"And while you can vote for whoever you please and be a feminist, you can't call yourself a feminist, and then not regard it as crucial to move more women into positions of power".
This is well said, granted you believe Hillary Clinton to be a better candidate than Bernie Sanders. In the same way many feminists gave no thought to voting for Carly Fiorina because they didn't like her policies in comparison to those of the Democratic candidates, they may also not favor Clinton's policies to those of Sanders. As they might've seen a gap between what Fiorina was offering and what they required of a potential candidate, they might also feel the same way about Clinton with respect to Sanders, however smaller that gap may be. Were Clinton and Sanders offering the same exact thing, than I'd fully support the idea of moving her into a position of power, as you state.
This is well said, granted you believe Hillary Clinton to be a better candidate than Bernie Sanders. In the same way many feminists gave no thought to voting for Carly Fiorina because they didn't like her policies in comparison to those of the Democratic candidates, they may also not favor Clinton's policies to those of Sanders. As they might've seen a gap between what Fiorina was offering and what they required of a potential candidate, they might also feel the same way about Clinton with respect to Sanders, however smaller that gap may be. Were Clinton and Sanders offering the same exact thing, than I'd fully support the idea of moving her into a position of power, as you state.
2
I'll vote for either come November. I've given to both.
But I will WORK FOR the first one, Clinton or Sanders, who states that they will, on their first day, put the Constitutional Amendment, the Equal Rights Amendment, front and foremost on their work schedule.
But I will WORK FOR the first one, Clinton or Sanders, who states that they will, on their first day, put the Constitutional Amendment, the Equal Rights Amendment, front and foremost on their work schedule.
Younger voters have not been driven to despair by a generation of nihilistic baboons sacking the halls of Congress. Older voters, afflicted with political PTSD, would be happy to see Hillary just succeed at a stalemate and hold the barbarians at the gates. Bernie Sanders appeals to a hope which is naive, that is, until it succeeds.
185
Wait until the Republicans go after Sanders for both his current positions and his past as a leader of the fringe Marxist-Trotskite Socialist Workers Party. He was with this organization late into his 30s In 1980, While Sanders was an active leader of that party they called for Solidarity with the government of Iran which was then holding Americans hostage in our embassy.
The Republicans have been holding their fire while doing their best to continue attacking Clinton. They want...no, they are doing their darnedest...to face Sanders in the general. If that happens we are likely to see repeats of the blowouts of McGovern and Dukakis. Mr. Blow, how will your children feel when President Cruz/Trump/Rubio fills the vacancy on the Supreme Court with someone who promises to stop legal abortions and the very Republican Senate confirms that person. It is one thing to support Sanders' position on income inequality, but the reality is that he is not only unelectable himself, he will have an enormous negative impact on the rest of the Democrats running for office this year.
The Republicans have been holding their fire while doing their best to continue attacking Clinton. They want...no, they are doing their darnedest...to face Sanders in the general. If that happens we are likely to see repeats of the blowouts of McGovern and Dukakis. Mr. Blow, how will your children feel when President Cruz/Trump/Rubio fills the vacancy on the Supreme Court with someone who promises to stop legal abortions and the very Republican Senate confirms that person. It is one thing to support Sanders' position on income inequality, but the reality is that he is not only unelectable himself, he will have an enormous negative impact on the rest of the Democrats running for office this year.
131
If your conspiracy theory is right, then we need to do all we can to help Bernie should he become the nominee. Reinforcement needed.
4
So many smears and distortions here. First, Bernie has explained that he is a Democratic socialist, and what that term means. If you want to go back 40 years, Hillary supported and volunteered for Barry Goldwater. To expect that anyone would not evolve over that period of time is naive, to put it mildly.
Clinton's negatives are far greater than Bernie's, approximately the same as Trump. Her numerous scandals have made her a target for Republicans, who gleefully appreciate her value as a fund raiser - for the Republicans. Still waiting for Goldman Sachs transcripts?
And what will happen to the Democrat's chances if Hillary is indicted for either her role in the email scandal, or the less publicized but perhaps more serious financial improprieties being investigation in her political slush fund, err, Clinton Foundation?
We get tired of so-called Democrats who refuse to believe that Bernie is electable, despite the fact that he won the last primary by 22%.
Bernie inspires peoples to become part of a political revolution to change our corrupt system. Hillary is selling herself as a survivor of constant attacks (playing the victim card), her experience (forget her judgment), and the fact that she can get things done (as if Republicans will change their tune and work with her).
She is depending on rubes like yourself, playing off your fears that only she can stave off the barbarians at the gate.
Clinton's negatives are far greater than Bernie's, approximately the same as Trump. Her numerous scandals have made her a target for Republicans, who gleefully appreciate her value as a fund raiser - for the Republicans. Still waiting for Goldman Sachs transcripts?
And what will happen to the Democrat's chances if Hillary is indicted for either her role in the email scandal, or the less publicized but perhaps more serious financial improprieties being investigation in her political slush fund, err, Clinton Foundation?
We get tired of so-called Democrats who refuse to believe that Bernie is electable, despite the fact that he won the last primary by 22%.
Bernie inspires peoples to become part of a political revolution to change our corrupt system. Hillary is selling herself as a survivor of constant attacks (playing the victim card), her experience (forget her judgment), and the fact that she can get things done (as if Republicans will change their tune and work with her).
She is depending on rubes like yourself, playing off your fears that only she can stave off the barbarians at the gate.
5
Yes, and republicans have been posing as the honorable Senator Bernie Sanders supporters to try to bash Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton. We must not let their nasty tricks take our eye off the prize. The first female President of the United States in the 240 years of HIS story of America.
2
You have smart kids, Mr. Blow. The young don't have the wisdom of the aging but they do learn some things like languages and hi-tech very quickly, but more importantly-- they have vision. Vision to see the problems down the road that aging minds have put up roadblocks against. To use your words, a "numbness". So youth understands the dangers of environmental problems more than we do. The can see that our population fuels climate change, mass extinctions and fouled air and water. They understand that before anything can be done about it, money from the 1% has to be removed from campaigns and politics to attract honest people that will do something about it. They have the vision of youth, like Bernie, to see the roadblocks to the less "numerous" path, the only viable path for our species.
208
I'm struggling to understand what this "wisdom of the aging" is. Somebody please explain.
1
Clinton bears wounds from both the repeated vicious attacks in the 90s - boy do they hate her! - and from the desire right now to punish the Masters of the Universe. Being a woman won't save her, if she is seen as part of the problem.
After all, did we exhort our daughters to go out in numbers and vote for the ticket with Sarah Palin?
Clinton is failing big time to make an appeal that we all need to hear. We need to break down the laws and policies that encourage wealth to trickle up and misery to trickle down. But we *need* robust markets and robust businesses. We cannot all be self-employed on Etsy. We need job creators. We just don't need laws or economic voodoo that pretends to support jobs and wages, but really just helps move massive amounts of cash to the Caymans.
That is an idea that Clinton hints at but doesn't develop and that Sanders has ignored. He is focused on breaking down the barriers, but not on the aftermath. Really, between Bernie and Hillary, the Democrats have one great candidate. There's six on the GOP, who all combined still couldn't build anything close to presidential.
After all, did we exhort our daughters to go out in numbers and vote for the ticket with Sarah Palin?
Clinton is failing big time to make an appeal that we all need to hear. We need to break down the laws and policies that encourage wealth to trickle up and misery to trickle down. But we *need* robust markets and robust businesses. We cannot all be self-employed on Etsy. We need job creators. We just don't need laws or economic voodoo that pretends to support jobs and wages, but really just helps move massive amounts of cash to the Caymans.
That is an idea that Clinton hints at but doesn't develop and that Sanders has ignored. He is focused on breaking down the barriers, but not on the aftermath. Really, between Bernie and Hillary, the Democrats have one great candidate. There's six on the GOP, who all combined still couldn't build anything close to presidential.
24
Bernie has talked about creating 13 million jobs, focused on repairing our infrastructure and converting to clean energy. He also talks about training young people to fill these jobs.
He talks about eliminating tax breaks for corporations that park their profits in the Cayman Islands, move jobs overseas or abuse the H1-B visa system to displace American workers.
These jobs will boost the overall economy because people with jobs spend money.
He talks about eliminating tax breaks for corporations that park their profits in the Cayman Islands, move jobs overseas or abuse the H1-B visa system to displace American workers.
These jobs will boost the overall economy because people with jobs spend money.
2
How is he going to DO all that? Does he have a magic wand that Obama didn't have? Those were also President Obama's goals.
2
Blow children ... how fortunate you are to have this good father!!
Charles .... they are "thoughtful and thorough" because of their good parents!! God bless them .... and with me, I hope they go for BERNIE!
Charles .... they are "thoughtful and thorough" because of their good parents!! God bless them .... and with me, I hope they go for BERNIE!
22
Wonderful editorial... I have been having the same conversations with my children. I keep bringing up Bush v Gore, fearing they will also buy into the fallacy that there is "no difference." But they shake their heads - they live in a world of much less opportunity, they have little stake in the status quo, they are ready for revolutionary change.
109
I'm over 70, but I don't see Hillary as a feminist candidate or her election as much of a breakthrough for women. In 1975, when Connecticut elected Ella Grasso she became the first woman to be elected governor of a U.S. state without having been married to a former governor. Margaret Chase Smith of Maine had a stellar career in Congress which began when she succeeded her husband in 1940.
Hillary is capable and she probably could have had a successful political career without the name recognition from Bill Clinton. But I don't see her actual path to the presidency as being that much of a breakthrough.
Hillary has strong and weak points. Some criticisms of her are fair and other seem to me sexist. I will vote for her, but would have preferred another standard barrier. I can't help wondering if her front-runner status precluded one of the many other capable women in Congress from running.
Hillary is capable and she probably could have had a successful political career without the name recognition from Bill Clinton. But I don't see her actual path to the presidency as being that much of a breakthrough.
Hillary has strong and weak points. Some criticisms of her are fair and other seem to me sexist. I will vote for her, but would have preferred another standard barrier. I can't help wondering if her front-runner status precluded one of the many other capable women in Congress from running.
19
Great column. It's interesting that young people pick up on Bernie's authenticity and ding Clinton for not being trusty worthy. Much if not all of the negative image of Hillary Clinton is propagated by Republicans. It's marketing - and over 20 plus years - negative and sexist marketing has been effective. However with the youth now claiming an authentic advantage in this race - it would be worthwhile to step back and check why this sentiment exists and whether or the not this constant drum of suspicion is from our own objectivity or what has been fed to us. If you want something to hang on - look at Hillary's record, her experience and her ability to withstand all that negativity and still keep fighting. It's enduring and it shows a truly "authentic" toughness that none of the other candidates have.
280
I fully agree. The "not trustworthy" and "I don't know why, but I can't stand it her" slogans that orbit around Hillary have been cultivated by the "party over country" crowd.
For those of us who benefited from the informed and hard work of the Clinton Administration and enjoyed peace and prosperity, in spite of a destructive and relentless Republican Party Which Hunt, we say lets re-examine that history. The disgrace lies with the Republicans who diminished the office of the Presidency and tore at the fabric of "These United States of America."
Hillary Clinton emerged from those years and went on to become a Senator from New York. She worked across the aisle, turning former haters into colleagues who worked together for the betterment of the country. Our country could use a big dose of these skills and vision today.
Hillary has my vote.
For those of us who benefited from the informed and hard work of the Clinton Administration and enjoyed peace and prosperity, in spite of a destructive and relentless Republican Party Which Hunt, we say lets re-examine that history. The disgrace lies with the Republicans who diminished the office of the Presidency and tore at the fabric of "These United States of America."
Hillary Clinton emerged from those years and went on to become a Senator from New York. She worked across the aisle, turning former haters into colleagues who worked together for the betterment of the country. Our country could use a big dose of these skills and vision today.
Hillary has my vote.
5
You assume people support Bernie because of Hillary's bad PR. That's probably wishful thinking in your part. Bernie supporters like him for who he is. It will take more than empathy for Hillary to persuade Bernie supporters to switch to her.
5
I certainly hope you will read about Hillary's record. Unfortunately, if it's the truth you want, you'll have to read The Atlantic or turn to dry publications like the Journal of Foreign Affairs because mainstream publications like the NYT don't want their readers thinking too much about Hillary's catastrophic tenure as SoS.
Did you know that yesterday was the 5th anniversary of the Western-backed uprising against Libya?
Libya is now a failed state and a humanitarian catastrophe.
Amnesty International stated that NATO coalition members need to be "held to account for the horrors that have unfolded in Libya."
Did you know that not only was Libya Hillary's idea, but she had to fight for that policy: Secretary of Defense Robert Gates argued that we had no national interest in Libya.
Do you remember Hillary's famous testosterone-fueled rant in 2011? "We came, we saw, he died." Look up the ghoulish photo of Hillary wildly grinning with Libyan rebels holding up two fingers in a sign for victory.
Sometimes a picture is worth so much more than a 1,000 words.
In August, 2014, Hillary told Jeffrey Goldberg in The Atlantic that Libya was a "success" but that Iraq was stupid because we had no plan for what to do afterward.
Goldberg: "There doesn't seem to be a domestic constituency for the type of engagement you might symbolize."
But Hillary sees it differently.
Is that a specific enough example of Hillary's catastrophic judgment?
I only vote for the Democrat, but not Hillary.
Did you know that yesterday was the 5th anniversary of the Western-backed uprising against Libya?
Libya is now a failed state and a humanitarian catastrophe.
Amnesty International stated that NATO coalition members need to be "held to account for the horrors that have unfolded in Libya."
Did you know that not only was Libya Hillary's idea, but she had to fight for that policy: Secretary of Defense Robert Gates argued that we had no national interest in Libya.
Do you remember Hillary's famous testosterone-fueled rant in 2011? "We came, we saw, he died." Look up the ghoulish photo of Hillary wildly grinning with Libyan rebels holding up two fingers in a sign for victory.
Sometimes a picture is worth so much more than a 1,000 words.
In August, 2014, Hillary told Jeffrey Goldberg in The Atlantic that Libya was a "success" but that Iraq was stupid because we had no plan for what to do afterward.
Goldberg: "There doesn't seem to be a domestic constituency for the type of engagement you might symbolize."
But Hillary sees it differently.
Is that a specific enough example of Hillary's catastrophic judgment?
I only vote for the Democrat, but not Hillary.
6
As a 20 year old man i have see my closest friends thrown out of the cheapest state schools, because they are too expensive, and others are destroyed by debt trying to achieve an education. Most of our generation will face intense pressure as our job prospects disappear with every new trade agreement signed. Financial insecurity will chase us throughout our early adulthood, if not for a majority of our lives, and our siblings face identical circumstances.
The narrative of American Dream for us millennials never quite matched the reality at any moment in our lives. We look into our country's past and across borders and can see the benefits of a country investing in their citizens. What we see in the U.S are Republicans cutting whatever responsibility a government has left to it's citizens, and Democrats who are not particularly concerned in stopping them.
We are accused by the boomers of wanting 'free stuff'. However, all we want is dignity and a chance to redeem a fundamental promise of the American spirit: to pursue happiness in liberty, and not behind mountains of debt and futures of despair.
Economists tell us that universal healthcare is implausible, as if this one makes any sense. We are always told that today is the most dangerous point since 9/11. Told Sexism and Racism will end if we make powerful people even more powerful. And the biggest kicker of all is that the people who can activate change are too unelectable.
Please don't blame us if we don't believe you.
The narrative of American Dream for us millennials never quite matched the reality at any moment in our lives. We look into our country's past and across borders and can see the benefits of a country investing in their citizens. What we see in the U.S are Republicans cutting whatever responsibility a government has left to it's citizens, and Democrats who are not particularly concerned in stopping them.
We are accused by the boomers of wanting 'free stuff'. However, all we want is dignity and a chance to redeem a fundamental promise of the American spirit: to pursue happiness in liberty, and not behind mountains of debt and futures of despair.
Economists tell us that universal healthcare is implausible, as if this one makes any sense. We are always told that today is the most dangerous point since 9/11. Told Sexism and Racism will end if we make powerful people even more powerful. And the biggest kicker of all is that the people who can activate change are too unelectable.
Please don't blame us if we don't believe you.
582
First, I understand your sentiment that the American Dream has bypassed your generation. Mine said the same in our youth. All generations harbor such feelings as they leave the nest and don't see any way to achieve what their parents did.
Second, Obamacare IS a form of universal health care. It needs to be tweaked, which means we have to elect a congress that is interested in that rather than voting to repeal regularly. So your generation has to rally its votes for congressmen as much or more so than for the president. It's almost a miracle that the US took the first step with Obamacare, since it has been a dream of progressives for generations. I understand everyone saying we need to go to Bernie's plan, and maybe we'll get there over time, but for now, you can pay the extra premium bucks to insurance companies as opposed to paying higher taxes. The US isn't the only country that has an insurance-based form of health care - Switzerland is the notable example.
Third, I wish you all had the experience to appreciate two more things:
1) The sleazy feelings you have for Hillary have been bought and paid for by GOP operatives since the 1980's. I really object to the smoke and fire argument because it's the operatives who have blown all the smoke.
2) Right now, the GOP is praying for Bernie Sanders. If he wins, you will see what they have been holding back. Please read the story of George McGovern. The difference is that back then, nobody was going to beat Nixon anyway.
Second, Obamacare IS a form of universal health care. It needs to be tweaked, which means we have to elect a congress that is interested in that rather than voting to repeal regularly. So your generation has to rally its votes for congressmen as much or more so than for the president. It's almost a miracle that the US took the first step with Obamacare, since it has been a dream of progressives for generations. I understand everyone saying we need to go to Bernie's plan, and maybe we'll get there over time, but for now, you can pay the extra premium bucks to insurance companies as opposed to paying higher taxes. The US isn't the only country that has an insurance-based form of health care - Switzerland is the notable example.
Third, I wish you all had the experience to appreciate two more things:
1) The sleazy feelings you have for Hillary have been bought and paid for by GOP operatives since the 1980's. I really object to the smoke and fire argument because it's the operatives who have blown all the smoke.
2) Right now, the GOP is praying for Bernie Sanders. If he wins, you will see what they have been holding back. Please read the story of George McGovern. The difference is that back then, nobody was going to beat Nixon anyway.
9
As a 73-year-old man, I thank you for this comment, Miles.
3
Grow up and take responsibility for the future - yours, your children, your parents, your grandparents and the rest of us. WE collectively are responsible for OUR country and how it is run.
1
My first thought is that you raised your children well.
I am almost 66 and also have three grown children. They all support Sanders.
The idea that Sanders is unelectable comes strictly from elites. One thing I learned a long time ago is that sometimes what one reads in newspapers is not true. Duh!
“This is simply a view into one family’s conversations about politics, and how one father came away with a deeper respect for the thoughtfulness and thoroughness of his children.”
I applaud you for this deeply personal column. I come away with a positive thought: you are starting to feel the bern.
I am almost 66 and also have three grown children. They all support Sanders.
The idea that Sanders is unelectable comes strictly from elites. One thing I learned a long time ago is that sometimes what one reads in newspapers is not true. Duh!
“This is simply a view into one family’s conversations about politics, and how one father came away with a deeper respect for the thoughtfulness and thoroughness of his children.”
I applaud you for this deeply personal column. I come away with a positive thought: you are starting to feel the bern.
204
Yes. And the Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Party also told us that Barack Hussein Obama was not electable. Should we really be letting those institutions tell us who is electable, whom we should hold our noses and vote for?
2
It makes perfect sense that young women would not care if Clinton becomes president. She is not one of them. She is their mother, who many of them loathe. While Clinton may be the most qualified, as Blow mentions, especially international issues, years of being in the game of politics with victory as the ultimate goal, has left her somewhat stained. Unfortunately, America usually does not celebrate honesty.
7
And who is Bernie? Their fun but wacky uncle?
11
Yes!
None of the Disney like princesses ever get to vote. They each break out of confining families meant to signal times full of inequity and make contrarian choices, but none are entrusted with something a tiny and profound as a vote. Mulan (not actually from the Disney studios, right?) goes against her family's wishes and adherence to rules of the time and sneaks of to serve in the military campaign in her father's place by crossing gender boundaries, dressed as a man. She makes a hideous unlikely decision, but somehow it improbably all works out. We know better, but there is a crazily great song from Christine Acquilera to help us pretend and go along. Jasmine and Pocohontas also play out against a background of unfairness and inequity but with genies and magic and spirits able to intervene. So our kids are playing all this out, willing to make contrarian choices with crucial votes, using magical thinking to make the implausible somehow magically possible.
There was no Disney songs about how important a vote is, though, or how women have never been president: they would now that they are the genie that can make that happen.
There was no Disney songs about how important a vote is, though, or how women have never been president: they would now that they are the genie that can make that happen.
11
I am a very old woman (white). Older than you Mr. Blow. I have grandchildren your children's age. I lived through Gloria and company. I now support Bernie and only Bernie.
I would vote for a woman in a nanosecond for president if I trusted the woman to do as she says. Which I guess Hillary would do, because she says whatever is politically convenient at the time. Will the REAL Hillary please stand up. Then we might know what we would get.
There have been several women who have run for President. The NY Times did not support them.
I will vote for Tammy Duckworth, a woman. I would vote for Elizabeth Warren.
I have been around the political block a few times. I am relieved to know that there actually is a person out there that is interested in struggling families and has been consistently so for as many years as I have been voting.
Not only did your children live through 9/11 they also lived through the greatest recession since the great depression.
Your children have been taught to make observations and to think. The NY Times have been looking for someone like Bernie forever. Thankfully people don't vote for a person because of their race, religion, sex, birth places of their parents.
Bernie marched with Dr. King. And he even went to jail. Did Hillary? She was supporting Goldwater.
I would vote for a woman in a nanosecond for president if I trusted the woman to do as she says. Which I guess Hillary would do, because she says whatever is politically convenient at the time. Will the REAL Hillary please stand up. Then we might know what we would get.
There have been several women who have run for President. The NY Times did not support them.
I will vote for Tammy Duckworth, a woman. I would vote for Elizabeth Warren.
I have been around the political block a few times. I am relieved to know that there actually is a person out there that is interested in struggling families and has been consistently so for as many years as I have been voting.
Not only did your children live through 9/11 they also lived through the greatest recession since the great depression.
Your children have been taught to make observations and to think. The NY Times have been looking for someone like Bernie forever. Thankfully people don't vote for a person because of their race, religion, sex, birth places of their parents.
Bernie marched with Dr. King. And he even went to jail. Did Hillary? She was supporting Goldwater.
372
This keeps being said about her but the record does not show this to be true at all. She is the 10th most liberal senator. You don't get that by saying what you need to to get elected, particularily in NY where upstate voters are much, much more conservative.
And the entire reason all this animus started int he first place was because she was in fact honest. She was honest about who the kind of woman she was. She wore pantsuits when this was often forbidden. She did not have helmut hair and a pasted on smile. She took on health care. She lost but she took it on and people hated her for it. (That's why she knows you can't just pass single payer; she tried.) She spoke out on woman's rights. Mrs. Obama who everyone so admires has been a much phonier first lady. (I don't blame her I just make the observation.) She has learned from experience. That is not being phony. That is learning. You say you would vote for a woman then throw up women who are not running, and may never. That's deflection. When push comes to shove what will be wrong with them, something, anything, All this time we were told it was because well there were no women qualified enough, now we have one unquestionably qualified and suddenly we say well, she's not "authentic" and we don't trust her, even though myriad (politically motivated) investigations have found nothing.
And the entire reason all this animus started int he first place was because she was in fact honest. She was honest about who the kind of woman she was. She wore pantsuits when this was often forbidden. She did not have helmut hair and a pasted on smile. She took on health care. She lost but she took it on and people hated her for it. (That's why she knows you can't just pass single payer; she tried.) She spoke out on woman's rights. Mrs. Obama who everyone so admires has been a much phonier first lady. (I don't blame her I just make the observation.) She has learned from experience. That is not being phony. That is learning. You say you would vote for a woman then throw up women who are not running, and may never. That's deflection. When push comes to shove what will be wrong with them, something, anything, All this time we were told it was because well there were no women qualified enough, now we have one unquestionably qualified and suddenly we say well, she's not "authentic" and we don't trust her, even though myriad (politically motivated) investigations have found nothing.
113
NSH, I could not agree more. thank you for your passion and spot-on eloquence. Folks are peddling old republican hail-mary tropes and memes about her (as both you and Mr. Blow point out) but Bernie-somethings (young and old) are missing that aspect of Mr. Blow's column here. Great column, they say in these comments, we agree with your kids, but Mr. Blow is asking us to think past the Disney fairy tale aspect of the campaign and understand the split. He does wring his hands at what his kids are taking in and refusing to take in, laughing a bit in exasperation at how they dwell on the crime bill that Bernie voted for and Hillary did not vote for and how that somehow works for Bernie and against Hillary. He seems to rue that they all settle on concerns of authenticity, and that they all mouth the words feminist and yet can't muster any concerns for the on-going impossibility of a woman breaking the run of 44 male presidents.
Bernie supporters mis-read so much and Mr. Blow is looking at his own kids here and wondering why, trying not to judge but clearly dismayed.
Bernie supporters mis-read so much and Mr. Blow is looking at his own kids here and wondering why, trying not to judge but clearly dismayed.
12
Give me a break. Hillary was a senior in high school when she was a Goldwater Girl. So was I. We had Republican fathers. We left home and went to college. We changed. We both became Democratic activists Read her 1969 Wellesley commencement speech for insights into the young Hillary Clinton.
13
Too bad so many adults aren't as insightful as your children. Bernie may be unelectable and not be able to deliver. Hillary may have too much baggage. And Bloomberg may become simply a Nader-like spoiler. But they are the only viable choices for this country and the world...and we MUST choose correctly.
54
Some of us have a much harder task when kids with graduate degrees become fervent Trump supporters. As far as I can tell, the main appeal is purely emotional: It can feel good to listen to a good insult comic. This seems to offload stress in a way that does not immediately backfire, with the benefit
of disagreeing with the old man. I mainly just listen. Sometimes I send iPhotos of Banksy murals of Steve Jobs as a Syrian refugee.
of disagreeing with the old man. I mainly just listen. Sometimes I send iPhotos of Banksy murals of Steve Jobs as a Syrian refugee.
11
How can they be educated enough to earn Graduate degrees and remain impressed by a huckster side-show barker? What in the world were they studying?
17
Hopefully your kids did not go to Trump University, as it is a sham.
1
It wasn't the 'studying', Ellen. It was listening to Rush Limbaugh between classes. He put worms in their brains and they never noticed.
2
I'm 62-years old. A great deal has changed on this country since I voted for the first time. Some things have improved, some have got worse, much worse. One thing is as clear for me today, as they were when I turned 18 in 1972:
Social justice, economic justice, civil rights, gender and race equality and parity, and working to exist peacefully with others in a complex world are not merely "ideals". The desire for these conditions doesn't lessen with age. They are the mark of a civilized culture. They are right, they are decent and they are just.
The fact that I will continue to support a candidate, Bernie Sanders, who actually stands for these ideals to me defines my humanity. And I'm fine with that.
Social justice, economic justice, civil rights, gender and race equality and parity, and working to exist peacefully with others in a complex world are not merely "ideals". The desire for these conditions doesn't lessen with age. They are the mark of a civilized culture. They are right, they are decent and they are just.
The fact that I will continue to support a candidate, Bernie Sanders, who actually stands for these ideals to me defines my humanity. And I'm fine with that.
441
I hope you will continue to be fine after Trump/Rubio/Cruz is elected president because Sanders is not going to be elected once the Republicans begin to go after him the way they have gone after the Clintons for about 25 years. I hope you will be fine with a Republican president getting to replace not only Justice Scalia, but Justice Ginsburg as well. I hope you will be fine with what such a SCOTUS does with abortion, pushing the freedom to discriminate based on religious principles, the freedom to destroy unions and the freedom to move steadily towards being an oligarchy. I wonder how fine you will really be when they come after many of the laws and regulations we have that were based on the ideals you profess.
10
Pam, what happened in America was a male-dominated backlash against women and civil rights. What did Senator Sanders do about it then? It is time to elect the MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATE WITH THE MOST NATIONAL AND POLITICAL CAPITAL to be our next President. Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton is the woman for the job.
2
There is no reason to imagine that the Republicans will not go after Hillary Clinton just as viciously. And there is plenty of fodder. Her supporters continue to deny her issues of electability, and demonize Sanders. And the attempt to subvert his candidacy, and shame his supporters is not the Democratic party I have belonged to for 40-years.
2
It's simply a matter of success. These young people, particularly young women, are in environments where they may not see what we see - like rampant sexism and/or lesser opportunities...yet.
In the meantime, they take what they have for granted.
Women like Hillary Clinton have paved the way - so that these young women who should be the leaders of tomorrow CAN be the leaders of tomorrow.
That is something to ponder.
In the meantime, they take what they have for granted.
Women like Hillary Clinton have paved the way - so that these young women who should be the leaders of tomorrow CAN be the leaders of tomorrow.
That is something to ponder.
108
As someone over forty what I remember is the turn away from the FDR legacy that the Democrats took with the nomination of Dukakis over Jackson in the 80s, and then its confirmation with the election of Clinton. Hillary can be trusted to do what her husband did: run on a progressive platform and then pivot rightward to the center in a rush to appease a Republican congress. No wonder that Republicans regained congress after Clinton and Obama were elected; both candidates deferred to the opposition instead of to their constituents. We are tired of these centrists and want a return to FDR, social democratic politics, which is why Sanders looks so good. Blow's article is more about why Clinton doesn't appeal to younger voters, than about why Sanders does. The now NYT line, cliché that Sanders is idealistic but unelectable is so heavy that it strips the columnist's editorials of imagination and historical depth. Ultimately what has weakened Obama's legacy is not simply the Republican obstructionism, but the fact that he, like Bill, trusted that he could work with the and sent everyone home after his victory. Bernie won't do that, which is precisely why we need him and why he can be elected.
104
I agree that there is rampant sexism and that young women are less likely to be aware of it until they enter or try to enter the workforce (although I experienced plenty of sexism as a student, but that was back in the day and supposedly things are much improved now), but I disagree with your underlying premise that women who have suffered from the effects of sexism and misogyny should automatically vote for a woman candidate over a man. Being a woman informs our choices, and polling confirms that there are differences in the way men and women vote. But IMO a candidate's gender is less important than their character and policy positions.
6
MIke, you are making a hash of history with your comments. Clinton found a way to win the White House after democrats got shut out for twelve years and three election cycles. He ran not as a progressive but as a pragmatic progressive centrist, claiming the middle that had won the white house so many times for republicans as the far left seized on the wrong messengers time and again (McGovern, et. al). Left leaning centrists (Bill and Barack) showed us their cards in earnest and did not mislead us: they did not run one way and govern another: wishful thinking on the far left's part. I am far to the left of both these leaders but I recognize the wide expanse of democratic thinking in this country requires lefties like Bill, Barack and Hillary triangulate and deliver. Bill and Barack won and only by winning do we have Ginsburg, Breyer, Sotomayor and Kagan. You have to win to deliver and you have to have a broad message to win. You have to work with Wall Street to have an economy purr and win, but you also must befriend wall street to regulate them. You must accept the military's role in American life if you want to win and shape the future. You can't ignore the middle. Bill Clinton understood this and so too did Barack Obama. And as a result the justices they picked made all the difference with Obama Care and Marriage Equality. Bernie will deliver no such victories because he can never win. Winning primaries is a million miles away from winning in the general.
3
Terrific column Mr. Blow... I might add that if you are your children's age, you've heard endless negativity about the Clintons. One wonders just how many times the words corrupt, untrustworthy, Benghazi, indictable offenses surface in reference to HRC in public discourse. She likely is the single most vilified political person since Richard Nixon, so her gender is no longer a definitive characteristic.
70
When my daughters started to become political aware, I used it as a teachable moment. But it was critical thinking and expression that I tried to teach, not the politics themselves. I never dismissed their opinions -- which was easy to do because, at the time, I was far too busy working to focus much on anything other than work and family -- but rather coaxed them to refine their arguments, think about specifics, and to do the reading on related topics.
To this day, even when our opinions differ, I still enjoy sitting around the table when they visit and hashing through current topics and the election.
Don't be too quick to dismiss the opinions of the young, and don't try to shape them too early. My advice would be to focus on helping them refine the process of forming opinions, not the opinions themselves. Reward thoughtfulness.
To this day, even when our opinions differ, I still enjoy sitting around the table when they visit and hashing through current topics and the election.
Don't be too quick to dismiss the opinions of the young, and don't try to shape them too early. My advice would be to focus on helping them refine the process of forming opinions, not the opinions themselves. Reward thoughtfulness.
18
Charles, thanks for a thoughtful column.
I, like your children, plan to vote for the nominee of the Democratic party this November.
My own parsing of what drives so many young people to Sanders-- including the recently enfranchised voters in your own family-- is the clarity of the moral passion in Sanders' call for us to all come together. For me it evokes-- without the same soaring rhetoric-- the campaign of Robert Kennedy.
I believe moral passion is a necessary precondition to wise judgment. And much as experience and skills matter, judgment matters even more.
Secretary Clinton continues to fail to convince a large swath of the Democratic voters that, notwithstanding her intellectual brilliance and her impressive experience, she has the best moral compass for leading this nation through the stormy seas that lie ahead. This is why, at least until the convention this July, so many of us are supporting Senator Sanders.
Bernie Sanders 2016
I, like your children, plan to vote for the nominee of the Democratic party this November.
My own parsing of what drives so many young people to Sanders-- including the recently enfranchised voters in your own family-- is the clarity of the moral passion in Sanders' call for us to all come together. For me it evokes-- without the same soaring rhetoric-- the campaign of Robert Kennedy.
I believe moral passion is a necessary precondition to wise judgment. And much as experience and skills matter, judgment matters even more.
Secretary Clinton continues to fail to convince a large swath of the Democratic voters that, notwithstanding her intellectual brilliance and her impressive experience, she has the best moral compass for leading this nation through the stormy seas that lie ahead. This is why, at least until the convention this July, so many of us are supporting Senator Sanders.
Bernie Sanders 2016
301
Bear in mind that the Republican right has conducted its politics for forty years on the basis of it having "moral clarity." What can we conclude from this?
1
What? "notwithstanding her intellectual brilliance and her impressive experience"? Think about that. Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton will be the next President of the United States because of her intellectual brilliance, her impressive experience and her strong social conscience.
3
I shook the hand of Robert Kennedy less than a month before his assassination, slightly more than a month after the assassination of Martin Luther King. I had not thought of it before, but you are right that RFK earned the passion of young people in that campaign.
Recalling how that passion was crushed by those political assassinations and the violent Democratic National Convention in Chicago that year, I can only hope we offer the young people of 2016 a more positive response to their passion.
Recalling how that passion was crushed by those political assassinations and the violent Democratic National Convention in Chicago that year, I can only hope we offer the young people of 2016 a more positive response to their passion.
2
Bernie Sanders sends a message that the electorate is reaching the end of their patience with double talking do nothing politicians that are in the back pocket of monied interests. I believe that is a message that desperately needs to be sent by either Bernie or a Donald Trump. Both are capable of sending it. The voters needs to keep sending it through congressional elections. I believe Hillary to be just the usual politician in back pocket of monied interests that these young voters are rebelling against, and female sex characteristics don't make that go away.
71
Nothing too surprising here, not even Mr. Blow's extraordinary sensitivity to others, which I expected, but it's troubling in that his children's ideas seem to fit the media narrative, not the facts. Hillary Clinton's untrustworthiness is utterly perplexing outside the endless fictional attacks. (She killed Vince Foster.) And Sanders is aided by the virtual pass he gets in both the mass media and from Republicans. How would the kids feel if they read his published pornography or knew he never had a steady job until he was forty and got elected into one? In short, what we see here is an admirable attempt to understand crippled by the flood of reader/viewer drawing candy tossed up by the media.
38
"(Sanders') published pornography"
Presumably this "Dave" is the professional smear merchant in Hillary's camp, David Brock who got his start trashing Anita Hill and hasn't much changed. With guys like this and Dick Morris on their closet, no wonder the Clintons aren't convincing as honest pols.
Presumably this "Dave" is the professional smear merchant in Hillary's camp, David Brock who got his start trashing Anita Hill and hasn't much changed. With guys like this and Dick Morris on their closet, no wonder the Clintons aren't convincing as honest pols.
3
Let me point out that many kids today don't have a steady job and in any event what kind of a person judges people by this standard?
Boy, hippie haters really have to go pretty far back to make their points.
Boy, hippie haters really have to go pretty far back to make their points.
4
Well said. In his "town hall" yesterday, Trump said he'd like to run against Bernie--because a socialist would be so easy to beat.
4
I enjoyed this thoughtful column, including the discussion of Hillary's negatives. I find her repetitive references to fights, battles, scars, etc. tiresome and off-putting. I remember thinking back during the Clinton presidency how much time and energy was wasted in scandals, how much Bill's ability to accomplish things had been squandered foolishly. No doubt the opposition overreacted, but I thought the Clintons foolishly played into their hands. Obama notably has not.
The Clintons have been in politics and the public eye for a very long time and beyond my assessments of Hillary's positions and character I am really, really sick to death of Clintons.
The Clintons have been in politics and the public eye for a very long time and beyond my assessments of Hillary's positions and character I am really, really sick to death of Clintons.
95
Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton's "repetitive story" is all women's story. Work harder, against institutional barriers, get to the top and stand firm while they try to shout you off. Sorry if you are tired of it. I'm sure women are, too, and will vote for REAL change when they elect her President.
3
I can't stand to see their photos in the paper -- especially all three of them. I am not alone.
Mr. Blow, what I admire most about your children is their taking the time to think, to discuss, to listen, to observe, to analyze. Your children are blessedly free of the disadvantages that toomany Americans jealously protect, that is, their right to ignorance and prejudgment, a zealous rejection for a respectful regard for an opposing viewpoint. These are intellectual traits that are often missing from a great swath of what we have come to know as the "American electorate." This suppleness of mind is not the exclusive province of the young, either; those who, like, "um, your older self," should never be without the capacity for observation, change and, yes, generosity. Life is always about moving parts; it is never static. Where most uninformed voters go astray, I think, is an over-reliance on the familiar and the comfortable, the pernicious media outlets whose ready-served opinions require obedience, approval and immediate acceptance, no matter the bizarre (or even untrue) jumping-off points. Many commenters here and in other columns have mocked those "benighted" voting blocs who would rather be told what to think and how to vote rather than do the heavy lifting of the intellect: think for yourself. Our ignorance as a nation has already gravely wounded its reputation, internally and abroad; what's worse, those who are pleased to injure the commonwealth do so with great zeal. You are blessed, Mr. Blow, with children with inquiring minds, a disappearing trait, a relic, alas!
19
We are all products of our time, and many people who will vote for the first time in 2016 have never known life without the Faux Noise 24/7/365 propaganda foghorn and its beating down of the Clintons - much less do new voters know how things have been allowed to get so skewed since the FCC ended the Fairness Doctrine, under St. Ronnie, that many of us ' older persons ' grew up with:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairness_Doctrine
Not having seen the Public Square eroded gradually by Congresses, Courts, and unchallenged propaganda, we understand the enthusiasm and urge for change that Occupy Wall Street evinced/evinces, and hope the fires of outrage keep burning (Berning ?). But only by looking at how long it took for things to erode can today's activists understand how long it might take to get things changed back - it could take another decade, due to the make-up of Congress, gerrymandering, and having to wait for the 2020 census.
All things are possible with an activated electorate - ' older persons ' just want to make sure activists don't get disillusioned because things don't immediately change.
Dems need to be patiently consistent in showing up at the polls for 10 years in a row (mid-terms included) making sure the SCOTUS guidelines on fair Congressional district lines are implemented across the country before 2020:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/30/us/supreme-court-upholds-creation-of-a...
Suddenly, all things will be possible :)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairness_Doctrine
Not having seen the Public Square eroded gradually by Congresses, Courts, and unchallenged propaganda, we understand the enthusiasm and urge for change that Occupy Wall Street evinced/evinces, and hope the fires of outrage keep burning (Berning ?). But only by looking at how long it took for things to erode can today's activists understand how long it might take to get things changed back - it could take another decade, due to the make-up of Congress, gerrymandering, and having to wait for the 2020 census.
All things are possible with an activated electorate - ' older persons ' just want to make sure activists don't get disillusioned because things don't immediately change.
Dems need to be patiently consistent in showing up at the polls for 10 years in a row (mid-terms included) making sure the SCOTUS guidelines on fair Congressional district lines are implemented across the country before 2020:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/30/us/supreme-court-upholds-creation-of-a...
Suddenly, all things will be possible :)
40
I'm old but I side with young folk
It's their Future that they now invoke,
Slow progress is fragile
The Right Wing is agile
It's time our Inheritors spoke!
It's their Future that they now invoke,
Slow progress is fragile
The Right Wing is agile
It's time our Inheritors spoke!
287
I especially like this column, because my kids are the same ages, and I am experiencing the same things with their awakening.
I have always encouraged independent thinking, pushed them to think by telling me what they think. I ask who they'll vote for, the same as anyone else, without bullying them to agree with me. The Daddy card would defeat my purpose, I want them strong-minded and independent more than I want one more vote.
I took them to vote with me when they were younger. This is a big new step, but not so much an awakening as a rite of passage of which they are proud.
They all support Bernie. So do I. Their reasons are a bit different than mine.
They see Hillary as evil-grandmother or even wicked-witch. They see her as a liar, and as wanting to hurt them. They don't fear her or merely dislike her. They despise her, on a level with Cruz.
They are probably influencing me, rather than the other way around, because their feelings are so very strong and certain. I got what I wanted, strong independent thinking from them, and that is what they think.
My own more strategic thinking is for Bernie, but they are emotional about it in ways I have not felt since Nixon.
I'm motivated to express my opinion. Their motivation is on an entirely different level. This is their first big vote, and to them it seems like a grand new invention. They are not just motivated they are passionate.
I have always encouraged independent thinking, pushed them to think by telling me what they think. I ask who they'll vote for, the same as anyone else, without bullying them to agree with me. The Daddy card would defeat my purpose, I want them strong-minded and independent more than I want one more vote.
I took them to vote with me when they were younger. This is a big new step, but not so much an awakening as a rite of passage of which they are proud.
They all support Bernie. So do I. Their reasons are a bit different than mine.
They see Hillary as evil-grandmother or even wicked-witch. They see her as a liar, and as wanting to hurt them. They don't fear her or merely dislike her. They despise her, on a level with Cruz.
They are probably influencing me, rather than the other way around, because their feelings are so very strong and certain. I got what I wanted, strong independent thinking from them, and that is what they think.
My own more strategic thinking is for Bernie, but they are emotional about it in ways I have not felt since Nixon.
I'm motivated to express my opinion. Their motivation is on an entirely different level. This is their first big vote, and to them it seems like a grand new invention. They are not just motivated they are passionate.
207
I agree with much of what you say. However, please make your children aware of the tendency to cast women according to old tired archetypes (evil grandmother, witch, etc) when you disagree with or dislike them. We're all tired of that.
8
Yes, Mark, your kids are right. Our democracy has been deteriorating since Nixon but the real answer is for women to step up and take over one-half the leadership positions in America and the world. We finally have a female candidate who is the most qualified and we MUST vote for her. It is time to break the chains of male and religious dominance that have taken over America.
1
Mark, show your children this and ask them what they think:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/13/opinion/campaign-stops/all-politicians...
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/13/opinion/campaign-stops/all-politicians...
2
No doubt, there are sufficient reasons for an ideologically liberal family of any complexion to question Hillary’s trustworthiness AND Bernie’s ability to accomplish anything if elected; and there’s not a lot that would draw its members to any of the Republican candidates. But I don’t see a real point to seeking a better understanding of the concerns of the young unless it was for the candidates to craft messages that better addressed them. Frankly, though, I don’t see a single candidate, on EITHER side, capable of crafting markedly different messages, regardless of the need to do so.
The question of Bernie vs. Hillary goes away in maybe six weeks, eight at the outside, by which time it will have become evident that Hillary will take the Democratic nomination; and with it goes the relevance of the youth vote as something that might break for one nominee more than the other except as one might anticipate. The only question mark that I see is whether or not Bloomberg enters the arena, in which case he’ll split the left’s vote and much of that might be the liberal young, that might otherwise support Hillary presumptively.
It remains that the front-runners on BOTH sides have serious weaknesses; but, if it comes down to Bernie vs. anybody BUT Trump or Cruz, we’re likely to see a Republican president in 2017, and if it’s Hillary vs. EITHER Trump or Cruz we’re likely to see a Democratic president. The least relevant factor in all that will be how the young vote.
The question of Bernie vs. Hillary goes away in maybe six weeks, eight at the outside, by which time it will have become evident that Hillary will take the Democratic nomination; and with it goes the relevance of the youth vote as something that might break for one nominee more than the other except as one might anticipate. The only question mark that I see is whether or not Bloomberg enters the arena, in which case he’ll split the left’s vote and much of that might be the liberal young, that might otherwise support Hillary presumptively.
It remains that the front-runners on BOTH sides have serious weaknesses; but, if it comes down to Bernie vs. anybody BUT Trump or Cruz, we’re likely to see a Republican president in 2017, and if it’s Hillary vs. EITHER Trump or Cruz we’re likely to see a Democratic president. The least relevant factor in all that will be how the young vote.
9
Do you read the national polls?
Simply, Bernie beats every one of the Republican candidates hands down.
Clinton, not so. She loses to each of the Republican candidates hands down.
I for one will never vote for Hillary. I will either vote for Kasich (as a write in) or not vote.
Simply, Bernie beats every one of the Republican candidates hands down.
Clinton, not so. She loses to each of the Republican candidates hands down.
I for one will never vote for Hillary. I will either vote for Kasich (as a write in) or not vote.
3
esp:
On average and at this instant, Bernie beats Trump by only 6%. Wait one month, when Hillary clearly is on the way to the nomination and see who is ahead.
On average and at this instant, Bernie beats Trump by only 6%. Wait one month, when Hillary clearly is on the way to the nomination and see who is ahead.
3
esp will be playing right into the Republicans' hands.
Rubio's robotic recitations of reactionary rubbish will not play well in a general election.
HRC, warts and all, flawed as she is, will be the only sane choice this November.
Rubio's robotic recitations of reactionary rubbish will not play well in a general election.
HRC, warts and all, flawed as she is, will be the only sane choice this November.
14
Such a thoughtful column. I was beginning to settle on the notion that, just as we vowed back in the 60's to never trust anyone over 30, the wise position now would be not to trust anyone under 30. Obviously, that's too simplistic. The future is in good hands if these younger people see the injustice of so many things, and are willing to fight (and vote) to make them happen.
But we were not wrong when we voted for McGovern, and that 60's idealism reared it's ugly head in 2000 with those who backed Nader. Many of us learned the hard political truth that comes when half, or more than half, of the country doesn't share your ideals. In this election, indeed, these ideals will be set up by the Republicans as Armageddon, and we can't count on a potential Republican implosion to scatter this voting bloc into bits.
Here's a nod to highly admirable ideals. Can we get a nod for our bitter experience with devastating resistance to the same?
But we were not wrong when we voted for McGovern, and that 60's idealism reared it's ugly head in 2000 with those who backed Nader. Many of us learned the hard political truth that comes when half, or more than half, of the country doesn't share your ideals. In this election, indeed, these ideals will be set up by the Republicans as Armageddon, and we can't count on a potential Republican implosion to scatter this voting bloc into bits.
Here's a nod to highly admirable ideals. Can we get a nod for our bitter experience with devastating resistance to the same?
46
Here's something that you don't always hear about McGovern's candidacy: the Democratic Party fought tooth and nail to destroy him up to and after his nomination. Hmmmmm... why does that sound so familiar?
https://www.jacobinmag.com/2016/02/democratic-party-realignment-civil-ri...
https://www.jacobinmag.com/2016/02/democratic-party-realignment-civil-ri...
2
Charles this is a beautiful column. I congratulate you for thinking so deeply about the forces motivating your children. The more I try to understand what is driving the so-called youth vote , The more I realize that if I want respect from my choices, I must acord the same to theirs.
The most interesting life thing in your column for me was how you describe the historical perspective motivating the various generations. Every voter in this country has been shaped by his or her own perspective of current events. For the older people, like myself , we have a lifetime of experience and political motion stemming from that experience. So do your kids, even as we tend to say, if only they had lived through my times, they would think differently.
Thank you for sharing your perceptions and discussions with your children. And thank you for sharing your resolve to allow your kids to think for themselves and not cross-examine their positions.
The most interesting life thing in your column for me was how you describe the historical perspective motivating the various generations. Every voter in this country has been shaped by his or her own perspective of current events. For the older people, like myself , we have a lifetime of experience and political motion stemming from that experience. So do your kids, even as we tend to say, if only they had lived through my times, they would think differently.
Thank you for sharing your perceptions and discussions with your children. And thank you for sharing your resolve to allow your kids to think for themselves and not cross-examine their positions.
50
I think it is really a no brainer. Self interest. In the 60s it was the young people that were being sent to kill and die in Vietnam, for no good reason whatsoever. Naturally they felt moved to protest. Today the younger people see that their future looks extremely bleak if things go on as they've been going. That should be obvious to everybody, it seems to me. The economy is going downhill and so is the climate. So they want a candidate who promises to make things go differently. Why is that hard to understand?
4
We have the same conversations in our home with our now 18 year old daughter. She, too, will be voting for the first time. She too prefers Sanders over Clinton for the same reasons Charles' children prefer him. Unlike them, however, she believes that, should Sanders win the primary, he will keep the electorate engaged and make a successful case for greater voter participation and, most importantly, for the kind of revolution he has been advocating. While she won't say that Sanders would be unable to effect real change while in office, she does believe that if he manages to get himself elected, many new faces will get elected with him.
On sexism and feminism, gender alone does not constitute the basis for an informed electoral decision. This is where the new brouhaha with Killer Mike's introductory speech at Georgia's Morehouse College comes into play. A statement he made was legitimate and that accusations of Mike being sexist are unfounded and made on the assumption that most people will subconsciously dismiss it as a sexist rapper's faux-pas. There is a lot to Killer Mike and sexist, uneducated or lacking culture are not it.
Our kids are far more insightful than we give them credit for. Not long ago, we were all wondering where Occupy Wall Street went. Now we know. It lives on in our children. Hurray!
---
On Piketty and US Politics today: http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-1ZK
Killer Mike is not a sexist rapper: http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-1ZO
On sexism and feminism, gender alone does not constitute the basis for an informed electoral decision. This is where the new brouhaha with Killer Mike's introductory speech at Georgia's Morehouse College comes into play. A statement he made was legitimate and that accusations of Mike being sexist are unfounded and made on the assumption that most people will subconsciously dismiss it as a sexist rapper's faux-pas. There is a lot to Killer Mike and sexist, uneducated or lacking culture are not it.
Our kids are far more insightful than we give them credit for. Not long ago, we were all wondering where Occupy Wall Street went. Now we know. It lives on in our children. Hurray!
---
On Piketty and US Politics today: http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-1ZK
Killer Mike is not a sexist rapper: http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-1ZO
210
Rima, you say, "he will keep the electorate engaged and make a successful case for greater voter participation". Unfortunately it's not working so far. However if over one half of Americans - women of all ages and races - and the men who love them vote with their minds Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton will be OUR next President of the United States of America - after 240 years of male domination. That is something to shout about.
3
Rima - Thank you for providing us with your daughter's thoughts.
Do you still have to accompany her to her classes each day and then stay there to look after her?
Do you still have to accompany her to her classes each day and then stay there to look after her?
3