What was the outcome of Hillary's listening tour? I never heard of help, changes, or improvements for the diary farmers or anyone else in upstate New York. I know for sure she hasn't helped black folk, not in the South or anywhere else. She may be smart on the classroom but she's proved that she's dumb on the street, and world stage. Hard to see her being an effective president. What is she going to do? Listen?
49
Over the past week I think Bernie has begun to lose it -- first his comments about Hillary being unqualified to be President, and now this "I've been invited to the Vatican to meet the Pope" story -- a little like Kim Davis if you ask me. He doesn't work well with others -- there is a reason an overwhelming number of Democrats on the Hill have endorsed Hillary, and I don't believe it is because they like Hillary that much, it is because they know Bernie and know that he is basically all talk.
51
tldr: Clinton should be Sander's chief of staff.
10
What a surprising and new way to paint Hillary Clinton! It's interesting to watch the New York Times try on as many coats as they can to take down Bernie Sanders. I wonder when any of the mainstream media will try the only tactic that could possibly sway his supporters, a fair and actual discussion of the issues he supports. Every time you try to gaslight himand his supporters you just drive them further from you and the candidates you support. It's called populism. Address it, or get out of the way. I feel like I'm watching the Arab Spring over here.
63
Do the names Ralph Nader, Ross Perot mean anything to you? If Ralph had stayed out of the race, Gore would have won the office without help from the Supremes. If Ross had stayed away, Clinton would probably have lost and we would have had Father George for another term.
Be careful of what you want. I see Bernie and The Donald in the same light. Don't you?
Be careful of what you want. I see Bernie and The Donald in the same light. Don't you?
35
This is not her home state.
55
Sounds like Ms. Collins has joined Paul Krugman and the rest of the Times staff in getting the vapors over Bernie's success. I really hope there are enough couches in the building available to cradle their limp frames when he wins NY.
67
What penance will all of these journalists and columnists pay when this election is over and they've lost the trust of half their readers? I encourage everyone to remember this sad period of journalism when they try to erase it.
76
If Bernie Sanders is "acting a little…off" (Collins) or raising "serious character and values issues" (Krugman), than why is Hillary Clinton appropriating his talking points and ideas? And Pope Francis invited Bernie to the Vatican to speak about a 'moral economy' — does this now make the Pope a poor judge of character as well?
One democratic candidate is running to make democratic change, the other democratic candidate is running because they desperately want to be president. I like Bernie's character. He's authentic and understands the importance of transparency in political life. His message is consistent. He reads full documents before casting critical votes.
Go Bernie.
One democratic candidate is running to make democratic change, the other democratic candidate is running because they desperately want to be president. I like Bernie's character. He's authentic and understands the importance of transparency in political life. His message is consistent. He reads full documents before casting critical votes.
Go Bernie.
64
Mrs. Clinton keeps telling us that she's working for all of us out here and that is what she has been doing all of her public life. The facts are that since 1992 when her husband was elected the real income of an average family of four has stayed flat at best meanwhile the Clinton's who were probably worth a few hundred thousand at best in 1992 are now worth hundred's of millions. I can blame the stagnation of income on both parties but it is very clear who the Clinton's have been working for and it hasn't been us!
50
Normally I find Gail to be even handed, but the rising prospect of Sanders winning the Democrat nomination is giving her the yips. Like Obama, he's a better politician than she is and his support among regular people willing to pony up small amounts of $$$ greatly exceeds her appeal. Just like Obama. I've seen the handwriting on the wall - twice.
It will be refreshing to have a presidential candidate who comes from outside the Democrat Party who truly represents the interests of the American people. Gail will ultimately write many columns about how normal the occupants of the White House are, how the First Lady is no fashion plate, that they don't attend church or synagogue services, and their kid and grandkid issues. A reflection of most Americans. For juicy column subjects she will have to content herself with covering the remaining Troglodytes in the Senate, Congress, and Supreme Court.
It will be refreshing to have a presidential candidate who comes from outside the Democrat Party who truly represents the interests of the American people. Gail will ultimately write many columns about how normal the occupants of the White House are, how the First Lady is no fashion plate, that they don't attend church or synagogue services, and their kid and grandkid issues. A reflection of most Americans. For juicy column subjects she will have to content herself with covering the remaining Troglodytes in the Senate, Congress, and Supreme Court.
32
With good humor, Ms. Collins has put her finger on the problem with the electorate: it favors flash and sound bites over depth and experience. You might not like everything Hillary Clinton says, but she doesn't resort to talking points at every turn. You might not like that she has changed her positions on some issues, but whose thinking hasn't evolved over 25 years? Hopefully, New Yorkers will send a message to the remaining Democratic primary voters that Clinton has earned the nomination and that "New York values"--wisdom and sophistication--are needed in the general election.
52
I believe that Hillary Clinton is one of the most qualified candidates for the presidency to come along in a very long time. My biggest concern about a President Hillary Clinton is that there seems to be almost a pathological hatred of her in the GOP. The same type of hatred that they have towards Barack Obama, the one where they agreed to do everything in their power to defeat him and block him. That, as much as anything, is the cause of the complete dysfunction in the Congress.
The out-sized egos in Congress, whose primary concern is for their own little world and their re-election, who view their opportunity as a means to a personal end rather than of a chance to serve the country they profess to love, would attempt to destroy a Clinton presidency before it even started, as they did with President Obama.
The out-sized egos in Congress, whose primary concern is for their own little world and their re-election, who view their opportunity as a means to a personal end rather than of a chance to serve the country they profess to love, would attempt to destroy a Clinton presidency before it even started, as they did with President Obama.
58
I do hope that more people start asking questions, instead of blindly following a candidate based on rhetoric. Voting for Sen. Sanders means that my taxes will face an increase. However, I also know that he's serious about the rich paying their fair share, which I do not believe they do right now.
Sen. Sanders tax on speculation should be somewhere between "minimal" and "wow", to be truly effective, and as such it needs more details and it could turn out to be for a limited time.
Ms. Clinton is not the ideal candidate, but more than qualified and more likely to defeat any of the Republican candidates.
Sen. Sanders tax on speculation should be somewhere between "minimal" and "wow", to be truly effective, and as such it needs more details and it could turn out to be for a limited time.
Ms. Clinton is not the ideal candidate, but more than qualified and more likely to defeat any of the Republican candidates.
38
Sometimes I think Sec Clinton has two modes of operation. For lack of better terms, I think of them as "Clinton Mode" and "Hillary Mode".
"Clinton Mode" is the Clinton machine of using any and every means to control and win an election and "handle" the press, regardless of ethics and outcome. It means Bill Clinton winning in 1996 by just scraping by, abandoning all the House and Senate races and only winning a plurality of the popular vote. It's lashing out and dirty tricks, getting the DNC chair to set up a favorable debate schedule, etc.
OTOH, "Hillary Mode" is where the Secretary listens to people, listens to questions, returns with thoughtful answers, and, ironically, is at her most effective. She's mild, full of humor, and reasonable. The Benghazi hearings, where she was subjected for 11 hours to vituperative attacks, yet responded with poise, never losing her cool (though she did lose her voice) was the key turning point to what had been a moribund "Clinton Mode" campaign. "Hillary Mode" for 11 hours in front of Gowdy's inquisition reassured much of the base that Clinton will make a fine President. "Hillary Mode" won her the NY senate seat. "Hillary Mode" allowed her to deal with so many foreign antagonists. "Hillary Mode" nearly took back the nomination in 2008 after "Clinton Mode" blew it.
Bernie Sanders has momentum because Clinton needs to go back to "Hillary Mode".
I like Bernie Sanders. A lot. But I think Clinton will be a better President.
"Clinton Mode" is the Clinton machine of using any and every means to control and win an election and "handle" the press, regardless of ethics and outcome. It means Bill Clinton winning in 1996 by just scraping by, abandoning all the House and Senate races and only winning a plurality of the popular vote. It's lashing out and dirty tricks, getting the DNC chair to set up a favorable debate schedule, etc.
OTOH, "Hillary Mode" is where the Secretary listens to people, listens to questions, returns with thoughtful answers, and, ironically, is at her most effective. She's mild, full of humor, and reasonable. The Benghazi hearings, where she was subjected for 11 hours to vituperative attacks, yet responded with poise, never losing her cool (though she did lose her voice) was the key turning point to what had been a moribund "Clinton Mode" campaign. "Hillary Mode" for 11 hours in front of Gowdy's inquisition reassured much of the base that Clinton will make a fine President. "Hillary Mode" won her the NY senate seat. "Hillary Mode" allowed her to deal with so many foreign antagonists. "Hillary Mode" nearly took back the nomination in 2008 after "Clinton Mode" blew it.
Bernie Sanders has momentum because Clinton needs to go back to "Hillary Mode".
I like Bernie Sanders. A lot. But I think Clinton will be a better President.
33
Bernie isn't a one-issue candidate, but his primary issue is the most important, most neglected, issue of the past three decades: growing economic inequality and its political-financial roots.
I've dutifully voted for Democrats for fifty years. The Democratic party's message has been reduced to "vote for us because we're not them." Hillary Clinton's message is "I can get things done, and Bernie can't." Bernie has at least been clear about what he wants to do. Hillary hasn't.
Voters -- Democrat, Republican and independent -- are rebelling against a political establishment that no longer represents them. Our choices are the Party of Can't and the Party of Won't.
Over and over, I hear how Bernie's proposals are unrealistic, unaffordable and impossible. Really? Why have they long been the standard for citizens of other advanced nations? The richest nation on Earth can afford what its citizens choose to pay for. That's Bernie's radical, unrealistic, pie-in-the-sky point, his revolution.
As citizens, we can choose to pay our taxes and continue to let the corporate-political complex decide who to enrich. Or we can finally demand that the government "of, by and for the people" remember the people it has failed to represent.
I've dutifully voted for Democrats for fifty years. The Democratic party's message has been reduced to "vote for us because we're not them." Hillary Clinton's message is "I can get things done, and Bernie can't." Bernie has at least been clear about what he wants to do. Hillary hasn't.
Voters -- Democrat, Republican and independent -- are rebelling against a political establishment that no longer represents them. Our choices are the Party of Can't and the Party of Won't.
Over and over, I hear how Bernie's proposals are unrealistic, unaffordable and impossible. Really? Why have they long been the standard for citizens of other advanced nations? The richest nation on Earth can afford what its citizens choose to pay for. That's Bernie's radical, unrealistic, pie-in-the-sky point, his revolution.
As citizens, we can choose to pay our taxes and continue to let the corporate-political complex decide who to enrich. Or we can finally demand that the government "of, by and for the people" remember the people it has failed to represent.
69
Not saying a lot but this year at least both candidates with the D is heads above any with an R following his name
30
i was young and idealistic once or twice. I supported Gene McCarthy, George McGovern, Bobby Kennedy, Jerry Brown, Jesse Jackson... and Howard Dean. and we got Nixon, Reagan, Bush, Bush & Bush.
Far better to bring your ideals to an elected leader than to lose the election.
Far better to bring your ideals to an elected leader than to lose the election.
62
In an interview with Salon, Sen. Bernie Sanders praised Hillary Clinton as an “extremely smart” (Salon Nov. 27, 20130)
Ref: www.Quora.com which explains the word smart as this:
• Being knowledgeable, which is about things you've learned
• Being intelligent, which is about how effectively and rapidly your thought processes work.
“When someone is described as "smart", it's usually because they exhibit a good combination of both knowledge and intelligence. They think quickly, reason soundly, and have a stock of knowledge that they are able to draw on and apply to answer questions or to solve problems”.
Ref: www.Quora.com which explains the word smart as this:
• Being knowledgeable, which is about things you've learned
• Being intelligent, which is about how effectively and rapidly your thought processes work.
“When someone is described as "smart", it's usually because they exhibit a good combination of both knowledge and intelligence. They think quickly, reason soundly, and have a stock of knowledge that they are able to draw on and apply to answer questions or to solve problems”.
14
Hillary's success has come about by riding the coattails of her husband. Unfortunately for her, Bill Clinton is now old and doddering and can't help her. In addition, it looks like she'll be indicted. The democrats better start feeling the Bern.
47
I can't think of anything that smacks more of a police state than indicting credible candidates for public offices for things like mishandling of ex post facto classified information.
They are "feeling the Bern", big time, as they realize there is release and salvation, from the soul destroying, firmly held in place, Status Quo
Hillary is the current front woman for the Plutocratic vanguard, seeking to maintain the status quo, which is doing nearly all it can to sideline Bernie Sanders, and clear the path for Hillary back to the White House.
The Lady is corrupt to her core, fixated on serving her self and her equally corrupt masters, hardly willing to to increase the size of the stale breadcrumbs, she believes the people should be thankful for.
Will NY help her in her quest for more wealth, to fill her already overflowing coffers ?? We will see.
Hillary is the current front woman for the Plutocratic vanguard, seeking to maintain the status quo, which is doing nearly all it can to sideline Bernie Sanders, and clear the path for Hillary back to the White House.
The Lady is corrupt to her core, fixated on serving her self and her equally corrupt masters, hardly willing to to increase the size of the stale breadcrumbs, she believes the people should be thankful for.
Will NY help her in her quest for more wealth, to fill her already overflowing coffers ?? We will see.
26
They are "feeling the Bern", big time, as they realize there is release and salvation, from the soul destroying, firmly held in place, Status Quo
Hillary is the current front woman for the Plutocratic vanguard, seeking to maintain the status quo, which is doing nearly all it can to sideline Bernie Sanders, and clear the path for Hillary back to the White House.
The Lady is corrupt to her core, fixated on serving herself and her equally corrupt masters, hardly willing to increase the size of the stale breadcrumbs, she believes the people should be thankful for.
Will NY help her in her quest for more wealth, to fill her already overflowing coffers ?? We will see.
Hillary is the current front woman for the Plutocratic vanguard, seeking to maintain the status quo, which is doing nearly all it can to sideline Bernie Sanders, and clear the path for Hillary back to the White House.
The Lady is corrupt to her core, fixated on serving herself and her equally corrupt masters, hardly willing to increase the size of the stale breadcrumbs, she believes the people should be thankful for.
Will NY help her in her quest for more wealth, to fill her already overflowing coffers ?? We will see.
11
Bernie Sanders doesn’t know Foreign policy, pros say
http://nydn.us/1Vy8pYE
Mr. Sanders’s shocking ignorance on his core issue
https://www.washingtonpost.com/.../83a8e33c-fc34-11e5...
http://nydn.us/1Vy8pYE
Mr. Sanders’s shocking ignorance on his core issue
https://www.washingtonpost.com/.../83a8e33c-fc34-11e5...
13
Wait, so Clinton implies Bernie isn't qualified, then when he responds in kind, he is the bad guy? That is called gaslighting. Clinton is a very aggressive candidate, but when anyone responds to her aggression they get called aggressive. And yes, Bernie has a stump speech - about half of which Clinton has plagiarized. The only original ideas she has is about bombing other countries and regime change. And she probably got those ideas from her mentor, Henry Kissinger.
78
I am voting for Hillary Clinton over an anti-Israel pol who will visit the Vatican (fine) but not Israel (not fine) who favors revolution (we don't need Robespierre in 2016) and who has been a shill for gun manufacturers. He may have been born in NYC but this state will be his Waterloo..
33
I'm with you, Gail.
However, I fear that the angry comments coming from real Bernie supporters as well as false ones (Republicans who would prefer to run against Bernie), are going to sound like finger nails on a blackboard.
Don't know if I can take it anymore.
However, I fear that the angry comments coming from real Bernie supporters as well as false ones (Republicans who would prefer to run against Bernie), are going to sound like finger nails on a blackboard.
Don't know if I can take it anymore.
53
Many years ago I had the privilege of spending three days as a factotum for the late PM of Canada, Pierre Trudeau. He engaged me in a conversation when I responded to a question of his asking me what I thought of ex-President Nixon ( I had said that he could have been the US' most successful post war President if only he wasn't "Nixon".) The PM could effortlessly discuss any part of the world. In considering The People's Republic of China, he wondered whether or not Chinese communism was a "modernizing" ideology, if the US could successfully export American style democracy to every nation in the world (Mr. Trudeau thought it revealed America's innocence of history and the international system). The conversation went to Vietnam and US' inexplicable war on that nation, the PRC's use of Vietnam as its proxy against the US, and so on. He seemed to be larger than the nation he led. For me, the current candidates for our Presidency seem much less than the nation they offer themselves to lead. There is no evidence that we have in our midst a Churchill, DeGaulle, an FDR or perhaps a Trudeau. Sec. Clinton has made so many serious mistakes on foreign policy that it is truly fair to question her view of the world or if she even has a coherent view. Of course, Winston Churchill also made many mistakes early in his career for which he was exiled until he returned to become the greatest leader of the 20th century. Let us hope we find our leader as our ancestors did in 1933.
16
We do have that sort of leader. Unfortunately he wasn't prepared for the vast right wing conspirators and their money. I hope that Democrats now have a clue as to what we're up against.
18
Again with the carpetbagging carping about Clinton.
Okay, how do you define a person's home state?
Where they were born? Clinton hasn't lived in Illinois for half a century. (BTW, Sanders hasn't lived in New York since 1964.)
Where they had a family? That would be Arkansas.
Where they became famous? Washington.
The Clintons own a home in New York State. She has represented the state well in the US Senate, where she actually had to teach some of her colleagues that there is a whole big land mass above Westchester where you can see actual cows and so on. She has traveled up and down and back and forth, so her point of view encompasses far more than the five boroughs. As far as this lifelong Upstater is concerned, she is every bit as much a New York resident as anyone else who has represented us in the Senate, and by that I mean she knows we are more than just a big city and an island.
Robert F. Kennedy was called a carpetbagger, too, for moving here and running as our senator. Many people--and I am one of them--believe he would have been a far greater president than the eventual winner if he had been able to live through the 1968 election.
In a highly mobile society, talk of who is a "real" resident is irrelevant. Can we move on to the real issues now?
Okay, how do you define a person's home state?
Where they were born? Clinton hasn't lived in Illinois for half a century. (BTW, Sanders hasn't lived in New York since 1964.)
Where they had a family? That would be Arkansas.
Where they became famous? Washington.
The Clintons own a home in New York State. She has represented the state well in the US Senate, where she actually had to teach some of her colleagues that there is a whole big land mass above Westchester where you can see actual cows and so on. She has traveled up and down and back and forth, so her point of view encompasses far more than the five boroughs. As far as this lifelong Upstater is concerned, she is every bit as much a New York resident as anyone else who has represented us in the Senate, and by that I mean she knows we are more than just a big city and an island.
Robert F. Kennedy was called a carpetbagger, too, for moving here and running as our senator. Many people--and I am one of them--believe he would have been a far greater president than the eventual winner if he had been able to live through the 1968 election.
In a highly mobile society, talk of who is a "real" resident is irrelevant. Can we move on to the real issues now?
40
She did NOT represent the state well in NY--she represented Wall Street well. Campaign promises to Upstate NY for jobs and dairy support were not done
once she was in office.
once she was in office.
43
Where do you get your facts from? Dairy has burgeoned in NYS, with spin-off benefits like a large and thriving yogurt production industry. I've lived upstate for half a century and watched it happen. We used to have a lot of small, rundown operations with a few dozen head each. Now we have a lot of farms with hundreds of cows, creating thousands of jobs from milking parlor attendants to the truck drivers who deliver the finished product to supermarkets. Dunno what it's like in MA, but don't worry about New York.
18
Please, remember we will be voting for or against Clintons not HC alone for the highest office.
9
You may be voting for Clintons. I will be voting for Hillary Clinton who, to the amazement of many, is different from Bill.
45
We are facing Hobson's choice.A principled candidate who increasingly seems to be long on dreams,short on detail and prone to repetition.Or a candidate who may be qualified based on experience but ,contrary to mythology,owes much to her husband and his name,is short on tangible accomplishments and most importantly,lacking in any authenticity,never lets conviction get in the way of expediency and is prone to difficulties with the truth.Anyone who thinks that HRC becomes more informed by "listening"must also believe that her flip flopping is driven by what she learns.I have a bridge for sale.
34
Reading many recent comments shows how thoroughly and insidiously conservative rhetoric has permeated the way people discuss politics now. Defining the terms of debate has been a conservative tactic for decades. If progressives bring up inequality they instantly start talking about scroungers and moochers in emotional and reductive language and that becomes the discussion. The winning is everything, no compromise, selective reality of conservative ideologues is now being used among some progressives.
I’ve been guilty of being intemperate or snarky in my comments, at times, and was ashamed that I lost my detachment in the heat of the moment, as Sen. Sanders did the other day, and for which he apologized.
Op/Ed writers, even if they appear in newspapers, are not writing as journalists or historians. The people who write for the Times are observers and commenters who are well qualified to comment, so differences of opinion are “fair game” as Sec. Clinton said when accepting the Sanders apology but questioning their professional qualifications is wrong, just as it was Sen. Sanders when did it. That’s why he apologized.
I’ve been guilty of being intemperate or snarky in my comments, at times, and was ashamed that I lost my detachment in the heat of the moment, as Sen. Sanders did the other day, and for which he apologized.
Op/Ed writers, even if they appear in newspapers, are not writing as journalists or historians. The people who write for the Times are observers and commenters who are well qualified to comment, so differences of opinion are “fair game” as Sec. Clinton said when accepting the Sanders apology but questioning their professional qualifications is wrong, just as it was Sen. Sanders when did it. That’s why he apologized.
9
Yes, and your point is?
6
C'mon Gail, you missed the good Noo Yawk political story of the day: Ted Cruz making challah in the Bronx. I hear he is booked in Brooklyn to make matzoh next week. Apparently Cruz got the idea from his own personal Haggadah, which has pharaoh making matzohs for the Jews before they leave Egypt and then lamenting his decision not to build a wall to keep the cheap labor in.
26
That was wonderful, Steve!
4
Ms. Collins, my favorite NYT columnist, has fallen for a made-up piece of Bernie slandering started by the Washington Post and now snowballing thanks to the media only too happy to oblige! That the WaPo chose to pick up a story by a rag like the Daily News is sad enough; that respected journalists like Collins and Krugman are joining the lynch mob is unbelievable. And all because the not-too-bright Daily News interviewer didn't understand the difference between Treasury and Federal Reserve, and the paper covered up his ignorance by twisting Bernie's excellent response into some kind of blunder: Gotcha!
61
Denial is not just a river in Egypt.
15
This for you Gail, and for other so devoted to Hillary, I find the lack of trustworthiness to part of her baggage, as well as her hawkish attitude difficult.
Please take the time to read: https://medium.com/@memosalazar/the-one-piece-of-writing-every-hillary-s....
Should Hillary be the choice, I will vote for her, but between the fomented bias of the Times and the corrupt chairperson (Ms Debbie Wassermann), I feel overwhelmed by the Democratic Party's undemocratic ploys. This is serious, we can make the difference!
Please take the time to read: https://medium.com/@memosalazar/the-one-piece-of-writing-every-hillary-s....
Should Hillary be the choice, I will vote for her, but between the fomented bias of the Times and the corrupt chairperson (Ms Debbie Wassermann), I feel overwhelmed by the Democratic Party's undemocratic ploys. This is serious, we can make the difference!
25
Love Bernie and how he has pushed the progressive agenda. Hate everyone riding in the republican clown car. However, the south will NEVER vote for a self proclaimed socialist Jew who grew up in Brooklyn and moved to Vermont. As a northern progressive Jew, I don't mean to be paranoid but Alalbama, Mississippi, Arkansas etc.. Vote for a Jew? Fuhgetaboutit! We need Bernie in the senate and Hillary can do this job. As my 85 year old Jewish mother says about Hillary, " This is our mement to elect a woman, don't expect it to come again anytime soon".
34
So vote for a woman who is hawkish and supports Wall Street or vote for Bernie whose record shows he seeks peace and re-strengthening of the middle class and working poor. Your mother should have learned that to vote for gender vs policy is foolish.
26
What's missing in this article is the massive screwups in Hillary Clinton's career : her health care proposal was so overwrought it never got off the ground, wrong on regime change in Iraq, Lybia, the Ukraine, wrong on trade pacts, promising upstate New York jobs that were never delivered, in fact her whole corporate/American imperium stance is an outmoded and dangerous. Ergo, based if her track record of past failures, she is unqualified to be president.
40
Talking points from the Republicans, who have trashed her and bashed her and lied about her for decades, knowing there are some dupes out there eager to swallow whatever they're served.
You forgot to mention Benghazi. How many hours did she endure sweaty Trey's interrogation? Where did it get him (and you)? Nowhere. Just like the rest of the lies.
You forgot to mention Benghazi. How many hours did she endure sweaty Trey's interrogation? Where did it get him (and you)? Nowhere. Just like the rest of the lies.
35
You are blaming Hillary for Iraq?! Really?
29
Maybe more people would have come out for midterms in 2010 and 2014 if they had something worth coming out to vote for.
Voters in 2008 (like now) desperately wanted change, and thought Obama represented that change.
Instead, he hired Larry Summers to head his economic team, appointed Bowles and Simpson commission to find ways to cut SS, while health insurance lobbyist Liz Fowler wrote the ACA.
In Florida, Biden is campaigning hard for Patrick Murphy to win the Democratic senate primary. Up until 2012, Patrick Murphy was a Republican.
Don't expect Democrats to turn out in 2018 either, after President Hillary signs the TPP with Republican support, gives cuts to SS via COLA tricks, keeps any minimum wage as small as possible, and appoints Laurence Fink and other insiders to key posts to prevent economic change which benefits workers.
But that will be fine with Hillary Clinton and her Third Way supporters (Social Liberals for Wall Street), so long as they fight in vain against guns.
A Progressive who can get things done! (R)
Voters in 2008 (like now) desperately wanted change, and thought Obama represented that change.
Instead, he hired Larry Summers to head his economic team, appointed Bowles and Simpson commission to find ways to cut SS, while health insurance lobbyist Liz Fowler wrote the ACA.
In Florida, Biden is campaigning hard for Patrick Murphy to win the Democratic senate primary. Up until 2012, Patrick Murphy was a Republican.
Don't expect Democrats to turn out in 2018 either, after President Hillary signs the TPP with Republican support, gives cuts to SS via COLA tricks, keeps any minimum wage as small as possible, and appoints Laurence Fink and other insiders to key posts to prevent economic change which benefits workers.
But that will be fine with Hillary Clinton and her Third Way supporters (Social Liberals for Wall Street), so long as they fight in vain against guns.
A Progressive who can get things done! (R)
25
Well, if you don't turn out to vote for Democratic congressman, you get what you deserve.
27
Yes, Hillary is a Republican who can get things done the moderate Republican way--support the military complex and Wall Street but also support Planned Parenthood.
10
My Republican neighbors in Cincinnati calls Bernie a communist one even voted for him him to win OH and thought to be the weakest candidate.
But Hill won OH and out to be the Democratic nominee to beat Ted Cruz or Donald Trump to annoy all my neighbors.
They still will remain my good and friendly Republican neighbors.
But Hill won OH and out to be the Democratic nominee to beat Ted Cruz or Donald Trump to annoy all my neighbors.
They still will remain my good and friendly Republican neighbors.
7
Yes, Hillary may be voted in by Republican crossovers--she is one.
9
Hillary has been listening for 25 years. She has listened to farmers, to machinists,to bankers, to pundits, to people of color , to women, to men, to gays, to heads of state and the list goes on. Everybody loves a good listener particularly if the listener is focused on you. But, the bigger issue is what does the listener do with the information and from what I have read the general opinion and the opinion of Ms. Collins is that now Sec Clinton is going to use all that information to excel in her capacity as president. Shouldn't there be an objective and even a quantifiable basis for that conclusion? I know the talking points but historically where's the beef. Good listeners may be nothing more than that.
22
Bernie Sanders has a vision of a better America. Hillary Clinton thinks small. Bernie Sanders wants to be president so he can change the country for the better. Hillary Clinton just wants to be president; she has always wanted to be president.
Hillary Clinton is reported as saying, "I"m tired of this. I'm going to crush him [Sanders]. I'll put the party together later." Immediately after, the attacks on Bernie started, with Hillary suggesting Bernie was not qualified and the a New York newspaper misrepresenting an interview with him and everyone in the media piling on (including Ms. Collins in this column). And people are telling Mr. Sanders to be nice? What a sweet narrative to smear someone.
Oh, and Mrs. Clinton seems determined to misrepresent Mr. Sanders policies and record at every available opportunity while expecting the public to accept her apologies for her "mistakes." Mistakes are to be learned from, not repeated. Apologies are not enough. Iraq was a mistake, repeated in Libya, repeated again in Syria, and probably repeated many times in less important contexts. Mrs Clinton seems determined to "crush" her opponents.
Hillary Clinton is reported as saying, "I"m tired of this. I'm going to crush him [Sanders]. I'll put the party together later." Immediately after, the attacks on Bernie started, with Hillary suggesting Bernie was not qualified and the a New York newspaper misrepresenting an interview with him and everyone in the media piling on (including Ms. Collins in this column). And people are telling Mr. Sanders to be nice? What a sweet narrative to smear someone.
Oh, and Mrs. Clinton seems determined to misrepresent Mr. Sanders policies and record at every available opportunity while expecting the public to accept her apologies for her "mistakes." Mistakes are to be learned from, not repeated. Apologies are not enough. Iraq was a mistake, repeated in Libya, repeated again in Syria, and probably repeated many times in less important contexts. Mrs Clinton seems determined to "crush" her opponents.
43
Sanders supporters should think what life would be like if he got his way. Right now, all he has given are slogans. Would things be better if the banks were broken up or would chaos result with thousands of small bank failures. What would happen when evil Wall Street was dismembered, what about all the people who work there, what about your 401Ks. What would happen to interest rates when the National debt doubles under the weight of his programs? Could you live with sky-high interest rates that would follow? Would you like tax rates of more than 50%? What would Medical Care look like when M'Care goes from 80 million to 330million overnight? Are you ready for a National Health Care Service that would mirror the VA. Where would the Doctors come from? Their incomes would have to be severely restricted. Where would drugs come from when the Pharma industry is dismembered? How would expenses be controlled? By rationing? And who would pay when public colleges are free for all comers? How many times can we spend all that money he proposes to take from the greedy rich until there are no rich and the tax increases make their way down to the so called middle-class. And would we better off with a pacifist Pres and no trade deals? What would the world look like then? As usual, the Devil is in the details he never reveals, or even worse, has never thought about.
25
n their push to vilify Sanders, Democratic Party acolytes from the media to academia have fallen in line attacking the economic foundations of his campaign for free public college tuition, Medicare for all, job creation through infrastructure repair, and other critical needs.
But a new report from the University of Massachusetts Amherst Political Economy Research Institute documents how a key Sanders proposal — a tax on Wall Street speculation -would bring at least $300 billion a year in new revenues from those who can most afford to pay it for the critical reforms the country so desperately needs.
But a new report from the University of Massachusetts Amherst Political Economy Research Institute documents how a key Sanders proposal — a tax on Wall Street speculation -would bring at least $300 billion a year in new revenues from those who can most afford to pay it for the critical reforms the country so desperately needs.
18
Excellent points. I've tried--largely unsuccessfully--to make them myself.
4
The US is struggling with misunderstandings at the level of axioms. I don't think Bernie will help with this.
4
We seem to be back to the "who would you rather have a beer with" as a yardstick as for whom to vote for President. Style over substance is a poor way to think about qualifications for President.
Why are the two leading candidates on the Republican side "winning" in the race for the RP nominee? Style, no substance.
Why are the two leading candidates on the Republican side "winning" in the race for the RP nominee? Style, no substance.
9
I think many politicians prefer to avoid pragmatic policy discussions and details during the campaign period. If they discuss too much practical details, they run several risks: 1) voters will be mad that the politician did not "deliver" on their promises (which they rarely can, because congress has to approve /amend bills...) and 2) they may bore voters who want to be inspired and emotionally moved. People tend to be more swayed by emotion rather than cognition. To be an effective president, I believe you need the capacity to inspire people emotionally and have a great mind for policy proposals and details.
The question I have is whether Sanders is avoiding policy detail as a campaign strategy or if he has some challenges being able to develop coherent policy. Given that he was a mayor and senator and has been in politics for a long time, I am inclined to think he knows how to deal with the details of policy.
Trump is clear that he avoids articulating policy details too early to protect his negotiating ability to make deals.
Clinton is clearly great at understanding policy, developing policy, etc. She has a hard time inspiring people and campaigning.
The question I have is whether Sanders is avoiding policy detail as a campaign strategy or if he has some challenges being able to develop coherent policy. Given that he was a mayor and senator and has been in politics for a long time, I am inclined to think he knows how to deal with the details of policy.
Trump is clear that he avoids articulating policy details too early to protect his negotiating ability to make deals.
Clinton is clearly great at understanding policy, developing policy, etc. She has a hard time inspiring people and campaigning.
6
Hillary cannot inspire because she lies and does not deliver.
Look at her promises to Upstate NYers as she listened to them.
Look at her record of supporting only Wall Street when she was voted in.
Look at her promises to Upstate NYers as she listened to them.
Look at her record of supporting only Wall Street when she was voted in.
8
I have only one question for Bernie supporters: if your candidate doesn't become the Democratic nominee for President will you take your marbles and go home on voting day? A "revolution" doesn't happen over night, but a debacle certainly ensued when Democrats stayed home in 2010.
We will continue to live with those gerrymandered districts and the racist photo ID laws and the totally nutty "bathroom" laws etc. for at least another five years. 2020 is the earliest census year election that might change things. And given the violence Republicans have done to the democratic process from bottom to top, making our democracy work for the average American again is going to take more than one election cycle. Will you be there to weigh in for your own benefit?
We will continue to live with those gerrymandered districts and the racist photo ID laws and the totally nutty "bathroom" laws etc. for at least another five years. 2020 is the earliest census year election that might change things. And given the violence Republicans have done to the democratic process from bottom to top, making our democracy work for the average American again is going to take more than one election cycle. Will you be there to weigh in for your own benefit?
22
It takes victory in three national election victories over six years at a minimum to turn over the whole US Senate.
9
Vote Bernie in --- plus as many Progressives as possible -- for an excellent start
11
I'll hold my nose and do the right thing. But the ACA is killing the middle class. Seriously killing it. Something needs to change. Either allow cross state lines competition or let it be Medicare for all.
3
Heaven help us. How many of us base our presidential choice on clever little articles like this? (That famous Collins wit has suffered badly since she picked sides.)
So, candidates answer rushed, baited questions from journalists in ways that aren't as eloquent as they might be and GOTCHA! How dare Sanders say he is not sure or that he has not studied a piece of legislation that is still sealed. How dare he say that he is not sure that the Fed has a particular authority--yet no one else is sure, either. How dare he be honest and not manufacture a facile answer.
Thank goodness for the Internet, where we voters can find and read the bills Sanders sponsored and his full platform. Make no mistake: we read Clinton's platform, too. And her record in the Senate and as SOS. Too bad journalists can't do their homework, too.
So, candidates answer rushed, baited questions from journalists in ways that aren't as eloquent as they might be and GOTCHA! How dare Sanders say he is not sure or that he has not studied a piece of legislation that is still sealed. How dare he say that he is not sure that the Fed has a particular authority--yet no one else is sure, either. How dare he be honest and not manufacture a facile answer.
Thank goodness for the Internet, where we voters can find and read the bills Sanders sponsored and his full platform. Make no mistake: we read Clinton's platform, too. And her record in the Senate and as SOS. Too bad journalists can't do their homework, too.
27
Journalists seem to write columns for each ither's professional entertainment. They don't have the reader in mind. Especially NYT is tone deaf to its readers, Margaret Sullivan was the only one who understood and Andrew rosenthal is the biggest disappointment of them all by his singular obsession with Trump.
11
The questions Old Bernie was unable to answer were not "rushed". They were the obvious questions about the pie-in-the-sky baloney he's been ranting about and jabbing his finger about for MANY MONTHS now.
Why do you support an Old man who is TOO LAZY to do his homework? How on earth would that translate to the toughest job on the planet?
Why do you support an Old man who is TOO LAZY to do his homework? How on earth would that translate to the toughest job on the planet?
12
Maybe some voters don't want to be thrilled with their political candidates. Maybe they don't want a heart-stopping, as in heart attack, speech from them. Maybe some of us just want to know that candidates aren't completely nuts and relatively uncrooked.
Obama was always going to be an act nearly impossible to follow. It's true that Sanders and Clinton together do not raise the heart rate much. But both of them have, you know, ideas, functioning brains, and both of them can more or less articulate policies. Both seem to have the interests of the people at heart and want to improve the lives of the middle class and the poor.
Now, contrast those two with the three stooges the republicans have on offer. No republican cares about improving the lives of Americans. These three would destroy the ACA, restrict rights of all, but especially female and Muslim Americans, and drag the country into carpet bomb war. The stand-out in this rabid pack ridicules and insults everybody whose name is not Trump. And maybe the worst is that he would take our Oreos away. The other two are oily, soulless hayseeds whose vision for America is a black and white zombie Oz.
They are scary as hell, but that's not exactly the same as thrilling.
Obama was always going to be an act nearly impossible to follow. It's true that Sanders and Clinton together do not raise the heart rate much. But both of them have, you know, ideas, functioning brains, and both of them can more or less articulate policies. Both seem to have the interests of the people at heart and want to improve the lives of the middle class and the poor.
Now, contrast those two with the three stooges the republicans have on offer. No republican cares about improving the lives of Americans. These three would destroy the ACA, restrict rights of all, but especially female and Muslim Americans, and drag the country into carpet bomb war. The stand-out in this rabid pack ridicules and insults everybody whose name is not Trump. And maybe the worst is that he would take our Oreos away. The other two are oily, soulless hayseeds whose vision for America is a black and white zombie Oz.
They are scary as hell, but that's not exactly the same as thrilling.
13
No one is bringing up Hillary Clinton's foreign policy, other than that she knows lots of world leaders and other influential and important people. She has advocated for and helped to bring about regime change several times, with disastrous effects. She has vowed to "destroy ISIS", (until they morph into something worse.) It appears as if perpetual war will continue under President Hillary Clinton, sucking up trillions more dollars from the Treasury. But at least that money will not be spent on pie-in-the-sky universal healthcare and free higher education. After all, " This isn't Denmark, this is the United States of America", as Hillary has so proudly declared!
26
Amen. She nearly started ww3 as SOS we are told, oops. Even Obama dare not talk about it that's why he would rather go along with the Clintons than face democratic wrath. Biden has more courage and he would stand up to Hilary if needed. These politicians all know each other's weak spots so use those as bargaining (or bkackmailing) chips.
10
Hillary is remarkably short on explaining her windfall speaking engagements to the tune of $2.9 million between leaving the State Department and announcing her candidacy. Why isn't she giving those speeches for free on the campaign trail, at $325,000 each I'll bet they are real barn burners!
Then there is the matter of foreign contributions to the Clinton Foundation during Hillary's tenure as Secretary of State. Or her flip flop voting for the bankruptcy law.
Finally, who signed into law the legislation indemnifying gun manufacturers, was it Barack Obama, Hillary's hero President?
Then there is the matter of foreign contributions to the Clinton Foundation during Hillary's tenure as Secretary of State. Or her flip flop voting for the bankruptcy law.
Finally, who signed into law the legislation indemnifying gun manufacturers, was it Barack Obama, Hillary's hero President?
23
Mr. Sanders’s shocking ignorance on his core issue
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/mr-sanderss-shocking-ignorance-o...
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/mr-sanderss-shocking-ignorance-o...
7
I honestly don't know what is more repetitive Bernie's stump speech or the one sided portrayals of the democratic race in this newspaper.
I wonder if President Obama might have helped get out the vote more in 2010 but Sanders is definitely getting a bunch of young folks excited about politics.
The flap this past week is over. How about some policy discussion?
I wonder if President Obama might have helped get out the vote more in 2010 but Sanders is definitely getting a bunch of young folks excited about politics.
The flap this past week is over. How about some policy discussion?
14
Bernie raised $44M vs Clinton, $29.5M last mo?
No big deal. Clinton can out-self-fund Trump.
She went from "bankrupt" to billionaire (if we count 90% of the assets of the Clinton Foundation–both transparent & extrapolated–appropriate given its < 10% "charity" pass-through).
Clinton's percentage increase in wealth while SoS—think "infinity"—dwarfs Bloomie's, who had contemplated throwing his $25k Montecristi Panama into ring. She accomplished this by selling out the US—big plus for her corruption/damage bona fides.
Roughly 15 yrs & several $100M ago, she pled “not guilty” to selling out the country by reason of poverty.
She said: “We don’t own a house, we own 1/2 of a house…. He has his '68 Mustang & I have my '86 Cutlass. A recent magazine said that w/ our legal bills we are bankrupt. So, if we had intended to trade on my position, I’ve done a very poor job of it"
If a '68 Mustang/half a house/purported bankruptcy are exculpatory, the inference as regards the Clintons' obscene wealth today is clear.
RICO cases, of which emailgate/foundationgate/uraniumgate are examples, need only produce a pattern of behavior to prevail, not an explicit quid pro quo.
A civil RICO case was filed. Should a criminal RICO case go forward and prevail, the pair can be fined up to $25K and imprisoned up to 20 years per count. In addition, they must forfeit all assets gained through a pattern of racketeering activity.
It’s about time the Clintons “spread the wealth around,” don’t you think?
No big deal. Clinton can out-self-fund Trump.
She went from "bankrupt" to billionaire (if we count 90% of the assets of the Clinton Foundation–both transparent & extrapolated–appropriate given its < 10% "charity" pass-through).
Clinton's percentage increase in wealth while SoS—think "infinity"—dwarfs Bloomie's, who had contemplated throwing his $25k Montecristi Panama into ring. She accomplished this by selling out the US—big plus for her corruption/damage bona fides.
Roughly 15 yrs & several $100M ago, she pled “not guilty” to selling out the country by reason of poverty.
She said: “We don’t own a house, we own 1/2 of a house…. He has his '68 Mustang & I have my '86 Cutlass. A recent magazine said that w/ our legal bills we are bankrupt. So, if we had intended to trade on my position, I’ve done a very poor job of it"
If a '68 Mustang/half a house/purported bankruptcy are exculpatory, the inference as regards the Clintons' obscene wealth today is clear.
RICO cases, of which emailgate/foundationgate/uraniumgate are examples, need only produce a pattern of behavior to prevail, not an explicit quid pro quo.
A civil RICO case was filed. Should a criminal RICO case go forward and prevail, the pair can be fined up to $25K and imprisoned up to 20 years per count. In addition, they must forfeit all assets gained through a pattern of racketeering activity.
It’s about time the Clintons “spread the wealth around,” don’t you think?
18
"Should a criminal RICO case go forward and prevail, the pair can be fined up to $25K and imprisoned up to 20 years per count. In addition, they must forfeit all assets gained through a pattern of racketeering activity."
Interesting, can a sitting President be indicted, and jailed, or will she stack the Justice Department so they will quash any such possibility.
Methinks she may have another self-serving reason for seeking the Presidency.
Interesting, can a sitting President be indicted, and jailed, or will she stack the Justice Department so they will quash any such possibility.
Methinks she may have another self-serving reason for seeking the Presidency.
5
Americans have gone a bit crazy with their disdain for government and their rights as individuals. Why can’t we recognize that we are all lost if we don’t have a functioning government? True, since Reagan the media has spread the idea that “government is the problem.” And it can and does disappoint us; the leaders we elect make domestic and international decisions to satisfy their constituents. But in a democracy the only way out is a sane discourse about ways to make things better.
Our extended primary season with its constant media squabbles over who said what is not serving us well. The Republicans have plans for the future, but they don’t reflect the values we have tried to maintain through the years. Democrats are ignoring the one important job they must do: winning the 2016 election, restoring balance to the Supreme Court, saving the country from Republicans’ worst instincts. Bernie Sanders’s passion is valid, but being President is not a one-man job. Making change happen involves high intelligence, stamina, compromise, making deals. I trust Hillary to do the job because of her brains and experience. Governing our difficult country and maintaining our balance in a very messy world are not a job for a one-issue idealist. (I tend to be an idealist myself.)
Our extended primary season with its constant media squabbles over who said what is not serving us well. The Republicans have plans for the future, but they don’t reflect the values we have tried to maintain through the years. Democrats are ignoring the one important job they must do: winning the 2016 election, restoring balance to the Supreme Court, saving the country from Republicans’ worst instincts. Bernie Sanders’s passion is valid, but being President is not a one-man job. Making change happen involves high intelligence, stamina, compromise, making deals. I trust Hillary to do the job because of her brains and experience. Governing our difficult country and maintaining our balance in a very messy world are not a job for a one-issue idealist. (I tend to be an idealist myself.)
10
Without revealing which candidate I support, I'd like to clarify my feelings about exactly what "my home" means. After growing up 0–18 in Brooklyn, I spent the next 10 (18–28) on Manhattan's upper west side. Since then, there's been a bunch of years in multiple New England locations, then out here in the Southwest. When new acquaintances ask me "where's home?" my answer is invariably, "NYC, both Brooklyn and Manhattan." Why? Simply because the first 18 formed me as a child transformed into a young man, the next 10 morphed me into responsible adulthood. Although the subsequent influences of location on my career[s] were significant, one tends to refer back to those irrevocable roots, with the only piece having changed, the Brooklyn accent. I'm a New Yawkuh forever.
8
Come on! This will not help and will not go. We all know who is the millionaire beauty salon Chanel glamour girl in this competition. One can easily see that Hillary's clothes, even when they are demure, are from the best tailors in business. Bernie's clothes always look like he just got them from Sears.
13
Bernie's been on the Gov payroll for 40 years. He is in the bracket that makes 250K a year. He can buy an iron like anyone else.
20
Sanders's argument for why Clinton is not qualified was reasonable. If you make a lot of big mistakes at your job, as she has, then you shouldn't get the big promotion. That was the gist of his argument. After all, it's not just about having a series of titles on your resume, it's about what you did when you held the positions.
In the many defenses I've heard of Clinton's record, the laundry list keeps coming up--First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State. But how did she do in those roles? What were her big accomplishments?
As First Lady, neither an elected or appointed position for which there's required public service, Hillary was given enormous responsibility as an adviser and unofficial cabinet member. Hillary spearheaded one of the big failures of Bill Clinton's administration in an attempt at creating universal healthcare coverage.
As a senator, Clinton served on committees doing yeoman's work, but did not particularly distinguish herself. What are her major legislative accomplishments? What did she do in particular to benefit the citizens of New York State? We know she cast a horrendous vote in favor of invading Iraq.
As Secretary of State, a job Clinton was offered out of political calculus, I haven't heard anything about what she did to distinguish herself as an unusually good one. Her readiness to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline gives me the chills, though.
I don't think any of the questions or observations above are terribly controversial.
In the many defenses I've heard of Clinton's record, the laundry list keeps coming up--First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State. But how did she do in those roles? What were her big accomplishments?
As First Lady, neither an elected or appointed position for which there's required public service, Hillary was given enormous responsibility as an adviser and unofficial cabinet member. Hillary spearheaded one of the big failures of Bill Clinton's administration in an attempt at creating universal healthcare coverage.
As a senator, Clinton served on committees doing yeoman's work, but did not particularly distinguish herself. What are her major legislative accomplishments? What did she do in particular to benefit the citizens of New York State? We know she cast a horrendous vote in favor of invading Iraq.
As Secretary of State, a job Clinton was offered out of political calculus, I haven't heard anything about what she did to distinguish herself as an unusually good one. Her readiness to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline gives me the chills, though.
I don't think any of the questions or observations above are terribly controversial.
21
She's been pushing for universal health care since she was First Lady? Then she definitely has my vote.
21
The Sanders cult whined and screamed about their candidate not getting the media spotlight. Be careful what you wish for. Spotlight entails scrutiny.
Said it before, saying it again: Sanders is the Ronald Reagan of the left. He's an old man, possibly a bit gaga, who has become the lightning rod and figurehead for the yearnings of a subset of the population. He has some high-concept ideals and applause lines; some program proposals based on those concepts that, when you get down to real-world details, won't work as advertised; a designated Antichrist to crusade against (for Reagan, the USSR and welfare queens; for Sanders, Wall Street and billionaires); and a stump speech that, as Ms Collins observes, 'is a wowser'. If he stays on script, he impresses those who already agree with him. But improv and ad lib bring out all his shortcomings; since thinking on your feet is a vital skill for a president. this is troubling.
Reagan, though, got nominated, and elected ... twice. Ouch.
Said it before, saying it again: Sanders is the Ronald Reagan of the left. He's an old man, possibly a bit gaga, who has become the lightning rod and figurehead for the yearnings of a subset of the population. He has some high-concept ideals and applause lines; some program proposals based on those concepts that, when you get down to real-world details, won't work as advertised; a designated Antichrist to crusade against (for Reagan, the USSR and welfare queens; for Sanders, Wall Street and billionaires); and a stump speech that, as Ms Collins observes, 'is a wowser'. If he stays on script, he impresses those who already agree with him. But improv and ad lib bring out all his shortcomings; since thinking on your feet is a vital skill for a president. this is troubling.
Reagan, though, got nominated, and elected ... twice. Ouch.
16
Collins is always in the tank for the Clintons. Unbiased is not her strong suit.
8
Robert r, you do realize this is the *editorial* page? Ms Collins is a columnist. She is paid to have opinions and to express them. Her opinions just happen to be different from yours.
I note your comment doesn't actually produce any rebuttal to my analysis of Sanders. Sanders cultists never actually produce a reasoned, detailed explanation of just how he will call his spirits from the vasty deep, or answer the all too rare articles that probe past the slogans, undertake detailed analyses, and conclude his programs just won't work. They just devolve into Hillary-bashing, and/or repeat that idiotic slogan and his applause lines and shibboleths.
There's more than demagogue afoot in this election year. Sanders is unprepossessing, for a demagogue; but he's still a demagogue.
I note your comment doesn't actually produce any rebuttal to my analysis of Sanders. Sanders cultists never actually produce a reasoned, detailed explanation of just how he will call his spirits from the vasty deep, or answer the all too rare articles that probe past the slogans, undertake detailed analyses, and conclude his programs just won't work. They just devolve into Hillary-bashing, and/or repeat that idiotic slogan and his applause lines and shibboleths.
There's more than demagogue afoot in this election year. Sanders is unprepossessing, for a demagogue; but he's still a demagogue.
9
I've always liked Gail, so it surprises me how much we differ in our opinion about Hillary v Bernie. From my view, Gail does everything she can to minimize, caricaturize, or belittle Bernie.
She selects facts out of context to mock his positions (e.g., The Daily News interview was intelligent and reasonable and Bernie rightly said we'd need new legislation to break up the banks but that, no, he hadn't studied how that legislation would be written yet.)
The Times ran an objective editorial today about how Bernie and Hillary should stick to the issues. I was heartened to see that rare objectivity on this issue. C'mon Gail: give it a whirl. Try being more objective. You can do it!
She selects facts out of context to mock his positions (e.g., The Daily News interview was intelligent and reasonable and Bernie rightly said we'd need new legislation to break up the banks but that, no, he hadn't studied how that legislation would be written yet.)
The Times ran an objective editorial today about how Bernie and Hillary should stick to the issues. I was heartened to see that rare objectivity on this issue. C'mon Gail: give it a whirl. Try being more objective. You can do it!
22
After all is said and done, Hillary will face off against The Donald in November. She will win and I will have lunch.
17
"Everyone" keeps saying that Hillary is the "best-qualified" candidate -- one that can "get things done". But, no one bothers citing anything that she actually has accomplished -- aside from amassing a ton of frequent flier miles as Secy of State.
She is boring, uninspiring, and prone to shrill pettiness. She avoids answering questions directly and candidly -- at best referring to some obscure set of "policies" that are on her website somewhere (has any actually read them and digested them?). She says that she's going to "work for everyone", but doesn't really say what she's going to do.
In short, I just don't get what's appealing about her. I wish someone would actually list a set of accomplishments -- and a concise description of her "platform" (she sounds like she's going to do "everything", but never really provides a clear statement about her most important priorities).
In short, she's a pig-in-a-poke kind of candidate. She stands for something (everything?) but when you try to nail it down, she seems to actually stand for nothing (in particular).
She is boring, uninspiring, and prone to shrill pettiness. She avoids answering questions directly and candidly -- at best referring to some obscure set of "policies" that are on her website somewhere (has any actually read them and digested them?). She says that she's going to "work for everyone", but doesn't really say what she's going to do.
In short, I just don't get what's appealing about her. I wish someone would actually list a set of accomplishments -- and a concise description of her "platform" (she sounds like she's going to do "everything", but never really provides a clear statement about her most important priorities).
In short, she's a pig-in-a-poke kind of candidate. She stands for something (everything?) but when you try to nail it down, she seems to actually stand for nothing (in particular).
28
If we're talking about records of accomplishment, people in glass houses—i.e. those supporting a candidate, Bernie Sanders, with no record of accomplishment in 30 years in Congress—should be very careful about throwing stones.
20
Hillary Clinton already won her "home state." It's called Illinois.
17
You’re right, pmcbride, but Barack Obama sort of kicked Hillary out of the Illinois house in her visit of 2008. It’s good that she won Illinois eight years later for old times’ sake, but New York has been her “home state” since 1999. Illinois for Hillary Clinton is like President Obama’s Hawaii.
4
Ms. Collins oddly raises the issue of Mr. Sanders questioning Ms. Clinton's qualifications to be president as though Mr. Sanders had been ridiculous. Mr. Sanders wasn't questioning her impressive resume, but her judgment in supporting incessant wars and in supporting Wall Street. Her problem isn't that she hasn't had the right jobs, or jobs that were sufficiently important. Her problem, as Mr. Sanders pointed out quite clearly, is that she consistently has supported blundered policies that have diminished our nation. Ms. Collins seems not to have grasped Mr. Sanders's point, or else she's merely jumped on a bandwagon of critics.
27
Both Trump and Sanders illustrate the American electorates thirst for big promises which exceed Presidential authority or even reality. We still are a country of dreamers. No wonder we elected Bush. How little changes.
12
Stop going GaGa over Hillary Gail and follow the 150 millions to stinking to high heaven.
and feel the Bern! the only true democratic Democrat in this race. Clinton is a fancy pants establishment Democrat a DINO (Democrat In Name Only.) To not disparage the people's candidate.
and feel the Bern! the only true democratic Democrat in this race. Clinton is a fancy pants establishment Democrat a DINO (Democrat In Name Only.) To not disparage the people's candidate.
14
I note your comment supporting Sanders is entirely devoid of any details about how his supposed programs would actually work. Just that inane slogan.
9
Bernie just joined the Democratic party last November, and only for monetary reasons; if anyone is a DINO, it's him.
10
First: 150 million dollars was deposited for safe keeping, not for keeping. The money belongs to Iran.
Second: I do not feel the Bern; I want a Democrat who can be elected on a national basis; and, I want a Democrat with experience in government beyond a lengthy unproductive term in the U.S. Senate.
Second: I do not feel the Bern; I want a Democrat who can be elected on a national basis; and, I want a Democrat with experience in government beyond a lengthy unproductive term in the U.S. Senate.
8
I think it depends on where you are sitting whether you want an entertaining yet ultimately empty wowser speech, or one less entertaining but inspiring in its view of how we actually accomplish things. Bernie's issues with other people he has worked with and C-levels and Israelis is he seems to voice very negative hyperbole unmatched by actual study. Some of us educated people actually like people who study before they speak and keep listening to make sure they are right, or adjust their view. Clinton uses that amazing brain God gave her and THAT IS EXCITING!
I appreciate this column but don't agree with the continued characterization of Clinton. it may be your opinion as somebody who has to write about her that " Clinton wore everyone down by having the humility to be stupendously boring." but for people who like their leaders to really roll up their sleeves and get to work, she is an absolute dream come real.
I appreciate this column but don't agree with the continued characterization of Clinton. it may be your opinion as somebody who has to write about her that " Clinton wore everyone down by having the humility to be stupendously boring." but for people who like their leaders to really roll up their sleeves and get to work, she is an absolute dream come real.
21
To debunk your "Bernie speaks only fantasy" claim, there's plenty of evidence what he says is possible and true. The $15 minimum wage he wants to create? Already being implemented in some cities/States, including surprise surprise NYC. Marijuana legalization and/or reclassification? Already legal in many states and the DEA announced recently it is thinking of reclassifying. Corporations hiding their taxable in off shore shell companies? Panama Papers prove he's right on that as well, and the journalists who uncovered that said there's "more in store for the Americans".
Then there's the attacks that funding his universal healthcare/school is not feasible. Recently, a merger between Pfizer and Allergan was halted, because Pfizer was trying to use Allergan as a shell company to pay less taxes, and Obama just help sign into law which makes using shell companies more difficult (see, passing that sort of legislation is indeed possible) due to the Panama Papers, keeping $35 BILLION in taxes here in America. That's just one company, without even adding new tax laws. Imagine if we had stronger legislation that prevented companies from using shell companies how much money in taxes that should have been paid we'd have; and that's precisely what Bernie wants to do.
Then there's the attacks that funding his universal healthcare/school is not feasible. Recently, a merger between Pfizer and Allergan was halted, because Pfizer was trying to use Allergan as a shell company to pay less taxes, and Obama just help sign into law which makes using shell companies more difficult (see, passing that sort of legislation is indeed possible) due to the Panama Papers, keeping $35 BILLION in taxes here in America. That's just one company, without even adding new tax laws. Imagine if we had stronger legislation that prevented companies from using shell companies how much money in taxes that should have been paid we'd have; and that's precisely what Bernie wants to do.
17
Now, if Clinton had such a " wonderful brain " when it comes to decision making, she probably wouldn't have voted for the Iraq war, she wouldn't have very much openly opposed Gay marriage then deny she ever opposed it (I can retrieve that audio if you'd like), she wouldn't have agreed with the CIA that overthrowing Assad in Syria and arming the rebels was a good idea and give the go ahead for it (it created ISIS instead), she wouldn't have supported lowering the proposed minimum wage in Haiti from 0.61¢ and hour to 0.31¢ an hour due to pressure from the garments lobby, and so on. I can provide evidence for all this and more, from emails she's sent to wires obtained through Wikileaks.
Perhaps if you used your own brain more and actually put in the effort to research a little, you'd see Clinton's past public actions are for show only, but her true intentions and actions in the legislature are very much Republican.
Perhaps if you used your own brain more and actually put in the effort to research a little, you'd see Clinton's past public actions are for show only, but her true intentions and actions in the legislature are very much Republican.
6
For all the Bernie Sanders supporters who keep yammering away about Hillary being in Wall Street's back pocket. Well apparently you don't mind that Mr. Sanders has brought Wall Street to Vermont. There are over 1,000 Captive Insurance Companies, companies the IRS has placed on their Dirty Dozen List of Tax Scams right alongside things like Identity Theft, Phishing, and Offshore Tax avoidance (and boy how convenient, Sanders making it easy for these companies to remain on-shore by making Vermont a Tax Shelter with minimum regulation, rivaling the Cayman Islands.)
Just check out a piece in nytimes.com "IRS is Looking into Captive Insurance Shelters."
April 10, 2015.
And Bernie's upset that Hillary is in bed with Wall Street? So, how many of those oft-mentioned $30 campaign donations are from employees of The Tax Industry? And I thought Mr. Sanders was upset with Big Business fat cats putting it to the little guy.
Just check out a piece in nytimes.com "IRS is Looking into Captive Insurance Shelters."
April 10, 2015.
And Bernie's upset that Hillary is in bed with Wall Street? So, how many of those oft-mentioned $30 campaign donations are from employees of The Tax Industry? And I thought Mr. Sanders was upset with Big Business fat cats putting it to the little guy.
18
I am guessing that what you don't realize about captive insurance companies in Vermont is that they are allowed and governed by Vermont State law, and Bernie Sanders has never been part of Vermont State government. So this is like blaming Joe Biden for Delaware's agressively pro corporation corporate law or its tax-shelterish trust laws, or, for that matter, blaming the band Phish for Vermont's captive insurance company laws. U.S. Senators don't actually get any say more say than any of the rest of us in what laws their States pass.
10
The "tax industry"? At least be coherent if you'll be attacking someone. Do you mean tax accountants? And even then, if a corporation was trying to bribe Bernie in campaign donations through their accountants, why would they only throw in $30 instead of a Super PAC? I mean, you do know aside from accountants, there's no " tax industry " right? Since taxes are collected by, you know, the government. That's like me saying there's a law maker industry or blinker light fluid.
4
• Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have to win their home state.
Except New York is NOT and never has been Clinton's "home state".
• a first lady who was a central figure in the most famous sex scandal in American history, running for the Senate in a place where she had never lived? Wow.
Wow is right.
• Some people — O.K., many people — were suspicious of the most famous woman in the world parachuting in to claim the best political job in the state.
Me for one and forever. She hijacked her short stint as senator from New York like the worst of carpetbaggers. I voted against her during her senate nomination and election. Then I went on to vote against her hand-picked Kirsten Gillibrand successor. I will continue to vote against her as long as I have a stake in NY, and I still do.
If she wins the Democratic candidacy for the presidency I will either not vote at all (my absentee ballot) or write in Sanders in protest. I certainly would not vote "against" her by voting for any of the surviving GOP alternatives.
• Clinton will come out of this year’s campaign better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans than she was when she went in.
She'll still be trying for "improvement" of a fetid and diseased establishment and still be "stupendously boring" and outmoded.
“The capacity of human beings to bore one another seems to be vastly greater than that of any other animal.” ~ H.L. MENCKEN
Except New York is NOT and never has been Clinton's "home state".
• a first lady who was a central figure in the most famous sex scandal in American history, running for the Senate in a place where she had never lived? Wow.
Wow is right.
• Some people — O.K., many people — were suspicious of the most famous woman in the world parachuting in to claim the best political job in the state.
Me for one and forever. She hijacked her short stint as senator from New York like the worst of carpetbaggers. I voted against her during her senate nomination and election. Then I went on to vote against her hand-picked Kirsten Gillibrand successor. I will continue to vote against her as long as I have a stake in NY, and I still do.
If she wins the Democratic candidacy for the presidency I will either not vote at all (my absentee ballot) or write in Sanders in protest. I certainly would not vote "against" her by voting for any of the surviving GOP alternatives.
• Clinton will come out of this year’s campaign better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans than she was when she went in.
She'll still be trying for "improvement" of a fetid and diseased establishment and still be "stupendously boring" and outmoded.
“The capacity of human beings to bore one another seems to be vastly greater than that of any other animal.” ~ H.L. MENCKEN
16
Read about the now infamous Nader campaign which gave the country to Bush. Throw away your vote with a write in for a non-candidate; and, then go home full of righteous indignation at the Clinton campaign. Then, hope we don't have a Cruz or Trump Presidency. Unless you agree with Sarandon that the country needs a "revolution".
12
I am evenly split between our two fine Democratic candidates, although Hillary as a bit of an edge due to her practicality and depth of knowledge about the issues. I do not want to see them tearing each other down, nor do I like the comments of many who "hate" Hillary, or put down Bernie. Bernie has the advantage of a relatively "clean" record regarding so called special interests, Hillary has the experience of being in the political and international fray and working for practical solutions to a problematic world. Both fight for civil and equal rights, and a way to rebalance economic fairness. Both would lead the country in a better direction without the sneering denigrations of Ted Cruz towards anyone who does not live in his version of "values" or the bombastic big baby proclamations of Trump complete with policy ideas that border on ridiculous. We need both Hillary and Bernie to come through the primary contests relatively unscathed so that whoever prevails can win over whatever the GOP comes up with in the fall.
11
Gail--two Buffalo slurs in your column today? I don't think you have to go there to eke out some humor from the 2016 campaign, right? As someone born in Buffalo, I admit that I'm a bit sensitive to the joke lines that I've heard several thousand times before. But really, there's more fertile ground to harvest to get some laughs this year.
Stay nice to nice people in your writing. If you have to show your other side, yell at the kids on your lawn or kick the dog when you get home.
Stay nice to nice people in your writing. If you have to show your other side, yell at the kids on your lawn or kick the dog when you get home.
9
Clinton is about improvement? Really? First she was all about the status quo and the politics of pessimism. Then she was all about whatever Sanders was all about. Who knows what it will be this week? New York values?
18
Nice try, Cassowary. If Hillary Clinton were "all about the status quo," she would be a Republican cheering on Jeb Bush or Mitt Romney, instead of running on her own as a loyal and progressive Democrat. As far as Sanders, he is "all about" Sanders -- period. He has fallen in love with the spotlight and the lifestyle.
7
Dear New York:
About ending those presidential prospects of Jerry Brown? Thanks for nuthin'.
Sincerely, The Blues
About ending those presidential prospects of Jerry Brown? Thanks for nuthin'.
Sincerely, The Blues
4
Maybe it is better that Bernie should go to Italy and discuss Theory with the nice theory types. I really like this Pope too but he is still trying to figure out in his nice way stuff about gay people while our GOP in 2 states wants to roll out/enforce a gay Jim Crow. In 21st century America.
I don't mind if Clinton is the type who wants to fix potholes, work on Obama's healthcare, and gets the Planned Parenthood endorsement. It is actually more radical in America right now to do something positive and practical than discuss angels on the heads of pins.
I don't mind if Clinton is the type who wants to fix potholes, work on Obama's healthcare, and gets the Planned Parenthood endorsement. It is actually more radical in America right now to do something positive and practical than discuss angels on the heads of pins.
24
Gail, "political slog" is a derogatory way to define a campaign undertaking but Clinton may well be on that trail. As an 80 year-old Democrat who has maxed out at an appalling level of political disgust, I want very badly to see Clinton keep her feet firmly planted and succeed (that translates to get the nomination). With all due credit to Bernie Sanders, I worry that he will not get the support of Congress necessary to have a successful presidency. Hillary most likely faces the same problem and that means the Democrats have to rally and take back Congress.
In other words, individual involvement is not the whole battle. The Democrats have a huge task before them: one that if not achieved, will leave America with another four to eight years of Congressional disintegration.
In other words, individual involvement is not the whole battle. The Democrats have a huge task before them: one that if not achieved, will leave America with another four to eight years of Congressional disintegration.
19
Good grief Gail......even you are into bashing Bernie!
17
Many of my friends are fervent Bernie supporters, but I see a candidate who is promising things like free college, free health care which he could never deliver. All of his proposals sound great in a theory to my liberal heart but really, how can it be accomplished? He talks about starting a "revolution" but if he were the president, he would still have to deal with the congress. Even if the Democrats take the Senate, they will not vote for the enormous tax hikes we'd need to fund any of this. Sanders has been in Congress for over 20 years. Was he a leader in the progressive movement during that time? Elizabeth Warren has had more of an impact in her short time in Congress than Bernie has in two decades. Hillary has the experience, she's smart and she's practical. She's not as "pure" as Bernie but she'd make a much better president.
25
I believe that a vote for Hillary Clinton is a vote for perpetual war. While she has verbally backed away from her vote for the disastrous war in Iraq, she has, as Secretary of State, been a proponent of American intervention in, among others, Syria and the mess that is Libya, costing many thousands of innocent lives. She has also disparaged the long-negotiated treaty with Iran, as a token of unquestioning support of Israel. Iran is a signatory of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty and Israel is not. Iran is entitled to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and has agreed to regular monitoring to assure that end, whereas Israel has hundreds of undeclared nuclear weapons. The U.S. sends Israel billions of dollars a year, whereas we can't afford to rebuild our infrastructure or take care of the wounded vets that return from our wars of choice. There are many moderates in Israel who long for an end to war and to live peacefully in a two-state solution with Palestine. HRC ignores that fact. Bernie, the only Jew running for president, understands it.
24
I often hear people say what has Clinton done, ask us to point to something in her record.
But we can say the same thing about all of them.
What have Trump, Cruz, Sanders, Kasich and the rest done?
But we can say the same thing about all of them.
What have Trump, Cruz, Sanders, Kasich and the rest done?
9
Wondering how in the world Clinton lost her home state accent, if as all of NYT is claiming today NY is her home state.
4
At the end of the day, Sanders isn't quite as ready to take on the presidency as Clinton. It's a substantive matter of personality and training, not just a self-justifying impression of "electability."
Mr. Sanders is running a campaign of pure conviction on his core economic issues. I respect his thoughts and his passion, and I believe he is fundamentally correct. But it is also clear that he is mostly leaping at the opportunity to usher his ideas into the mainstream, now that events have proven his framework correct and won his ideas popularity.
Otherwise, why didn't he run for the presidency prior to age 73? Sanders is passionate about the ideas, with an incidental interest in leadership. Clinton is passionate about leadership, with a side-helping of (rather flexible) ideas. It's pretty clear to me which one of those choices makes a better president.
Having said that, Sanders polls better against Trump than Clinton, and his ideas are clearly the proto-mainstream of the next generation of liberal thought. Hillary has little to lose and quite a bit to gain by asking him to be her running mate.
Mr. Sanders is running a campaign of pure conviction on his core economic issues. I respect his thoughts and his passion, and I believe he is fundamentally correct. But it is also clear that he is mostly leaping at the opportunity to usher his ideas into the mainstream, now that events have proven his framework correct and won his ideas popularity.
Otherwise, why didn't he run for the presidency prior to age 73? Sanders is passionate about the ideas, with an incidental interest in leadership. Clinton is passionate about leadership, with a side-helping of (rather flexible) ideas. It's pretty clear to me which one of those choices makes a better president.
Having said that, Sanders polls better against Trump than Clinton, and his ideas are clearly the proto-mainstream of the next generation of liberal thought. Hillary has little to lose and quite a bit to gain by asking him to be her running mate.
9
If only. But Democrats are famous for not getting it together. In a year where the Rs have far exceeded any disorganization known in their history, Dems should strike.
I'm not reading the "Reader's Picks" because by now we all know what they are: Bernie Sanders supporters who accuse any criticism of their candidate, however muted or buried among neutral or positive statements, is part of a conspiracy on the part of our corporate overloads and every New York Times reporter and columnist is taking their marching orders from the hated Establishment to shill for the most evil woman ever to run for office anywhere in the galaxy.
New York has a primary that doesn't let independents vote? A conspiracy.
African-American residents of Brooklyn who've seen the Clintons in their churches and neighborhoods for decades are supporting Hillary? A conspiracy on the part of the media establishment to keep these people uninformed.
An editorial board asks Sanders for some details about his speeches? A conspiracy to trap him.
Everything is a conspiracy to some Sanders supporters, many of whom are vocal on comment boards everywhere. If you go to the Five Thirty Eight website, they will argue that mathematics is part of a conspiracy. It's very much part of what Richard Hofstadter's "The Paranoid Style in American Politics,' first published in Harper's Magazine in November 1964, the month in which the much-hated, rarely-loved Lyndon Johnson won a presidential election in a landslide and brought in an overwhelmingly Democratic Congress which passed Medicare, Medicaid, voting rights, and immigration reform.
New York has a primary that doesn't let independents vote? A conspiracy.
African-American residents of Brooklyn who've seen the Clintons in their churches and neighborhoods for decades are supporting Hillary? A conspiracy on the part of the media establishment to keep these people uninformed.
An editorial board asks Sanders for some details about his speeches? A conspiracy to trap him.
Everything is a conspiracy to some Sanders supporters, many of whom are vocal on comment boards everywhere. If you go to the Five Thirty Eight website, they will argue that mathematics is part of a conspiracy. It's very much part of what Richard Hofstadter's "The Paranoid Style in American Politics,' first published in Harper's Magazine in November 1964, the month in which the much-hated, rarely-loved Lyndon Johnson won a presidential election in a landslide and brought in an overwhelmingly Democratic Congress which passed Medicare, Medicaid, voting rights, and immigration reform.
35
Whatever happens, I hope Bernie voters are paying attention to this:
" A far-right judge was elected to Wisconsin's Supreme Court -- partly, it appears, with the help of Bernie voters"
http://www.salon.com/2016/04/07/this_is_the_problem_with_bernies_revolut...
Their hero can't do a single thing if they continue to be so focused on their hero that they let Republicans laugh their way to greater domination of local elections. So many of them didn't bother in 2014, and that is part of why we're in this mess.
Vote, vote, vote.
" A far-right judge was elected to Wisconsin's Supreme Court -- partly, it appears, with the help of Bernie voters"
http://www.salon.com/2016/04/07/this_is_the_problem_with_bernies_revolut...
Their hero can't do a single thing if they continue to be so focused on their hero that they let Republicans laugh their way to greater domination of local elections. So many of them didn't bother in 2014, and that is part of why we're in this mess.
Vote, vote, vote.
12
And Hillary supporters are all about how addled Bernie's supporters are and how racist they are and anti female they are. You guys need to get a different song. Maybe we just don't like Hillary because of her policies and maybe the fix we see is something called super delegates or Wasserman Schultz changing the rules for Clinton and on and on. But never mind, I hear you Hillary is the victim.
4
I'm a Hillary supporter who will vote a straight Democratic ticket regardless of whether the nominee is Sanders or Clinton. I'm thinking of our nation's future, and it won't go well with any of the Republicans currently broadcasting their immaturity, bigotry and ignorance. And that's all three of them.
9
bernie is, likely, a stand-in for Papa Joe Biden, who, wisely is waiting for the shoe to surely drop on the multiple investigations of Hillary's email disaster.
If Billary's clout stiff arms the investigation, and she runs, Joe will sit still. If an indictment is brought, Joe will step in. Too late? Never under those circumstances for a seasoned performer like Joe.
This must be brought to a head soon- up or down.
If Billary's clout stiff arms the investigation, and she runs, Joe will sit still. If an indictment is brought, Joe will step in. Too late? Never under those circumstances for a seasoned performer like Joe.
This must be brought to a head soon- up or down.
4
I'm getting tired of those parroting the nonsensical idea that HRC is a criminal. The email "scandal" is a big nothing promoted by the GOP because they have nothing substantial to offer, either to denigrate Clinton or to promote themselves.
15
Wait a second you got this backwards: Bernie Sanders was born and raised in Brooklyn and is the real New Yorkwr while Clinton is a southerner fro Arkansas who as an opportunistic carpetbagger moved to to NY for political and financial reasons. She does not even sound like a New Yorker. Get outta here you bum!
13
You mean Bernie Sanders, the guy raised in Brooklyn through his parents' choice, and who left at his first opportunity 50 years ago?
9
Hillary Clinton was born in Illinois. She now lives in New York State. Bernie Sanders is an Independent, not a Democrat. If you are going to argue labels, carpetbagging and opportunists, let's leave no stone unturned here...
10
Et tu Gail? First Krugman and now you. The incredibly blatant NYT attempt to literally pull HRC into the White House has been astounding. As an avid subscribing reader I have been more and more disappointed. Believe me, I will not take my ball and go home - I will vote Hillary if she is the nominee. But this whole recent escalation was started by Hillary - who in true bully tradition throws the first punch and then is horrified when the other pushes back. I'm really, really disappointed in the NYT. I know none of you care. But you should.
12
Why surprised, it goes all the way to the top dean baquet and Jill abramson before him, all are in Clinton's camp, don't expect any objective reporting..
5
HIllary and Bernie should meet at a NY deli over a pastrami on rye and a creme soda and agree to keep the campaign glued to the issues. The GOP is licking its chops hoping that Hillary-Bernie will descend into the juvenile depths of Donald-Ted, which would be a major blunder for the Democrats.
15
Your advice, nzierler, makes too much sense. Bernie now has invested himself in the attack mode. His tactics provide cover for a woeful ignorance of important facts anyone in the White House ought to know. Bernie's rock-star ego makes him more interested in trashing Hillary's campaign than having a Democrat win the presidency. Hillary will have no better luck getting Bernie to behave for the good of the Democrats than she will in getting her husband to shut up.
6
I would just like to give a sort of timeline of the places Bernie Sanders has lived. From his birth in 1941 until 1959 he lived in Brooklyn. He then moved to Chicago for four years for college. Then he moved back to New York until 1968 when he moved to Burlington, VT, where he has lived ever since. For those of you unfamiliar with Vermont geography, Burlington is directly across Lake Champlain from New York.
13
But Burlington is still in Vermont and the Midwood Brooklyn of Sanders' youth bears little resemblance to the Midwood Brooklyn of today let alone of 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 years ago.
8
A new report from the University of Massachusetts Amherst Political Economy Research Institute documents how a key Sanders proposal — a tax on Wall Street speculation -would bring at least $300 billion a year in new revenues from those who can most afford to pay it for the critical reforms the country so desperately needs.
Bernie program deals with the very crucial issues for our time:
“We’re going to create an economy that works for middle class and working poor families, not just a handful of billionaires.” is Bernie’s main campaign platform. He criticizes what he called “the grotesque level of income and wealth inequality in America today.”
Bernie emphasizes in his campaign speeches a number of proposals that he says will close the gap, including raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, instituting a single-payer health care system, providing free public higher education and vocational training, and tightening regulations on Wall Street bankers.
Bernie’s single payer health plan would save the nation money, not spend it. Bernie’s education plan is paid for with a tax on Wall Street. Bernie’s one trillion dollar infrastructure plan will pay for itself with the huge boost in the economy the one million (1,000,000) new jobs will provide.
feelthebern.org to read about each of Bernie’s issues in depth
Bernie program deals with the very crucial issues for our time:
“We’re going to create an economy that works for middle class and working poor families, not just a handful of billionaires.” is Bernie’s main campaign platform. He criticizes what he called “the grotesque level of income and wealth inequality in America today.”
Bernie emphasizes in his campaign speeches a number of proposals that he says will close the gap, including raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, instituting a single-payer health care system, providing free public higher education and vocational training, and tightening regulations on Wall Street bankers.
Bernie’s single payer health plan would save the nation money, not spend it. Bernie’s education plan is paid for with a tax on Wall Street. Bernie’s one trillion dollar infrastructure plan will pay for itself with the huge boost in the economy the one million (1,000,000) new jobs will provide.
feelthebern.org to read about each of Bernie’s issues in depth
23
Nothing the matter with that, but he's not alone; I believe all Democrats support that tax. How exactly do you suggest we get it past the Kochtopus?
(Try Jane Mayer's Dark Money or at least her New Yorker articles on the Kochs, and don't let them play the Bern for profit. They're manipulative and wealthy enough for anything!)
(Try Jane Mayer's Dark Money or at least her New Yorker articles on the Kochs, and don't let them play the Bern for profit. They're manipulative and wealthy enough for anything!)
3
Not excited at all by this Madam Collins; contrary to what you suggest.
Bernie and Hillary are my two highly accomplished uncle and aunt. I love them both. I love Bernie because he has walked his talk all his life; has a heart of gold, and there is not a trace of inauthenticity in him. Did you see the picture of him being hauled out by two thuggish cops because he was fighting for the rights of African Americans in Chicago? I show it to my boys and say: "this is what fighting for what is right looks like." He is the uncle I would talk to, after I talked to my priest and rabbi. Because he would give me the unvarnished truth. And I would love him.
I love Hillary because she is a role model for my daughters; despite every nonsense hurled at her by half of America that is dangerously myopic and misogynistic, she chugs on with her agenda. She has fought for causes that - had I an ounce of intelligence or moral courage - I would fight for. I point to her and tell my girls (still in school and college): "that is what ambition looks like, that is the anger and hate you will face if you challenge men, and that is the way you should think of being - because women like Hillary have paved the way for you." I think she is a super human.
No, I do not want to see them joust, or fight like gladiators for an audience drunk on cheap wine and dry bread. Had I a choice to vote for both, I would.
Kalidan
Bernie and Hillary are my two highly accomplished uncle and aunt. I love them both. I love Bernie because he has walked his talk all his life; has a heart of gold, and there is not a trace of inauthenticity in him. Did you see the picture of him being hauled out by two thuggish cops because he was fighting for the rights of African Americans in Chicago? I show it to my boys and say: "this is what fighting for what is right looks like." He is the uncle I would talk to, after I talked to my priest and rabbi. Because he would give me the unvarnished truth. And I would love him.
I love Hillary because she is a role model for my daughters; despite every nonsense hurled at her by half of America that is dangerously myopic and misogynistic, she chugs on with her agenda. She has fought for causes that - had I an ounce of intelligence or moral courage - I would fight for. I point to her and tell my girls (still in school and college): "that is what ambition looks like, that is the anger and hate you will face if you challenge men, and that is the way you should think of being - because women like Hillary have paved the way for you." I think she is a super human.
No, I do not want to see them joust, or fight like gladiators for an audience drunk on cheap wine and dry bread. Had I a choice to vote for both, I would.
Kalidan
20
I'm very sorry if a role model for your daughters is someone who would jeopardize national security for her own political ends (avoiding having to respond to future Freedom of Information requests), and ignoring clearly-stated regulations, if not the law, in the process. Surely there are better role models than that.
7
I will always treasure this story, which came about when an old friend of mine did not feel sufficiently listened-to during one of Hillary's 1999 tours:
http://www.angelfire.com/ok4/shedman/clintoncornellchicken.html
http://www.angelfire.com/ok4/shedman/clintoncornellchicken.html
Sorry. Still not feeling "the Bern". And even less so now that the Circus is coming to town.
First. Just to be clear. Sanders is NOT a New Yorker. He may have been born here, and still has the accent--Big Whoop!-- but that's it. He high-tailed it out of the Big Apple for the Green Mountains years ago, and only NOW is he trying to cash-in on his city cred...Just like he tries to cash-in as a supporter of for Civil Rights after only one march -- a hundred years ago. Guess what? Not buying it -- and neither is the African-American community.
And then there are his avid supporters, who are just plain mean. I've read their comments here. I've heard about their posts on social media. And all I can say is, what a strange way to sell a candidate as being "For the people", when you attack those who aren't for him, and the other candidate so vehemently. Sure. Clinton isn't above reproach. Few politicians, let alone humans are. But these scurrilous attacks that are by turn part misogynist, part witch-hunt, are a real turn off. OK. She was born in Illinois, and moved to New York. Big Deal. At least she was elected Senator from NEW YORK! Want to see the emails? Good. Let's see Sanders' tax-returns.
People. Be Fair. Whoever you vote for, just remember: Electing a President should be more than a protest vote. And it's something we'll all have to live with...for at least for four years. Now, go out and enjoy the Circus.
First. Just to be clear. Sanders is NOT a New Yorker. He may have been born here, and still has the accent--Big Whoop!-- but that's it. He high-tailed it out of the Big Apple for the Green Mountains years ago, and only NOW is he trying to cash-in on his city cred...Just like he tries to cash-in as a supporter of for Civil Rights after only one march -- a hundred years ago. Guess what? Not buying it -- and neither is the African-American community.
And then there are his avid supporters, who are just plain mean. I've read their comments here. I've heard about their posts on social media. And all I can say is, what a strange way to sell a candidate as being "For the people", when you attack those who aren't for him, and the other candidate so vehemently. Sure. Clinton isn't above reproach. Few politicians, let alone humans are. But these scurrilous attacks that are by turn part misogynist, part witch-hunt, are a real turn off. OK. She was born in Illinois, and moved to New York. Big Deal. At least she was elected Senator from NEW YORK! Want to see the emails? Good. Let's see Sanders' tax-returns.
People. Be Fair. Whoever you vote for, just remember: Electing a President should be more than a protest vote. And it's something we'll all have to live with...for at least for four years. Now, go out and enjoy the Circus.
18
Gail is spot on, as always - though overly cautious in articulation. The NYT's fear of setting off the BernieBros and zealots has generated a true chilling effect on candidate analysis.
9
I don't get the punch line at the end of this piece: "...either way, you can blame it on Buffalo." Seriously, I don't get it. Can someone enlighten me ? (And yes, I will feel like a dummy if it was obvious.)
4
Many years ago, in another life, I lived and worked in DC. A hillbilly lawyer who never shied away from the word “liberal”, I saw the folks who might share my values and policy choices get sidetracked and defeated, time after time, by squabbling and personal ambition. I suppose the true believers on the Right are the same, but it always troubled me that, when I came into contact with the “organized Left”, I quickly found that they were just as ready to eat their babies as any other politicians in order to preserve the “purity” of their positions.
I welcomed Bernie's candidacy. Like many, I would have preferred Liz, but he seemed the perfect alternative for emphasizing the issues dear to the Left, and he has done that work admirably. Now it's time to jettison attack rhetoric and talk only issues. Looking at the practical alternatives, HRC is the best we can do right now. Elect an ethnically Jewish, likely atheist, who calls himself a “socialist”? Not happening. Accept it!
Spring brings softball games to DC. I used to play with a ragtag bunch, mainly to drink a few beers after, but our league had teams from two very well known leftist organizations, Greenpeace and some Nader off shoot, bright-eyed world changers. They were the only teams who wore spikes and slid into bases. Silly metaphor perhaps; clearly it's not softball, but Bernie and HRC need to put the spikes back on the shelf for now. She will need them in the Fall.
I welcomed Bernie's candidacy. Like many, I would have preferred Liz, but he seemed the perfect alternative for emphasizing the issues dear to the Left, and he has done that work admirably. Now it's time to jettison attack rhetoric and talk only issues. Looking at the practical alternatives, HRC is the best we can do right now. Elect an ethnically Jewish, likely atheist, who calls himself a “socialist”? Not happening. Accept it!
Spring brings softball games to DC. I used to play with a ragtag bunch, mainly to drink a few beers after, but our league had teams from two very well known leftist organizations, Greenpeace and some Nader off shoot, bright-eyed world changers. They were the only teams who wore spikes and slid into bases. Silly metaphor perhaps; clearly it's not softball, but Bernie and HRC need to put the spikes back on the shelf for now. She will need them in the Fall.
8
Whichever candidate comes out of the democratic convention, for me, being a democrat this year has been a great experience. I live in a highly Republican community, and so, I have kept a low profile---except for the Obama campaign sign I put out on my lawn for the last election. My neighbors hinted that maybe the sign was endangering their property values. But this time around, it is just great being a Democrat---even a Bernie sign will be O.K.
4
Would you consider mentoring your colleague PK in subtlety?
2
Hillary Clinton always has problems with grandstanding in a campaign, which is perhaps the only thing Bernie Sanders – or, for that matter, Donald Trump – is good at.
Wonks like Clinton tend to be extremely provocative – but only of yawns.
Clinton is very good in one-on-one conversations with everyday people. Her intelligence and genuine interest in people shines through. Going to every county is not, however, a very efficient way to campaign – especially in a state as big as New York.
It could be worse. New York is much bigger than Ohio, both in population and area. New York’s 62 counties may sound like a lot, but Ohio has 88 counties and might have twice that number if legislators had their way.
Still, visiting all 62 New York counties, will be tough unless some of visits are made around three o’clock in the morning. That tactic is unlikely to produce the amiable conversations at which Hillary excels.
At some point, whatever approach is selected, voters hopefully will see that Hillary Clinton is guaranteed to be the kind of hard-working president America wants.
That realization doesn’t require believing any campaign promise. Hillary has behaved that way since she was a little girl. She is incapable of any other behavior.
Wonks like Clinton tend to be extremely provocative – but only of yawns.
Clinton is very good in one-on-one conversations with everyday people. Her intelligence and genuine interest in people shines through. Going to every county is not, however, a very efficient way to campaign – especially in a state as big as New York.
It could be worse. New York is much bigger than Ohio, both in population and area. New York’s 62 counties may sound like a lot, but Ohio has 88 counties and might have twice that number if legislators had their way.
Still, visiting all 62 New York counties, will be tough unless some of visits are made around three o’clock in the morning. That tactic is unlikely to produce the amiable conversations at which Hillary excels.
At some point, whatever approach is selected, voters hopefully will see that Hillary Clinton is guaranteed to be the kind of hard-working president America wants.
That realization doesn’t require believing any campaign promise. Hillary has behaved that way since she was a little girl. She is incapable of any other behavior.
9
I can imagine 8 years of Hillary in the White House. The country will hum along. There will be plenty of boring news like low unemployment rate, global cooling, bad characters getting droned daily, Republicans fanning flames of racism and xenophobia, do nothing congress and senate, US continuing to be the strongest economy in the world, US leading through moral authority and not bombs, and many other snoozers. The media will report exciting news like the Kardashians.
I dread even 4 years of Sanders, filled with daily lectures on why nothing is changing, and admonitions on why we cannot be Denmark. The country will certainly be better off than under any Republican alternative, though the economy will tank from overspending, and Republicans will capture the White House after 4 years, after voters have died from boredom. The media will still be mostly reporting exciting news about the Kardashians.
I dread even 4 years of Sanders, filled with daily lectures on why nothing is changing, and admonitions on why we cannot be Denmark. The country will certainly be better off than under any Republican alternative, though the economy will tank from overspending, and Republicans will capture the White House after 4 years, after voters have died from boredom. The media will still be mostly reporting exciting news about the Kardashians.
5
What a wonderful situation, an opportunity to choose between two candidates who both have serious strengths and some weaknesses. I'll take Bernie, but I will be delighted to vote for Hillary in November if she wins the nomination. Our country needs serious attention and change. How will each candidate deal with climate change and its looming consequences. This even more than the banks and the financial system is the issue that will spell the difference between success and failure for us all.
5
As Democrats, we sometimes forget how fortunate we are to have two wonderful candidates that most of us would happily accept as our nominee. The Republicans should be so lucky (in their wildest dreams).
I strongly feel and have felt for years that Hillary Clinton could be one of our greatest presidents but I would gladly vote for Sanders if he gets the nod. In Hillary, we would have a president with possibly the most impressive abilities and qualifications in recent history. In Bernie, we would have someone with great ideas but who, like Barak Obama when he took office, is largely untested. Either would be the sane choice over any of the Republican candidates.
I live in a small town, Indian Lake, in the Adirondack Mountains. We have about 1200 full time residents. There is not even a traffic light in the entire county. No candidate would waste their time coming here. Not enough voters and most of them are Republicans. When Hillary ran for Senate, she did come here. I'm hoping that this suggests how much she cares about all Americans and what a really great president she will be. Her record of accomplishment is unmatched by anyone running for the office.
And that is why she has my vote.
I strongly feel and have felt for years that Hillary Clinton could be one of our greatest presidents but I would gladly vote for Sanders if he gets the nod. In Hillary, we would have a president with possibly the most impressive abilities and qualifications in recent history. In Bernie, we would have someone with great ideas but who, like Barak Obama when he took office, is largely untested. Either would be the sane choice over any of the Republican candidates.
I live in a small town, Indian Lake, in the Adirondack Mountains. We have about 1200 full time residents. There is not even a traffic light in the entire county. No candidate would waste their time coming here. Not enough voters and most of them are Republicans. When Hillary ran for Senate, she did come here. I'm hoping that this suggests how much she cares about all Americans and what a really great president she will be. Her record of accomplishment is unmatched by anyone running for the office.
And that is why she has my vote.
13
I think I'll print this editorial and keep it with me because it articulates everything I think about the Bernie-Hillary race. Hillary was the girl who was smarter and worked harder than everyone else in your high school and she still is. She is the only adult in the race. The only one who does the hard work needed to be a successful president. We don't need a pal we need a knowledgeable, practical leader who truly understands complex and serious issues. We could actually elect the worst president of my lifetime and I have lived through Nixon and W. Don't just vote for her work for her election. It is that important.
12
Bernie and his followers are getting tiresome. Hillary is tireless. Sticking with the worker bee.
12
For quite a while I have been sitting on the fence between Bernie and Hillary, yet with the former never changing his campaign speeches, talking constantly about a 'revolution', and his ad infinitum slogan about Wall Street, Wall Street, while at the same time promising to bring universal health care and free college education to the huddled masses, I even have to change the channel when he celebrates his latest victory.
Bernie doesn't seem to know that his lofty ideals will be DOA in our hallowed halls of Congress, where every legislation needs at least 60 votes in the Senate, nor do the younger voters who hang on to his very word seem to be aware of that fact.
He seems completely disinterested in foreign policy, and has not done his homework on this very important matter that a president has to deal with on an almost daily basis, except the constant drum beat against Hillary: "but you voted for the Iraq war".
In addition, until some time ago I didn't know that this lifetime "Independent", now suddenly Democrat, argued for President Obama to be primaried in the election of 2012. Yup, that is what I call "Independent" writ large.
No matter what, the coming election is one of the most important one in years, which will decide make up of the the SCOTUS for many decades to come.
And Bernie supporters already vowing to never, ever vote for Hillary should she be the nominee, is akin to kids throwing a temper tantrum not getting their candy.
Bernie doesn't seem to know that his lofty ideals will be DOA in our hallowed halls of Congress, where every legislation needs at least 60 votes in the Senate, nor do the younger voters who hang on to his very word seem to be aware of that fact.
He seems completely disinterested in foreign policy, and has not done his homework on this very important matter that a president has to deal with on an almost daily basis, except the constant drum beat against Hillary: "but you voted for the Iraq war".
In addition, until some time ago I didn't know that this lifetime "Independent", now suddenly Democrat, argued for President Obama to be primaried in the election of 2012. Yup, that is what I call "Independent" writ large.
No matter what, the coming election is one of the most important one in years, which will decide make up of the the SCOTUS for many decades to come.
And Bernie supporters already vowing to never, ever vote for Hillary should she be the nominee, is akin to kids throwing a temper tantrum not getting their candy.
17
I also worry, that if Bernie were elected and unable to bring any of his bold ideas to fruition due to the usual Congressional gridlock, that the youth vote that championed him will be so disillusioned as to walk away from the electoral process forever.
10
Ms Collins,
You do a better job of selling Ms Clinton than she does. I know I'm gonna be votin for her. I might feel a little bit better about it now.
You do a much better job than your bearded compadre.
You do a better job of selling Ms Clinton than she does. I know I'm gonna be votin for her. I might feel a little bit better about it now.
You do a much better job than your bearded compadre.
4
Bernie with all his fine principles has not needed to face the Republican vampire that would face him if he were nominated. Hillary with long experience in this keeps her cool under intense fire.
When Marco Rubio fell into Trump's trap and responded with low blows to trump, he was finished. Bernie tries to keep his composure, but it seems he can lose his temper and like Marco Rubio he would be trashed.
I do not like these dirty tactics, but that is what the Republicans since Nixon have become, a party without principles only dirty tricks. So we really need a Democratic candidate who can face this and survive and that to me is Hillary Clinton
Some of the bashing she takes from Democrats has been the result of her being in the middle of the fray and that has led to mistakes from which she has learned. As Bernie says she is far and away a much better candidate than any Republican and I believe in her toughness that she will be a fine president.
When Marco Rubio fell into Trump's trap and responded with low blows to trump, he was finished. Bernie tries to keep his composure, but it seems he can lose his temper and like Marco Rubio he would be trashed.
I do not like these dirty tactics, but that is what the Republicans since Nixon have become, a party without principles only dirty tricks. So we really need a Democratic candidate who can face this and survive and that to me is Hillary Clinton
Some of the bashing she takes from Democrats has been the result of her being in the middle of the fray and that has led to mistakes from which she has learned. As Bernie says she is far and away a much better candidate than any Republican and I believe in her toughness that she will be a fine president.
12
"Actually, it’s a bigger deal than that. Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have to win their home state".
The GOP convention may be more colorful than we thought if some of the delegates pledged to Trump simply abstain.
It appears that it's fairly common among GOP candidates to make a pledge and then later on change one's mind. Why wouldn't a delegate follow suit?
The GOP convention may be more colorful than we thought if some of the delegates pledged to Trump simply abstain.
It appears that it's fairly common among GOP candidates to make a pledge and then later on change one's mind. Why wouldn't a delegate follow suit?
I think Bernie has a record in Congress that proves he ....can get the job done..
and
Bernie also has governed ...as Mayor of Burlington, VT...
I also think that if Elizabeth Warren joined Bernie....the contest between
Bernie and Hillary would be decided on the spot for Bernie and Elizabeth.
Honesty counts...and ...I have not seen this from Hillary...
or ...from Bill Clinton as well.
and
Bernie also has governed ...as Mayor of Burlington, VT...
I also think that if Elizabeth Warren joined Bernie....the contest between
Bernie and Hillary would be decided on the spot for Bernie and Elizabeth.
Honesty counts...and ...I have not seen this from Hillary...
or ...from Bill Clinton as well.
14
Two Canadian academic union friends--a husband-wfe dynamic duo--were from Brooklyn--meeting at UWisconsin--a lefty hotbed in its day.
During collective agreement negotiations the university's vice president lost his cool--shouting at the wife.
She waited patiently then said: "Is that the best you can do? My husband does better than that before breakfast."
It was so easy living day by day
Out of touch with the rhythm and blues
But now I need a little give and take
The New York Times, The Daily News
During collective agreement negotiations the university's vice president lost his cool--shouting at the wife.
She waited patiently then said: "Is that the best you can do? My husband does better than that before breakfast."
It was so easy living day by day
Out of touch with the rhythm and blues
But now I need a little give and take
The New York Times, The Daily News
4
Carpetbagger Clinton - the Democrats' answer to Harold Stassen. Unfortunately for the Democrats, HRC is "yesterday's woman," whose main supporters are trapped in the mists of memory. It is troubling indeed, to see the dinosaurs trotting out for the last hurrah, hoping that their influence has not waned, but at the same time indicating just how out of touch they are with the realities of today's economic and political structures.
Yes, the "Undemocratic" Party, with 30% 0f the "super delegates" sufficient to ensure victory for HRC, and the machinations of the DNC, which is just a Clinton electoral organization, will ensure that she is the nominee. The outcomes of the remaining primaries are immaterial to the outcome of the nomination process. Nothing short of an federal indictment will stop the HRC victory march to Philadelphia. Unless the Republicans pick trump or Cruz, however, she will lose the election because of a quarter century of public untrustworthiness - lies, evasions, misrepresentations.
HRC suffers from overexposure, and she is doomed because of public boredom with her and her non-positions on every issue of consequence. One might be considered to be a good politician by walking the "white line," but that means a lack of direction in policy and values. However, a "Great Country" is built by a Great PEOPLE, and HRC has no idea what it takes to improve the greatness of the American people.
Too bad; so sad.
Yes, the "Undemocratic" Party, with 30% 0f the "super delegates" sufficient to ensure victory for HRC, and the machinations of the DNC, which is just a Clinton electoral organization, will ensure that she is the nominee. The outcomes of the remaining primaries are immaterial to the outcome of the nomination process. Nothing short of an federal indictment will stop the HRC victory march to Philadelphia. Unless the Republicans pick trump or Cruz, however, she will lose the election because of a quarter century of public untrustworthiness - lies, evasions, misrepresentations.
HRC suffers from overexposure, and she is doomed because of public boredom with her and her non-positions on every issue of consequence. One might be considered to be a good politician by walking the "white line," but that means a lack of direction in policy and values. However, a "Great Country" is built by a Great PEOPLE, and HRC has no idea what it takes to improve the greatness of the American people.
Too bad; so sad.
6
New York has a carpetbagger from Illinois via Arkansas. Vermont has a carpetbagger from Brooklyn via New York. What's bdr's point about carpetbaggers? A welcome characteristic of America is that it's a land of "carpetbaggers". People move from their states of birth and move to other states for all kinds of reasons. Again, why single out a person for being a carpetbagger in New York. Bobby Kennedy was as Bostonian as any one from MA could be; but, like Hillary, he was a very good U.S. Senator from New York.
5
The press takes a statement "not qualified" out of context and presents in a way that looks like an insult. It was not directed at her intelligence or abilities but at her record. The press keeps mentioning her resume as SOS and Senator. As SOS she never accomplished anything of note except how to walk up and down 747 jet steps. As senator she was all in on the invasion of Iraq because her handlers said you cannot look weak on defense in 04 if W falters and especially in 08 Kerry has done more as SOS in a week then she did in her entire term. Her husband won the Presidency with less then a majority and is considered great because he had the benefit of being in office when the internet became one of civilizations turning points. They are the most corrupt couple in history. She is not qualified.
9
At his news conference with the Editorial Board of The New York Daily News, Bernie definitely did not know much about the core issues on which he's been campaigning. In fact, some of his responses were downright embarrassing and disqualifying. My question for hfdru: Hillary NEVER said that Sen. Sanders was not qualified to be the POTUS. She merely said that the voters should decide whether Bernie is qualified. So, the question for hfdru is: Is he/she qualified, a candidate who does not even know how to implement his/her own central campaign agenda?
6
The comment was not about Bernie's qualifications. I don't know if he is qualified or not. In reality the only truly qualified people for president are state governors with military experience. They have to work with people of different views and they should understand the horrors of war.
To those who characterize Bernie as a one issue candidate:
If, by that, you mean the mandate to address decades of economic injustice and wealth inequality, then:
This issue is a significant cause of:
Corruption in politics courtesy of Citizens United and voter suppression
Destructive trade policies
Ongoing racism
Xenophobia
The failure to provide universal health care
The privatization of education
Unaddressed climate change
The mounting national debt
Rampant fraud in the financial industry
Deteriorating infrastructure
I could go on. From this vantage point, Bernie has a helluva "one issue."
If, by that, you mean the mandate to address decades of economic injustice and wealth inequality, then:
This issue is a significant cause of:
Corruption in politics courtesy of Citizens United and voter suppression
Destructive trade policies
Ongoing racism
Xenophobia
The failure to provide universal health care
The privatization of education
Unaddressed climate change
The mounting national debt
Rampant fraud in the financial industry
Deteriorating infrastructure
I could go on. From this vantage point, Bernie has a helluva "one issue."
17
There's only one real Democrat running for president. That the media and the Democrat have only recently begun talking about this fact is disturbing.
9
I admire all the relative politeness on the part of the democrats in this election season, but part of me wishes that Bernie would be really put to the test in terms of his weakest points. If he is the nominee he will be called a communist with a hint of potential agnostic leanings (at a minimum a Jew, which does not go over well with all people), old, unwilling to compromise etc... Yes, it may be unfair and dirty politics, but that is how the republicans will play.
Before he is the nominee, I want to see how he will respond to all of those accusations and then see how the American public responds to that. His unique style and honest demeanor may cause him to come out strengthened by the attacks, or he could be an utter disaster.
Hillary has seen the ugliest of politics. She may be polarizing and untrusted by many, but she is a survivor.
I really want Bernie to win, but I want the republican candidate to lose more. He needs to be tested more vigorously.
Before he is the nominee, I want to see how he will respond to all of those accusations and then see how the American public responds to that. His unique style and honest demeanor may cause him to come out strengthened by the attacks, or he could be an utter disaster.
Hillary has seen the ugliest of politics. She may be polarizing and untrusted by many, but she is a survivor.
I really want Bernie to win, but I want the republican candidate to lose more. He needs to be tested more vigorously.
3
I love Bernie and his positions, but he does repeat himself and focus on one thing at the expense of the bigger picture. His integrity and history are not in question. When he's out of reach of his minders, he is courteous, which is an asset, not a liability.
Hillary is marked by experience and has the wounds to show it. Republicans have been exploiting this for a quarter century, and have found victims for their targeting in Bernie fans.
Bernie, Taylor Swift, whoever, missing when screaming with joy is reflection and looking at questions in all their complexity. Joyous excess has taken over our public life to a staggering degree.
Life is long, complicated, full of other people with different ideas and agendas, and at its best, a meeting ground where ideas are inclusive rather than exclusive. Demanding simplicity can so easily have unintended consequences.
The claims about a special invitation from the Pope don't sit well with me. It appears he was invited to the conference, and there are some unverified claims that he asked to be included. Not a bad idea at all, but it looks like Bernie is starting to let the hero worship go to his head.
He's not a white knight. His voters don't seem to notice their obsession is already harmful:
"A far-right judge was elected to Wisconsin's Supreme Court - partly, it appears, with the help of Bernie voters"
http://tinyurl.com/hm78kpq
(Salon, sorry couldn't fit full link)
Hillary is marked by experience and has the wounds to show it. Republicans have been exploiting this for a quarter century, and have found victims for their targeting in Bernie fans.
Bernie, Taylor Swift, whoever, missing when screaming with joy is reflection and looking at questions in all their complexity. Joyous excess has taken over our public life to a staggering degree.
Life is long, complicated, full of other people with different ideas and agendas, and at its best, a meeting ground where ideas are inclusive rather than exclusive. Demanding simplicity can so easily have unintended consequences.
The claims about a special invitation from the Pope don't sit well with me. It appears he was invited to the conference, and there are some unverified claims that he asked to be included. Not a bad idea at all, but it looks like Bernie is starting to let the hero worship go to his head.
He's not a white knight. His voters don't seem to notice their obsession is already harmful:
"A far-right judge was elected to Wisconsin's Supreme Court - partly, it appears, with the help of Bernie voters"
http://tinyurl.com/hm78kpq
(Salon, sorry couldn't fit full link)
5
That said, Hillary's flaws are sadly real. I hope she is educable.
On climate, I can only hope that people like Joe Romm (Clinton energy secretary) and John Podesta (who produced the terrific ABC climate special linked below) can bring her to full realization that fracking and going with power and money from fossil is a lousy idea with the sixth extinction well under way:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDqRpM72Odg
As to being Secretary of State and trying to negotiate the quagmire of Africa and the Middle East, I don't see that anyone knows exactly what to do, but certainly going in and destroying the neighborhood, as we did in Iraq, was a bad idea. At the time, many of us won't admit we were for it; the guy who knew our limitations turns out to have been Bush Senior.
Here's a (stolen) simplification: in Iraq we went in and took over, and the result is a costly mess; in Libya we helped and left, and the result is a costly mess; in Syria we stayed out, and the result is a costly mess. It seems clean that any intervention (that against Mossadegh in favor of BP (remember them) was an early stupidity) make enemies, and overgrown teenagers seeking purity and armed to the teeth are bound to create a world of hurt. The mideast is awash in arms provided by us, and we gave Osama Bin Laden $40 million. When will we ever learn? There are no good options and blaming victims solves nothing.
So don't be manipulated by Republicans, because no matter what, they are so much much worse!
On climate, I can only hope that people like Joe Romm (Clinton energy secretary) and John Podesta (who produced the terrific ABC climate special linked below) can bring her to full realization that fracking and going with power and money from fossil is a lousy idea with the sixth extinction well under way:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDqRpM72Odg
As to being Secretary of State and trying to negotiate the quagmire of Africa and the Middle East, I don't see that anyone knows exactly what to do, but certainly going in and destroying the neighborhood, as we did in Iraq, was a bad idea. At the time, many of us won't admit we were for it; the guy who knew our limitations turns out to have been Bush Senior.
Here's a (stolen) simplification: in Iraq we went in and took over, and the result is a costly mess; in Libya we helped and left, and the result is a costly mess; in Syria we stayed out, and the result is a costly mess. It seems clean that any intervention (that against Mossadegh in favor of BP (remember them) was an early stupidity) make enemies, and overgrown teenagers seeking purity and armed to the teeth are bound to create a world of hurt. The mideast is awash in arms provided by us, and we gave Osama Bin Laden $40 million. When will we ever learn? There are no good options and blaming victims solves nothing.
So don't be manipulated by Republicans, because no matter what, they are so much much worse!
5
As an outsider, I am mystified by Hillary Clinton supporters.
According to CNN, she and her husband have accepted $153 million in speaking fees from corporate America. I thought a core element of the Democratic Party brand was the need for distance from and tension with corporate America; Hillary and Bill Clinton have embedded themselves with it. Nobody generates a net worth of $100 million from corporate America without compromising themselves in a way that is antithetical to Democratic Party values.
Hillary Clinton's supporters talk up her competence. But her signature achievement as Secretary of State was persuading the Obama administration to support regime change in Libya. That has resulted in a civil war, distribution of the deposed government's huge arms cache to terrorists all over the Middle East and a new base for ISIS. On the heels of her vote for the war in Iraq, the Libyan fiasco alone should knock Hillary Clinton out of the race.
Also puzzling to me is her supporters' denial with respect to her lack of ethics. The New York Times exposure of the $500,000 speaking fee paid to Bill Clinton by Russian promoters of a transaction needing State Department approval while Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State, and the $2.3 million donation to the Clinton Foundation from others associated with the transaction which Hillary Clinton was obliged to disclose but didn't, should be profoundly disappointing to Democrats. And that is just one example.
I don't get it.
According to CNN, she and her husband have accepted $153 million in speaking fees from corporate America. I thought a core element of the Democratic Party brand was the need for distance from and tension with corporate America; Hillary and Bill Clinton have embedded themselves with it. Nobody generates a net worth of $100 million from corporate America without compromising themselves in a way that is antithetical to Democratic Party values.
Hillary Clinton's supporters talk up her competence. But her signature achievement as Secretary of State was persuading the Obama administration to support regime change in Libya. That has resulted in a civil war, distribution of the deposed government's huge arms cache to terrorists all over the Middle East and a new base for ISIS. On the heels of her vote for the war in Iraq, the Libyan fiasco alone should knock Hillary Clinton out of the race.
Also puzzling to me is her supporters' denial with respect to her lack of ethics. The New York Times exposure of the $500,000 speaking fee paid to Bill Clinton by Russian promoters of a transaction needing State Department approval while Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State, and the $2.3 million donation to the Clinton Foundation from others associated with the transaction which Hillary Clinton was obliged to disclose but didn't, should be profoundly disappointing to Democrats. And that is just one example.
I don't get it.
15
The irony here is that the Democratic candidates are the only ones with experience. Bernie was a mayor for three terms and has been in Congress for 25 years. Hillary was a senator for 6 years and Secretary of State.
On the GOP side, Trump has no experience in government at all and Cruz hasn't even completed one term in the senate. Why aren't they talking about experience? Gee, I guess that's pretty obvious.
On the GOP side, Trump has no experience in government at all and Cruz hasn't even completed one term in the senate. Why aren't they talking about experience? Gee, I guess that's pretty obvious.
4
Gail, I am a faithful reader of your columns and find them enjoyable, interesting, and enlightening. But this one is disappointing. From the title, it seems to be about Hillary and Bernie and the New York Democratic primary. In fact, it is a column about how Hillary is doing the grunt work that will make her a great president. Which is fine. If you support Hillary, then you should write a column about how great she will be. Just be honest about it.
7
If bellicosity is not a virtue in this election, then Bernie is clearly the choice, across both parties. Hillary 's war bonnet has a few scalps dangling from it, and from the Republican encampment down the trail, Generals Cruz and Trump have been whacking away at each other with their sabers for several weeks now, with nary a nick on either one. Leftenant Kasich is rarely seen outside his tent.
But this is spring, Gail, not the winter of our discontent. And spring means flowers. And the New York flower show, to which my wife and went during our only visit to your metropolitan jewel, should be our metaphor.
Not a shrinking violet, Hillary is more like a patch of zinnias. Each day, each meet and greet with garden visitors one never knows which color of petal she will wear. Except, of course on the days when she's the rose, behind cat-claw sharp thorns.
Bernie would be the hawthorn hedge: a dense proliferation of ideas the leaves that underlie the flower clusters (reminiscent of Bernie's coiffure) of promises of what America might become, if he were the star of the show.
The Republican Party, too, is still undecided on which plant to submit to the judges. The nausea inducing Century plant with the bizarre flower, or the ricin producing castor bean of southern religion. Trump or Cruz? It is a difficult choice for them, I must admit.
As for me and mine, the choice was easy.
President Sanders. President Sanders.
Say it a few times out loud.
It just feels right.
But this is spring, Gail, not the winter of our discontent. And spring means flowers. And the New York flower show, to which my wife and went during our only visit to your metropolitan jewel, should be our metaphor.
Not a shrinking violet, Hillary is more like a patch of zinnias. Each day, each meet and greet with garden visitors one never knows which color of petal she will wear. Except, of course on the days when she's the rose, behind cat-claw sharp thorns.
Bernie would be the hawthorn hedge: a dense proliferation of ideas the leaves that underlie the flower clusters (reminiscent of Bernie's coiffure) of promises of what America might become, if he were the star of the show.
The Republican Party, too, is still undecided on which plant to submit to the judges. The nausea inducing Century plant with the bizarre flower, or the ricin producing castor bean of southern religion. Trump or Cruz? It is a difficult choice for them, I must admit.
As for me and mine, the choice was easy.
President Sanders. President Sanders.
Say it a few times out loud.
It just feels right.
8
Bernie is about change. Yep. Bernie holds the moral compass and resonates with Americans on the issues. His public policy proposals would support the disadvantaged, the poor, the middle class and correct the injustices and wrongs in America that have hurt too many Americans for too long. Most Americans identify with Bernie’s objectives and would be better served by Bernie as President than Hilary who is an opportunistic chameleon shape-shifter and who is disingenuous and even dishonest.
Hilary is about improvement. Yep. Her policy proposals are about improving the status quo which is similar to moving the deck chairs around while Titanic America is sinking after being damaged by moneyed interests for too ling.
President Eisenhower warned Americans of the military industrial complex guiding national policies in his parting speech. He could have also warned Americans to beware of moneyed interests guiding national policies.
Americans have always loved populist leaders like Regan and Dubya. And what are the results? The American middle class and poor have suffered greatly while the moneyed interests have grown wealthier.
Hilary worships at the altar of moneyed interests and wants to improve the status quo.
Vote for sanity over insanity.
Feel the Bern.
Hilary is about improvement. Yep. Her policy proposals are about improving the status quo which is similar to moving the deck chairs around while Titanic America is sinking after being damaged by moneyed interests for too ling.
President Eisenhower warned Americans of the military industrial complex guiding national policies in his parting speech. He could have also warned Americans to beware of moneyed interests guiding national policies.
Americans have always loved populist leaders like Regan and Dubya. And what are the results? The American middle class and poor have suffered greatly while the moneyed interests have grown wealthier.
Hilary worships at the altar of moneyed interests and wants to improve the status quo.
Vote for sanity over insanity.
Feel the Bern.
7
Things start to even out now that Bernie has accepted an invitation to speak before a group that gets funding from one of the most corrupt banking systems in the world. He says they share common goals. Go figure.
6
Bernie is all diverse divergent Brooklyn, New York in manner, method, attitude, style and language. Even in uncolored Vermont this independent socialist curmudgeon baby daddy is a black swan.
Hillary is all homogenous convergent Park Ridge, Illinois, Little Rock, Arkansas and Chappaqua, New York in substance and form. Even in colored New York Miss Hillary is all Snow White.
Hillary belongs in a exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Zoo and the New York Stock Exchange.
Bernie belongs on every corner of every neighborhood in Brooklyn. And thanks to his stint at the University of Chicago Bernie can comfortably come to my native South Side of Chicago.
Run Bernie run!
Hillary is all homogenous convergent Park Ridge, Illinois, Little Rock, Arkansas and Chappaqua, New York in substance and form. Even in colored New York Miss Hillary is all Snow White.
Hillary belongs in a exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Zoo and the New York Stock Exchange.
Bernie belongs on every corner of every neighborhood in Brooklyn. And thanks to his stint at the University of Chicago Bernie can comfortably come to my native South Side of Chicago.
Run Bernie run!
11
Run, Bernie, run! If you run fast enough, you may be able to outrun the reporters who are trying to get you to give a coherent answer to a question, or explain exactly how you will build your castles in the air.
4
Chipotle has a tip jar?
2
Everyone has a tip jar, bowling alleys, dry cleaners, etc., etc.
http://www.seattletimes.com/life/travel/tip-for-your-next-trip-get-ready...
http://www.seattletimes.com/life/travel/tip-for-your-next-trip-get-ready...
When Bernie Sanders is the glamour candidate, as Gail so charmingly states, we are in Fantasy Land. And Hillary Clinton, that hard worker, did get her Metro card to work after 5 tries. Such persistence should be rewarded with the Democratic presidential nomination? No wonder Sanders grabbed that invitation for a trip to the Vatican for a human rights conference. He must be able to sleep on airplanes.
The machinations of the Democratic Party to crown Clinton this year are only mildly less offensive than the machinations of the Republican Party . . . for the last 40 years. The hard worker made the wrong decision on her most important vote as a US Senator – for the Iraq War; and her first act as Secretary of State was to set up a private e-mail server to hide her communications from public scrutiny under the Freedom of Information Act. In these circumstances, the man who keeps talking about his minority votes on stacks of issues over the decades may well be the better candidate. Sad but true. Why not give the one who in hindsight made the right call on so many major issues a chance to repair infrastructure, avoid war, and promote policies to help the middle class and students?
The machinations of the Democratic Party to crown Clinton this year are only mildly less offensive than the machinations of the Republican Party . . . for the last 40 years. The hard worker made the wrong decision on her most important vote as a US Senator – for the Iraq War; and her first act as Secretary of State was to set up a private e-mail server to hide her communications from public scrutiny under the Freedom of Information Act. In these circumstances, the man who keeps talking about his minority votes on stacks of issues over the decades may well be the better candidate. Sad but true. Why not give the one who in hindsight made the right call on so many major issues a chance to repair infrastructure, avoid war, and promote policies to help the middle class and students?
11
Who else will volunteer to bell the cat?
OK, the vote on the Iraq War is brought up time and time again. As I recall, John Kerry almost beat George W. Bush in 2004, after winning the nomination by beating Howard Dean, General Wesley Clark, and others who were against the Iraq invasion. Don't remember that being an issue. Hillary has said the vote was a mistake. Kerry gave a lengthy, qualifier-filled speech on the Senate floor prior to his vote, a speech in which he almost had me convinced that his vote FOR may have actually been a vote AGAINST..
2
I thought John Kerry deliberately took a dive for his Skull & Bones brother by nominating Joe Lieberman for VP. But he sure dodged a bullet by not picking John Edwards. What did Kerry know, and when did he know it?
Many seem to agree that if Trump/Cruz are the future of the GOP then GOP is in desperate straits and certainly no longer the Party of Lincoln.
Many seem to believe that if either Trump or Cruz become POTUS the country will not survive. It probably will survive albeit in a diminished and nastier state.
Many seem to see Sanders as the voice of the future. Actually, he seems more like a voice from the past, Gene McCarthy. Not a bad thing but probably just as electable as McCarthy.
Many seem to see Clinton as the future of the Democratic Party. If so, then the Party is in as bad a condition as the GOP -- just not as overtly nasty. Clinton is not an empty suit but one stuffed with IOUs that benefit the few rather than the many.
Many of us have for years voted for the lesser of two evils as POTUS. Not this year. What little energy I have left will be devoted to returning the Senate to the Democrats and unseating one or two House Republicans.
GO HASSAN! DUMP POLIQUIN!
Many seem to believe that if either Trump or Cruz become POTUS the country will not survive. It probably will survive albeit in a diminished and nastier state.
Many seem to see Sanders as the voice of the future. Actually, he seems more like a voice from the past, Gene McCarthy. Not a bad thing but probably just as electable as McCarthy.
Many seem to see Clinton as the future of the Democratic Party. If so, then the Party is in as bad a condition as the GOP -- just not as overtly nasty. Clinton is not an empty suit but one stuffed with IOUs that benefit the few rather than the many.
Many of us have for years voted for the lesser of two evils as POTUS. Not this year. What little energy I have left will be devoted to returning the Senate to the Democrats and unseating one or two House Republicans.
GO HASSAN! DUMP POLIQUIN!
3
If we want to make a smoother transition to the 21st century, we need to choose leadership that understands how it evolved.
1
This is what Bernie actually said:
During an April 6 rally at Temple University in Philadelphia, Sanders contended that in the wake of Clinton's loss in Wisconsin, she is getting a little nervous. "And she has been saying lately that she thinks that I am, 'not qualified to be president,’ " he told the crowd.
Sanders then said, "I don't believe that she is qualified if she is, through her super PAC, taking tens of millions of dollars in special interest funds. I don't think that you are qualified if you get $15 million from Wall Street through your Super PAC. I don't think you are qualified if you have voted for the disastrous war in Iraq. I don't think you are qualified if you've supported virtually every disastrous trade agreement, which has cost us millions of decent-paying jobs."
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2016/apr/07/bernie-s/...
During an April 6 rally at Temple University in Philadelphia, Sanders contended that in the wake of Clinton's loss in Wisconsin, she is getting a little nervous. "And she has been saying lately that she thinks that I am, 'not qualified to be president,’ " he told the crowd.
Sanders then said, "I don't believe that she is qualified if she is, through her super PAC, taking tens of millions of dollars in special interest funds. I don't think that you are qualified if you get $15 million from Wall Street through your Super PAC. I don't think you are qualified if you have voted for the disastrous war in Iraq. I don't think you are qualified if you've supported virtually every disastrous trade agreement, which has cost us millions of decent-paying jobs."
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2016/apr/07/bernie-s/...
12
Actually, he said, "that I am, quote unquote, not qualified to be President." But in fact she never said that, or anything close to that. So Bernie later said, "I was misinformed and I shouldn't have said she was unqualified," right? Wrong. Has Bernie ever admitted he was wrong about anything?
In that $15 million from "Wall Street" is he including the $7 million she got from George Soros, the hedge fund billionaire and big contributor to MoveOn.org? In the millions in special interest funds is he including the $9 million she got from unions?
https://www.opensecrets.org/pres16/contrib.php?id=N00000019&cycle=20...
In that $15 million from "Wall Street" is he including the $7 million she got from George Soros, the hedge fund billionaire and big contributor to MoveOn.org? In the millions in special interest funds is he including the $9 million she got from unions?
https://www.opensecrets.org/pres16/contrib.php?id=N00000019&cycle=20...
2
Hi, Independent!
You omitted from your quotation of what Old Bernie "actually said" the part where he LIES and encloses his LIE in air quotes and says "quote, unquote".
Here's a link to a video of Old Bernie telling the big LIE:
http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2016-election/bernie-sanders-hillary-cli...
You omitted from your quotation of what Old Bernie "actually said" the part where he LIES and encloses his LIE in air quotes and says "quote, unquote".
Here's a link to a video of Old Bernie telling the big LIE:
http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2016-election/bernie-sanders-hillary-cli...
2
Bottom line , I support HRC but should Bernie be the nominee,I will gladly support him. We can not afford a Republican administration to name the SCOTUS, economically put us back in a deep hole and get us involved in foreign policy disasters. Folks this is serious business,keep your eye on the prize.
6
Bernie said what?! After Hillary said what? OMG! Did you hear what Susan Sarandon said?
Come on people, do we really want to get wrapped up in the media's need for a story (any story!) or focus on the issues?
Clinton said she felt sorry for young people (because they don't enjoy their mortgage-sized student debt). Her comment was understood to be just another frustrated moment in an election process... that is way too long.
Come on people, do we really want to get wrapped up in the media's need for a story (any story!) or focus on the issues?
Clinton said she felt sorry for young people (because they don't enjoy their mortgage-sized student debt). Her comment was understood to be just another frustrated moment in an election process... that is way too long.
3
I fell under the intoxicating presidential campaign of Obama and I'm happy he has been our president for the last 8 years. But by no means did he live up to the expectations we all had of him(mostly thanks to congress). Why does anyone think it would be different with Bernie!? I'm glad he's running, he espouses all but but my gun beliefs but I want someone who can get things done, not an idealistic dreamer.
5
bush got things done
all th wrong things
all th wrong things
1
The choice for many voters is the between almost certain meat, potatoes and 3 squares a day or pie in the sky, when the bakers are hired. Hillary is her own worst enemy. She is a highly intelligent, experienced, competent, hard working, outspoken, progressive, strong woman who some women resent because she did not divorce Bill and who frightens men who are used to pushing women around and telling them to shut up.
Yet Hillary is also her own best friend. She is loyal to those who are loyal to her and one to one, she relates to real people who will come to her aid when, as she will be, unfairly knocked about, slandered and personally hurt. She is something that no ultra conservative Republican is. She is a mench. A genuine caring person.
Under Obama, in spite of scorched earth opposition by the GOP and down right hatred, he avoided another Great Depression, created millions of jobs and if it was President Romney those accomplishments would be shouted from the house tops.
There would be no revolution with Hillary and maybe government will be more transparent and we can get about the business of restoring the GOP destroyed New Deal, step by step, starting with the Supreme Court. Nothing would please me more than when elected she withdraws the nomination of Judge Garland and nominates Barak Obama to the Supreme Court.
Yet Hillary is also her own best friend. She is loyal to those who are loyal to her and one to one, she relates to real people who will come to her aid when, as she will be, unfairly knocked about, slandered and personally hurt. She is something that no ultra conservative Republican is. She is a mench. A genuine caring person.
Under Obama, in spite of scorched earth opposition by the GOP and down right hatred, he avoided another Great Depression, created millions of jobs and if it was President Romney those accomplishments would be shouted from the house tops.
There would be no revolution with Hillary and maybe government will be more transparent and we can get about the business of restoring the GOP destroyed New Deal, step by step, starting with the Supreme Court. Nothing would please me more than when elected she withdraws the nomination of Judge Garland and nominates Barak Obama to the Supreme Court.
7
Hillary came in and ran. New York elected her. That's a spot on her character?
5
She came. She saw. She lied.
2
How dare Ms. Collins paint Bernie in any way that is not a glowing endorsement!
6
Reply to Richard,
I've been thoroughly schooled in recognizing, after 66 years of watching our corporate owned government, that there comes a time in every nation when the people had better get off the pot, if they want representation in government.
Contrary to your cute poem, Bernie has a comprehensive, doable, and easily paid for plan that will make Public College Tuition free for any and all Americans who wish to take advantage of it, as it used to be here in America decades ago.
As we so often postulate, education is the first and foremost mandatory foundation for enduring liberty, and economic freedom
Hillarys agenda is to first and foremost continue the enrichment of herself, and her family, and then add to the obscene wealth of the corporation that own her, our Congress, and the rest of our government.
See excerpt and links, which clearly describe Bernies agenda, and how it will be paid for; see section delineating how free tuition works.
"In fact, it’s what many of our colleges and universities used to do. The University of California system offered free tuition at its schools until the 1980s. In 1965, average tuition at a four-year public university was just $243 and many of the best colleges – including the City University of New York – did not charge any tuition at all. The Sanders plan would make tuition free at public colleges and universities throughout the country."
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
I've been thoroughly schooled in recognizing, after 66 years of watching our corporate owned government, that there comes a time in every nation when the people had better get off the pot, if they want representation in government.
Contrary to your cute poem, Bernie has a comprehensive, doable, and easily paid for plan that will make Public College Tuition free for any and all Americans who wish to take advantage of it, as it used to be here in America decades ago.
As we so often postulate, education is the first and foremost mandatory foundation for enduring liberty, and economic freedom
Hillarys agenda is to first and foremost continue the enrichment of herself, and her family, and then add to the obscene wealth of the corporation that own her, our Congress, and the rest of our government.
See excerpt and links, which clearly describe Bernies agenda, and how it will be paid for; see section delineating how free tuition works.
"In fact, it’s what many of our colleges and universities used to do. The University of California system offered free tuition at its schools until the 1980s. In 1965, average tuition at a four-year public university was just $243 and many of the best colleges – including the City University of New York – did not charge any tuition at all. The Sanders plan would make tuition free at public colleges and universities throughout the country."
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
11
Vaguely amusing column, Gail. But when Bernie is President, everyone will be a columnist for the NYT and every column will be funny. And the paper will be free!
5
If "not qualified" is an improbable description of Clinton, does that depend on accepting "wife of a president" as a qualification? Should the Republicans be considering drafting Nancy Reagan or Barbara Bush?
Clinton and her campaign made it clear their NY strategy would be to "disqualify" Sen. Sanders. Sanders made it clear that if they want to go there, he will too. Considering the length of his elective service, and that he's not riding on a spouse's coattails (impressive as his spouse is), it has been wise of her to back off, and for him to too.
Clinton and her campaign made it clear their NY strategy would be to "disqualify" Sen. Sanders. Sanders made it clear that if they want to go there, he will too. Considering the length of his elective service, and that he's not riding on a spouse's coattails (impressive as his spouse is), it has been wise of her to back off, and for him to too.
3
This whole primary season so far has been unfortunately and fatally negative. It's really a shame that the two frontrunners are also the two candidates who have the biggest negative ratings with prospective voters. It is tragic to be told that we 'have to' support Hillary to prevent Trump from becoming president or that we 'have to' vote for (Cruz, Trump, or whoever) to keep Hillary out of the Whitehouse. I'm sick of it already! Hillary, stop telling me why I don't want to vote for Bernie and give me a good reason(s) to vote for you! Donald, stop with the insults and bragging and talk about how to deal with the problems this country has! The media is no better about this. I want to hear real issues being discussed and real ideas being debated. I dread the prospect of having to hold my nose and choose between the lesser of two evils in the voting booth this fall.
55
Of course it's skay for Santa Sander's fans to tell Hillary supporters who to vote for, to threaten and insult.
1
The self righteousness of the Bernie Sanders supporters is starting to wear me down--and is uncomfortably reminiscent of Ralph Nader in 2000, whose colossal ego is responsible for handing the White House over to the worst president in my lifetime.
Let's be practical folks--we have a chance to really damage an out of touch obstructionist GOP that has been destroying the middle class since the Reagan years.
Let's be practical folks--we have a chance to really damage an out of touch obstructionist GOP that has been destroying the middle class since the Reagan years.
8
Charles Blow described Hillary Clinton as a "shape shifter", a description so prescient it garners the thanks of millions upon millions of honest and trustworthy Americans.
Hillary certainly does "listen", and therein lies the problem, because she certainly does not "hear" the people as she rides on her wave of manipulation and deceit, in her second try for the highest office in our land, the Presidency, which she was roundly denied last time in favor of Obama "the fairy-tale", as her husband Bill Clinton, labeled him at the time.
I notice Gail, you were neither critical nor complimentary of her life, in self-service, er, I mean public service, curiously remaining mute insofar as that critical record is concerned, whereas you did indeed remain close to the NY Times message that most often criticizes Bernie.
There is little need to repeat Hillarys' non-existent role in bettering the lives of the poor and middle-class, except to report as is now common knowledge, she did assist in naming one or two Post Offices.
To elect Hillary to the highest office in our land, would be the epitome of folly, as we would be giving her the opportunity to make good on her still secret promises to Goldman Sachs, Big Insurance, Big Pharma, and the other national and international corporations she has received millions up[on millions of dollars from, further beggaring the people with her essentially declared intent to examine "whether" changes to the lot of the people is at all possible.
Hillary certainly does "listen", and therein lies the problem, because she certainly does not "hear" the people as she rides on her wave of manipulation and deceit, in her second try for the highest office in our land, the Presidency, which she was roundly denied last time in favor of Obama "the fairy-tale", as her husband Bill Clinton, labeled him at the time.
I notice Gail, you were neither critical nor complimentary of her life, in self-service, er, I mean public service, curiously remaining mute insofar as that critical record is concerned, whereas you did indeed remain close to the NY Times message that most often criticizes Bernie.
There is little need to repeat Hillarys' non-existent role in bettering the lives of the poor and middle-class, except to report as is now common knowledge, she did assist in naming one or two Post Offices.
To elect Hillary to the highest office in our land, would be the epitome of folly, as we would be giving her the opportunity to make good on her still secret promises to Goldman Sachs, Big Insurance, Big Pharma, and the other national and international corporations she has received millions up[on millions of dollars from, further beggaring the people with her essentially declared intent to examine "whether" changes to the lot of the people is at all possible.
4
Was I supposed to meet Bernie in this piece because I think I only met Hillary.
Hillary likes to cover shortcomings with detail like a cook who slathers on the sauce to hide the overcooked meat underneath. What makes a good president is one that doesn't have so much to hide. She may hear every last story from every last person in the US but what would she do with that? I haven't seen anything in her record to show she ever really knows what to do with all that information. Where is the vision and the direction that gives details life? Can the country afford to stand still for 4 years?
The excuse that she is not comfortable with campaigning and once in office will become an effective leader is just an excuse for a her poor connection with people. She may feel for the worker on the line or the farmer with irrigation problems but do those feelings translate into a vision for the country.
After spending an evening reading about the Clinton Foundation, my impression is the causes they espouse mean opportunities to meet the most wealthy and influential people in the world and good as some of those people might be, that is who she really wants to work for.
Hillary likes to cover shortcomings with detail like a cook who slathers on the sauce to hide the overcooked meat underneath. What makes a good president is one that doesn't have so much to hide. She may hear every last story from every last person in the US but what would she do with that? I haven't seen anything in her record to show she ever really knows what to do with all that information. Where is the vision and the direction that gives details life? Can the country afford to stand still for 4 years?
The excuse that she is not comfortable with campaigning and once in office will become an effective leader is just an excuse for a her poor connection with people. She may feel for the worker on the line or the farmer with irrigation problems but do those feelings translate into a vision for the country.
After spending an evening reading about the Clinton Foundation, my impression is the causes they espouse mean opportunities to meet the most wealthy and influential people in the world and good as some of those people might be, that is who she really wants to work for.
13
Bernie, as President, will move the Republican House of Representatives to tears - of laughter.
2
It’s time. It’s time to end the children’s crusade that Sanders’ campaign has turned into. It’s time for us to not only stick to the issues but also to ignore false promises. It’s time to remember that great call to real patriotism and citizenship: Don’t ask what can my country do for me…ask what can I do for my country.
6
Oh, Gail, you're such a good soldier!
3
99.9% of career politicians aren't real people. They used to be manufactured in smoke-filled rooms by power brokers. The only difference now is that most of the smoke is gone from those rooms.
This time around I'm voting for the candidate who gets an invitation from the Pope, not the one who gets one from Goldman-Sachs.
This time around I'm voting for the candidate who gets an invitation from the Pope, not the one who gets one from Goldman-Sachs.
2
I really dislike the "Bernie is unhinged" narrative relating to his claims that Clinton is not qualified to be president. He didn't say it was because she didn't have enough experience, it was that her experience, and ours with her, have been bad.
She can apparently claim that he supports gun manufacturers in the face of the Sandy Hook massacre and that's considered a fair assessment. Seriously? Who's distorting what here?
The democratic party and the nytimes are force feeding us Hillary Clinton, and we don't like her. We're not looking for eight more years of exponential health care and college costs. We need someone who's going to at least try to make a difference.
She can apparently claim that he supports gun manufacturers in the face of the Sandy Hook massacre and that's considered a fair assessment. Seriously? Who's distorting what here?
The democratic party and the nytimes are force feeding us Hillary Clinton, and we don't like her. We're not looking for eight more years of exponential health care and college costs. We need someone who's going to at least try to make a difference.
11
What happened after she informed herself? What did she get done?
10
Gail Collins' take on the NY primary is delightfully light-hearted, but she missed at least one joke: the one about how Hillary's more recent "listening tours" have included remunerative layovers at Goldman Sachs.
12
Ah, Gail, Clinton didn't have the "humility" to be stupendously boring, she had and has the talent, lass. A "listening tour" is what you do when you haven't a clue on what you do other than visit all 62 counties. I guess that's why they call them counties...one, two, three...snooze.
As for going crazy in Hillary's company, it obviously did happen in Obama's too, but for 180º different reason. Himself is constantly on a constantly talking tour where he constantly lectures us peons which does in fact make the other half of the population called the Non-Obama-Lovers go crazy too.
Bernie is doing just fine without your analysis and will soon be back from Rome with a plenary indulgence from Francis for all of us which far more than Herself can do. And if you want to know what's wrong with her, it's what happend in Maumee, Ohio: she will begrudgingly let you serve her, but she won't leave you a tip.
You can thank Maumee for the tip.
As for going crazy in Hillary's company, it obviously did happen in Obama's too, but for 180º different reason. Himself is constantly on a constantly talking tour where he constantly lectures us peons which does in fact make the other half of the population called the Non-Obama-Lovers go crazy too.
Bernie is doing just fine without your analysis and will soon be back from Rome with a plenary indulgence from Francis for all of us which far more than Herself can do. And if you want to know what's wrong with her, it's what happend in Maumee, Ohio: she will begrudgingly let you serve her, but she won't leave you a tip.
You can thank Maumee for the tip.
10
Also Bernie will win first prize for being boring, should Gail compare. Just look at the CSPAN archives of the sole senator fighting for issues while the rest of the Senate yawns, snores, texts messages or files their nails under their desk.
4
Hey, I'm from New York! I'm a life-long Democrat! And I, after 50 years as a straight-ticket Dem voter, do "Feel the Bern"! Why, because the establishment has utterly failed the majority of the American people, especially our children and grandchildren, and we need to change the economic rules (tax policy, trade agreements, banking, education and health care) before we become an oligarchy with a few people of immense wealth continuing the process that is impoverishing the rest of us. So, we have this old Jewish socialist white guy from Brooklyn (via Vermont) coming back home to tell us the truth facing off against the Southern belle from Arkansas (via the uber-rich NYC suburb of Chappaqua) holding down the Wall Street fort. One needs to "listen" to say what you want to hear; the other wants you to listen to learn what you need to hear. So, it may not be "Change You want to Hear," but it absolutely is "Change You Need to Hear." Take it from this old, Jewish, non-socialist, white guy from Loooong I'lund.
12
The ONLY thing at which Hillary is experienced is lining her pockets. That's her priority and only priority. What kind of "public servant" demands a couple hundred grand to meet and chat with college kids? What kind of voter supports such a candidate?
16
There is no doubt that Hilary will be better at rearranging the deck chairs on the ship we are sailing on, but who would be better at directing the ship?
11
Hey, has the Pope invited Clinton to a discussion of the world's economic disparaties? Did he invite any of those o so Christian Republicans? No. Only Sanders. Tell it, Bernie. Tell it, and bring it home to NY.
11
The Pope has been talking about income inequality (along with the Dalai Lama) for decades now. They just found out that Bernie has been as well! Three messengers on earth to wake us up.
9
Bernie in a dorm room, puffin on a big blunt, would be a hoot.... blurting out wild insights !!!
Then you go back to your roommate Hillary, and analyze the evening's discussions and make plans before settling in...
Like Bernie for the parties. Love Hillary for the long term....
Then you go back to your roommate Hillary, and analyze the evening's discussions and make plans before settling in...
Like Bernie for the parties. Love Hillary for the long term....
9
I enjoy Gail Collins's columns, but I have to object. The Pierce Arrow Museum in Buffalo, with the gas station designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is very cool. And the concerns of New Yorkers who live outside of the New York City media market are worthy of any politician's attention. Go Hillary!
5
Off with the old, on with the new. At 70+ he's new? No, just idle until now.
Well, we need something to replace American Idol I suppose.
Well, we need something to replace American Idol I suppose.
5
Thank you for your attempt at humor. My friend says that if your puns work 1 out of 10 times you are doing well. Punsters are completely mis understood and groans abound. Anyway I believe this political season needs a sense of humor and it is one reason I love Gail who proves that the NYT for all its greyness can still smile or groan once in awhile.
Sorry for being off point, but I agree with his main point, Go Hillary.
Sorry for being off point, but I agree with his main point, Go Hillary.
1
Both Clinton and Sanders are quite well qualified
As candidates for POTUS thence to govern us nationwide.
But the gaffe “Subway ‘token’,”
New York has loudly spoken.
Fork-or-fingers eating pizza must now be verified.
As candidates for POTUS thence to govern us nationwide.
But the gaffe “Subway ‘token’,”
New York has loudly spoken.
Fork-or-fingers eating pizza must now be verified.
1
RE: The biggest drama came in Maumee, Ohio, when she visited a Chipotle and failed to leave money in the tip jar.
On her last campaign she stiffed a waitress in a diner. Clinton is so entitled she does not expect pay people. Esp working class people who really do physical work for a living. My guess she just does not register their existence. But if it was a banker with a large check for speech....
Hopefully on primary day the working people will make their existence known to Queen Hillary by voting for Bernie.
On her last campaign she stiffed a waitress in a diner. Clinton is so entitled she does not expect pay people. Esp working class people who really do physical work for a living. My guess she just does not register their existence. But if it was a banker with a large check for speech....
Hopefully on primary day the working people will make their existence known to Queen Hillary by voting for Bernie.
14
I suspect you would also find fault with Hillary if she assigned a staffer to stuff the tip jars everywhere she appears.
3
Shame on you Bernie! We the People decide who's qualified and who's not. You should be reassuring us of your competence, not reminding us of your ruthlessness. We'd elect Trump if that's what we wanted.
7
The less a product of the God-promoting US public schools knows, the more confident they are that they know all they need to know.
3
Gotcha! The reason behind all that Godliness is the ethnic cleansing being pursued by our elected advocates of a white, Christian, "conservative" nation.
Those elected disciples intend to make that come to pass by cutting taxes on the rich and the industrial titans. Taxes pay for education. If you reduce taxes, the rich and the ITs have more to donate to the ethnic cleansers in Congress and in state governments. Plus, it cuts what you have to pay your workers (they pay less tax so you can argue they don't need to earn more) while triggering donations to the electeds' campaign kitties periodically refilled by the rich and the industrial titans who make a heck of a lot more when taxes are lower AND no one questions their integrity. There's the catch, however.
You can only question "integrity" if you know what it means.
Those elected disciples intend to make that come to pass by cutting taxes on the rich and the industrial titans. Taxes pay for education. If you reduce taxes, the rich and the ITs have more to donate to the ethnic cleansers in Congress and in state governments. Plus, it cuts what you have to pay your workers (they pay less tax so you can argue they don't need to earn more) while triggering donations to the electeds' campaign kitties periodically refilled by the rich and the industrial titans who make a heck of a lot more when taxes are lower AND no one questions their integrity. There's the catch, however.
You can only question "integrity" if you know what it means.
1
So why are so many voters - especially the younger ones - pulling for Bernie and decidedly unenthusiastic about Hillary? No great mystery here. When it comes to the bread-and-butter matter of simply being able to afford bread and butter, Hillary offers nothing but more of the same Reagan (Counter)Revolution tax and jobs policies that have led this country to being basically a money oligarchy. Bernie has said that, in practical terms, he's no more of a 'socialist' than Truman, Eisenhower or for that matter BOTH Roosevelts. Those who fondly remember the middle-class prosperity (mostly driven by unionized workers) of the 1950s and early 60s should realise that it was driven by tax brackets that deliberately discouraged mega-million-dollar-salaries and a corporate tax system designed not to have the government actually collect much, but to force companies - after a liberal dividend exclusion for the stockholders - to plow profits back into the business, thus hiring more workers and updating plant and equipment. What we have now is the reverse - a tax system that encourages the few to just spend on themselves and to do as little hiring and updating as possible. Add the current 'salary' loophole that (Unlike the Euro zone, where EVERY job is figured on an hourly wage basis, making 24/7/365 on-call prohibitively expensive) makes it profitable to work employees to burnout, or worse. Money is everything, people are disposable. And what has Hillary had to say about this? Zilch. Zero.
10
Fear of smart men is rampant enough in the US. Smart women have it even worse.
4
Bernie Sanders, democratic socialist. Hillary Clinton, Champagne socialist.
I want to know what Clinton said to Wall St execs to earn more money in a few hours than the average worker makes in ten years.
I want to know what Clinton said to Wall St execs to earn more money in a few hours than the average worker makes in ten years.
13
Wall Street sure doesn't think that what we write here is worth paying to read.
If we want a candidate who is truly "qualified" to deal with foreign affairs (including those with Texas), we'll have to hope a psychiatrist or psychologist enters the race.
2
Hillary Clinton will remain loyal and steadfast in supplication to the establishment, having shown us how she so "liberally" butters her bread with the unflagging Big money support of Big Insurance, Big Pharma, the military industrial alliance, and lets not forget Goldman Sachs and all other Big Investment Banking, never once indicating she will reinstate Glass Steagall, which her husband Bill Clinton repealed leading to the second Great Depression, ruining the lives of millions of Americans, with avariciousness the likes of which we have never seen or experienced.
Bernie is the obvious choice, a choice that is not "Hope and Change, but one that will result in real change occurring as our obstructionist Congress is forced to stop catering to their corporate masters, forced because the landslide victory for Bernie, will cause them to realize that the midterms, two of them if Bernie is elected to a second term, will decimate their ranks, and remove the giant dollops of butter on their bread.
NY, and the rest of the nation, is moved, as never before, realizing, here is an exemplary gentleman, an elder with decades of experience in government, never once failing to do the right thing, a gentleman with principles light-years removed from Hillarys' self-serving values.
Bernie is a reborn FDR, a last opportunity offered our nation, if it wants to return to the things that made us great, such being concern that used to be acted on, for the well-being and welfare of the people.
Bernie is the obvious choice, a choice that is not "Hope and Change, but one that will result in real change occurring as our obstructionist Congress is forced to stop catering to their corporate masters, forced because the landslide victory for Bernie, will cause them to realize that the midterms, two of them if Bernie is elected to a second term, will decimate their ranks, and remove the giant dollops of butter on their bread.
NY, and the rest of the nation, is moved, as never before, realizing, here is an exemplary gentleman, an elder with decades of experience in government, never once failing to do the right thing, a gentleman with principles light-years removed from Hillarys' self-serving values.
Bernie is a reborn FDR, a last opportunity offered our nation, if it wants to return to the things that made us great, such being concern that used to be acted on, for the well-being and welfare of the people.
15
Hillary is qualified only to continue the status quo.She has been on the wrong side of history in every important vote she cast and every legislation she supported. Hillary’s policies will not establish peace and help reduce inequality as Bernie’s policies will.
Hillary’s actions:
-Support of Glass Steagall repeal and and support of not re-instating an updated version
-Vote for Iraq war, an illegal war that helped to create ISIS.
-Vote for the Patriot Act. Twice. Unconstitutional by all standards,
-Vote for every trade agreement that shipped jobs outside the US.
-Vote for the Panama trade agreement, that helped rich people evade taxes.
-Fundraising from the people who gained from the Glass Steagall repeal and all the trade agreements
-Under investigation by the FBI for allegedly giving away or at least endangering secret communications.
Hillary makes decisions by pandering rather than decisions based on principle.
Hillary’s actions:
-Support of Glass Steagall repeal and and support of not re-instating an updated version
-Vote for Iraq war, an illegal war that helped to create ISIS.
-Vote for the Patriot Act. Twice. Unconstitutional by all standards,
-Vote for every trade agreement that shipped jobs outside the US.
-Vote for the Panama trade agreement, that helped rich people evade taxes.
-Fundraising from the people who gained from the Glass Steagall repeal and all the trade agreements
-Under investigation by the FBI for allegedly giving away or at least endangering secret communications.
Hillary makes decisions by pandering rather than decisions based on principle.
16
"While we like to pretend New York politics is exciting, it’s mainly just one indictment after another."—Gail Collins
NOO YAWK TIMES
Arkansas, not Noo Yawk
Carpetbagger, war hawk.
Limousines and G5s
No stinkin' subway rides.
Ms. Clinton doubletalk.
Coming soon: Hill perp walk!
6
Marian's opinions are normally far to the right of center, so this one is obvious. Don't be played by Republicans, Bernie fans.
2
New Yorkers are sensible people. There may be a few Bernie bro's who refuse to vote for anyone else, but Hillary will be nominated. I dont understand the attraction to Bernie. Sure, he is progressive and talks the talk but is poorly suited to substance. I am also tired of the blame game- whoever is playing it. Whether a trumpster or a bernie bro-your problems are not everyone else's fault.
6
Charles Blow described Hillary Clinton as a "shape shifter", a description so prescient it garners the thanks of millions upon millions of honest and trustworthy Americans.
Hillary certainly does "listen", and therein lies the problem, because she certainly does not "hear" the people as she rides on her wave of manipulation and deceit, in her second try for the highest office in our land, the Presidency, which she was roundly denied last time in favor of Obama "the fairy-tale", as her husband Bill Clinton, labeled him at the time.
I notice Gail, you were neither critical nor complimentary of her life, in self-service, er, I mean public service, curiously remaining mute insofar as that critical record is concerned, whereas you did indeed remain close to the NY Times message that most often criticizes Bernie.
There is little need to repeat Hillarys' non-existent role in bettering the lives of the poor and middle-class, except to report as is now common knowledge, she did assist in naming one or two Post Offices.
To elect Hillary to the highest office in our land, would be the epitome of folly, as we would be giving her the opportunity to make good on her still secret promises to Goldman Sachs, Big Insurance, Big Pharma, and the other national and international corporations she has received millions upon millions of dollars from, further beggaring the people with her essentially declared intent to examine "whether" changes to the lot of the people is at all possible.
Hillary certainly does "listen", and therein lies the problem, because she certainly does not "hear" the people as she rides on her wave of manipulation and deceit, in her second try for the highest office in our land, the Presidency, which she was roundly denied last time in favor of Obama "the fairy-tale", as her husband Bill Clinton, labeled him at the time.
I notice Gail, you were neither critical nor complimentary of her life, in self-service, er, I mean public service, curiously remaining mute insofar as that critical record is concerned, whereas you did indeed remain close to the NY Times message that most often criticizes Bernie.
There is little need to repeat Hillarys' non-existent role in bettering the lives of the poor and middle-class, except to report as is now common knowledge, she did assist in naming one or two Post Offices.
To elect Hillary to the highest office in our land, would be the epitome of folly, as we would be giving her the opportunity to make good on her still secret promises to Goldman Sachs, Big Insurance, Big Pharma, and the other national and international corporations she has received millions upon millions of dollars from, further beggaring the people with her essentially declared intent to examine "whether" changes to the lot of the people is at all possible.
10
At first one must tell people what they want to hear, to gain their attention for what they think they don't want to hear.
1
Bernie is folksy and delivers good fire in the belly speeches--like an evangelist preacher-- but he has not articulated real solutions just how he will accomplish his objectives and unfortunately his record for working across the aisle to get legislation done is poor ay best. In fact, according to data from The Lugar Center and Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy, 2015 Bipartisan Index, "Bernie Sanders and Ted Cruz are the two most partisan people in the Senate. Bernie ranked as the most partisan, Ted Cruz second". That speaks volumes. Bernie is clearly not collaborative or a tangible problem solver and that is exactly what is wrong with Washington. Bernie’s ineffectiveness with legislation is a good indicator on how we will perform as President and Commander in Chief either. I think it is time for reason over passion.
10
Hillary's real solutions are continue with the old, throw us crumbs, not even half loaves and use q tips and band aids to fix leaking holes.
6
Has Bernie ever made a crowd laugh?
People think that reason is hard, but it is really a key to having fun.
People think that reason is hard, but it is really a key to having fun.
Im sick and tired of everyone picking on Hillary. She is simply the best qualified -- the most qualified candidate in a generation -- to run for president. Bernie has shown his true colors. For all you Bern fans: What exactly has Bern ever accomplished? Nothing. That's the answer. His record is as substantial as Ted Cruz's. That is, he has nothing to show for his years of experience being a Marxist fog horn. Vote Hillary--give Republicans a stroke.
22
Old Bernie LIED about Hillary Clinton. He claimed that she was going around saying he is not qualified to be president. To emphasize the lie, he made air quotes with his jabby fingers and SAID "quote, unquote".
When Old Bernie got caught in the LIE, he doubled down. His wife and his people went on various shows to Janesplain and mansplain, but everyone knew by then that Old Bernie has feet of clay. He finally admitted that Hillary Clinton is indeed qualified to be president.
Why did he lie in the first place? To deflect attention from the disastrous interview with the Daily News? Because he's a liar? Because he knows HE's not qualified to be president and needed to project his own inadequacies onto someone else?
Old Bernie is a terrible candidate and a dishonest one. An angry Old man and a lazy one.
When Old Bernie got caught in the LIE, he doubled down. His wife and his people went on various shows to Janesplain and mansplain, but everyone knew by then that Old Bernie has feet of clay. He finally admitted that Hillary Clinton is indeed qualified to be president.
Why did he lie in the first place? To deflect attention from the disastrous interview with the Daily News? Because he's a liar? Because he knows HE's not qualified to be president and needed to project his own inadequacies onto someone else?
Old Bernie is a terrible candidate and a dishonest one. An angry Old man and a lazy one.
8
You are couple days behind the news. Get over it, the candidates have. But the media won't because they are in the business of maligning everyone, for sheer entertainment and viewership/readership.
6
Hi, petey tonei!
Agree that Old Bernie's big lie is something HE and Jane and his people have gotten over. Jane pointed out to Rachel two nights ago that Old Bernie was moving on. (You're still aware of it, though. A disappointment, wasn't it?)
But it's hard to forget Lyin' Liars telling LIES. I remember how Nixon always LIED about his poor wife's birthday. He claimed (falsely) that it was on St. Patrick's Day. An early demonstration of how people who lie about little things lie about big things. Do you think that's the only lie Old Bernie has ever told? The only lie Old Bernie will ever tell?
To bring you up to date . . . he LIED about being invited to the Vatican. Baaaad Old Lyin' Bernie strikes again.
Agree that Old Bernie's big lie is something HE and Jane and his people have gotten over. Jane pointed out to Rachel two nights ago that Old Bernie was moving on. (You're still aware of it, though. A disappointment, wasn't it?)
But it's hard to forget Lyin' Liars telling LIES. I remember how Nixon always LIED about his poor wife's birthday. He claimed (falsely) that it was on St. Patrick's Day. An early demonstration of how people who lie about little things lie about big things. Do you think that's the only lie Old Bernie has ever told? The only lie Old Bernie will ever tell?
To bring you up to date . . . he LIED about being invited to the Vatican. Baaaad Old Lyin' Bernie strikes again.
2
A zinger of a column, Gail! We all remember when Hillary became New York's Junior Senator and served her 2 terms from 2001-2008 till she failed to win the Presidential nomination against Barack Obama, and now is back in New York, her "home state!" Mrs. Clinton is still chuntering along among NY's counties, while Bernie Sanders, whose campaign is The Miracle of Little Donors is taking off next week for the Vatican at the invitation of Pope Francis! Who knew?
Hillary and The Donald need to win New York. Mrs. Clinton also needs to have someone duct-tape her husband's mouth, and soon. Her husband, Bill, the former President, has been having an eruption against black lives matter. He is not doing Hillary any favours by shouting at her base in public.
Both Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are "qualified" to be our President, notwithstanding the mudballs slung by each at the other about not being "qualified". The ones not qualified are the sad and weird GOP pick of the crop of 17 beginner wannabe POTUS candidates who have winnowed themselves down to three "not possibly electable" nominees. Either Democratic candidate beats the Trump/Cruz/Kasich troika hollow. As you point out, Gail, Sanders is about CHANGE and Clinton is about IMPROVEMENT." Both of which are preferable to a Tea Party Cataclysm in November.
Hillary and The Donald need to win New York. Mrs. Clinton also needs to have someone duct-tape her husband's mouth, and soon. Her husband, Bill, the former President, has been having an eruption against black lives matter. He is not doing Hillary any favours by shouting at her base in public.
Both Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are "qualified" to be our President, notwithstanding the mudballs slung by each at the other about not being "qualified". The ones not qualified are the sad and weird GOP pick of the crop of 17 beginner wannabe POTUS candidates who have winnowed themselves down to three "not possibly electable" nominees. Either Democratic candidate beats the Trump/Cruz/Kasich troika hollow. As you point out, Gail, Sanders is about CHANGE and Clinton is about IMPROVEMENT." Both of which are preferable to a Tea Party Cataclysm in November.
3
Surprisingly few New Yorkers were actually born here.
3
Bernie Sanders had a Palinesque meltdown on softball questions from a friendly outlet. You can campaign in poetry but governing is prose. Details matter.
25
Bravo!
3
It has never been a question of Clinton not listening. But to who she actually listens to.
23
Everybody. When elected to public office, one is obliged to govern for everyone.
3
I read the Daily News interview and realized that Sanders, who I used to admire, has turned into a rambling, incoherent, crazy person. Is he suffering from extreme sleep deprivation? Stunned by his answers. Long on criticisms short on solutions. Made me think of Sarandon's concerns about Trump. Lots of promises, but no info on how. Same applies to Sanders.
33
Then you need to re read the Upshot article in NYT about how much Bernie knows about banks.
6
But does he know what to do with them, Petey? From the DN article, it appears he doesn't.
1
Why on Earth would New Yorkers support an ersatz transplant like Clinton.? She was born in a burg outside of north Chicago. She plants her flag wherever there is an an election and voters to be had: literally had --- think PT Barnum.
Meanwhile, you have a Brooklyn Jew who speaks the dialect and bravely espouses the views of a liberal New Yorker. "What's the problem here?"
Meanwhile, you have a Brooklyn Jew who speaks the dialect and bravely espouses the views of a liberal New Yorker. "What's the problem here?"
17
The problem is he hightailed it to Vermont so he could fall off the Draft Board's radar and hide out close to the Canadian border, that was just in case he had to get across the border-fast, until he turned 26 -the age you can no longer get drafted. He applied for Conscientious Objector status to gain some time and it worked.
Your statement, "She plants her flag wherever there's an election and voters to be had......", .........really? P.T. Barnum? Yea, look no farther than the guy waving his arms around like he's swatting flies while he shuffles cans around then asks the impressionable to find the pea. There's a sucker born every minute, and add having student loan up to one's ears, and you'e got a captive audience.
Your statement, "She plants her flag wherever there's an election and voters to be had......", .........really? P.T. Barnum? Yea, look no farther than the guy waving his arms around like he's swatting flies while he shuffles cans around then asks the impressionable to find the pea. There's a sucker born every minute, and add having student loan up to one's ears, and you'e got a captive audience.
1
Bernie Sanders was part of the "white flight" that left Brooklyn in the 1970s because it was becoming less white. He moved and spent his life in a state that is 99% white. He didn't stay around, like many of us his age, to deal with the demographic changes of New York. I grew up in his part of Brooklyn and knew many like him: they fled NYC when people of color started moving closer to their all-white neighborhoods and even (gasp) moving to the next block.
His adult inexperience in dealing with nonwhite Americans has shown in his clueless campaign. His biggest supporters in NYC are those young white hipsters and bros who are chasing nonwhite people out of their longtime homes in Crown Heights, Flatbush, Bushwick and now East New York.
His adult inexperience in dealing with nonwhite Americans has shown in his clueless campaign. His biggest supporters in NYC are those young white hipsters and bros who are chasing nonwhite people out of their longtime homes in Crown Heights, Flatbush, Bushwick and now East New York.
1
You mean the Brooklyn Jew who hasn't lived here for nearly 50 years?
2
A. Trump: Make America Great Again!
B. Cruz: Back to the Old Testament!
C. Sanders: Revolution Now!
D. Clinton: Try to improve a few things.
I'm going with D.
B. Cruz: Back to the Old Testament!
C. Sanders: Revolution Now!
D. Clinton: Try to improve a few things.
I'm going with D.
19
My kids and their kids respectfully say No, they are tired of making small improvements for us, while the rich get mega rich and the special interests continue to buy elections and politicians.
7
In short Bernie Sanders has gone "rogue" and people are cheering for his superficial one liners. He is not everyday grandpa although I would like to have him as my neighbor and have block party every weekend him being the star of the event.
Hillary Clinton on the other had is boring and being a woman in America in this twenty first century is still a handicap. Whatever she says she is labelled as a "Shrew".
Mrs. Clinton never have said Bernie Sanders is not fit to be the President as NPR reported although Bernie never wasted a moment calling her " Unfit".
Not a typical grandpa but a very shrewd Politician excellent to rile up a crowd.
Hillary Clinton on the other had is boring and being a woman in America in this twenty first century is still a handicap. Whatever she says she is labelled as a "Shrew".
Mrs. Clinton never have said Bernie Sanders is not fit to be the President as NPR reported although Bernie never wasted a moment calling her " Unfit".
Not a typical grandpa but a very shrewd Politician excellent to rile up a crowd.
12
Mrs Clinton's campaign began the idea that Bernie is not democrat enough and they started down the path of disqualifying him....but Bernie's campaign nipped it in its bud, and yes it got nasty for a bit, but nothing like the Republican side and if what Bernie said hurts you, then you are never going to understand what his journey is all about, sorry.
3
Of course Hillary represented NY. No one thinks she is stupid. Like most Americans, she knows where Wall Street is located.
76
Yes, and Bernie Sanders does too. Right in his adopted sate of Vermont. Apparently Captive Insurance Companies, companies the IRS has on their Dirty Dozen Top Ten List, are right here in the United Sates,
1,000 of these Captives in Vermont alone. They are listed right alongside Identity Theft, Phishing, and Off-shore Tax Avoidance. And for some reason the Tax Fat Cats putting it to us in Vermont doesn't seem to matter to Mr. Sanders just as long as his adopted state of Vermont can pick up some easy money.
1,000 of these Captives in Vermont alone. They are listed right alongside Identity Theft, Phishing, and Off-shore Tax Avoidance. And for some reason the Tax Fat Cats putting it to us in Vermont doesn't seem to matter to Mr. Sanders just as long as his adopted state of Vermont can pick up some easy money.
2
I believe when pressed on how Bernie would implement his slogan promises that he said he would "sit down with McConnell". The mouse will be devoured by the wicked cat. What an absurd notion given the Obama's repeated attempts to reach across the aisle that simply made him appear naive. Is Bernie naive?
11
Bernie has't moved McConnell one nanometer in his whole Senate career.
6
dear NYT, Hillary is NOT a New Yorker! Ever! Never! No New Yorker dresses like the leader of North Korea! And please remind us what she did for NY as Senator? I just don't get your biased editorial policy. Her listening tours tell her what to say back to us to get her elected and that's all! Our tenement is making a sign "Hillary Free Zone".
9
The one who resembles Kim Jong Un is Donald Trump. This is so typical of Feel the Bern Clinton haters.
2
Hillary's "moderation" and lack of glamor helped get us into the Iraq War and a disastrous expedition in Libya, whose coastline is now dotted with ISIS resorts.
Has there been any serious coverage of what a Clinton foreign policy would be, other than random debate questions? Has any journalist asked to specifically explain why she voted for the Iraq War, when hundreds of thousands of her New York constituents were on the streets in February and March 2003 protesting against it (she ignored us--maybe she was busy talking to farmers upstate). She is no moderate when it comes to foreign policy, as Gail is painting her here.
She is a hawk with a simplistic view of the "benevolence" of American power that is no more sophisticated than that of Bush/Cheney (just listen to her speeches--most are on CSPAN--around the time of the Libya invasion to extract her philosophy of American power and her romanticizing of the Libyan opposition).
Most of us don't want to engage in any more endless wars or adventures to implant US-style democracy in nations that don't want us there.
Why is free public college a pipe dream when we have 5 trillion dollars for wars in the Middle East and Central Asia that have proven to be complete failures?
Has there been any serious coverage of what a Clinton foreign policy would be, other than random debate questions? Has any journalist asked to specifically explain why she voted for the Iraq War, when hundreds of thousands of her New York constituents were on the streets in February and March 2003 protesting against it (she ignored us--maybe she was busy talking to farmers upstate). She is no moderate when it comes to foreign policy, as Gail is painting her here.
She is a hawk with a simplistic view of the "benevolence" of American power that is no more sophisticated than that of Bush/Cheney (just listen to her speeches--most are on CSPAN--around the time of the Libya invasion to extract her philosophy of American power and her romanticizing of the Libyan opposition).
Most of us don't want to engage in any more endless wars or adventures to implant US-style democracy in nations that don't want us there.
Why is free public college a pipe dream when we have 5 trillion dollars for wars in the Middle East and Central Asia that have proven to be complete failures?
18
Believers in solidarity tend to see solidarity as essential to winning wars.
2
If you want to read how Hillary didn't vote for the Iraq War, and not just what the spin cycle has put out there, how she envisioned our involvement in Iraq, please check out an article in Slate Magazine:
"Hillary Told the Truth About her Iraq War Vote." by Fred Kaplan,
published Feb. 4, 2016.
And take the time and you'll realize how complicated things were at the time, and what she said before an assembled Senate. How her vote to authorize President Bush to ask for another Resolution to put before the Senate 'FOR OUR WEAPONS INSPECTORS TO GO BACK INTO IRAQ AND LOOK FOR WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION, THIS FORCING THE HAND OF SADDAM HUSSEIN, WITH THE END RESULT, WEAPONS BEING FOUND AND THUS, PREVENTING OUR INVADING IRAG." You'll see what she understood she was doing when she entrusted the president with her vote. She was imagining this would end any notion of our invading Iraq. But Bush lied. He betrayed the majority of the Senate, and invaded anyway. The Senate members many have been naive to trust the Bush/Cheney cabal, but hey were duped. They acted with honest intent. Bush did not. And the rest is history, one that continues today as Isis continues to be a Bush gift that keeps on giving, HIS UNWARRANTED INVASION OF IRAQ.
"Hillary Told the Truth About her Iraq War Vote." by Fred Kaplan,
published Feb. 4, 2016.
And take the time and you'll realize how complicated things were at the time, and what she said before an assembled Senate. How her vote to authorize President Bush to ask for another Resolution to put before the Senate 'FOR OUR WEAPONS INSPECTORS TO GO BACK INTO IRAQ AND LOOK FOR WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION, THIS FORCING THE HAND OF SADDAM HUSSEIN, WITH THE END RESULT, WEAPONS BEING FOUND AND THUS, PREVENTING OUR INVADING IRAG." You'll see what she understood she was doing when she entrusted the president with her vote. She was imagining this would end any notion of our invading Iraq. But Bush lied. He betrayed the majority of the Senate, and invaded anyway. The Senate members many have been naive to trust the Bush/Cheney cabal, but hey were duped. They acted with honest intent. Bush did not. And the rest is history, one that continues today as Isis continues to be a Bush gift that keeps on giving, HIS UNWARRANTED INVASION OF IRAQ.
2
Gail thanks for the history lesson, we were all there.
I've been hearing about all the wonderful things Clinton did for NY as Senator. Curious, I looked it up.
Mrs. Clinton was very busy in her 8 years, sponsored dozens of Bills, although only a handful were actually passed; 5 or 6 to rename a particular post office, one to rename a federal plaza, another to rename an overpass, and the biggest coup, a reauthorization bill declaring a watershed.
Throw that in with Benghazi, Syria, Libya, and some wayward e-mails, you have "the most qualified person ever to run for President"!
Although it was good to see the old man throw a few jabs this week, although too late. And no, there is no rule of law to "break up" the banks and insurances companies. Sorry Bern...30 years in Congress didn't teach you anything.
I've been hearing about all the wonderful things Clinton did for NY as Senator. Curious, I looked it up.
Mrs. Clinton was very busy in her 8 years, sponsored dozens of Bills, although only a handful were actually passed; 5 or 6 to rename a particular post office, one to rename a federal plaza, another to rename an overpass, and the biggest coup, a reauthorization bill declaring a watershed.
Throw that in with Benghazi, Syria, Libya, and some wayward e-mails, you have "the most qualified person ever to run for President"!
Although it was good to see the old man throw a few jabs this week, although too late. And no, there is no rule of law to "break up" the banks and insurances companies. Sorry Bern...30 years in Congress didn't teach you anything.
6
Definition of "Gentleman", an exemplary gentleman, which Bernie is -
Confucian thinking describes a gentleman as;
"those who cultivate themselves morally;
participate in the correct performance of ritual;
show filial piety and loyalty where these are due; and
cultivate humaneness."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentleman
Confucian thinking describes a gentleman as;
"those who cultivate themselves morally;
participate in the correct performance of ritual;
show filial piety and loyalty where these are due; and
cultivate humaneness."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentleman
3
You're not mentioning what has become known as CHIP-Children's Health Insurance Program. This Program has meant the difference in many instances between life and death, but generally provides for a chance for kids to get the care they deserve through State and Federal Funding. This was a monumental PROGRAM THAT HAS AFFECTED THE LIVES OF TENS OF THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN OVER THE YEARS.
You are being dishonest. There have been 5 Investigations into Benghazi and NONE have found anything that can be hung around Hillary Clinton's neck. Syria and Libya, Britain moved for intervention in those countries followed by France and now most of the entire modern world, 98%, stand together in that region trying to stabilize it.
Please do your homework-the big Banks did not bring our economy to its knees. A few Rogue Institutions did, Mortgage Companies, and others like AIG did. Check out what Countrywide contributed to this mess. They got the ball rolling. We had a mortgage at the time from Countrywide and got calls once a week with them asking us to add to our mortgage debt, "Why not buy that Lexus you always wanted." I don't know how many times I was asked that ridiculous question.
Check Out at nytimes.com: April 8, 2016
Sanders Over The Edge
You may not want to read this but there's much to be gained as you accept the notion "The Truth Shall Set You Free."
Sometimes one needs to quit living in denial just because it supports one's intent, especially when it's wrong.
You are being dishonest. There have been 5 Investigations into Benghazi and NONE have found anything that can be hung around Hillary Clinton's neck. Syria and Libya, Britain moved for intervention in those countries followed by France and now most of the entire modern world, 98%, stand together in that region trying to stabilize it.
Please do your homework-the big Banks did not bring our economy to its knees. A few Rogue Institutions did, Mortgage Companies, and others like AIG did. Check out what Countrywide contributed to this mess. They got the ball rolling. We had a mortgage at the time from Countrywide and got calls once a week with them asking us to add to our mortgage debt, "Why not buy that Lexus you always wanted." I don't know how many times I was asked that ridiculous question.
Check Out at nytimes.com: April 8, 2016
Sanders Over The Edge
You may not want to read this but there's much to be gained as you accept the notion "The Truth Shall Set You Free."
Sometimes one needs to quit living in denial just because it supports one's intent, especially when it's wrong.
2
To all commenters - whether pro Bernie or pro Clinton, or just anti either or both, please remember that Gail's column is a satirical one. We laugh when she punctures the egos of those politicians/bureaucrats with whom we disagree, or points out their hypocritical views, and we must be prepared for OUR heroes (yes - even OURS) to have some aspects that are open to satirical commentary. I see no reason for the Democrats to polarize themselves vis-a-vis our candidates when the GOP is doing such a good job of polarizing the country. Let's keep the Democrats' electoral process a good, issues-oriented one and, when one of our candidates wins in the summer, support THAT candidate. We ALL agree that the alternative - any GOP candidate - is far worse. Can we not agree on that instead of what appears to be happening: that some (or many) supporters of the losing candidate will take their marbles and go home?
185
Gail Collins continues to provoke thought by tickling my funny bone. No celebrity worship and no snark, Ms. Collins just writes wryly and wittily and I'm grateful.
7
Great column Gail.
I voted for Hillary in the Florida primary because she is the best qualified for the job. Bernie Sanders demonstrated in the Daily News interview that his plans are pipe dreams. He doesn't know how to pull them off. This is what Hillary Clinton has been saying all along. So up goes the smoke screen. "She's unqualified." In that one sentence he became the Wizard of Oz.
I voted for Hillary in the Florida primary because she is the best qualified for the job. Bernie Sanders demonstrated in the Daily News interview that his plans are pipe dreams. He doesn't know how to pull them off. This is what Hillary Clinton has been saying all along. So up goes the smoke screen. "She's unqualified." In that one sentence he became the Wizard of Oz.
22
To read or hear Mrs. Clinton as being "of New York" or "from New York" or that New York is "her home state" is outright laughable. The Times would serve its readership well by comparing how much time she has spent in her $3 million mansion on Embassy Row in Washington compared with her $2 million mansion in Chappaqua.
Since, at age 53, she all of a sudden became "a New Yorker" in 2000, this state continues to be what it has been for her all along: a steppingstone.
What a phony.
Since, at age 53, she all of a sudden became "a New Yorker" in 2000, this state continues to be what it has been for her all along: a steppingstone.
What a phony.
9
At least she has actually lived here for the last 16 years. What's truly phony is Bernie claiming to be a New Yorker when he hasn't lived here for 50 years—just growing up here doesn't cut it. The truth is he left at his first opportunity and never looked back—until the NY primary came along.
4
Gail - read the Interview ith The daily News. As the Huffington has reported: "Take the exchange getting the most attention: Sanders’ supposed inability to describe exactly how he would break up the biggest banks. Sanders said that if the Treasury Department deemed it necessary to do so, the bank would go about unwinding itself as it best saw fit to get to a size that the administration considered no longer a systemic risk to the economy. Sanders said this could be done with new legislation, or through administrative authority under Dodd-Frank.
This is true, as economist Dean Baker, Peter Eavis at The New York Times, and HuffPost’s Zach Carter in a Twitter rant have all pointed out. It’s also the position of Clinton herself. “We now have power under the Dodd-Frank legislation to break up banks. And I’ve said I will use that power if they pose a systemic risk,” Clinton said at a February debate. No media outcry followed her assertion, because it was true.
As the interview went on, though, it began to appear that the Daily News editors didn’t understand the difference between the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve. Follow in the transcript how Sanders kept referring to the authority of the administration and the Treasury Department through Dodd-Frank, known as Wall Street reform, while the Daily News editors shifted to the Fed."
Also, it`s ok for Clinton on Morning Joe to pretend like Bernie is not qualified and not running as a democrat? Go Bernie!
This is true, as economist Dean Baker, Peter Eavis at The New York Times, and HuffPost’s Zach Carter in a Twitter rant have all pointed out. It’s also the position of Clinton herself. “We now have power under the Dodd-Frank legislation to break up banks. And I’ve said I will use that power if they pose a systemic risk,” Clinton said at a February debate. No media outcry followed her assertion, because it was true.
As the interview went on, though, it began to appear that the Daily News editors didn’t understand the difference between the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve. Follow in the transcript how Sanders kept referring to the authority of the administration and the Treasury Department through Dodd-Frank, known as Wall Street reform, while the Daily News editors shifted to the Fed."
Also, it`s ok for Clinton on Morning Joe to pretend like Bernie is not qualified and not running as a democrat? Go Bernie!
15
As long as monetary policy creates interest rate risk, banks will be loan originators for the securitization mills of Wall Street and the federally chartered mortgage loan packagers.
3
Well, as someone who just joined the Democratic party last November, and only to take advantage of the party's campaign structure and financing opportunities, Bernie really isn't a Democrat.
3
Former mayor of Bulington? I lived in Vermont for many years. I seem to recall Bwernie being in the USA House and Seanare for more than 25 years.
This is one of those endless in-the-tank-for Clinton, NYT pieces of lies and omissions.
Gail's Second Paragraph lists ALL of Clinton' formers, but Bernie only gets to be known in her mind(?) as a Mere Mayor from a Vermont town.
Shame on you, Collins. Still more shame on you, NYT! Ugh!!
Ugh! Ugh! Ugh!
This is one of those endless in-the-tank-for Clinton, NYT pieces of lies and omissions.
Gail's Second Paragraph lists ALL of Clinton' formers, but Bernie only gets to be known in her mind(?) as a Mere Mayor from a Vermont town.
Shame on you, Collins. Still more shame on you, NYT! Ugh!!
Ugh! Ugh! Ugh!
19
New York is Hillary's home state? Guess that makes three and counting...
17
So what? I have lived in four different states and registered to vote as soon as I could in every one of them. I now live in a place where long timers try to make an issue of time of residence in elections and get laughed out of the room. Most states are better off with people coming in and trying to contribute.
2
You are dinging Clinton for living in 3 different states over a career?? Wow- welcome to the 21st Century! lol.
2
Hillary's campaign contacted CNN to argue thar Bernie was was unqualified. She did the same when she ran against President Obama. Why no mention of that? In her world, she is the only one qualified.
17
only, each member of the media has to absorb the news, then put their 2 cents out there in the media to get their piece said.....while we have moved beyond beyond yesterday's news. Gail is very disappointing because someone dare challenge her beloved candidate who is destined to re-enter the White House, this time as the Mistress (oops).
6
HRC's home state is Illinois. She was born in Chicago. She moved to NY because that was where she thought she could get elected to the senate.
15
Where you were raised—a decision in which you have no real choice—does not make it home: home is where you choose to be as an adult. Hillary chose NY; Bernie left New York nearly 50 years ago for the verdant fields of Vermont and never looked back.
2
Gail, I get it that keeping a Republican out of the White House is more necessary than ever now that wily state election poobahs have Gerrymandered a Republican House in a country in which more people voted Democratic than Republican in 2014.
One thing you can say for Republicans: They know how to do more with less.
Here we are with the possibility of a breathtaking debate on what it means to represent the Democratic Party, and you and your colleagues have gone all in to get Bernie out of the race as soon as possible.
You have done your part to stir up bad blood between Democrats. Many of us who support Bernie do so because he promises to get serious about real problems that are unlikely to be addressed by either HRC or whatever concern troll is nominated by the GOP.
As my friend Lance commented yesterday, you find yourself in the middle of the night on a boat drifting in the Pacific off the coast of South America. You can't see land, and row all night. When the sky begins to brighten, you realize that the light is coming across the stern--you're heading away from land! A debate breaks out between those who want to stay the course because something good might happen and those who want to row east. The "stay the course" crowd asks, "And where precisely on the continent will we land?" to which there is no sane reply. A vote is taken, and the boat continues west.
I will work in a Sanders administration for free to help break up the banks and overturn Citizens United.
One thing you can say for Republicans: They know how to do more with less.
Here we are with the possibility of a breathtaking debate on what it means to represent the Democratic Party, and you and your colleagues have gone all in to get Bernie out of the race as soon as possible.
You have done your part to stir up bad blood between Democrats. Many of us who support Bernie do so because he promises to get serious about real problems that are unlikely to be addressed by either HRC or whatever concern troll is nominated by the GOP.
As my friend Lance commented yesterday, you find yourself in the middle of the night on a boat drifting in the Pacific off the coast of South America. You can't see land, and row all night. When the sky begins to brighten, you realize that the light is coming across the stern--you're heading away from land! A debate breaks out between those who want to stay the course because something good might happen and those who want to row east. The "stay the course" crowd asks, "And where precisely on the continent will we land?" to which there is no sane reply. A vote is taken, and the boat continues west.
I will work in a Sanders administration for free to help break up the banks and overturn Citizens United.
18
Bernie is a sucker for people who will work for him for free.
4
Bernie hasn't gotten serious about real problems in nearly 30 years in Congress; what makes you think he will suddenly do so now?
4
I guess New York will show (as then Senator Obama stated) if Hillary is "likable enough" and if further policy scrutiny has finally weakened at Bernie's expense.
3
I’m goin’ back to school!
It’ll cost 200 grand,
But Bernie says he’ll pay for this
‘Cause he’s got an awesome plan.
I’m goin’ back to school!
Bernie claims it will be FREE,
But how he’s gonna pay for this
Is quite a mystery.
I’m goin’ back to school!
It’s what everyone should do.
But how Bernie’s gonna fund it,
I haven’t got a clue.
I’m goin’ back to school!
And what will I learn there?
A bag of empty promises
Hasn’t got a prayer.
It’ll cost 200 grand,
But Bernie says he’ll pay for this
‘Cause he’s got an awesome plan.
I’m goin’ back to school!
Bernie claims it will be FREE,
But how he’s gonna pay for this
Is quite a mystery.
I’m goin’ back to school!
It’s what everyone should do.
But how Bernie’s gonna fund it,
I haven’t got a clue.
I’m goin’ back to school!
And what will I learn there?
A bag of empty promises
Hasn’t got a prayer.
8
While you're there, Richard, take a poetry course. Seriously, for what one of the military's boondoggles such as the plethora of Abrams tanks or just the F-35, the cost of which is about $100 million per plane (that's tuition for 500 students at the most expensive colleges or around 10,000 students paying in-state tuition at one of the SUNY schools).
Remember that we always have a few extra billion to disburse on military adventures, but are skinflints when it comes to spending that same money to improve Americans' lives. Same money. It's your choice. Hillary is more likely to spend it on more war. Bernie is more likely to spend it on quality of life.
Remember that we always have a few extra billion to disburse on military adventures, but are skinflints when it comes to spending that same money to improve Americans' lives. Same money. It's your choice. Hillary is more likely to spend it on more war. Bernie is more likely to spend it on quality of life.
3
Richard,
I've been thoroughly schooled in recognizing, after 66 years of watching our corporate owned government, that there comes a time in every nation when the people had better get off the pot, if they want representation in government.
Contrary to your cute poem, Bernie has a comprehensive, doable, and easily paid for plan that will make Public College Tuition free for any and all Americans who wish to take advantage of it, as it used to be here in America decades ago.
As we so often postulate, education is the first and foremost mandatory foundation for enduring liberty, and economic freedom
Hillarys agenda is to first and foremost continue the enrichment of herself, and her family, and then add to the obscene wealth of the corporation that own her, our Congress, and the rest of our government.
See excerpt and links, which clearly describe Bernies agenda, and how it will be paid for; see section delineating how free tuition works.
"In fact, it’s what many of our colleges and universities used to do. The University of California system offered free tuition at its schools until the 1980s. In 1965, average tuition at a four-year public university was just $243 and many of the best colleges – including the City University of New York – did not charge any tuition at all. The Sanders plan would make tuition free at public colleges and universities throughout the country."
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
I've been thoroughly schooled in recognizing, after 66 years of watching our corporate owned government, that there comes a time in every nation when the people had better get off the pot, if they want representation in government.
Contrary to your cute poem, Bernie has a comprehensive, doable, and easily paid for plan that will make Public College Tuition free for any and all Americans who wish to take advantage of it, as it used to be here in America decades ago.
As we so often postulate, education is the first and foremost mandatory foundation for enduring liberty, and economic freedom
Hillarys agenda is to first and foremost continue the enrichment of herself, and her family, and then add to the obscene wealth of the corporation that own her, our Congress, and the rest of our government.
See excerpt and links, which clearly describe Bernies agenda, and how it will be paid for; see section delineating how free tuition works.
"In fact, it’s what many of our colleges and universities used to do. The University of California system offered free tuition at its schools until the 1980s. In 1965, average tuition at a four-year public university was just $243 and many of the best colleges – including the City University of New York – did not charge any tuition at all. The Sanders plan would make tuition free at public colleges and universities throughout the country."
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
4
When I went to school in the early 90s, tuition at U. California for state residents was less than $2000/year. Go back another decade, and most state colleges were cheaper than that. So why is this now a pipe dream? Because it is more important to spend trillions on failed war in the middle east? Or because it is more important to allow our billionaire class to avoid paying trillions in taxes by stashing it in Panama?
4
re: "... a first lady who was a central figure in the most famous sex scandal in American history, running for the Senate in a place where she had never lived? Wow:"
Says it all. Clintonism is all about opportunism, coattailing (with 19.9 years of "experience" as a first lady), carpetbagging, self-enrichment, political cynicism, and a sense of entitlement.
We can do better.
Says it all. Clintonism is all about opportunism, coattailing (with 19.9 years of "experience" as a first lady), carpetbagging, self-enrichment, political cynicism, and a sense of entitlement.
We can do better.
15
People who will endure the process of running for US president are quite rare, and most of them are nuttier than fruitcake.
5
Another opinion column from a Hillary supporter in a newspaper that has ceased all pretense of objectivity, shilling openly for Clinton even in its "news" stories and representing, as ever, the elite Democratic party Establishment. Yawn.
13
You realize this is an opinion piece, right?
1
Yes Gail, Hillary was a bit of a carpetbagger in her senate run in '99, but then, wasn't RFK as well back in the day? Face it, New York is better off for using imported talent.
137
Actually Joe Kennedy Sr. moved the clan from MA down to Riverdale in the Bronx at one point so RFK was not really a carpetbagger when he ran.
2
After seeing his brother murdered and the disgusting cover-upwhich followed Senator Robert Kennedy made the ultimate sacrifice as well... Hillary is no RFK and if she makes it to the White House she will be not be remotely close to becoming a president that brings equal representation, jobs, better health care for all, especially veterans, higher taxes on the 1%, no more corporate welfare, bank regulation and the permanent abolishment of Citizens United...
1
..and please don't forget that Bernie left NYC and made it in Vermont (a lovely state). Two carpetbaggers! Only Trump remains - let's not dwell, therefore, on where people were born and/or grew up. Remember the 'birthers'
Michael S. Cullen, Berlin, Germany.
Michael S. Cullen, Berlin, Germany.
1
"Clinton will come out of this year’s campaign better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans than she was when she went in. "
In other words, she doesn't already know. So why exactly is she running?
In other words, she doesn't already know. So why exactly is she running?
4
What's that saying? Women work twice as hard for half the credit? I like the "luckily, this is not difficult" part. I'll take Hillary's wonkish "get things done" style over Bernie's one-note bluster any day. Hillary's the smartest person in any room. Bernie's applying for the wrong job.
323
"While we like to pretend New York politics is exciting, it’s mainly just one indictment after another." Perfect Gail. Provincial, criminal and exciting at the same time.
2
"Perhaps there’s something about Clinton that makes her opponents go crazy." Hmmm. I'll take a shot. First ever woman with strong probability of becoming leader of the free world?
10
This is great stuff Gail. Thanks.
Reminds me a clip on PBS years ago were some talking head asked the late Senator Robert Byrd of W. Virginia about how was Hillary doing in her first term. The Senator related a story about how the U. S. Senate has two kinds of people. Show Horses & Work Horses and he thought that Hillary was turning out to be one of the latter. Kool!
Reminds me a clip on PBS years ago were some talking head asked the late Senator Robert Byrd of W. Virginia about how was Hillary doing in her first term. The Senator related a story about how the U. S. Senate has two kinds of people. Show Horses & Work Horses and he thought that Hillary was turning out to be one of the latter. Kool!
4
"Lately, Bernie Sanders seems to have been acting a little … off." He gets that way when someone asks him a "How" question.
6
Hillary has shown that her judgment has been wrong all the time. Additionally, what she offers so far is to lower people's expectation and hide herself in the shadow of OB. Do we need someone with bad judgment? Do we need another four years of OB? NO, period.
5
Bernie isn't off; he's absolutely right about Hillary's vote for the Iraq war, the trade agreements, etc. Somewhere along the line with Hillary, "pragmatic" became "expedient," and "listening" became "pretending to listen." I'll vote for her if she wins the nomination, but her ambition and hard work are no substitute for the kind of integrity I see in Obama and Sanders.
10
What, Bernie's not ambitious in running for president? Is it because Hillary's a woman that her same ambition is seen negatively? Could that be any more sexist?
8
And you do realize that the presidency requires hard work, right? It's more than speeches and rallies at the White House.
5
Both Hillary and Bernie are clearly very hard-working political leaders. The voters seem to believe that Hillary is a "politician" and Bernie is a politician. The subtleties of a quote are key here - as they were with Bernie's use of "unqualified", or was it 'unqualified'? Since Hillary said everything just short of saying that Bernie is unqualified (as a "politician" knows how to do), Bernie's characterization of this is completely fair if his quote gesture was more one-fingered than two-fingered. (I'm surprised the comedians haven't even picked up on this.)
3
Break up the banks! How, exactly? Um, I don't know.
That's the essence of the Sanders campaign: a few slogans, endlessly repeated. Take a deeper dive and you hit your head; you're diving into the kiddie pool.
That's the essence of the Sanders campaign: a few slogans, endlessly repeated. Take a deeper dive and you hit your head; you're diving into the kiddie pool.
8
New Yorkers love people who know how to get things done
and know things. Mr. Sanders has run a campaign that
has been dismissive of black people in general and black women
in particular.
Kindly note that Waterloo is lovely village in upstate. After
the primary, Mr. Sanders can set up shop there.
and know things. Mr. Sanders has run a campaign that
has been dismissive of black people in general and black women
in particular.
Kindly note that Waterloo is lovely village in upstate. After
the primary, Mr. Sanders can set up shop there.
3
Black people are not better off because of Bill Clinton but don't ask him why, he will lie with his finger.
3
Of course I'll vote for the Democratic candidate! But could someone explain to me what Clinton got done exactly, her claim to superiority? Healthcare, Irak, Libya? I am discouraged by her proposal of $12.00 for the minimum wage, when already New York and California have voted for $15.00.
13
In Hillary's world a candidate can take tens of millions from special interests and be completely unaffected by those donations. Those stupid donors are giving her millions for nothing. Everyone paying attention the last 3 decades know politicians are bought and paid for by special interests.
If they weren't--why do the Dems supposedly want to get rid of Citizen's United. If money does not affect political decisions as Hillary supporters believe, candidates should be able to take all of the special interest money their heart desires.
That is exactly what the Clintons have done since leaving the W.H. They are truly special in not only lining Hillary's campaign with special interest money, but by personally taking in hundreds of millions from those same special interests.
If she really wants my vote, please let me in on that sage advice you gave those special interests during your short speeches. I am all ears and ready for the enlightenment.
If they weren't--why do the Dems supposedly want to get rid of Citizen's United. If money does not affect political decisions as Hillary supporters believe, candidates should be able to take all of the special interest money their heart desires.
That is exactly what the Clintons have done since leaving the W.H. They are truly special in not only lining Hillary's campaign with special interest money, but by personally taking in hundreds of millions from those same special interests.
If she really wants my vote, please let me in on that sage advice you gave those special interests during your short speeches. I am all ears and ready for the enlightenment.
12
Ms. Collins..
Please do your research.
Hillary first asserted that Bernie was qualified.
That provoked Bernie to question whether she was qualified.
This is the opposite of what you have written.
And regarding the Daily News interview.. did you read it or did you just read the Daily New's and other press coverage of it?
As has been explained by The New York Times (your paper) as well as the Washington Post and a number of other publications.. the editors were the ones confused. They confused the Fed with the PResident's office. Bernie was accurate in what he said given their confusing question. The legal issue which he was unsure of .. had been sealed.
Perhaps another politician would have been more slippery.. and less honest and simple with their answer, and what exactly he didn't know.
Please do your research.
Hillary first asserted that Bernie was qualified.
That provoked Bernie to question whether she was qualified.
This is the opposite of what you have written.
And regarding the Daily News interview.. did you read it or did you just read the Daily New's and other press coverage of it?
As has been explained by The New York Times (your paper) as well as the Washington Post and a number of other publications.. the editors were the ones confused. They confused the Fed with the PResident's office. Bernie was accurate in what he said given their confusing question. The legal issue which he was unsure of .. had been sealed.
Perhaps another politician would have been more slippery.. and less honest and simple with their answer, and what exactly he didn't know.
7
I'm so glad we have the opportunity to vote for Hillary!!
8
“I don’t know … It’s something I have not studied … I haven’t thought about it a whole lot.” is not "off", it is down to earth, honest and free from ugly sophistry which all the press is extremely fond of and very much used to. The man knows what he does not know, now that is a rare quality. Ask Socrates.
11
No, Lee, at this point in the campaign—which is going on at least eight months now—if a presidential candidate can't answer basic, logical questions on how he would accomplish his major platforms once in office, he can rightfully be considered at the least woefully unprepared, and at the worst, incompetent.
2
If anything, Hillary Clinton is over-qualified for the job.
9
I've been turned down more than once for being "over-qualified" for jobs that I applied for. Are you saying I should run for President? Because I'm sure as hell not qualified for that line of work.
Will upstate New Yorkers, who voted for her because she felt their pain and promised to deliver 200,000 new jobs to their depressed economy, vote for her again?
Answer: Upstate New York actually LOST 35,000 jobs
So, fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice ... or not?
Answer: Upstate New York actually LOST 35,000 jobs
So, fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice ... or not?
10
If you're happy with the current state of politics in the U.S. then Clinton is certainly your best candidate. Not bothered by corporate influence at every level of local and national politics, including the writing of legislation - she's the one for you! Comfortable with interventionist and hawkish foreign policy, don't have a problem with raising foundation funding from foreign governments in exchange for huge arms deals - then she's the one for you! Like your change painfully incremental so your 401K continues to return a steady 2% return while social services, health systems and Social Security grow more endangered, you know who to vote for. Seriously, as Senator, Clinton passed three bills, one renamed a highway the other a post office and the last established a historic site in Troy, but then she was only in office eight years. Her record as SOS is full of unforgivable misdeeds, unless you think arms deals, bad trade deals and promoting fracking worldwide are great things for the U.S.. I can understand the Times support for the HRC brand from a business perspective - but you Gail? Really?
173
What a nutty opening sentence. Clinton doesn't want another do nothing Congress.
2
I guess you haven't been following the news, Gail. I'll fill you in. Hillary Clinton's campaign told CNN on Tuesday night that they were beginning to implement a new negative strategy against Bernie Sanders in which they would "disqualify him, defeat him and unite the party later." On Wednesday morning on Morning Joe, Hillary was asked if Bernie Sanders was not qualified to be president. She refused to say that he was qualified and instead made demeaning remarks about his skills and knowledge. On that same day the Washington Post, which endorsed Clinton, ran an article titled "Clinton questions whether Sanders is qualified to be president." Those were the first shots of the war, started by Clinton.
Sanders responded to this on Wednesday night by saying, "I don't believe that she is qualified if she is, through her super PAC, taking tens of millions of dollars in special interest funds. I don't think that you are qualified if you get 15 million dollars from Wall Street through your super PAC." He noted that she had also promoted the Iraq War and damaging trade deals. He was not questioning whether being FLOTUS, US Senator and SoS were insufficient qualifications, but that didn't stop Charlie Rose from CBS or Gail Collins of NY Times from making believe that something entirely different had happened.
Predictably, the Clinton campaign accused Sanders of sexism and Bernie was the bad guy, childish or "off his game." It's the Clinton "reality distortion field," again.
Sanders responded to this on Wednesday night by saying, "I don't believe that she is qualified if she is, through her super PAC, taking tens of millions of dollars in special interest funds. I don't think that you are qualified if you get 15 million dollars from Wall Street through your super PAC." He noted that she had also promoted the Iraq War and damaging trade deals. He was not questioning whether being FLOTUS, US Senator and SoS were insufficient qualifications, but that didn't stop Charlie Rose from CBS or Gail Collins of NY Times from making believe that something entirely different had happened.
Predictably, the Clinton campaign accused Sanders of sexism and Bernie was the bad guy, childish or "off his game." It's the Clinton "reality distortion field," again.
14
Bernie is fatally flawed by susceptibility to flattery.
2
What a predictable hack job.
9
A trip down memory lane...oh my...
I remember that last primary too where she was after the white male vote so she was pro-gun and wearing six shooter on her pantsuit.
Now she is after, pure pol that she, is the black female vote so she is anti-gun.
Yes some of remember for longer than a year or two...
I remember that last primary too where she was after the white male vote so she was pro-gun and wearing six shooter on her pantsuit.
Now she is after, pure pol that she, is the black female vote so she is anti-gun.
Yes some of remember for longer than a year or two...
16
I remember evolution. Apparently many Americans don't even know what that is.
3
As the Great Communicator said, there we go again. Gail has come out swinging for Hillary but in a jokey, nice way. She has joined in with the rest of the Establishment columnists at NYT. Pfft... Hillary's listening tours, seriously! Its just made for TV. But it shows people can vote against their interests and if Democratic voters want to vote for a multimillionaire DINO, go for it.
Just don't complain when Champagne corks are popped after the election at the the Upper East side (or West Side? I don't know, I am from the other coast) multi-millionaire Hillary backer homes, and the Russian caviar and lobster are served. Gail, the Krugster and other Hillary apologists from NYT will be at those parties. We'll be out watching from the sidewalk, still Feeling The Bern.
Just don't complain when Champagne corks are popped after the election at the the Upper East side (or West Side? I don't know, I am from the other coast) multi-millionaire Hillary backer homes, and the Russian caviar and lobster are served. Gail, the Krugster and other Hillary apologists from NYT will be at those parties. We'll be out watching from the sidewalk, still Feeling The Bern.
132
Somebody has to fill the void of Bernie's humor bernout zone.
3
Im fascinated by this term; "Feel the Bern." Its cute to be sure, very Madison Ave in its play on the exercise term - which clearly Sanders have never done - exercise - but when I hear it, all I hear is BURN. Which is exactly what he's doing - burning the Democratic party.
He doesnt support the democratic party, which is what he needs to do if he wants to do even 1/1000th of what he poetical campaigns on doing. Feel the burn alright...feel the burning heat if he should get the nomination and the GOP attack ads simply repeat over and over and over that he's a socialist, communist, etc...which is all most down-home, christian American voters need to hear to send them running to their root cellars - after they vote for the GOP candidate.
Hillary might not be all that attractive as THE candidate, but she's the only one who can the job of not only the president, but that of the so-called two top democratic leaders (Pelozi and Reid) in the Congress who have all but abdicated their leadership roles at this point. Two do-nothings, who Obama has failed to rally and make his biatches! Hillary can do all three jobs, while Sanders would struggle to get even 1/10th of the Party to rally to his side, because he's ignored them.
He doesnt support the democratic party, which is what he needs to do if he wants to do even 1/1000th of what he poetical campaigns on doing. Feel the burn alright...feel the burning heat if he should get the nomination and the GOP attack ads simply repeat over and over and over that he's a socialist, communist, etc...which is all most down-home, christian American voters need to hear to send them running to their root cellars - after they vote for the GOP candidate.
Hillary might not be all that attractive as THE candidate, but she's the only one who can the job of not only the president, but that of the so-called two top democratic leaders (Pelozi and Reid) in the Congress who have all but abdicated their leadership roles at this point. Two do-nothings, who Obama has failed to rally and make his biatches! Hillary can do all three jobs, while Sanders would struggle to get even 1/10th of the Party to rally to his side, because he's ignored them.
3
Yeah, right, "Bern down the manor house!"
I think Bernie must be preaching about Chairman Mao. It doesn't reach me, anyhow.
I think Bernie must be preaching about Chairman Mao. It doesn't reach me, anyhow.
3
Ms Collins is a gift to NYT readers. I'd like to point out a small grammatical point -- it isn't "who" her constituents prefer, it should be "whom".
1
Most journalists seem to use "who" for both subject and object forms because they simply cannot remember that "who" is analogous to "he" and "whom" to "him." The really egregious error is misusing "whom" or "whomever."
As in, "The American people will give their votes to whomever promises them everything."
Yikes! A little grammar is dangerous: People think that the preposition "to" requires the object form but don't realize that the entire clause is the object, and the verb "promises" requires a subject. The sentence should be "The American people will give their vote to whoever promises them everything."
Really not hard to remember.
As in, "The American people will give their votes to whomever promises them everything."
Yikes! A little grammar is dangerous: People think that the preposition "to" requires the object form but don't realize that the entire clause is the object, and the verb "promises" requires a subject. The sentence should be "The American people will give their vote to whoever promises them everything."
Really not hard to remember.
Thanks very much, Gail Collins, for the remedial history lesson regarding Senator/Madame Secretary Hillary Clinton's sojourn in New York. Lest we forget.
4
Gail: Everyone I knew when Hillary ran for NY State senate thought of her as a carpet bagger, who was being foisted on us her by her hubby's party. But I suppose she was entitled to some compensation for the humiliation she'd had to endure as first lady. So why not hand her New York?
5
I will be perfectly frank. Democrats and Progressives need "hearts to flutter" in 2016 because whether their candidate is Trump or Cruz the GOP is going to come out with a scorched-earth, suicide-bomber approach to the election. They will do and say anything to be able to name the next Supreme Court Justices.
Hillary is the much, much weaker candidate in this environment because her negatives are already so high. Get it though your elitist, New York to Washington heads...people don't like her and people don't like Bill nearly as much as they once did...too many trips to the well to be credible!
Defeating a GOP candidate in November turns on bringing out young voters and Independents. They will not turn out for HRC. This is not about popular black votes in the South...it's about electoral college votes in states that could go Blue. Lose yourrr Clinton pom-poms and get real!
Hillary is the much, much weaker candidate in this environment because her negatives are already so high. Get it though your elitist, New York to Washington heads...people don't like her and people don't like Bill nearly as much as they once did...too many trips to the well to be credible!
Defeating a GOP candidate in November turns on bringing out young voters and Independents. They will not turn out for HRC. This is not about popular black votes in the South...it's about electoral college votes in states that could go Blue. Lose yourrr Clinton pom-poms and get real!
148
And you think that Bernie is just going to coast through a general election without seeing his approval numbers change? Right now, he is largely unknown to the general electorate. And he has not had Republicans after him. All that is going to change, of course.
First of all, do you really think that the Republicans aren't going to put hammer and sickles on every attack ad against Bernie? Bernie is going to be called a socialist, a communist, and whether or not it is fair, most people are terrified of those words.
And you think that Republicans *aren't* going to run that bird-landing-on-the-podium clip (with Bernie then mumbling something about a "dove of peace") right next to a clip of an ISIS fighter about to decapitate an American journalist?
Second, if he wants a chance at winning a general election, he's going to have to change his position on accepting Super PAC money. No way to win in the general without the sort of cash that the Republicans will be bringing to the table.
First of all, do you really think that the Republicans aren't going to put hammer and sickles on every attack ad against Bernie? Bernie is going to be called a socialist, a communist, and whether or not it is fair, most people are terrified of those words.
And you think that Republicans *aren't* going to run that bird-landing-on-the-podium clip (with Bernie then mumbling something about a "dove of peace") right next to a clip of an ISIS fighter about to decapitate an American journalist?
Second, if he wants a chance at winning a general election, he's going to have to change his position on accepting Super PAC money. No way to win in the general without the sort of cash that the Republicans will be bringing to the table.
2
I will be perfectly frank. Hillary has survived the GOP scorched-earth tactics and is still standing. We know everything about her already. Bernie has not even been mentioned by the GOP yet. Wonder why? Because they aren't going to show their hand until he is the nominee and then look out. He won't know what hit him and by the time he is swift boated, we'll be wishing Hillary had won. It's not too late. Get real.
4
If what you are saying is that the election will be about whom one dislikes the least, then I agree.
1
It is interesting that Hillary could, as Gail Collins notes, "parachute in" to New York "to claim [in the 2000 US Senate election] the best political job in the state." Prior to 1999, Hillary was never a New York resident. How did that happen? The answer. I assume, is that the New York Democratic Party cleared the way for her Senate run.
Also interesting is that Hillary, after leaving the White House, chose not to live and run for office in Arkansas where, prior to the White House, she had spent about 17 years, including years as the First Lady of Arkansas.
Whenever I hear how Hillary is a fighter who makes the hard choices, I think about how much more beneficial she could have been to the Democratic Party and liberalism in the South had she run for the US Senate in Arkansas instead of New York. But winning as a Democrat in Arkansas would have been harder than winning as a Democrat in New York.
So much for Hillary making hard choices and fighting for them.
Also interesting is that Hillary, after leaving the White House, chose not to live and run for office in Arkansas where, prior to the White House, she had spent about 17 years, including years as the First Lady of Arkansas.
Whenever I hear how Hillary is a fighter who makes the hard choices, I think about how much more beneficial she could have been to the Democratic Party and liberalism in the South had she run for the US Senate in Arkansas instead of New York. But winning as a Democrat in Arkansas would have been harder than winning as a Democrat in New York.
So much for Hillary making hard choices and fighting for them.
17
How is Bernie going to do his revolution without helping Democrats get elected to Congress, as Hillary is doing? Thank you Gail for this column. I am so afraid that this will be another Ralph Nader situation- something there is about older white men and what happens when they get a taste of power or fame.
340
Just because Sen. Sanders is even older than Sec. Clinton and happens to be "white," does that disqualify him from the presidency? Or, perhaps in the big sky country of Montana, where people are close to "god," the thought of a Jewish president creates the urge to lock and load.
It does seem that the values of fairness in income distribution, the plight of people working at minimum wages, and the unbridled power of foot-loose international capital and multinational corporations pale in insignificance to the need for gender identification. Does the country need an OLDER WHITE woman who has tasted power and fame for 25 years? What would you say if Bernie were "BLACK?"
It does seem that the values of fairness in income distribution, the plight of people working at minimum wages, and the unbridled power of foot-loose international capital and multinational corporations pale in insignificance to the need for gender identification. Does the country need an OLDER WHITE woman who has tasted power and fame for 25 years? What would you say if Bernie were "BLACK?"
2
Does the NY Times now force feed it's columnists the line that NY is Hillary's home state? Show me a real NYer who believes that. We all know where Bernie hails from - you know, the guy with the NYC accent.
Did you ever meet a NYer who sounds like Hillary?
Cut it out already. We just aren't that stupid.
You can take the guy out of Brooklyn, but you can't take Brooklyn out of the guy.
As in my case, you can take the girl out of the Bronx, but you can't take the Bronx out of the girl.
Did you ever meet a NYer who sounds like Hillary?
Cut it out already. We just aren't that stupid.
You can take the guy out of Brooklyn, but you can't take Brooklyn out of the guy.
As in my case, you can take the girl out of the Bronx, but you can't take the Bronx out of the girl.
12
Bernie left Brooklyn. He's hardly been back. Perhaps he can't bear to see what happened to his neighborhood beginning in the 1960s.
1
Hillary listens to Henry Kissinger. If she gets to be president we'll be listening to all her reasons for changing this regime or that regime. No thanks.
18
Oriana Fallaci drew out what a narcissist Kissinger really is decades ago. Hopefully Hillary sees the man for what he is too.
The most important issue of our time is getting money out of politics. It is a cancer. It is corrupting everything, rotting us from the inside, and we are so gutted that if we go this way much longer we will collapse. It's not hyperbole, we are at levels of disparity that are unsustainable, and getting worse. Sanders is on it like a dog with a bone and thank god for that!
Why didn't Clinton talk about this until Bernie ascended? Why didn't Clinton talk about reining in Wall Street? Ever? She was bragging about being a moderate a few months ago and now she to the left of Trotsky?
Clinton is "experienced" all right, but you know who is even more experienced? George W Bush. Hillary's experience shows us that she is prone to spectacular foreign policy blunders, from pushing to invade Syria and regime change there, to voting for the Iraq horror, to orchestrating regime change and subsequent destabilization of Libya. There is more, like planting the seeds of regime change in Ukraine, and all of it is Kissingery neocon wrongheadedness.
Further, had Clinton remained SOS we probably wouldn't have the Iran deal, she is too beholden to AIPAC. Kerry pushed it, and it is a fantastic achievement.
Sanders is everything she is not. He has excellent judgment and his moral compass is fixed and straight. Sanders deserves all the support he is getting and he will win NY. Watch...,
Why didn't Clinton talk about this until Bernie ascended? Why didn't Clinton talk about reining in Wall Street? Ever? She was bragging about being a moderate a few months ago and now she to the left of Trotsky?
Clinton is "experienced" all right, but you know who is even more experienced? George W Bush. Hillary's experience shows us that she is prone to spectacular foreign policy blunders, from pushing to invade Syria and regime change there, to voting for the Iraq horror, to orchestrating regime change and subsequent destabilization of Libya. There is more, like planting the seeds of regime change in Ukraine, and all of it is Kissingery neocon wrongheadedness.
Further, had Clinton remained SOS we probably wouldn't have the Iran deal, she is too beholden to AIPAC. Kerry pushed it, and it is a fantastic achievement.
Sanders is everything she is not. He has excellent judgment and his moral compass is fixed and straight. Sanders deserves all the support he is getting and he will win NY. Watch...,
18
O K Take me through this. How is the first woman President not revolutionary and not a change? We're all using the same dictionary, right?
344
Its because the dictionary we are using is gender, race, and otherwise neutral. So she's being judged by an objective dictionary, one that considers what she's done, doing, and says she'll do (when we're allowed to hear it). And in those terms, she's just like most all of the old white men who came before her. And we're judging Bernie on his lifetime record, and therefore believe what he says he is today, in spite of the fact that he's an "old white male". That's equality. And that's revolutionary.
6
She was already First Lady.
2
Perhaps you would advocated ror Eva Braun too. After all she was a female. Her election woulf have been revolutionary and provided change too.
2
I love you Gail, but what's up with those ellipses? It's not ... Gail. It's . . . Gail.
Seriously.
Seriously.
Gail, thank you for a reasonable column.
You appear to be a Clinton supporter, and that's OK!
Especially since you back up your argument with reasons and not just by slagging off that man, Mr. Sanders.
But it would be nice if here was one writer on the editorial page who was not a Clinton supporter. Just one?
Sanders has won, after all, something like 45 percent of the delegates so far and yet everyone supporting Democrats on this page seems to support Clinton- sometimes with a burning rage that beggars belief.
The Times gets slammed often for being out of touch. Here it certainly seems justified.
What kind of selection process for columnists results in such a lockstep view of the Democratic primary process? It's a strange thing. There are an awful lot of very smart, politically engaged people who support Sanders, but not on this page.
And going beyond the election, what other issues are being treated by this page as having only one side because of this shared worldview?
Interesting.
You appear to be a Clinton supporter, and that's OK!
Especially since you back up your argument with reasons and not just by slagging off that man, Mr. Sanders.
But it would be nice if here was one writer on the editorial page who was not a Clinton supporter. Just one?
Sanders has won, after all, something like 45 percent of the delegates so far and yet everyone supporting Democrats on this page seems to support Clinton- sometimes with a burning rage that beggars belief.
The Times gets slammed often for being out of touch. Here it certainly seems justified.
What kind of selection process for columnists results in such a lockstep view of the Democratic primary process? It's a strange thing. There are an awful lot of very smart, politically engaged people who support Sanders, but not on this page.
And going beyond the election, what other issues are being treated by this page as having only one side because of this shared worldview?
Interesting.
7
Experienced people do tend to see Bernie as an upstart.
2
It's a program we now know as "Perception as Management", which used to be known as propaganda, being used like never before, as the establishment realizes Bernie represents a clear and present danger to it, to it's maintenance of the status quo, which Bernie has clearly shown can be undone.
Economic slavery for the people may end, anathema to everything the establishment believes in.
The Rendon Group, at rendon.com is the most widely used multinational perception management company employed by the American government, and others, so effectively during the First Gulf War, it maintained the support of tens of millions of American, as we poured a trillion dollars into regime change, change that has destroyed several Middle Eastern nations economically, killing and maiming million of men, women and children, in unyielding support of the Military Industrial Alliance, all to add to the already obscene wealth of our warmongering elites, Hillary being one, common knowledge as she voted in favor of that disastrous war.
In the beginning they ignored him,, as Gandhi so eloquently put it -
'First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they attack you. Then you win.' - Mohandas Gandhi
Economic slavery for the people may end, anathema to everything the establishment believes in.
The Rendon Group, at rendon.com is the most widely used multinational perception management company employed by the American government, and others, so effectively during the First Gulf War, it maintained the support of tens of millions of American, as we poured a trillion dollars into regime change, change that has destroyed several Middle Eastern nations economically, killing and maiming million of men, women and children, in unyielding support of the Military Industrial Alliance, all to add to the already obscene wealth of our warmongering elites, Hillary being one, common knowledge as she voted in favor of that disastrous war.
In the beginning they ignored him,, as Gandhi so eloquently put it -
'First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they attack you. Then you win.' - Mohandas Gandhi
2
C'mon Gail, you missed the good Noo Yawk political story of the day: Ted Cruz making challah in the Bronx. I hear he is booked in Brooklyn to make matzoh next week. Apparently Cruz got the idea from his own personal Haggadah, which has pharaoh making matzohs for the Jews before they leave Egypt and then lamenting his decision not to build a wall to keep the cheap labor in.
7
Excellent!
If not for Sanders, Clinton's whole campaign would be listening tours where she never had to reveal her positions on anything. And if anybody is looking for ignorance about any issues, remember early on the campaign (it seems like years but was only a few months ago) when she said that she had no idea that drug abuse and addiction was a major problem in this country.
And as to Sanders not discussing many issues, I have yet to hear Clinton or anybody else give any realistic answers as to what to do about ISIS, international terrorism, or how to resolve the Israeli-Palestenian disputes. The things Sanders talks about are doing are within the realm of possibility (Yes, I know Paul Krugman and some of his fellow liberal economists tell us we can't afford guaranteed healthcare yet not one has said why every other industrialized country can and we can't.)
And perhaps Clinton should go on an apology tour: apology for her Iraq war vote, apology for the crime bill her husband pushed through, apology for supporting NAFTA and the Pacific trade deal (which she was for before she was against it).
And as to Sanders not discussing many issues, I have yet to hear Clinton or anybody else give any realistic answers as to what to do about ISIS, international terrorism, or how to resolve the Israeli-Palestenian disputes. The things Sanders talks about are doing are within the realm of possibility (Yes, I know Paul Krugman and some of his fellow liberal economists tell us we can't afford guaranteed healthcare yet not one has said why every other industrialized country can and we can't.)
And perhaps Clinton should go on an apology tour: apology for her Iraq war vote, apology for the crime bill her husband pushed through, apology for supporting NAFTA and the Pacific trade deal (which she was for before she was against it).
166
Almost every country with national healthcare uses some form of national VAT to help pay for it. If Mr. Sanders proposed a VAT of say 5-10% on most sales and labour nationally, watch his support plummet. It's fine to have pie in the sky until you actually have to pay for it.
4
I guess Bernie hands out his Kool-Aid by the gallon. You've swallowed the Clinton is evil story the GOP has been telling for years. There is that story, and then there is the truth. Vote for Bernie by all means, but demonizing Clinton just shows Hate Radio how well they've done their job.
3
You mean, the crime bill her husband pushed through and which BERNIE VOTED FOR?
3
Oh Gail, how I used to love to read your column. Bernie has policies and positions and speeches on every subject one can imagine. He cares about income inequality, climate change, racism, educational opportunity, and giving millions more people access to the American Dream. He wants to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure, to stay out of Middle East wars, and to stop negotiating trade deals that throw thousands of Americans out of work. The ONLY way any of his great ideas can be realized is by getting money out of politics. The Clintons have utterly transformed the Democratic party. They have made us believe that crony capitalism is "pragmatic," "moderate," "reality." It is time to take back the party of FDR. It is time to reclaim the American dream. You can make fun of Bernie for being invited to the Vatican, or you can thrill to the new reality. Pope Francis, like Bernie, sees that we must combat the idolatry of money. We must cherish what actually matters -- our children, our planet, our future -- not more and more profits. Shame on you, Gail. I know you know better than this. Your readers expect so much more from you.
231
Oh Gail, Don't worry. Lots of us still love reading your column and we agree with your analysis.
3
Isn't Bernie's campaign funded by money, and a lot of it? I guess that's OK, though, since he's so pure and all....
3
FDR had lots of critics on the left, perhaps you would have been one of them had you been alive then.
I believe the phrase "crony capitalism" was invented on the right as another way to argue against any government involvement in the economy.
And what's your opinion of our current president? I say he's the best one during my lifetime which goes back to ole Harry. Clinton wants to build on what Obama has accomplished and Sanders wants to pull it all down & start over. To me that sounds like a recipe for disaster: 4 years of complete inefectuality followed by a huge Republican win. Oh and if the Republicans hold the Senate they'll refuse to accept any of Sanders' picks for the Supreme Court (since he's a radical socialist) and wait for Justice Ginsburg to leave the bench thus creating a 4 to 3 conservative majority.
I believe the phrase "crony capitalism" was invented on the right as another way to argue against any government involvement in the economy.
And what's your opinion of our current president? I say he's the best one during my lifetime which goes back to ole Harry. Clinton wants to build on what Obama has accomplished and Sanders wants to pull it all down & start over. To me that sounds like a recipe for disaster: 4 years of complete inefectuality followed by a huge Republican win. Oh and if the Republicans hold the Senate they'll refuse to accept any of Sanders' picks for the Supreme Court (since he's a radical socialist) and wait for Justice Ginsburg to leave the bench thus creating a 4 to 3 conservative majority.
2
One thing I do know Gail. I feel like I am being grinded down. Every article, ANY article written about this race results in a flurry of BS supporters flapping their hands and screaming HILLARY BIAS< HILLARY BIAS. I think the NYT is cowering with the BS supporter bullying. I mean it is relentless.
It is extremely wearing. I was on another site and the BS supporters were literally torquing themselves into pretzels to make the math work for them. And on please let's not talk about the corrupt super delegate system - you know the ones they are even now attempting to sway? I saw a glimpse of sunshine when I saw one, then two, then three rational people poke their heads out to raise their hands as Hillary supporters.
Oh joy, I whoot, whooted that I finally had a bit of company. We bonded.
Weary but holding on. Sigh!!
It is extremely wearing. I was on another site and the BS supporters were literally torquing themselves into pretzels to make the math work for them. And on please let's not talk about the corrupt super delegate system - you know the ones they are even now attempting to sway? I saw a glimpse of sunshine when I saw one, then two, then three rational people poke their heads out to raise their hands as Hillary supporters.
Oh joy, I whoot, whooted that I finally had a bit of company. We bonded.
Weary but holding on. Sigh!!
264
Elisabeth now you know what it feels like when they ignore you.
2
I am so with you Elizabeth! The Bernie Bros are impossible. They have now put out a hit list of super delegates that being harassed daily to change their vote. NY please please bring it home!
2
It does seem Bernie supporters prefer intimidation to persuasion. Look at the pro-Bernie comments here. Rather then present his proposals in a reasonable way, the attack Clinton. The whole Bernie campaign seems very angry and destructive, that it defaults to insults and abuse so swiftly.
2
Gail Collins writes: “Lately, Bernie Sanders seems to have been acting a little … off. There was the terrible interview with The Daily News.”
I believe that the principal topic in the interview, for which Sanders was criticized, was breaking up “big banks that are too big to fail.” It is obvious that Ms. Collins did not read recent authoritative work by more qualified writers at the NYTimes on this particular subject.
On April 5, Peter Eavis of the NYTimes wrote a piece entitled “Yes, Bernie Sanders Knows Something About Breaking Up Banks.” He wrote:
“Bernie Sanders probably knows more about breaking up banks than his critics give him credit for. Downsizing the largest financial institutions is one of Mr. Sanders’s signature policies, so it would indeed raise questions about his candidacy if he had little idea of how to do it.
In the interview, with The Daily News’s editorial board, Mr. Sanders does appear to get tangled up in some details and lacks clarity. Breaking up the banks would involve arcane and complex regulatory moves that can trip up any banking policy wonk, let alone a presidential candidate. But, taken as a whole, Mr. Sanders’s answers seem to make sense. Crucially, his answers mostly track with a reasonably straightforward breakup plan that he introduced to Congress last year.”
Unless Gail Collins declares herself to be a “banking policy wonk,” I think that she should stick to matters upon which she is qualified to write.
I believe that the principal topic in the interview, for which Sanders was criticized, was breaking up “big banks that are too big to fail.” It is obvious that Ms. Collins did not read recent authoritative work by more qualified writers at the NYTimes on this particular subject.
On April 5, Peter Eavis of the NYTimes wrote a piece entitled “Yes, Bernie Sanders Knows Something About Breaking Up Banks.” He wrote:
“Bernie Sanders probably knows more about breaking up banks than his critics give him credit for. Downsizing the largest financial institutions is one of Mr. Sanders’s signature policies, so it would indeed raise questions about his candidacy if he had little idea of how to do it.
In the interview, with The Daily News’s editorial board, Mr. Sanders does appear to get tangled up in some details and lacks clarity. Breaking up the banks would involve arcane and complex regulatory moves that can trip up any banking policy wonk, let alone a presidential candidate. But, taken as a whole, Mr. Sanders’s answers seem to make sense. Crucially, his answers mostly track with a reasonably straightforward breakup plan that he introduced to Congress last year.”
Unless Gail Collins declares herself to be a “banking policy wonk,” I think that she should stick to matters upon which she is qualified to write.
14
I read the Elvis piece. He strained to rephrase sanders' comments to try to make them sound reasonable, and even there he pointed out where Bernie seemed to struggle. When you need a translator to transform your comments from gibberish to something kinda making sense, you're in trouble.
1
*
*
Gail, your mastery is on display today: The historical perspective, the command of the zeitgeist, the writing skill? All present and accounted for.
I dare say that even Bernie Sanders would not declare you "unqualified" to write a column for The New York Times.
For someone who moved to New York only after making your mark in other states, you have done a great job of giving non-New Yorkers the flavor of what it's like to vote and to be governed in our State.
Really, only two things are missing. There are many column-inches contained in your brief reference to "just one indictment after another". (We have convictions! Sentences! Governors and legislative leaders and even a top state judge have been ensnared! Not long ago, one of our Congressmen -- already under indictment -- threatened to throw a journalist off a balcony! No one is going across the river to Weehawken to fire the pistols, but things are pretty unseemly here.) Then there is the deficit in voter discernment that is bred by being ignored every four years by wannabe Presidents; the result is that we get mediocre governors. (George Pataki. David Paterson. Andrew Cuomo.)
Maybe NY voters will learn this month how to tell good candidates from bad ones? We can only hope.
As for "blame it on Buffalo": That's where our Lieutenant Governor is from! And Lieutenant Governors around here often end up as Governors. So, as was the case when New Yorker Theodore Roosevelt became President, we CAN blame it on Buffalo.
*
Gail, your mastery is on display today: The historical perspective, the command of the zeitgeist, the writing skill? All present and accounted for.
I dare say that even Bernie Sanders would not declare you "unqualified" to write a column for The New York Times.
For someone who moved to New York only after making your mark in other states, you have done a great job of giving non-New Yorkers the flavor of what it's like to vote and to be governed in our State.
Really, only two things are missing. There are many column-inches contained in your brief reference to "just one indictment after another". (We have convictions! Sentences! Governors and legislative leaders and even a top state judge have been ensnared! Not long ago, one of our Congressmen -- already under indictment -- threatened to throw a journalist off a balcony! No one is going across the river to Weehawken to fire the pistols, but things are pretty unseemly here.) Then there is the deficit in voter discernment that is bred by being ignored every four years by wannabe Presidents; the result is that we get mediocre governors. (George Pataki. David Paterson. Andrew Cuomo.)
Maybe NY voters will learn this month how to tell good candidates from bad ones? We can only hope.
As for "blame it on Buffalo": That's where our Lieutenant Governor is from! And Lieutenant Governors around here often end up as Governors. So, as was the case when New Yorker Theodore Roosevelt became President, we CAN blame it on Buffalo.
2
As it happens, there is in fact only ONE issue which the office of President is uniquely endowed with.
All of this discussion about economic policy is, as we're all aware, pretty much pointless. Any Dem we elect will be facing entrenched partisan blockade. Unless the nation gets its congress together, there will be no policy.
What the President IS in charge of, is WAR.
So here's how we chose:
Which one is NOT going to carpet-bomb Islam & turn the Middle East into a river of molten glass,
Which one is NOT going to re-invade Iraq to 'take' the oil.
Which one is NOT going to 'bomb, bomb, bomb Iran'
Which one is NOT going to be taking foreign policy advice from Henry 'Anything that flies against everything that Moves' Kissinger,
Which one is NOT going to vote 'yes' on invading Iraq just to look tough & presidential when she knew better,
Which is the ONE current candidate who ever even uttered the words 'Military Industrial Complex', the budgetary item that eats 50% of all discretionary spending,
Folks, we can discuss the inevitable solution of Single Payer until the rest of the nation reorganizes its priorities to get that one right, & we can discuss what to do with banks, Billionaires, tax-brackets & so-called 'entitlements'.
But none of that will be resolved efficiently in this political climate, in our era of obstruction.
But if you let another president take us into another gratuitous, horrible, multi-trillion-dollar war, all bets for everything else are off.
All of this discussion about economic policy is, as we're all aware, pretty much pointless. Any Dem we elect will be facing entrenched partisan blockade. Unless the nation gets its congress together, there will be no policy.
What the President IS in charge of, is WAR.
So here's how we chose:
Which one is NOT going to carpet-bomb Islam & turn the Middle East into a river of molten glass,
Which one is NOT going to re-invade Iraq to 'take' the oil.
Which one is NOT going to 'bomb, bomb, bomb Iran'
Which one is NOT going to be taking foreign policy advice from Henry 'Anything that flies against everything that Moves' Kissinger,
Which one is NOT going to vote 'yes' on invading Iraq just to look tough & presidential when she knew better,
Which is the ONE current candidate who ever even uttered the words 'Military Industrial Complex', the budgetary item that eats 50% of all discretionary spending,
Folks, we can discuss the inevitable solution of Single Payer until the rest of the nation reorganizes its priorities to get that one right, & we can discuss what to do with banks, Billionaires, tax-brackets & so-called 'entitlements'.
But none of that will be resolved efficiently in this political climate, in our era of obstruction.
But if you let another president take us into another gratuitous, horrible, multi-trillion-dollar war, all bets for everything else are off.
7
it's like being in a fugue state, gaslighting..."Bernie attacks Hillary's credibility."
No.
He responded to her implicit implications and explicit media driven taunts, specifically a Washington Post headline that snarled, "Clinton Claims Sanders in Not Qualified".
To this series of attacks he responds, "I don't believe she is qualified if she is taking money from special interests, voted in favor of the Iraq war, etc.
That is not questioning her qualifications; it is simply using the same language used on him and applying it to her.
And now it gets really weird;
all the former respectable media and their associated pundits are behaving like a bunch of junior-high kids, misrepresenting what was said and doing their level best to "fight, fight, fight!", as though the Republicans aren't giving us enough of this.
Meanwhile Hillary and Bernie have made peace, but the Times, the Post and NPR are STILL chanting "fight, fight, fight!"
Yes, we have entered new and disturbing territory, a twilight zone where the politicians are trying to stay on relevant issue while the (formerly) responsible media are creating a circus, or trying to.
No.
He responded to her implicit implications and explicit media driven taunts, specifically a Washington Post headline that snarled, "Clinton Claims Sanders in Not Qualified".
To this series of attacks he responds, "I don't believe she is qualified if she is taking money from special interests, voted in favor of the Iraq war, etc.
That is not questioning her qualifications; it is simply using the same language used on him and applying it to her.
And now it gets really weird;
all the former respectable media and their associated pundits are behaving like a bunch of junior-high kids, misrepresenting what was said and doing their level best to "fight, fight, fight!", as though the Republicans aren't giving us enough of this.
Meanwhile Hillary and Bernie have made peace, but the Times, the Post and NPR are STILL chanting "fight, fight, fight!"
Yes, we have entered new and disturbing territory, a twilight zone where the politicians are trying to stay on relevant issue while the (formerly) responsible media are creating a circus, or trying to.
5
"Have you noticed how Senator Sanders, former mayor of Burlington, Vt., is the glamour candidate while Clinton, former first lady, senator from New York and secretary of state, seems"
Hillary served:
one term as Senator, and
one term as Sec of State.
Bernie served:
two terms as Senator, and
eight terms as a Congressman, and
four terms as Mayor.
Hillary was never more than a the junior Senator wiithout important committee assignments.
Bernie was Chair of the Veteran's Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Budget Committee, very important and influential positions.
Bernie took principles stands against the Iraq War and the Bush Tax Cuts. Hillary voted for them.
To present this as a Mayor against a Senator is not funny, it is misleading in a cheap way. I expect better of Gail, really.
Hillary served:
one term as Senator, and
one term as Sec of State.
Bernie served:
two terms as Senator, and
eight terms as a Congressman, and
four terms as Mayor.
Hillary was never more than a the junior Senator wiithout important committee assignments.
Bernie was Chair of the Veteran's Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Budget Committee, very important and influential positions.
Bernie took principles stands against the Iraq War and the Bush Tax Cuts. Hillary voted for them.
To present this as a Mayor against a Senator is not funny, it is misleading in a cheap way. I expect better of Gail, really.
20
You have to give far more weight to someone who represented New York, a major engine of the country's economy, art, educational, and publishing world and much more. Vermont is a small state, mostly lacking diversity, largely rural, which is not really a vital component of america's economy.
1
And what exactly did Bernie accomplish during all that time in office? Not very much at all, looking at his record. Just showing up doesn't cut it.
1
I have the luxury of casting a protest vote for Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont on April 19, even though I know that Hillary Clinton will be the nominee of the Democratic Party.
I also have the luxury of voting this November for Dr. Jill Stein, the candidate of the Green Party.
The aforementioned luxury is due to our nation's unique system of selecting its leader.
My vote for Stein will be a protest vote against our corrupt an ineffectual two-party system, infected with the virus of money and lobbyists and a complete and utter disregard for the truth, honesty and common decency.
A government purported to be a democratic republic where nothing can get accomplished unless one political group controls the presidency, a majority of one legislative body, and 60% of the other legislative body is a complete farce.
Senator Sanders call for a "political revolution". We need a Constitutional Convention throwing out the old, unworkable model, and starting fresh.
I also have the luxury of voting this November for Dr. Jill Stein, the candidate of the Green Party.
The aforementioned luxury is due to our nation's unique system of selecting its leader.
My vote for Stein will be a protest vote against our corrupt an ineffectual two-party system, infected with the virus of money and lobbyists and a complete and utter disregard for the truth, honesty and common decency.
A government purported to be a democratic republic where nothing can get accomplished unless one political group controls the presidency, a majority of one legislative body, and 60% of the other legislative body is a complete farce.
Senator Sanders call for a "political revolution". We need a Constitutional Convention throwing out the old, unworkable model, and starting fresh.
7
If you're protesting against the two-party system why don't you vote for Gary Johnson? He is much more experienced than Ms. Stein.
1
"Political revolution" begins through elections to state legislatures and Congress, both in presidential and mid-term years. If you're not going to be equally active on those fronts, the revolution's failure is at your doorstep.
1
Sen. Sanders is running as the ''ought to'' candidate and Secy. Clinton is running as the ''how to candidate.''
If we've learned anything from the Obama years, what most Americans think ought to be done will not be done by the Republican majority in Congress. Actually getting things done, whether it is the progressive agenda or simply respecting the will of the American majority requires changing the composition of the Congress.
Sanders, not a Democrat until he decided it would be better ''marketing'' to run for President as one, further to the left than any other Senator and having no record of working with Republicans, is uninterested in this part of the problem. He speaks of a political revolution, but does little for down ballot candidates on the Democratic ticket and is raising lots of money for himself but not the party. He speaks generally of a massive increase in turnout, but admits this race has not matched the historic levels of Obama 2008.
As uninspiring as it may be to some, the key to getting back on the progressive path is electing a Democratic President and a Democratic Congress. That is within reach, but takes more work that going to big rallies and showing up on election day. It is a result we are more likely to get from ''how to'' candidate Clinton than ''ought to'' candidate Sanders.
If we've learned anything from the Obama years, what most Americans think ought to be done will not be done by the Republican majority in Congress. Actually getting things done, whether it is the progressive agenda or simply respecting the will of the American majority requires changing the composition of the Congress.
Sanders, not a Democrat until he decided it would be better ''marketing'' to run for President as one, further to the left than any other Senator and having no record of working with Republicans, is uninterested in this part of the problem. He speaks of a political revolution, but does little for down ballot candidates on the Democratic ticket and is raising lots of money for himself but not the party. He speaks generally of a massive increase in turnout, but admits this race has not matched the historic levels of Obama 2008.
As uninspiring as it may be to some, the key to getting back on the progressive path is electing a Democratic President and a Democratic Congress. That is within reach, but takes more work that going to big rallies and showing up on election day. It is a result we are more likely to get from ''how to'' candidate Clinton than ''ought to'' candidate Sanders.
64
You've got it bit misconstrued. Bernie is a "we can do" candidate, not a "we can not" candidate. Does this country need a change? Check out the direction of the country polls. Over 60% of this nation are not satisfied with our present course. Bernie's campaign is all about fixing that with the people's help, not alone. His is a true vision of a representative democracy.
2
Wrong, wrong, wrong.
The most likely fact is that Hillary Clinton will remain loyal and steadfast in supplication to the establishment, having shown us how she butters her bread with the unflagging Big money support of Big Insurance, Big Pharma, the military industrial alliance, and lets not forget Goldman Sachs and all other Big Investment Banking, never once indicating she will reinstate Glass Steagall, which her husband Bill Clinton repealed leading to the second Great Depression, ruining the lives of millions of Americans, with avariciousness the likes of which we have never seen or experienced.
No, Bernie is the obvious choice, a choice that is not "Hope and Change, but one that will result in real change occurring as our obstructionist Congress is forced to stop catering to their corporate masters, forced because the landslide victory for Bernie, will cause them to realize that the midterms, two of them if Bernie is elected to a second term, will decimate their ranks, and remove the giant dollops of butter on their bread.
NY, and the rest of the nation, is moved, realizing, here is a an exemplary gentleman, an elder with decades of experience in government, never once failing to do the right thing, a gentleman with principles light-years removed from Hillarys' self-serving values.
Bernie is a reborn FDR, a last opportunity offered our nation, if it wants to return to the things that made us great, such being concern for the well-being and welfare of the people.
The most likely fact is that Hillary Clinton will remain loyal and steadfast in supplication to the establishment, having shown us how she butters her bread with the unflagging Big money support of Big Insurance, Big Pharma, the military industrial alliance, and lets not forget Goldman Sachs and all other Big Investment Banking, never once indicating she will reinstate Glass Steagall, which her husband Bill Clinton repealed leading to the second Great Depression, ruining the lives of millions of Americans, with avariciousness the likes of which we have never seen or experienced.
No, Bernie is the obvious choice, a choice that is not "Hope and Change, but one that will result in real change occurring as our obstructionist Congress is forced to stop catering to their corporate masters, forced because the landslide victory for Bernie, will cause them to realize that the midterms, two of them if Bernie is elected to a second term, will decimate their ranks, and remove the giant dollops of butter on their bread.
NY, and the rest of the nation, is moved, realizing, here is a an exemplary gentleman, an elder with decades of experience in government, never once failing to do the right thing, a gentleman with principles light-years removed from Hillarys' self-serving values.
Bernie is a reborn FDR, a last opportunity offered our nation, if it wants to return to the things that made us great, such being concern for the well-being and welfare of the people.
2
The more I hear what Bernie Sanders has to say, the more I like it. But the more I hear, the more I realize that he has great ideas, but no practical plan that will turn those ideas into programs that will get through Congress.
44
You need a vision, without it there is no inspiration and without that virtue to inspire we wouldn't have gone to the moon.
2
The deal is that we have to give him a real Congress.
1
I know all contests for public office are popularity contests. That given, I would like to know what an ordinary working guy can expect if we elect candidate A as opposed to candidate B. That Bernie is likeable is a given. That Hillary is a nice lady who lacks charisma is also a given. In any case, either Bernie, or Hillary is vastly better than any of the Neo-Fascists on the Right. I am so past the era of magical thinking that a wall is the answer to our problems, or that given world trade that we can suddenly stop it and bring manufacturing back here when we know that the international companies will never stop seeking slave labor. We live in the world as it I, not like in some mythical Eden where the rich care about the poor in positive ways. What may be more important in this election cycle may be house and senate seats. The current crop sitting in Washington is truly frightening. They still think the poor are poor by choice, and all of the rich got that way by themselves. The rich have a slight advantage over the poor. It's called money which enables them to utilize resources the rest of us can only dream about. Take Trump. He was educated at an Ivy League Business School and began life with an inheritance of millions. Why can't the kid of welfare parents do the same? And why did he choose to have welfare parents? I am sad and exhausted from the magical thinking that may make some feel good!
21
The Democratic primary illustrates what is great about American politics. The two candidates have for the most part offered well thought out plans for the their vision for the nation and as a result citizens such as myself can reflect upon just what direction is best for the nation. That is the essence of democracy.
Contrast this to the Republicans who offer a choice between two blowhards who are borderline fascists, The offer only a simpletons view of a world with very little regard for the well being of the citizens. This is terribly unfortunate for the Republicans and public but there is a silver lining. It is very likely that after this
'thrilla in manila' is concluded the presidency as well as the Congress will be in control of the Democratic party, We can return to building this great nation for all people, not just the very narrow and jaded.
Contrast this to the Republicans who offer a choice between two blowhards who are borderline fascists, The offer only a simpletons view of a world with very little regard for the well being of the citizens. This is terribly unfortunate for the Republicans and public but there is a silver lining. It is very likely that after this
'thrilla in manila' is concluded the presidency as well as the Congress will be in control of the Democratic party, We can return to building this great nation for all people, not just the very narrow and jaded.
11
Hillary Clinton gets darn close to making my heart flutter. She’s attractive, intelligent and knowledgeable. And yes, having her as president would be hugely important, both as an inspiration to women and as an example for those less than enlightened nations.
I’m a bit frustrated because here I am, trying to focus my attention on a compelling woman, while some boring old guy keeps getting in the way.
I admit I have a bit of a crush on her. I really don’t understand why more guys don’t feel the same way.
I’m a bit frustrated because here I am, trying to focus my attention on a compelling woman, while some boring old guy keeps getting in the way.
I admit I have a bit of a crush on her. I really don’t understand why more guys don’t feel the same way.
25
I've never had much problem with Hillary. She's had important jobs and worked very hard at them. I believe her approval rating as Secretary of State was very high. It was when she expressed an interest in running for President that the Republican hate machine started on her. And they're very good at their job. Everything she did was a scandal.
I don't buy any of it. I just think she's not born to be a politician like her husband or Obama. She is a worker bee. She knows all the details necessary to do whatever job she has at the moment. People who know her say she is warm, charming, funny, but not being a natural politician, she tends to protect herself. And that comes through as steady but boring. Here's an article in The Guardian that talks about her honesty.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/28/hillary-clinton-hon...
I don't buy any of it. I just think she's not born to be a politician like her husband or Obama. She is a worker bee. She knows all the details necessary to do whatever job she has at the moment. People who know her say she is warm, charming, funny, but not being a natural politician, she tends to protect herself. And that comes through as steady but boring. Here's an article in The Guardian that talks about her honesty.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/28/hillary-clinton-hon...
37
Well, I hope when Bernie gives a speech at the Vatican, that he avoids suggesting that the College of Cardinals should be tuition-free.
10
Perhaps Bernie Sanders is hoping that a visit with the pope will help him pull off a magical miracle that would thrust him (and his second-place single-focus finger-wagging campaign) into first place. In your dreams Bernie. That place is already taken.
11
bkw, Bernie has always been a fan of Pope Francis. Today, 3 people, the Dalai Lama, the Pope and Bernie Sanders are using their position and their pulpit to bring the plight of the poor to the front, to remind all of us that inequality is the root cause of all discord, disharmony, wars and violence that we see in the world today.
3
Both the Pope and Bernie have a single focus, to speak for the poor and to open our eyes about inequality that pitches brother against brother.
4
The press -- print, digital, TV -- seems to be provoking Hillary and Bernie to fight, at least pretend they're members of rival gangs. Unfortunately, both of them are a little old for that sort of thing, and it shows. Instead of knives, they're wielding forks. After a few feints, they sort of apologize to each other and go on an usual. Which is boring. That's why we're all tuning out to how Bernie has figured out to break up the banks (couldn't they just pay us interest on our savings?). Instead, he's going to the Vatican (a non-observant Jew yet) for a conference on income inequality to show voters that the Pope likes him more than any other politician (especially Hillary). This is a really tough one for her. She should send Bill to Rome with a reminder that only in America can a couple of lower income, left-wing Yale Law School grads end up members of the 1%.
8
The steadiness of Clinton will win the primary and the presidency. Sanders claiming she is unqualified is obviously ridiculous. No one in the race is more qualified, as both secretary of state and a senator. I long for steady in a horrific race.
43
I am so turned off by the idea of revolution! Revolution is a very loaded word, and implies violence and societal breakdown. I'd infinitely rather have improvement.
Dare to be a boring policy wonk! Dare to design and implement fine-tuned federal legislation that will improve the lives of millions of Americans! Dare to be the first woman president!
That's my candidate: She Who Dares.
Dare to be a boring policy wonk! Dare to design and implement fine-tuned federal legislation that will improve the lives of millions of Americans! Dare to be the first woman president!
That's my candidate: She Who Dares.
63
Absolutely. You hit that right on!
4
Me too. I don't want to destroy the village to save the village, and only a village idiot would propose that.
3
I agree it takes a lot of brass to face the public you are in the business of fleecing.
2
Hillary is playing a shell-and-pea game of duplicitous dishonesty in her public pronouncements on all issues to gain the votes of Americans.
Hillary would NOT be a winning Presidential candidate or President because she has the capacity more to repel people (read voters) than to lead unity on important issues. She would be divisive as President in being unable to pull consensus together (read Congress), to generate new ideas (read policy building) and to build a just America (read Blacks). Hillary was a failure as Secretary of State because she never produced solutions to significant issues nor did she undo knots of problems.
Charles Blow noted that Hilary’s “proclivity toward expedient alteration is precisely what fuels some people’s sense of her in particular as disingenuous and even dishonest.”
More recently Charles Blow stated that Hilary “is a hawkish political shape shifter, too cozy with big money … and who most Americans don’t trust.”
Bernie holds the moral compass and resonates with Americans on the issues. His public policy proposals would support the disadvantaged, the poor, the middle class and correct the injustices and wrongs in America that have hurt too many Americans for too long. Most Americans identify with Bernie’s objectives and would be better served by Bernie as President than Hilary who is an opportunistic chameleon “shape shifter” and who is “disingenuous and even dishonest.” Then there is her laugh !?!?
Hillary would NOT be a winning Presidential candidate or President because she has the capacity more to repel people (read voters) than to lead unity on important issues. She would be divisive as President in being unable to pull consensus together (read Congress), to generate new ideas (read policy building) and to build a just America (read Blacks). Hillary was a failure as Secretary of State because she never produced solutions to significant issues nor did she undo knots of problems.
Charles Blow noted that Hilary’s “proclivity toward expedient alteration is precisely what fuels some people’s sense of her in particular as disingenuous and even dishonest.”
More recently Charles Blow stated that Hilary “is a hawkish political shape shifter, too cozy with big money … and who most Americans don’t trust.”
Bernie holds the moral compass and resonates with Americans on the issues. His public policy proposals would support the disadvantaged, the poor, the middle class and correct the injustices and wrongs in America that have hurt too many Americans for too long. Most Americans identify with Bernie’s objectives and would be better served by Bernie as President than Hilary who is an opportunistic chameleon “shape shifter” and who is “disingenuous and even dishonest.” Then there is her laugh !?!?
15
Then there is her laugh. That one sentence sums up why we have to take the rest of your argument with a grain of salt. Just another misogynist.
2
Yeah, Hillary is dull as dishwater. That's a problem. The bigger problem is what Bernie zeroed in on when challenged about his credentials earlier in the campaign -- judgment. Since she has tied herself to her husband's record, I'll include that. Overturning Glass-Steagall. "Welfare Reform." Overtly cozying up to the billionaires. Putting the U.S. State Department server in her house. Viciously attacking Monica Lewinsky then and now. Supporting the pipeline. Supporting TPP. Then not supporting the pipeline and TPP. Calling foetuses "unborn people." These are just off the top of my head. She talks to the people and then does what suits her own suffocating ambition.
12
I admit to the guilty pleasure I have reading the obviously biased humor of many of your columns. But today's column glosses over the differences between Sanders and Clinton with respect to central issues: ways to address big money financing of our politics and income inequality. It's true that Sanders' speeches stay on his message, but his campaign is also demonstrating how to run a campaign with financing from constituents; that counts for a lot. The NYTimes coverage of Sanders has been far from even handed.
11
I love this piece. What I like about Hillary is that she does listen. I've followed her my entire adult life and I never really got that about her until I watched her become a senator and then Secretary of State and finally, that tragic 13 hour Benghazi hearing that was supposed to bring her to her knees. She signed, brushed something off her shoulder, and continued listening. Her opponents say her changes of heart mean she'll do anything to get elected, but what I see is someone who is always learning and learning by listening. That is the kind of president I want. I have seen a lot of talkers and very few listeners. I have never "felt the Bern," partly because I never believed in the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus either. I learned my lesson about promises from boys and men back in high school - but nothing Bernie is promising has any legit chance to take hold in our current government. It might take a societal collapse for someone like him to get in. I hope New Yorkers are smart enough not to fall for a great speech. We need someone who can do the job.
31
New York is the place where the Dutch did things the right way! Peter Minuit allegedly bought Manhattan from the Lenape tribe for $24, (modern analysis suggests that the price was nearly the equivalent of $900) and called the place New Amsterdam.
The place is still sopping money. How many times has Wall Street been bailed out? The "Banksters" are still living high on the hog with zero percent interest rates immolating savers around the country.
It doesn't matter which democrat wins NY. Either one of them trumps the republican candidates, and if the Dutch, the English, or the native Americans got NY back, ran someone for the US presidency and won, it would still be significantly better than anything the elephant party could do!
The place is still sopping money. How many times has Wall Street been bailed out? The "Banksters" are still living high on the hog with zero percent interest rates immolating savers around the country.
It doesn't matter which democrat wins NY. Either one of them trumps the republican candidates, and if the Dutch, the English, or the native Americans got NY back, ran someone for the US presidency and won, it would still be significantly better than anything the elephant party could do!
8
Talk about qualifications - who has been on the right side of history since marching for civil rights in the 60s, not accepting big oil and wallstreet donations and huge speaker fees, the Iraq war vote? I'm no Einstein, but knew immediately that to invade Iraq would open Pandora's box. Bernie has always been on the side - wisdom, reason and the Right Thing to Do.
Having lived in France for over a decade, I've seen first-hand how the infrastructure and medical care in most of Europe is far better than in the US. Why can't the US catch up to the rest of the advanced parts of the world? Clinton just doesn't have the vision to see it. And if you don't see it, it's not going to happen.
For me, these are the things that make Bernie Sanders FAR more qualified than Hillary Clinton. Go, Bernie!
Having lived in France for over a decade, I've seen first-hand how the infrastructure and medical care in most of Europe is far better than in the US. Why can't the US catch up to the rest of the advanced parts of the world? Clinton just doesn't have the vision to see it. And if you don't see it, it's not going to happen.
For me, these are the things that make Bernie Sanders FAR more qualified than Hillary Clinton. Go, Bernie!
17
Clinton had the "vision to see it" back in 1994, when she led a Quixotic charge to get healthcare for all. In 1997 she worked tirelessly to pass the Children's Health Care Plan, covering more than 6 million children. She's running to support the Obama legacy, which through herculean effort and many people laying their political careers on the line, to get the most sweeping healthcare legislation since the creation of Medicare and Medicaid passed. What Sanders has is a stump speech. You simply reveal your ignorance when you attempt to rewrite history.
1
There is nothing better to be had for the future of our children than two 90's retreads doing a repeat performance for those who didn't get enough the first time.
Change we can believe in, but won't get.
Clintons, status quo with a new garnish is thy name.
Change we can believe in, but won't get.
Clintons, status quo with a new garnish is thy name.
4
Bernie is qualified and Hillary, through her behavior, has disqualified herself for the office of President.
Disqualified herself by giving speeches for $650,000 and refusing to release the transcripts.
For bribing super delegates to support her with campaign funds (see counterpunch article and Young Turks video on this).
For deleting 30,000 emails (who do you know who delete their emails?) that she claimed were personal...some of which were able to be recovered, and proved not to he "personal."
She doesn't value integrity. She values the politically expedient.
She's disqualified.
Disqualified herself by giving speeches for $650,000 and refusing to release the transcripts.
For bribing super delegates to support her with campaign funds (see counterpunch article and Young Turks video on this).
For deleting 30,000 emails (who do you know who delete their emails?) that she claimed were personal...some of which were able to be recovered, and proved not to he "personal."
She doesn't value integrity. She values the politically expedient.
She's disqualified.
11
what really bugs me about the Bernie goes to Rome story is the casual sexism . The president of the Society, Margaret Archer is dismissed as untruthful and of less importance than a man, a bishop. It is assumed he is her boss. The Pope is her boss. He is her subordinate. The Constitution of the Pontifical Society of the Social Sciences is on the web, He assists her.
Beyond the sexism , I can only imagine what the media would have said if JFK had announced he was going to the Vatican before the primary, or even Santorum , or Scalia . We have separation of Church and state for a good reason.
Beyond the sexism , I can only imagine what the media would have said if JFK had announced he was going to the Vatican before the primary, or even Santorum , or Scalia . We have separation of Church and state for a good reason.
9
What pettiness.
2
There is a huge difference between 1960 and 2016. I remember that many people said that a Catholic would do the Pope's bidding, JFK proved that a lie.
Sanders "gives the same speech" every time? Most candidates have a "set speech that they tweks for different states and media markets:it's just good politics. AS to the HRC/Sanders contest, Bernie's primary and caucus successes have forced Hillary Clinto to declare herself a "Progressive who gets results." I think it is the first time HRC has uttered the "Progressive word aloud, except perhaps in relation to what car insurance to purchase!
7
Beth-
Hillary is my preferred candidate, and based upon objective analyses of her voting record, she is without question a progressive/liberal. See: http://fivethirtyeight.com/datalab/hillary-clinton-was-liberal-hillary-c...
Having said that, I must give you points on your word play regarding Hillary's use of the word "Progressive" to purchase car insurance. In the middle of this heated election season, we could all do with a little more levity sometimes!
Hillary is my preferred candidate, and based upon objective analyses of her voting record, she is without question a progressive/liberal. See: http://fivethirtyeight.com/datalab/hillary-clinton-was-liberal-hillary-c...
Having said that, I must give you points on your word play regarding Hillary's use of the word "Progressive" to purchase car insurance. In the middle of this heated election season, we could all do with a little more levity sometimes!
2
And once HRC gets the nomination she will never again utter the word "Progressive"... until the next election.
2
How many times have we been told "it's all about the journey , not the destination." Senator Sanders has turned that old saw on it's head. He speaks about the wonderful end-game, free education , free medical care and so on. He doesn't want to chat about how we get there. There is a simple reason for that- he needs to level the entire playing field to get there, not just the 1% but the entire middle class. This formula crashed with the fall of the USSR. We've rejected it since the 1930's and since he refuses to speak about it , we should reject him.We don't need someone who would replace a working system with a failed one.
13
I hope this week of melodrama in the Democratic primary will soon end. I thought about voting for Sanders in the primary, but after careful consideration I voted for Hillary Clinton. Sanders is just too idealistic. His proposed policies will not work, and what he said this week is truly disappointing. If the Democrats hope to win the Whitehouse in November, they should stop the bickering and go back to talking about realistic changes that the candidates can bring to this country without self-destruction.
22
Holier-than-thou Democrats need to wake up to the fact that Bernie Sanders is basically doing for the Democratic base what Donald Trump has been doing fr the Republican base. That is, he has seized on a couple of resonant themes that he repeats over and over without providing any evidence of having thought them through. How long has Sanders been running on a "break up the big banks" platform now? Eight or nine months? And in all this time he has not given much thought to how he would actually do it? At the very least, Trump has (finally) given us a half-baked scheme for getting Mexico to pay for "the wall."
Clinton doesn't cause hearts to flutter because she stays up all night actually doing the homework to understand what she is talking about. In that regard, she is the only candidate in either party who shows the proper respect for the office that she is trying to attain. But American's hate smart people who know what they are talking about. They prefer bluster.
Clinton doesn't cause hearts to flutter because she stays up all night actually doing the homework to understand what she is talking about. In that regard, she is the only candidate in either party who shows the proper respect for the office that she is trying to attain. But American's hate smart people who know what they are talking about. They prefer bluster.
536
Collins argues that Clinton is all about improvement but really her campaign is all about management - just like her husband's presidency. Bill's two terms were unremarkable except that her was an effective counterweight to the crazy Republicans in Congress. Hillary promises more of the same. We could do much worse.
123
Unremarkable? Ended with a surplus in the bank, AmeriCorps, lower poverty rates... pretty remarkable I think!
3
Except that most of Bill Clinton's signature accomplishments more closely resembled Republican policies and proposals than anything that would be remotely associated with the Democrats. We should expect more of the same from Hillary. After all, she effectively started her presidential campaign by selling her soul to those high bidders on Wall Street. And however her campaign tries to spin it, there are no reasonable circumstances under which she will not protect their interests. After all, she would need them to bankroll her re-election -- and to continue contributing to the Clinton Global Initiative, which may well serve as the launching point for Chelsea's own presidential run in about a decade or so. If her speeches to her Wall Street benefactors consist solely of the "cut it out" narrative she is peddling, the transcripts would have been released before the Iowa caucuses.
3
Bernie is a case study in the virtue of determination. He lost 10 elections in Vermont before he won one, by 10 votes, becoming mayor of Burlington, VT. He has succeeded beyond his wildest dreams. His success is that he has pushed his pet issues of income inequality and corporate greed to center stage. But now he needs to back down. He is finally, at long last, getting some tough questioning about how he intends to carry out his proposals. The man behind the curtain is being exposed. Of course he is going to fight to win New York. But when he loses, by a little or a lot, he needs to stand down. He has done his job. Any further efforts after his likely loss in NY are likely to harm the Democrats' chances of preventing a full-on Republican revolution in November, not to mention he will be sullying his legacy, which, at his age, he won't have time to rehabilitate.
41
If he loses the nomination it will be due to the power of the special interests to rig the process, a power wielded by Hillary Clinton. It is this power that must be broken, not perpetuated. The real revolution is by the American people against its undemocratic current government which Clinton personifies. The GOP is self-destructing. If Trump or Cruz is elected it will be like Nixon's election that led to decades of Democratic administration.
2
Let us not forget-- in 2008, Hillary Clinton said the both she and John McCain were qualified to be President, by virtue of putting forth each of their "lifetime of experience," while Senator (and rival) Barack Obama was not qualified, because he would only "put forth a speech he made in 2002." At least Bernie does not offer up a Republican as qualified to be President, as both Clintons did during the primaries 8 years ago, while labeling Obama as unqualified.
2
Move on LCan this is 2016
1
What it really comes down to is that a vote for Sanders is a vote for Trump. If the Swift Boat types actually focused on Bernie for a change he would be painted as a godless Communist - which he isn't. He is simply naive about economics, trade, guns, etc. etc. The point is that HRC has been attacked for decades and still stands but Sanders is too vulnerable on short term. He could lose to Trump's deception machine and that would be an unbelievable disaster for us all.
18
Have you looked at the polls? If Trump is the nominee, they both kill him nationally.
2
The Republican campaign machine hasn't even started on Bernie, to be sure. If he's the nominee, they will go full bore with their lies and innuendo. The right wing operatives won't stop at the "Communist" or "Socialist" labels. They will go into to detail to frighten voters ala "you won't be able to own anything under President Sanders, not a car, nor a house, or anything at all." Some people will believe and vote accordingly. Hillary is used to all of these kind of attacks and won't become unhinged or over react. That's why I support her.
1
Arise, fellow Lords and Barons here in the Castle of the Money-Insider Establishment. This is serious.
It’s taken us decades to wrest this country’s economy and democracy from The Little People, banish them to serfdom out in the fields, far outside our moat.
Serf Bernie represents a real threat. He threatens to mobilize The Little People outside in the fields, storm our Castle of Money-Insider Privilege, restore this country’s economy and democracy to The People.
Now we are engaged in a Great Primary, testing whether our Castle of Privilege can endure.
We need Lady Hillary to lead us. As she keeps saying, all her life she has been “fighting for us.” Overseas, fighting to fight everywhere, from Iraq to Libya to Ukraine, even fighting to establish and enforce a no-fly zone where Russians are flying. If that wouldn’t lead to exciting “fighting for us,” what would?
Here at home, Lady Hillary has been “fighting for us” by advocating treaties of trade that have made our inherited trusts’ stock market values rise even faster than jobs and pay rates of the Little People go down. Just look at what current revelations about the treaty with Panama she fought for, fighting for us, has enabled us and our fellow Lords and Barons around the world to do in protecting our “interests.”
To the Castle gate with Lady Hillary, fellow Money-Insiders! Join her in “fighting for us,” driving Bernie and his hordes of Little People back from the moat to distant fields.
We Can Have It All.
It’s taken us decades to wrest this country’s economy and democracy from The Little People, banish them to serfdom out in the fields, far outside our moat.
Serf Bernie represents a real threat. He threatens to mobilize The Little People outside in the fields, storm our Castle of Money-Insider Privilege, restore this country’s economy and democracy to The People.
Now we are engaged in a Great Primary, testing whether our Castle of Privilege can endure.
We need Lady Hillary to lead us. As she keeps saying, all her life she has been “fighting for us.” Overseas, fighting to fight everywhere, from Iraq to Libya to Ukraine, even fighting to establish and enforce a no-fly zone where Russians are flying. If that wouldn’t lead to exciting “fighting for us,” what would?
Here at home, Lady Hillary has been “fighting for us” by advocating treaties of trade that have made our inherited trusts’ stock market values rise even faster than jobs and pay rates of the Little People go down. Just look at what current revelations about the treaty with Panama she fought for, fighting for us, has enabled us and our fellow Lords and Barons around the world to do in protecting our “interests.”
To the Castle gate with Lady Hillary, fellow Money-Insiders! Join her in “fighting for us,” driving Bernie and his hordes of Little People back from the moat to distant fields.
We Can Have It All.
10
Thanks for the best comment in a while.
2
Clinton's ideas on how to improve the United States of America:
1. Start military *interventions*.
2. Expand *free trade*.
3. Balance the budget by cutting Social Security and Medicare.
4. Win Congress over while being the most unlikable and dishonest President.
4/9 @ 6:25 am
1. Start military *interventions*.
2. Expand *free trade*.
3. Balance the budget by cutting Social Security and Medicare.
4. Win Congress over while being the most unlikable and dishonest President.
4/9 @ 6:25 am
10
Based on her support for the Iraq invasion I can see the concern that Ms. Clinton might be a military hawk, and I can see from her previous statements why one might believe she is sympathetic to free trade, but why do you think she would "balance the budget by cutting Social Security and Medicare"? I looked on google for any reference to a speech or platform suggesting she supports such a policy and could not find anything. Her website says just the opposite.
1
Intelligent. Persisent. Capable. Teachable. Strong.
All qualities I'd like to see continued in our next presidency. Hillary Clinton is the only presidential candidate fulfilling those characteristics.
All qualities I'd like to see continued in our next presidency. Hillary Clinton is the only presidential candidate fulfilling those characteristics.
38
Sanders appeals to the hopeful and the dreamers. He bellows slogans like "free tuition", "break up the banks", "Clinton is not qualified", "Clinton tries too hard", and other simple statements that have no real substance. There is no depth that I can see that would enable him to actually achieve anything.
His ego has swallowed the adulation of his followers and it has corrupted him. I am sure he sees the goal as achievable now as he begins to follow the path the GOP candidates have followed, on the advice of his advisors: "Go negative, it always works".
The possibility of the Nader effect drawing votes to Sanders and away from Hillary, if he chooses to be petulant and go 3rd party, is frightening. The fact that he could end up putting the demon Cruz in office is a very real and very sad (nasty) thought.
The cynic in me says that the GOP has planted commenters in NYT columns designed to continue the Hillary trash talk, and attempt to put lipstick on Sanders. He is the second coming people!!
He is, however, making himself look and sound like a carnival barker. "Step right up folks and the prize is yours for the taking!"
His ego has swallowed the adulation of his followers and it has corrupted him. I am sure he sees the goal as achievable now as he begins to follow the path the GOP candidates have followed, on the advice of his advisors: "Go negative, it always works".
The possibility of the Nader effect drawing votes to Sanders and away from Hillary, if he chooses to be petulant and go 3rd party, is frightening. The fact that he could end up putting the demon Cruz in office is a very real and very sad (nasty) thought.
The cynic in me says that the GOP has planted commenters in NYT columns designed to continue the Hillary trash talk, and attempt to put lipstick on Sanders. He is the second coming people!!
He is, however, making himself look and sound like a carnival barker. "Step right up folks and the prize is yours for the taking!"
22
Agree with you on Cruz. But, the GOP needs to plant negative comments about Clinton? Ha! That's a good one. Clinton, like all of us, has virtues and faults. She has given folks plenty of reasons not to like her.
2
I'm confused by the way most of the politicians elected to federal office talk about the US. We are ,apparently, the greatest, richest, kindest most powerful country that has ever existed. Whatever! If that be so why can't we afford the social benefits made available to the vast majority of civilized countries. You can't have a high quality of life without access to affordable health care
15
Hilary's followers express constant disdain for the those that support Bernie. They are simpletons who are led astray by an unrealistic idealist who can never win. They are political children. Once they understand that this is a game for adults then they will understand that Hilary is the right choice. Bernie is far more JFK and Hilary is a Lyndon Johnson. Like Johnson, she may be competent but arrogant and corrupt. Bernie's passable agenda may be small but he will change the ground that we stand on. Hilary may seem more effective but in the end, this President will face a divided government and Bernie has more of a chance to move the people vs Hilary's chance to move the Republicans
5
You say Hillary is "arrogant and corrupt," but I could not disagree more.
Republicans have been trying to frame her that way in hopes that some Democrats might turn against one of the best candidates we've ever had.
I'm not going to fall for that trick.
Republicans have been trying to frame her that way in hopes that some Democrats might turn against one of the best candidates we've ever had.
I'm not going to fall for that trick.
2
Eh, Bernie. So he's meeting New York, is he? An article in today's New York Times cites his old apartment building on East 26th Street as being "humble." Let me tell you that in the 1950s, that area was not humble, but safe, clean, quiet, and even somewhat upscale. My family couldn't afford Flatbush in those days.
Bernie's old neighborhood became "humble" -- what does that mean? -- only in the late 1960s when Section-8 allowed dysfunctional families to bring their chaos to formerly tidy, middle-class buildings; a chaos that spread to whole neighborhoods. Areas like Bay Ridge, that didn't accept Section-8, never experienced the downturn, the utter decay, that Flatbush did.
So Bernie has come back. And Hillary is here.
I'm waiting for a politician, other than a conservative racist, to tell the truth: Senator Moynihan was right, and the rest of us who optimistically thought that putting poor families into buildings they could never on their own afford would help them attain middle-class values. Time to tie subsidies to wearing IUDs. Otherwise, we'll have another half century of this city-wrecking misery.
Bernie's old neighborhood became "humble" -- what does that mean? -- only in the late 1960s when Section-8 allowed dysfunctional families to bring their chaos to formerly tidy, middle-class buildings; a chaos that spread to whole neighborhoods. Areas like Bay Ridge, that didn't accept Section-8, never experienced the downturn, the utter decay, that Flatbush did.
So Bernie has come back. And Hillary is here.
I'm waiting for a politician, other than a conservative racist, to tell the truth: Senator Moynihan was right, and the rest of us who optimistically thought that putting poor families into buildings they could never on their own afford would help them attain middle-class values. Time to tie subsidies to wearing IUDs. Otherwise, we'll have another half century of this city-wrecking misery.
1
Or how about, we castrate every male with an income below $50,000 a year?
Wow, the legacy of Margaret Sanger rears its ugly head. So you think the poor should wear IUDs and stop reproducing?
2
Bernie seems to be exemplifying Richard Hofstadter's memorial argument. His "unqualified" rant reveals nothing so much as a paranoid personality intent on exposing the powerful, diabolical conspiracy against him--unless it is merely exemplifying childishness. Bernie is the archetypal man child. He has had the same beliefs for decades and reviles anyone who hasn't. His speeches are like tantrums against the adult world replete with childish demands: 'give us free schools! give us free healthcare! take care of us! Now!' He doesn't have the details because they are part of the fallen adult world. The details are, basically Follow the Yellow Brick Road. Bernie is Rousseau back to remind us that childhood is the apogee of existence, and adults are by definition corrupt, compromised: failed children. Experience tarnishes us all, the most experienced--mother--most. Hillary of course is mother, and Sanders resents that she has spent her time out there, governing, raising money, speaking to other adults of whom he doesn't approve. She is an "unqualified" mother because she hasn't taken care of him, which is why her comments about his Daily News comments sent him "over the edge" to use Paul Krugman's phrase. Mother is supposed to watch out, take care and protect, not punish him for his errors. Envisioning himself as a child, ergo as weaker, he cannot understand mother's withdrawal. Like most people who think themselves weak, he doesn't realize how hard he is hitting.
27
If the contest is between Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump for the entertainer of the year Bernie wins hands down.
Appearing in View does not qualify one to be the Presidential nominee the most qualified does.
I find Sanders saying Secretary Clinton who has spent 8 years in the White House while her husband was President, then served as both a US Senator and as Secretary of State is "unqualified" is insulting and offensive all Women.
Appearing in View does not qualify one to be the Presidential nominee the most qualified does.
I find Sanders saying Secretary Clinton who has spent 8 years in the White House while her husband was President, then served as both a US Senator and as Secretary of State is "unqualified" is insulting and offensive all Women.
44
I find supporting Clinton just because she is a woman insulting to me as an American. If she earns the spot I will vote for her, but she does not deserve it just because she has stayed around long enough and endured Bill.
1
The challenge New York voters face is choosing between quixotism and Obamaism. Don Quixote saw injustice and fought for an utopia; Obama sees injustice and fights for change (we can believe in). Bernie would slay the Wall Street money mills, Hillary would continue working within reality (a Republican controlled congress) for progress--a progressive agenda.
28
This dragon lady keeps imposing herself on our public life. Enough already.
She is more Imelda Marcos than Iron Lady; she is more Evita Peron than Mary Robinson; she is more Marie Antoinette than Indira Ghandi.
After hounding Moynihan on his death bed and shouldering aside Nita Lowy, she and her huckster husband bullied Ted Kennedy who died soon after holding his ground against their frantic meltdown attempting to stifle his heartfelt endorsement of Obama in '08.
This war mongering, Walmart Board Member has stomped on the little people like a Leona Helmsley; guided her daughter to a hedge funder career and embraced the son of a convicted financial crimes felon into the bosom of the family. The Clintons have grifted their way into a $130 million payday stretched over the past decade. They need to leave the stage and take their stink with them. Please.
She is more Imelda Marcos than Iron Lady; she is more Evita Peron than Mary Robinson; she is more Marie Antoinette than Indira Ghandi.
After hounding Moynihan on his death bed and shouldering aside Nita Lowy, she and her huckster husband bullied Ted Kennedy who died soon after holding his ground against their frantic meltdown attempting to stifle his heartfelt endorsement of Obama in '08.
This war mongering, Walmart Board Member has stomped on the little people like a Leona Helmsley; guided her daughter to a hedge funder career and embraced the son of a convicted financial crimes felon into the bosom of the family. The Clintons have grifted their way into a $130 million payday stretched over the past decade. They need to leave the stage and take their stink with them. Please.
7
Always question the dragon lady narrative. And question the knight on a white horse, male savior narrative too. We shouldn't be voting according to archetypal narratives.
7
Are you sure she isn't personally responsible for 9/11 also? No kidding, there's a meme out there involving Oliver North testimony, featuring Al Gore, Bill Clinton letting Mohammad Atta off the hook, or something like that. By the way, I am a Hillary supporter and I don't share your opinion of either Hillary or Bill Clinton. Like Bill Maher said last night to Republicans in Congress, "you're going to lose the election to Hillary so remember, you have to elect her before you can impeach her."
1
This is silliness...Imelda Marcos was never elected a Senator, Marie Antoinette never served with distinction as Secretary of State, Leona Helmsley never campaigned and worked tirelessly for her constituency in New York. You are upset (I assume) because your guy Bernie is probably not going to win the nomination. That's fine, I understand that. But get a grip. Hillary isn't the Devil, and Bernie isn't a saint. Look at her policies, and ask herself if she would be a better president than Trump or Cruz. I know what my answer is.
1
Hillary is a good listener? Bernie Sanders has been elected and re-elected and served the people for 35 years, from mayor to House to Senate. He couldn't have done that without listening to a lot of people in all walks of life, probably even some very rich and greedy ones. I doubt that Vermonters would have sent him back to Washington several times if he had done nothing but rail against big banks, know what I mean? Clinton, with her "listening tour" skills, has won two elections, serving the people a total of eight years, so she is not nearly as qualified a "listener" as Sanders. And maybe it wasn't so much all that good, humble listening she did but the fact that she was "the most famous woman in the world" before she set foot on that upstate NY dairy farm. Yet a nationally unknown senator from where? (oh, Vermont) has obviously learned something from his years of listening that she hasn't. That ordinary working people are in trouble and are sick and tired of getting the crumbs from the table. At age 74, he could have retired to a quiet life in Vermont with a nice pension. He could have stopped listening. He didn't.
12
Hillary Clinton is a metaphorical black and white T.V. showing reruns. She is no allegorical, flat screen HD T.V., with brilliant color, and a steady diet of compelling reasons to binge watch. She is an uncharismatic,perfunctory candidate, who may be elected as "the better alternative",rather than as some inspiring, transformational political leader. The Democratic Party is a demographic cocktail containing different ethnic and racial ingredients, which should have made her impossible to defeat.However, Hillary can't conceal her sense of entitlement and her endemic defensiveness. The email scandal, exorbitant speaking fees, and failure to release the Wall Street speech transcripts, underscored her sense of entitlement. Attempting to disingenuously link Sanders with the horrors of Sandy Hook or the Koch brothers, was about the defensiveness. When she engages in cynical political cosmetics to hide these indigenous flaws, the voting public picks up on it immediately, and sees her as disingenuous. When you couple the reality of Hillary with the anti-Wall Street zeitgeist of Bernie Sanders, and millions of small Sander's campaign contributions, you get an increasingly volatile campaign and exponentially increase the importance of New York.
2
For all her faults and those of her husband, Mrs.Clinton is obviously the best candidate in this election cycle. She knows the system and how it works. She understands power and how to use it. At her best, she is the person who wrote "It Takes a Whole Village to Raise a Child," and she would be a leader who includes and fights against partisan division. I some ways she reminds me of LBJ, a person who has deep liberal values but is a "can do" poitician.
467
She reminds you of LBJ? As in Lyndon Baines Johnson? Are you kidding? Hillary was no master of the Senate (wasn't there long enough) never served in the House, was never VP and if she becomes President will likely never be in a position to sign historic legislation like the Civil Rights Act or Voting Rights Act; though given her hawkish tendencies, she will likely support unjustified and illegal military engagements (see Vietnam for LBJ; Iraq and Afghanistan for HRC)
4
If Clinton was LBJ she would have said that civil rights legislation and Medicare would be good but that it would be unrealistic to get them through like she says with universal healthcare. She did vote for our worst foreign policy mistake since the Vietnam War so I guess she is like LBJ in that regard.
2
Actually Hillary has told us she's a cant do candidate. She's told us breaking up the bs is is a cant do policy choice. She told us the minimum wage hike was a can't do policy choice until it passed in NYS then she pretended she supported it all along.
3
I am voting for Bernie Sanders in the primary. I agree that the New York daily news interview did not go well. What many commentators are missing, however, is that Bernie was asked how he would go forward procedurally to break up the banks, not whether The banks could, constitutionally and legally, be dismantled. The mechanisms are there, and Robert Reich, for example, supports Bernie's belief that the banks have become too large and powerful.
What Bernie could not do was describe the precise authority that the President had vis-à-vis Congress, and Congress's constitutional and legal power to accomplish that goal. I agree that, given his platform, he should have been better prepared. I'll bet, however, that he has done his research and can give you a lecture on procedure if you asked today.
Not doing your legal homework before and interview with a hostile newspaper editor is not, however, a mistake on the par with voting ,based on no credible evidence, to authorize the invasion of Iraq, taking down Qaddafi in Libya, supporting bad trade bills and a disasterous crime bill- the list goes on.
Clinton has been close to power and has wielded authority. If qualified means having done it before, then I guess she's qualified. If, however, qualified means having done it well, then I'm choosing Bernie. The best-prepared student is not always the one who can choose the right answer and exam that requires judgment, not merely facts. FDR and Churchill were not an A students.
What Bernie could not do was describe the precise authority that the President had vis-à-vis Congress, and Congress's constitutional and legal power to accomplish that goal. I agree that, given his platform, he should have been better prepared. I'll bet, however, that he has done his research and can give you a lecture on procedure if you asked today.
Not doing your legal homework before and interview with a hostile newspaper editor is not, however, a mistake on the par with voting ,based on no credible evidence, to authorize the invasion of Iraq, taking down Qaddafi in Libya, supporting bad trade bills and a disasterous crime bill- the list goes on.
Clinton has been close to power and has wielded authority. If qualified means having done it before, then I guess she's qualified. If, however, qualified means having done it well, then I'm choosing Bernie. The best-prepared student is not always the one who can choose the right answer and exam that requires judgment, not merely facts. FDR and Churchill were not an A students.
197
What exactly has Bernie done well, as a Senator for a start? Does he have some major accomplishments to show for his many years in the Senate?
And, I ask, who is going to pay for all that free college tuition for all? Perhaps the young won't pay it when they go, but as taxpayers the rest of their lives they certainly will...
And, I ask, who is going to pay for all that free college tuition for all? Perhaps the young won't pay it when they go, but as taxpayers the rest of their lives they certainly will...
3
Bernie has been espousing breaking up the banks, free college tuition, trashing trade agreements and he has no idea on how he is going to solve these problems? Running for president and our serious domestic issues demand a high bar of understanding and real tangible ideas and solutions. You go right ahead and keep defending Bernie and drinking his Kool-Aid-- you are no more enlightened than a Trump follower.
3
Is it necessary to break up banks? I don't want my bank broken up. I don't want the financial instability such a plan would bring. I need money I've saved for retirement to be there. I don't want the power held by American banks to move th Shanghai or Beijing because the Chinese government is clueless about financial policy and despite beliefs here so much more corrupt than the U.S.
2
I just hope and pray that Hillary's short campaign visit to New York this time around will be just as profitable as the short visits she made to New York collecting tip money from Wall St. psychopaths in 2013 for sharing her personal genius with them for an hour or two.
She's so smart and has such impeccable judgment that every one of those speeches must have been utterly magnificent in their sagacity.
Who knows what she told them as she knew for certain that she'd be running for the Presidency in 2016 ?
Maybe she told them..."you can always count on me to vote yes for the next Iraq War vote"....or maybe she told them "I favor raising the federal minimum wage to $12...and not a penny more...because that's the best America can do."
Hard to say exactly what she actually said, but I'm sure it was truly inspirational to the great 0.1% American citizens of Wall Street.
Wall Street/Corporate 'citizen' Place 0.1% Hillary Speech Fee Date
Apollo Management Holdings NY, NY $225,000 May 14, 2013
Itau BBA USA Securities NY, NY $225,000 May 16, 2013
Sanford Bernstein and Co NY, NY $225,000 May 29, 2013
Spencer Stuart NY, NY $225,000 June 6, 2013
UBS Wealth Management NY, NY $225,000 July 11, 2013
SAP Global Marketing NY, NY $225,000 October 23, 2013
Accenture NY, NY $225,000 October 24, 2013
Goldman Sachs Group NY, NY $225,000 October 24, 2013
Golden Tree Asset Management NY, NY $275,000 November 7, 2013
CB Richard Ellis NY, NY $250,000 November 14, 2013
Feel The Bern
She's so smart and has such impeccable judgment that every one of those speeches must have been utterly magnificent in their sagacity.
Who knows what she told them as she knew for certain that she'd be running for the Presidency in 2016 ?
Maybe she told them..."you can always count on me to vote yes for the next Iraq War vote"....or maybe she told them "I favor raising the federal minimum wage to $12...and not a penny more...because that's the best America can do."
Hard to say exactly what she actually said, but I'm sure it was truly inspirational to the great 0.1% American citizens of Wall Street.
Wall Street/Corporate 'citizen' Place 0.1% Hillary Speech Fee Date
Apollo Management Holdings NY, NY $225,000 May 14, 2013
Itau BBA USA Securities NY, NY $225,000 May 16, 2013
Sanford Bernstein and Co NY, NY $225,000 May 29, 2013
Spencer Stuart NY, NY $225,000 June 6, 2013
UBS Wealth Management NY, NY $225,000 July 11, 2013
SAP Global Marketing NY, NY $225,000 October 23, 2013
Accenture NY, NY $225,000 October 24, 2013
Goldman Sachs Group NY, NY $225,000 October 24, 2013
Golden Tree Asset Management NY, NY $275,000 November 7, 2013
CB Richard Ellis NY, NY $250,000 November 14, 2013
Feel The Bern
256
I'm kind of surprised, in our tell-all society, that not one person who attended one of these speeches has come forward and given us an idea of the content of one Hillary's speeches. They were either so boring or would be so sensational...?
1
You are living in the past, and fluffing speeches into a scandal. I think there were good reasons at the time for her Iraq vote, and Bernie voted to fund that war. Voting against it was no profile in courage for a legislator from a state that suffered very little from the 9/11 attacks. Courage for him would have been standing up to the NRA, rather than voting for their most important bills. That Wall Street support never resulted in a quid quo pro from Hillary is evident by an examination of her votes. I prefer a candidate who would never say, "I haven't given it much thought" about major issues they'll be called on to address as president. It's sloppy, lazy, uncurious, and not good enough.
3
Bernie is a mad man. Too bad he lost his mind in this campaign. Haven't heard a thoughtful word out of him in months.
1
" Clinton will come out of this campaign better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans than she was when she went in." Yes, but in the Clinton world, a few well-timed whispers of her Wall Street friends will count for much more than the pained voices of suffering everyday Americans. And what will she do with all that information about everyday Americans? Perhaps she will use it to better prepare them for their slaughter in the next unwinnable war?
Bernie Sanders keeps on giving the same speech because the evil forces destroying our country have not changed. He is not going to shape-shift based on which way the wind is blowing. Win or lose New York, I really hope that the Bernie movement survives beyond his candidacy. I will not caricature Bernie into a Moses and he will not lead us to the promised land, but the promised land is there, in the near or far future, and everyday Americans have caught a glimpse of it and are not likely to forget.
Bernie Sanders keeps on giving the same speech because the evil forces destroying our country have not changed. He is not going to shape-shift based on which way the wind is blowing. Win or lose New York, I really hope that the Bernie movement survives beyond his candidacy. I will not caricature Bernie into a Moses and he will not lead us to the promised land, but the promised land is there, in the near or far future, and everyday Americans have caught a glimpse of it and are not likely to forget.
14
Please prove the corruption you and Bernie hint at. How has she favored Wall Street?
3
Gail, this is so much fun!
Pop quiz: How many federal (and state) agencies are involved in regulating TBTF behemoths of conglomeration? More than 42 ?
"Apart from the bank regulatory agencies the U.S. maintains separate securities, commodities, and insurance regulatory agencies at the federal and state level." -- Wikipedia http://bit.ly/1N0jccH
Perhaps Senator Sanders seemed imprecise in the interview with The Daily News, but not obviously uninformed about the relative powers of executive, congress, and the Fed in cooperation with industry in devising strategies and implementing legislation for reducing the concentrated financialization of our economy which defines TBTF.
Dean Baker, below, credits Bernie with the kind of insight into collaboration between government and business in regulatory reform and rehabilitation of an usurious insurance industry in Wisconsin which characterized the start of the Progressive era:
"I certainly would have liked to see more specificity in Sanders’ answers, but I’m an economist. And some of the complaints are just silly.
"When asked how he would break up the big banks Sanders said he would leave that up to the banks. That’s exactly the right answer. The government doesn’t know the most efficient way to break up JP Morgan, JP Morgan does. If the point is to downsize the banks, the way to do it is to give them a size cap and let them figure out the best way to reconfigure themselves to get under it."
-- Dean Baker http://bit.ly/1Wi2R56
Pop quiz: How many federal (and state) agencies are involved in regulating TBTF behemoths of conglomeration? More than 42 ?
"Apart from the bank regulatory agencies the U.S. maintains separate securities, commodities, and insurance regulatory agencies at the federal and state level." -- Wikipedia http://bit.ly/1N0jccH
Perhaps Senator Sanders seemed imprecise in the interview with The Daily News, but not obviously uninformed about the relative powers of executive, congress, and the Fed in cooperation with industry in devising strategies and implementing legislation for reducing the concentrated financialization of our economy which defines TBTF.
Dean Baker, below, credits Bernie with the kind of insight into collaboration between government and business in regulatory reform and rehabilitation of an usurious insurance industry in Wisconsin which characterized the start of the Progressive era:
"I certainly would have liked to see more specificity in Sanders’ answers, but I’m an economist. And some of the complaints are just silly.
"When asked how he would break up the big banks Sanders said he would leave that up to the banks. That’s exactly the right answer. The government doesn’t know the most efficient way to break up JP Morgan, JP Morgan does. If the point is to downsize the banks, the way to do it is to give them a size cap and let them figure out the best way to reconfigure themselves to get under it."
-- Dean Baker http://bit.ly/1Wi2R56
11
Here is what Wikipedia says about another New York politician:
In his first hundred days in office, which began March 4, 1933, Roosevelt spearheaded unprecedented major legislation and issued a profusion of executive orders that instituted the New Deal—a variety of programs designed to produce relief (government jobs for the unemployed), recovery (economic growth), and reform (through regulation of Wall Street, banks and transportation).
So many, so obviously feel they have a raw deal right now; it is time for a politician with the same vision and fire as FDR.
In his first hundred days in office, which began March 4, 1933, Roosevelt spearheaded unprecedented major legislation and issued a profusion of executive orders that instituted the New Deal—a variety of programs designed to produce relief (government jobs for the unemployed), recovery (economic growth), and reform (through regulation of Wall Street, banks and transportation).
So many, so obviously feel they have a raw deal right now; it is time for a politician with the same vision and fire as FDR.
10
You do know FDR worked on Wall Street. By the metric you and Bernie use to judge candidates, he should never have been president. Oh and by the way, when asked what he was he described himself as a Christian man.He never would have called himself a democratic socialist.
1
"Here is what Wikipedia says about another New York politician: In his first hundred days in office, which began March 4, 1933, [Franklin Delano] Roosevelt spearheaded unprecedented major legislation and issued a profusion of executive orders that instituted the New Deal."
You'll need to read more than Wikipedia to understand why Franklin Delano Roosevelt was so successful in implementing his New Deal.
You'll need to read more than Wikipedia to understand why Franklin Delano Roosevelt was so successful in implementing his New Deal.
2
um .. Bernie does not have that option.
But his "socialist" seems very close to FDR's view of Christian duty: and many called FDR a socialist while trying to thwart his programs.
FDR would have avoided the term because of its political association with communism - but these days many western countries have had socialist governments and lived to enjoy them.
But his "socialist" seems very close to FDR's view of Christian duty: and many called FDR a socialist while trying to thwart his programs.
FDR would have avoided the term because of its political association with communism - but these days many western countries have had socialist governments and lived to enjoy them.
1
Sanders has so enjoyed thinking of himself as such an outsider his whole political life, naming himself a socialist when he is nothing of the kind. This race is just an ego trip for him, his 6 or 7 or so months of fame and excitement. He has got to know that revolutions never succeed, only evolutions actually improve situations. Sudden abrupt changes in policies and procedures only cause chaos and therefore do not last. A Sanders presidency would be a disaster; he won't get along with anyone, his ideas will never accomplish anything positive, and perhaps worst of all, he will spend four years continuing to yell at us from his podium.
41
I was always told that our country started with a revolution...
No one is talking about sudden changes. Bernie's journey is to open the eyes of Americans to the inherent problem in our political and economic systems, the role of big money which has "bought" our political leaders up and down and sideways. Bernie is illustrating to us that it can be done differently. When you run a campaign not beholden to special interests you don't have to pander to them when you get elected you simply have to show them the door, stay out special interests.
1
He does not call himself a socialist. He calls himself a "Social Democrat." The Social Democrats are well established in the politics of many, if not most, of our allied countries. Their policies are based on the philosophy that governments' main duty is to take care of their people. This philosophy is obvious as you walk along the streets of Austria, France, Denmark, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Australia, and many other countries where there are parties who would fall under the definition "Social Democrat."
2
The greatest time in US history was between 1945 and 1965. It was the era when a new economy was developed that empowered a dynamic and affluent middle class. The people who saw the greatest gains are the people we call call baby boomers.
Bernie is a pre boomer and Hillary is a boomer.
What is it about we boomers that prevents us from understanding history. What is it about Levittown and the suburbs that has caused us to forget what created the American economy?
It wasn't private enterprise that created the post war economy it was the socialist economy of the 1950s where the top tax rate was 90% that built the infrastructure and financed the education.
It was the interstate system that created suburbia, the shopping mall and the automobile that fuelled the economic boom. It was taxes that built hiways schools and airports that never would have happened if the government didn't have the power to plan, tax and build. It was taxes that finally ended the great depression in the middle 1950s.
It is 2016 and we seem to be back in the time of Pierce Arrow. America needs to build the infrastructure for the future, it needs to educate for the future but nobody is willing to pay for the infrastructure and education that made America the greatest nation on earth.
This is the first election in a long time where we have a candidate willing to say what America needs and is willing to say it is Americans that will have to pay for it. Failing to invest in the future must end.
Bernie is a pre boomer and Hillary is a boomer.
What is it about we boomers that prevents us from understanding history. What is it about Levittown and the suburbs that has caused us to forget what created the American economy?
It wasn't private enterprise that created the post war economy it was the socialist economy of the 1950s where the top tax rate was 90% that built the infrastructure and financed the education.
It was the interstate system that created suburbia, the shopping mall and the automobile that fuelled the economic boom. It was taxes that built hiways schools and airports that never would have happened if the government didn't have the power to plan, tax and build. It was taxes that finally ended the great depression in the middle 1950s.
It is 2016 and we seem to be back in the time of Pierce Arrow. America needs to build the infrastructure for the future, it needs to educate for the future but nobody is willing to pay for the infrastructure and education that made America the greatest nation on earth.
This is the first election in a long time where we have a candidate willing to say what America needs and is willing to say it is Americans that will have to pay for it. Failing to invest in the future must end.
20
American "dominance" between 1945-1965 was not the same as "greatness" and evolved out of a post-WWII world at a unique period in time when there was no competition. America's industrial capacity had been enormously expanded during the war and was insulated by two oceans. Britain, France, Germany, China, the Soviet Union, Italy, Japan, and others were so devastated they were worried about feeding people and not building cars and washing machines. Add to the fact that Europe would be consumed with post-colonial wars in Asia and Africa and it was clear that there was no one to compete with The Great Colossus of the West. We weren't better, smarter, harder-working or more exceptional that anyone else, we just happened to be the one winning team still standing with our enormous industrial capacity untouched by the war.
6
That was also a period without civil rights legislation, when lyching still happened, blacks could be turned a away from the polls, and segregation was de facto if not de June. Not a wonderful time for everyone.
3
Yes Jason,
So your reply is to what?
Nobody could afford to buy American products the economy worked because of internal demand and the demand was created by massive government spending so suburbia could happen.
I am saying before America can grow again economically it need a plan and any plan would require a huge initial investment which can come only from taxes, taxes and more taxes.
So your reply is to what?
Nobody could afford to buy American products the economy worked because of internal demand and the demand was created by massive government spending so suburbia could happen.
I am saying before America can grow again economically it need a plan and any plan would require a huge initial investment which can come only from taxes, taxes and more taxes.
2
In any case when all is said and done the final outcome of the two dynamic campaigns of Clinton and Sanders will produce the Democratic ticket described below:
Hillary and Bernie as VP.
or
Bernie and Hillary as VP.
All Democrats will support either one of these two outcomes.
There is strength in diversity.
This final result is one that we all can - at long las - t find acceptable and it will be unbeatable in the general election.
So rest easy. And have a nice day.
Hillary and Bernie as VP.
or
Bernie and Hillary as VP.
All Democrats will support either one of these two outcomes.
There is strength in diversity.
This final result is one that we all can - at long las - t find acceptable and it will be unbeatable in the general election.
So rest easy. And have a nice day.
6
Well, if Bernie wins the top of the ticket with Hillary as VP, then they'll both get to be President...eventually. Win win.
Elizabeth Warren/Joe Biden
Joe Biden/Elizabeth Warren
Joe Biden/Elizabeth Warren
You shouldn't presume to speak for "All Democrats" or imagine that what you "find acceptable" is something "we all" will go for.
Old Bernie is too old and too angry to be president OR vice-president. The job of a vice-president is to step in if the president dies. To put a red-faced, angry, old man in that position would be insane. Hillary is not insane, and she will not place Old Bernie a heartbeat away from a job he is NOT QUALIFIED to do.
Old Bernie is too old and too angry to be president OR vice-president. The job of a vice-president is to step in if the president dies. To put a red-faced, angry, old man in that position would be insane. Hillary is not insane, and she will not place Old Bernie a heartbeat away from a job he is NOT QUALIFIED to do.
2
HRC is smart, energetic, experienced, hard working, and always seems to come across as Tracy Flick from "Election." That calculating nature was and will always be one of her problems. Bernie keeps pushing her and that's probably good experience, although neither Trump nor Cruz will be kind, solicitous, or remotely polite to her once the real election begins. Indeed, this may be the only possible election in which the negative perceptions of HRC are so swamped by the loathsomeness of the Republicans that she almost cannot help but win.
14
Hillary has been under attack for 16 years. Bernie has been a non factor politically for those same 16 years. He has no coat tails and has never done anything for the Democratic Party but caucus. He's faced no heat until now and he reacts by ranting and frothing. Bernie has every right to question Hillary's views on Wall Street and she responds by proposing actual proposals to the danger of unbridled risk taking. Democrats need to take the White House in 16 and Congress and state houses in 20 when voting districts will be redrawn due to a new census. Change in America is a long game and the Koch fueled control of the GOP has got to end. Bernie doesn't have the long view or patience to pull it off. Hillary does.
2
With groups like Daesh and Boko Haram using women as sexual slaves in the Middle East and Africa, and the continuing erosion of women's reproductive rights in this country with the rise of the Evangelical Right, it's way past time we put an eminently qualified woman in the White House and put a stop to "misogyny creep." Hilary Clinton has the intellectual power, emotional resilience, grit, and political "street smarts" which will also make her the ideal opponent of our current obstructionist Congress. As Obama's Secretary of State, her proven diplomatic skills and stamina have made her a respected and admired advocate for our interests abroad. Whatever her present and past flaws she is well prepared to become POTUS and we'd better make sure that she's taking that 3 a.m. phone call and not Trump or Cruz.
39
Not voting for Hillary doesn't mean one is a misogynist.
2
Susan:
Just because Hillary is a woman does not mean she is fit to be president. She is in bed with those Wall Street men. They are the ones that are financing her. You think for a minute they care about women............they don't even care about men. They care about money and that is all. Hillary is all for sending men (and women) to war so they can get killed. And for her to be able to put a stop to misogyny because she is a woman is dreaming. Becoming the first female president will not lead to a sudden respect for women. Obama becoming the first black president has had little success with affecting the lives of black people.
Oh, and by the way, remember the way her husband treated her and she stuck with him.
Women need to understand she is a Queen Bee. Queen bees are not interested in their neutered female slave workers.
Written by an elderly white democratic woman who has been in the work force and in lifelong enough to know that Hillary will not be able to influence misogynist thinking.
Go Bernie
Just because Hillary is a woman does not mean she is fit to be president. She is in bed with those Wall Street men. They are the ones that are financing her. You think for a minute they care about women............they don't even care about men. They care about money and that is all. Hillary is all for sending men (and women) to war so they can get killed. And for her to be able to put a stop to misogyny because she is a woman is dreaming. Becoming the first female president will not lead to a sudden respect for women. Obama becoming the first black president has had little success with affecting the lives of black people.
Oh, and by the way, remember the way her husband treated her and she stuck with him.
Women need to understand she is a Queen Bee. Queen bees are not interested in their neutered female slave workers.
Written by an elderly white democratic woman who has been in the work force and in lifelong enough to know that Hillary will not be able to influence misogynist thinking.
Go Bernie
3
Seems pretty clear that Hillary and corporate media are desperately looking for the equivalent of the "Dean Scream" - something insignificant that can be blown up out of all proportion and relevance to the real issues. Sanders has plenty of issues, but he concentrates on a few very big principles, especially about the role of money in our political system. Hillary can talk details of lots of issues, and she has to, because it fills the time and distracts from the hopelessness of her core principles, which include tolerance for influence peddling. Money in government is just like an alcohol problem - nothing else gets solved until the alcohol problem is addressed. Sad that you find this focus on "one issue" so distressing.
35
Professing ignorance on your key issue is worse than a "Dean scream." It's more like Palin blathering incoherently when asked about policy in detail, or Rick perry being unable to name federal agencies.
3
There are two definitions of the word "qualified", one being the familiar "eligible" but the other, actually the first and preferred definition, is "fit" and "competent".
It would be ridiculous to suggest that Hillary is not "eligible" to be President and she deserves recognition for her impressive resume.
But as to fit and competent? Not so much. As Mark Thomason and Bernie Sanders have pointed out, she has bungled and outright got it wrong on so many key issues, as First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State and in the run up to the race for President that she has shown herself to be dis-qualified.
Bernie is not being "nasty" nor has he turned "personal". Every attack he has made is well within the bounds of political debate. Nowhere in the Emily Post of primary elections does it say that one candidate who strongly believes the other is wrong for this country cannot point that out with facts taken from her public history. This is no Republican muck raking, mud slinging garbage.
The things about Hillary that Bernie is saying are the things all of us Democrats for Bernie - and even many who are for Hillary - have been saying all along.
So let's get off Bernie and quit making this a big deal. Once again it is the media that is making the news, not reporting it.
It would be ridiculous to suggest that Hillary is not "eligible" to be President and she deserves recognition for her impressive resume.
But as to fit and competent? Not so much. As Mark Thomason and Bernie Sanders have pointed out, she has bungled and outright got it wrong on so many key issues, as First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State and in the run up to the race for President that she has shown herself to be dis-qualified.
Bernie is not being "nasty" nor has he turned "personal". Every attack he has made is well within the bounds of political debate. Nowhere in the Emily Post of primary elections does it say that one candidate who strongly believes the other is wrong for this country cannot point that out with facts taken from her public history. This is no Republican muck raking, mud slinging garbage.
The things about Hillary that Bernie is saying are the things all of us Democrats for Bernie - and even many who are for Hillary - have been saying all along.
So let's get off Bernie and quit making this a big deal. Once again it is the media that is making the news, not reporting it.
49
In the first place it was Hillary who said Bernie was not "fit" or "qualified" to be president.
When Bernie stated Hillary was not fit, it was not a blanket statement, he cited reasons why she was not "fit" to be president. Not the same thing at all.
When Bernie stated Hillary was not fit, it was not a blanket statement, he cited reasons why she was not "fit" to be president. Not the same thing at all.
1
Democrats just love pretending how superior they are in comparison to those hopelessly divided Republicans, right? Well, guess what--Democrats are no better then the Republicans. My newest prediction is that Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are going to cancel each other out in the end. Neither Clinton nor Sanders will be able to get the required number of delegates needed to secure the nomination. Democrats had better get used to the idea that they're also facing an ugly brokered convention this summer. Someone else is going to be the Democratic nominee and it won't be Clinton or Sanders.
2
We Democrats don't think our candidates are superior, we just think that, unlike the Republican candidates, our candidates are both realistic, progressive...and sane.
2
Liz Warren? She is a woman and she is Bernie in spirit.
1
WHO?
1
You not only need to compromise to accomplish things in D.C. you also need to compromise just to chose a presidential candidate.
Bernie is certainly spot on when he complains about the corrupting influence money in our political system- but then not so spot on to suggest he has found the solution in crowd funding. He's caught lightning in a bottle as a contribution magnet but that won't help get a progressive Senate and Congress in place when he keeps all his money for himself and doesn't even encourage the support of other candidates.
I could make a list of all his exaggerations that at least border on demagoguery- like ignoring the influence of technology as the main source of employment shrinkage as opposed to his steady cry about the evil of trade deals.
I could make just as long a list of Hillary's failings, including taking all that money from special interests for making speeches when she was intending to run again for president- this certainly can be seen as more than the appearance of corruption as it goes beyond political contributions. How can she not be influenced by this "generosity".
But these two are what we Democrats have and I don't buy Bernie's divisive description of the world- that the villains are in Wall St. and Banking and anyone who receives money from them and the heroes are... well, mostly just Bernie. Outsiders can't accomplish much in Washington DC.
Bernie is certainly spot on when he complains about the corrupting influence money in our political system- but then not so spot on to suggest he has found the solution in crowd funding. He's caught lightning in a bottle as a contribution magnet but that won't help get a progressive Senate and Congress in place when he keeps all his money for himself and doesn't even encourage the support of other candidates.
I could make a list of all his exaggerations that at least border on demagoguery- like ignoring the influence of technology as the main source of employment shrinkage as opposed to his steady cry about the evil of trade deals.
I could make just as long a list of Hillary's failings, including taking all that money from special interests for making speeches when she was intending to run again for president- this certainly can be seen as more than the appearance of corruption as it goes beyond political contributions. How can she not be influenced by this "generosity".
But these two are what we Democrats have and I don't buy Bernie's divisive description of the world- that the villains are in Wall St. and Banking and anyone who receives money from them and the heroes are... well, mostly just Bernie. Outsiders can't accomplish much in Washington DC.
40
"He's caught lightning in a bottle as a contribution magnet but that won't help get a progressive Senate and Congress in place when he keeps all his money for himself and doesn't even encourage the support of other candidates. " The fervor Bernie inspires in the electorate promises to benefit democratic candidates far more than Hillary's financial contributions to their campaigns.
1
His idea that American business is destroying the moral fabric of the U.S. is absurd. What does he mean by moral fabric? American business employs, feeds, houses Americans. Business is not the enemy. Citizens United is another matter. Dark money is another matter. Allowing hidden free speech via money gives way too much power to those with money. Free speech is protected because it's supposed to be open, hence the need to protect. Hidden thru layers of corporate entities and rules protecting contributors from disclosure, current laws don't allow those using that money for campaign ads to know the biases behind the messages.
Are you implying that Clinton will be able to accomplish anything in Washington because she is an insider?
Just wait for the Republicans to get at her.
You think they will like her any better than Obama? Obama was a black man and the Republicans could not stand that.
Hillary is a woman. You think they will like that?
Oh, but yes, She is a Republican, so yes they may like her.
Just wait for the Republicans to get at her.
You think they will like her any better than Obama? Obama was a black man and the Republicans could not stand that.
Hillary is a woman. You think they will like that?
Oh, but yes, She is a Republican, so yes they may like her.
Bernie's recent dedication to rhetoric over policy has been a little frustrating, I'll admit. Early in the race, while Clinton was spouting generic Liberalisms and bits about Making Things Betterer, Sanders endeared himself to me with a very concrete set of policy proposals and budget plans that no other candidate could claim to equal in detail. It's a shame that he's since given Hillary the chance to play the part of a savvy, down-to-Earth technocrat, because as Collins notes, she excels in that role.
Either way, one has to appreciate the suggestion that Clinton is so aggressively boring that she can drive her opponents to madness. What is she, a Lovecraftian monster? The great old one of More of the Same?
Either way, one has to appreciate the suggestion that Clinton is so aggressively boring that she can drive her opponents to madness. What is she, a Lovecraftian monster? The great old one of More of the Same?
6
She's highly capable, interested in continually learning, and ready to become a highly capable president. Too bad you and the press prefer entertainment, as if a cranky old man has that much entertainment value!
3
Gail states that "Clinton will come out of this year’s campaign better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans than she was when she went in." That's good. But since she also spends much of her time attending high-priced campaign fundraisers, I wonder whose concerns she'll address when in office. Think she'll ignore the requests of those folks spending $100,000 to have dinner with her?
70
"Better informed about the concerns of every day Americans". Finally, maybe, probably not. Where has she been for the past 40 plus years that it is just now that she is "better informed"? She's supposed to be the better qualified candidate because she knows so much (doubtful) but not any of that knowledge has turned her into being 'better informed" and more caring about the 99%. " Better informed" since she may lose again. What a motivating factor to be "better informed". First it was to Obama and now hopefully she will lost again to Bernie.
Bernie on the other hand has been "better informed" and caring about the 99% for his entire political career.
So who is actually the better candidate to represent the 99%? It would seem to me the logical and only choice is the one who has been actually living that life himself and supporting the 99%.
Don't think it takes a rocket scientist to figure that out. The 99% which includes women should be able to understand that.
Bernie is the ONLY choice. Clinton as soon as she is elected (I hope not) will revert back to being "better informed" about the 1%. We know how she blows in the wind.
Go Bernie.
Bernie on the other hand has been "better informed" and caring about the 99% for his entire political career.
So who is actually the better candidate to represent the 99%? It would seem to me the logical and only choice is the one who has been actually living that life himself and supporting the 99%.
Don't think it takes a rocket scientist to figure that out. The 99% which includes women should be able to understand that.
Bernie is the ONLY choice. Clinton as soon as she is elected (I hope not) will revert back to being "better informed" about the 1%. We know how she blows in the wind.
Go Bernie.
7
I don't understand this line of attack. Candidates need a lot of money to run effective campaigns, and they need to funnel money into congressional campaigns as well. As I see it, Bernie should hold more events like this to help more democrats get elected.
2
I wondered how Gail came up with that one. Clinton shows no evidence of being very interested in ordinary people. She may get my vote but it won't be a happy one.
1
Months ago I seriously considered Bernie a plausible candidate for president. Now, having heard his stump speech ad nauseam and his responses to all questions (which are lines from his stump speech which often have nothing to do with the question), having witnessed the fanaticism of his followers (fanaticism is overcompensated doubt), having been reintroduced to Hillary (especially during her nine-hour inquisition before the House Benghazi Committee), and having watched the Republican Party come apart at the seams, I am an ardent Hillary supporter.
Bernie is a loud, obnoxious curmudgeon who does not wear well. Nor does he play well with others
Hillary is the best hope for our nation and, ironically, for the Republican Party. If men like Ryan, McConnell, Grassley, Inhofe, McCarthy, et. al., don't work with President Clinton for the good of all of us, they will lead their party further into oblivion. Right now Congressional Republicans' approval ratings are hovering around 10%. Republicans must change or their party is over.
Bernie is a loud, obnoxious curmudgeon who does not wear well. Nor does he play well with others
Hillary is the best hope for our nation and, ironically, for the Republican Party. If men like Ryan, McConnell, Grassley, Inhofe, McCarthy, et. al., don't work with President Clinton for the good of all of us, they will lead their party further into oblivion. Right now Congressional Republicans' approval ratings are hovering around 10%. Republicans must change or their party is over.
695
Bernie has still not been heard all over the country. Sorry if you are tired of his speech you can imagine how exhausted we are of the Clintons. Dud you notice how Gail omitted mentioning Bill Clinton and his rants and his finger wavings, lying about the 90s without any heart flutter? And he has had bypass surgeries or angioplasty or something. Turned vegan to restore his health.
3
You are so right Bernie's followers are much like Trump's followers: passion over reason.
4
One thing you have to say about Clinton is that she doesn't give the same speech. Perhaps that's because she keeps changing positions. The only thing she has been consistent about is refusing to release the content of those Goldman Sachs speeches.
3
I agree with the column's general tone: we need a President who has enough humility to seriously work through the "boring, grownup" jobs-- all the way through negotiating and compromising until implementation.
I view the Presidential campaign as I did the non-profit organizations whom I was called in to aid: everyone wants to be a star, but few(er) people are willing to slog through the "boring, grownup" tasks that will bring no glory, but keep everything running.
I am now suspicious of "charisma": its gleam dazzles the eyes and clouds judgment. Accordingly, I read candidates' position papers rather than watching or listening to oratory.
I view the Presidential campaign as I did the non-profit organizations whom I was called in to aid: everyone wants to be a star, but few(er) people are willing to slog through the "boring, grownup" tasks that will bring no glory, but keep everything running.
I am now suspicious of "charisma": its gleam dazzles the eyes and clouds judgment. Accordingly, I read candidates' position papers rather than watching or listening to oratory.
35
I recommend the Youtube clip which shows Bernie campaigning in the rain on a median strip in Vermont. Alone. No cameras. Nobody can beat Bernie when it comes to concern for the common people. Perhaps the New York Times could scout out a few of those Youtube clips, or speak to the many Vermonters who have had face-to-face time with Bernie to highlight this side of him.
1
Gee, it seems to me that a President who has listened to the concerns of preschool teachers and peach farmers might be an asset - more of one than a guy who keeps giving the same wowser speech over and over. That said, I cannot for the life of me understand Sanders supporters who say that if he does not get the nomination they will not vote for Hillary either 1) because they don't like her or 2) because she gave speeches to big banks or 3) because they want big change NOW and she has more of a practical and gradual approach. I guess they, for all their cheering at Sanders' progressive, far left ideas, will be perfectly happy with President Cruz? Go figure.
113
Sanders has listened to farmers and teachers all his life. He does not have to stage a meeting with country side folks. He is one of them. He and his wife earn an annual salary combined, that Hillary earns in ONE speech!
4
Why must people like you continue to insult Sanders supporters, implying that we are somehow simpletons because we don't want to vote for Clinton. It's true, I do NOT like Hillary Clinton, but it isn't because of her personality. I don't like her because of what her record, particularly when she was secretary of state. She made disastrous decisions regarding Libya, which this newspaper wrote about in great detail. She supported the coup in Hondurus, which totally devastated the country. And she authorized selling arms to nefarious dictators, among other things, in exchange for so called contributions to the Clinton Foundation. I also don't like her because she made all those $250,000 speeches to Wall Street right before announcing her candidacy, won't release the transcripts and acts like we voters shouldn't even care. Finally I don't like her because of what she advocates, no fly zones, dropping bombs on Iran and unconditional support of Israel. It baffles me that none of these things bother Clinton supporters like you.
5
Yes—I would rather have a President Cruz than a President Clinton.
It appears some Bernie's followers are a bit like Trump's. The more their candidates go unhinged, the more they like it. Maybe it is true: moderation is dead, long live extremism! Sad really!
63
@Bos
Not quite. Not all of Bernie's supporters particularly cared for his assertion about Sec. Clinton being unqualified to be POTUS, and that includes me and my children (one in early twenties and the other late twenties).
Though Bernie said it with "air quotes" and "ifs" and all that, it was a stupid thing to say and it was good that he backtracked and quickly.
One of the things that some of us like about Bernie is he mostly takes the high road (his reluctance to attack Mrs. Clinton on her "damn emails" issue, for example). If he abandons that high road, it is quite likely that the voters' enthusiasm for him will erode.
It would be better for the Democrats if they don't resort to personal attacks and insults that have been the norm in the GOP primary.
Incidentally, there is widespread speculation that Sanders' supporters will either stay home or support the GOP candidate in the general election. The Atlantic debunked that theory. http://tinyurl.com/zzgoc6f
Not quite. Not all of Bernie's supporters particularly cared for his assertion about Sec. Clinton being unqualified to be POTUS, and that includes me and my children (one in early twenties and the other late twenties).
Though Bernie said it with "air quotes" and "ifs" and all that, it was a stupid thing to say and it was good that he backtracked and quickly.
One of the things that some of us like about Bernie is he mostly takes the high road (his reluctance to attack Mrs. Clinton on her "damn emails" issue, for example). If he abandons that high road, it is quite likely that the voters' enthusiasm for him will erode.
It would be better for the Democrats if they don't resort to personal attacks and insults that have been the norm in the GOP primary.
Incidentally, there is widespread speculation that Sanders' supporters will either stay home or support the GOP candidate in the general election. The Atlantic debunked that theory. http://tinyurl.com/zzgoc6f
2
Is this the tpye of attacking one another you hope will win the race? If so, how does that distinguish one party from the other?
I'm probably like most progressives right now, in that I will vote for the Democratic nominee whomever that may be. That said, after reading the transcript of Sanders' NYDN interview, and also the details of the "qualified/not qualified" dustup with Clinton, I can only conclude that Sanders is getting a very unfair shake. Frankly, I agree with him on breaking up the big banks, and I say that as one who worked in one in a position in which I learned the inside scoop. I just read Jane Mayer's "Dark Money", and came away with even greater awareness of the poison that big money represents in our political system. In that light, I applaud and fully support Sanders' approach to campaign finance. Say what we will about him, nobody can accuse him of being in anyone's pocket. That goes an awfully long way with those of us who have had enough of business as usual, an approach that has for too long favored the vested interests at the expense of the nation as a whole. This election, perhaps more than any in my sixty-something years, is about the future of our country - whether we passively allow oligarchy to become fully entrenched, or demand a return to democracy. In such a scenario, I just don't think "incremental change" and "policy wonkery" will be sufficient to preserve the country for our children and grandchildren.
136
I tend to agree. My concern is that with "revolutionary change" you often get unintended and unexpected consequences. That reminds me that Stability is required for any large, complex system (and our country is surely that) to function. We may actually be better off with HRC and trying to throw the disruptive GOP out. Tough call. I would vote for Bernie's heart and Hillary's head.
3
I like and respect Bernie Sanders. But after reading the the transcript of the Daily News interview, I came away with a different conclusion. He was generally clear and articulate. But when pressed on details of his plan to break up the banks--and he was pressed repeatedly--it seemed to me that he hadn't thought the issue through.
5
I recommend reading Frank's article in this month's Harpers on Hillary's version of helping poor women. It brought me to tears for the women "helped" in to debt they can't repay and the self congratulating benefactors who run the show.
Hillary may be willing to walk in cow patties for votes but she has no insight into poverty. Nada.
The real difference between Bernie and Hillary can be seen in their haircuts recently. No, not the style. Bernie's cost $11 at a regular joe barbershop with ordinary people hanging around. Hillary's was in the vicinity of $1500 and her entourage of four black cars blocked traffic around Bergdof's for the entire time, engines running. Did I mention that the store provides her with a private elevator? Based on that small thing from their private lives, which one better understands "people like me"?
Hillary may be willing to walk in cow patties for votes but she has no insight into poverty. Nada.
The real difference between Bernie and Hillary can be seen in their haircuts recently. No, not the style. Bernie's cost $11 at a regular joe barbershop with ordinary people hanging around. Hillary's was in the vicinity of $1500 and her entourage of four black cars blocked traffic around Bergdof's for the entire time, engines running. Did I mention that the store provides her with a private elevator? Based on that small thing from their private lives, which one better understands "people like me"?
2
Why does the New York Times persist in saying New York is Hillary's home turf. Listen up! Hillary is from Chicago, as is the Daley Crew, Barack Obama, Elijah Muhammen, the Black Stone Rangers, Rahn Emanuel and a host of other leading lights. Why keep repeating the same lie over and over?
Like Bobby Kennedy before her, Hillary was a carpet-bagger in the State of New York and has no real roots there. Hillary is as much a New Yorker as Elizabeth Warren is a Cherokee native American. We all know that Hillary lies reflexively, but cannot the venerable New York Times stick to the facts on this issue?
Like Bobby Kennedy before her, Hillary was a carpet-bagger in the State of New York and has no real roots there. Hillary is as much a New Yorker as Elizabeth Warren is a Cherokee native American. We all know that Hillary lies reflexively, but cannot the venerable New York Times stick to the facts on this issue?
21
It's nauseating to see the frequent references to Bernie's age. Hillary will be 70 in a few months! (Trump also). The constant focus on Bernie's age exposes the age-ism of the media and the solidarity of media's commitment to the status quo. Every TV and radio presenter, regardless of declared or undeclared orientation, repeats it like a verbal tic: "He's 74. He can't win". Yet every forum where readers and audiences can reply overwhelmingly favors Bernie. Just like at this list of reder comments this morning.
2
Dear Z: Ms. Clinton lives in New York State. In Chappaqua. She has lived there for at least a decade. I'd say that qualifies as residency. Would you like the NYT to change spatial reality to fit your opinion? BTW- it's Elijah MuhammAD and RahM Emmanual.
3
She was from Arkansas before that! You know a southerner wink wink.
2
Oh boy! Now it's finally New York's turn! The spotlight at last. Usually New York is just glossed over and ignored as a foregone conclusion.
It's April, so we have to be done with primaries soon, right? I mean, eternity can't go on this long.
I can only hope that by the time we get to the general election with our two (or three) candidates selected, we didn't so totally burn ourselves out wrangling between Hillary and Bernie, and Donald, Ted and Please Lord Anyone Else, that people just choose instead to retire to a cave and not bother to vote at all.
It's April, so we have to be done with primaries soon, right? I mean, eternity can't go on this long.
I can only hope that by the time we get to the general election with our two (or three) candidates selected, we didn't so totally burn ourselves out wrangling between Hillary and Bernie, and Donald, Ted and Please Lord Anyone Else, that people just choose instead to retire to a cave and not bother to vote at all.
9
Since Senator Sanders is raising substantially more money in small direct contributions from his supporters than Mrs. Clinton, let's hope Hillary won't pull a Rick Lazio on Bernie by walking over to him and asking him to sign a pledge to stop using direct campaign contributions. That's the kind of thing that could cost you an election!
7
The Dem machine (which includes the NY Times) and Wall St. want Hilary because she's "qualified" to kick the can down the road but voters (Dem and GOP alike) want something more extreme this year. Bernie is a refreshing alternative to Hil's business as usual. Sure he's a threat to the machine but you only have to look at the Obama Pres. to see how little a president can accomplish when obstructionism is shoveling their bull across the media. Bernie give us a chance to get this country back on its principles. After the people have spoken Hil will fade off to Chappaqua and write a book about what great sect. of state she was. Then the real fun begins with American Dream or American Nightmare (Trump/Cruz).
19
The Bern couldn't get along with fellow Democrats during his 30 years in Congress, how is that going to change?
4
Where is proof for your assertion? So many Bernie supporters come off as conspiracy theorists.
3
I posted in another NYT comments section that I had voted for Bernie in the Ohio primary, but that he sometimes comes across as a one-note jerk. I was accused of lying about my vote and was called a "Hillary-bot." Well, I did indeed vote for the guy in the primary, just doing my bit to try to keep Clinton on a leftward path. The "Bernie or Nobody" folks often sound like Trump's whiny, paranoid followers. Sanders' responses to questions about fiscal matters in that recent interview were pitiful. As much as I despise the long, drawn-out election process in this country, it does serve to let people take a hard look at the candidates over a sustained period of time. I'm not feeling the Bern at this point.
91
Mrs. Clinton has been "listening" for years, and from what I can tell, she has learned nothing.
42
Did you see Sanders in the Charlie Rose interview?
"Listening" would have been a godsend for Bernie to even try.
"Listening" would have been a godsend for Bernie to even try.
5
Gail never disappoints. Great stuff.
22
My heart's a-flutter every time I am reminded of Hilary's achievements, such as the bill she sponsored in the 107th Congress, "S.2283 - A bill to reliquidate certain entries of tomato sauce preparation." (See https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/107/s2283/text for all the details.)
8
You forgot the important ones. She named a post office, a street, and designated a park. She even got Republican votes for these stellar accomplishments. See, she can work across the aisle.
2
Bernie doesn't have the experience to be president. He hasn't helped start a single war, helped outsource a single American job, or taken a single dime from Goldman Sachs. Nor is he under investigation by the FBI.
Go back to Vermont and wait your turn, Bernie!
Go back to Vermont and wait your turn, Bernie!
46
He's just too handsome to be president.
1
Amen. You need to be a Clinton to be president worthy, carrying all the baggage you wear with "humility". As a former First Lady, Hillary has protection and life long privileges, why should she go to super it's when she can afford and is entitled to a $600 hair cut.
3
Yeah and he has only been in Congress for 25 years so he hasn't learned how things work.
If you want to see how well he knows how things work with the media, watch yesterday's Town Hall on the Today show. Matt Lauer got a lesson on baiting people.
If you want to see how well he knows how things work with the media, watch yesterday's Town Hall on the Today show. Matt Lauer got a lesson on baiting people.
2
Love Bernie, but his statement that Hilary is not qualified to be president because she accepted campaign contributions from Wall Street? Good grief. Fact people....Wall Street donates to both parties. Always has, always will. And it is not strictly about buying favors. They are invested in a stable USA. And they also manage the retirement savings of many middle class people. We need Wall Street. We just need it to be well regulated. Hilary has voted to regulate Wall Street. Cruz will do their bidding. Trump will do God knows whatever pops into his head at any given moment.....
And another thing Bernie supporters are screaming about: The Clinton Foundation and inappropriate donations. The foundation doesn't benefit the Clinton's. It is a public charitable foundation. And well ranked at that. To portray it as something that benefits them personally? Disengenous.
And another thing Bernie supporters are screaming about: The Clinton Foundation and inappropriate donations. The foundation doesn't benefit the Clinton's. It is a public charitable foundation. And well ranked at that. To portray it as something that benefits them personally? Disengenous.
109
Your statement that "Wall Street... Always has and always will" attests to your belief that nothing can change. We are stuck with inequality and corruption, so why try? Why hope for anything better. I understand perfectly why you support Hillary. She is the candidate of do nothing, just wash the dishes and do the laundry.
2
The way I see it, this election is about the future direction of our country. We are at a place where we can share our country's potential and work together to make progress, real progress. Or we can stick with the old dog eat dog song. Bernie Sanders offers us a bright future where we can all be our better selves and together reach wonderful goals.
25
Gail, the Times has sunk SO LOW in its journalism regarding Senator Sanders that the articles really are not worth reading anymore. Just skim it to get the gist of how you're slandering Bernie today, then move on to the only interesting and informative thing the NYT has left - the comments section.
Regardless of the outcome of the primary or the general election, three things are going to happen:
1. The registered Democratic voter rolls are going to drop off dramatically.
2. The New York Times is going to have to buy a lot more add space to make up for all the subscribers who leave in disgust.
3. The awakening American electorate will continue its quest for an actual representative government.
Regardless of the outcome of the primary or the general election, three things are going to happen:
1. The registered Democratic voter rolls are going to drop off dramatically.
2. The New York Times is going to have to buy a lot more add space to make up for all the subscribers who leave in disgust.
3. The awakening American electorate will continue its quest for an actual representative government.
27
My husband keeps urging me to cancel my subscription and move to a British one. They are objective, something corporate newspapers have lost in the hunt for sensationalism.
3
Bernie Sanders gives rousing speeches and many of his ideas are fantastic; free education, universal healthcare, the end of Wall Street corruption, real equality - all fantastic ideas. But they are just that - fantastic. How does he plan to get these changes through Congress? Ah yes, he wants a political and cultural revolution. Well, historically, cultural and political revolutions have been accomplished by blood, tears and civil unrest. Do we really want that for this country?
Hillary Clinton gives fairly tame, careful speeches that don't really get the blood rising in our veins, As Gail Collins noted, Clinton speaks not of revolution but of improvement and gradual change; goals that are much more realistic and attainable. She knows how the political machine works, she has gravitas, she knows how to compromise. In other words, she is a well developed political animal and more likely to succeed with Congress.
I'd rather have a President who is fighting for improvement in our country than someone who is fighting for a cause.
Hillary Clinton gives fairly tame, careful speeches that don't really get the blood rising in our veins, As Gail Collins noted, Clinton speaks not of revolution but of improvement and gradual change; goals that are much more realistic and attainable. She knows how the political machine works, she has gravitas, she knows how to compromise. In other words, she is a well developed political animal and more likely to succeed with Congress.
I'd rather have a President who is fighting for improvement in our country than someone who is fighting for a cause.
105
Me too, but it is that very thing that has caused so many progressives to be disappointed in Obama's performance. I'm not one of them as I think, given the conditions of the country he inherited and the opposition of the Congress we elected, he has done a fantastic job. Slow and steady wins the race in my mind. I just open people won't abandon Hillary when she too adopts a more gradual approach to improvement. She certainly isn't deceiving people into believing they are going to get something more.
3
Just for the record, he is absolutely not calling for a "revolution". He is calling for Americans to get involved in their own democracy. That is what he means by "political revolution".
3
Agreed.
And I also prefer stability to "blood, tears, and civil unrest".
And I also prefer stability to "blood, tears, and civil unrest".
4
Bernie Sanders may be the most overrated candidate since Nixon.
Nearly a 1/2 century in politics...can anyone name anything he's accomplished.
Just another mouth without accomplishment.
And compared to Hillary, he is a lightweight of almost infinitesimal proportions.
Please may he just fade away to the obscurity he deserves.
Nearly a 1/2 century in politics...can anyone name anything he's accomplished.
Just another mouth without accomplishment.
And compared to Hillary, he is a lightweight of almost infinitesimal proportions.
Please may he just fade away to the obscurity he deserves.
62
Tough choice, Clinton is probably the one candidate we've ever seen carrying that much baggage.
Now two Federal Judges are after her under the Freedom of Information Act, she and her people better get their story synced.
Now two Federal Judges are after her under the Freedom of Information Act, she and her people better get their story synced.
2
Was Mayor of Burlington VT. for three terms, a Member of Congress for 16 years, and a Senator since 2006.
As Mayor he created a balanced budget, brought minor league ball to the city and led a downtown development boom, among other things.
In Congress he has fought for Veterans' rights, voted against the Bush wars, the Patriot act -- shall I go on?
He has accomplished a lot.
As Mayor he created a balanced budget, brought minor league ball to the city and led a downtown development boom, among other things.
In Congress he has fought for Veterans' rights, voted against the Bush wars, the Patriot act -- shall I go on?
He has accomplished a lot.
1
He turned Burlington around. Under his leadership as mayor it became one of the most livable cities in America. That was done against Republican entrenched resistance. He has a huge number of amendments to his credit in Congress that were passed with bipartisanship. He was chair of the Veterans Affairs committee where he worked with McCain to pass comprehensive reform at the VA. Want more or will be that do starters?
3
"You have always had an agenda against my candidate. It's your usual bias. You're not being fair, you just want my candidate to lose. Don't give me another reason to cancel my subscription. Your editorial board has had it in for my candidate from the start."
(Note to user: Apply any of these statements when a news organization uses facts, stats, or research to show your candidate in a bad light. Works for liberal or conservative followers.)
(Note to user: Apply any of these statements when a news organization uses facts, stats, or research to show your candidate in a bad light. Works for liberal or conservative followers.)
29
Clinton's supporters have been far less vocal on social media than Sanders's, but they are beginning to wake up as the race tightens. They will question the "lazy reporter" narrative of the "untrustworthy" Clinton more frequently, the way that Gail has. In fact, Gail virtually ignores it. And in contrast, casts a rare, (and necessary) dispassionate eye on Sanders. Good for you, Gail.
31
Gail you must have wrote this before the news broke that Bernie was never actually invited by the pope to the Vatican for this so called climate summit. Turns out that he lobbied the Pontifical Academy of Science and essentially invited himself. Turns out there is no meeting scheduled with the pope. I'd say that in this instance Mr. sanders sounds like your run of the mill politician who bloviates and stretches the truth to pander for votes.
44
You should read the SECOND part of the Times article where someone claims Bernie "invited himself:" the part where the Vatican official who invited him denies everything the first one says and explains it all. Funny how the Times articles about Bernie denigrate him first, then put the absolving parts at the end of the story. Editorial policy? Anyway, he didn't invite himself. It was all a lie. And you fell for it.
3
The single most important issue, for this radically anti-war Viet Nam veteran, is that Bernie Sanders is the only candidate who has denounced perpetual war.
Hillary voted for The Charge of The Fools Brigade into Iraq, was instrumental in the fiasco called Libya, is hawkish on Syria, and has said not one word about the futility of the US's 63 year, and counting, Crusade of Morons in the Middle East.
But, come November, I will vote for whichever Democrat gets the nomination.
Because, the thought of a Supreme appointed by Viet Nam draft dodger Trump or by Ayatollah Ted, to compliment the moral disasters of the ReaganBushBush Supremes is, too horrible to contemplate.
Hillary voted for The Charge of The Fools Brigade into Iraq, was instrumental in the fiasco called Libya, is hawkish on Syria, and has said not one word about the futility of the US's 63 year, and counting, Crusade of Morons in the Middle East.
But, come November, I will vote for whichever Democrat gets the nomination.
Because, the thought of a Supreme appointed by Viet Nam draft dodger Trump or by Ayatollah Ted, to compliment the moral disasters of the ReaganBushBush Supremes is, too horrible to contemplate.
77
Yes, if only Democratic voters will focus on the Supreme Court! Once we get Sanders or Clinton into the White House, and a decent justice on the Supreme Court, we can get back to the family feud that is the Democratic Party.
2
FYI, 77 out of 100 Senators voted for the Iraq War
2
The press - and Secretary Clinton have been a lot kinder to Bernie than the Republicans would be if he were the nominee - I can see the ads now, with a hammer and sickle over his face. He isn't a Democrat, he's a Socialist who caucuses with Democrats - and good luck trying to explain the difference between a Communist and a Socialist.
68
Why are we not paying more attention to HRC's achievements, like the bill she sponsored in the 107th Congress, "S.2273 - A bill to reliquidate certain entries of tomato sauce preparation"? See https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/107/s2283/text for all the details.
7
" he just keeps giving the same speech. "
Trump continue to use his build a wall speech which predictably rouses his low education crowd every time. Bernie speaks to his high education crowd about breaking up the banks and giving young people free tuition and it rouses them every time. No one outside their circles of admirers thinks these things will ever happen; mainly because both candidates have no sensible and reasonable plan to advance these agendas. Both Trump and Sanders have become very testy when under close questioning their ideas are put through the meat grinder of reality. Sanders has his head so far up in the clouds I don't think he knows down from up.
Trump continue to use his build a wall speech which predictably rouses his low education crowd every time. Bernie speaks to his high education crowd about breaking up the banks and giving young people free tuition and it rouses them every time. No one outside their circles of admirers thinks these things will ever happen; mainly because both candidates have no sensible and reasonable plan to advance these agendas. Both Trump and Sanders have become very testy when under close questioning their ideas are put through the meat grinder of reality. Sanders has his head so far up in the clouds I don't think he knows down from up.
53
Perhaps HC can enlighten us all about her business strategies on how to shake down corporate types here and abroad to become 'super' rich while serving the public. I know she parlayed 1K into $100K in the past. With success like that, why not pursue her business successes to make America great again.
Smarten up NYT readers...
Smarten up NYT readers...
1
Babel disses Bernie saying - "No one outside their circles of admirers thinks these things ( his ideas) will ever happen"
No one believed a year ago that $15 an hr minimum wage would work either. Never underestimate the power of the word - the power of dreamers!
No one believed a year ago that $15 an hr minimum wage would work either. Never underestimate the power of the word - the power of dreamers!
2
Being reading a lot of press, huh? They like to make false comparisons. It is easier than analysts - and cheaper! Trump and Bernie are both NY natives and white males. That is where it ends.
I'm not Jewish but I was cringing at the sight of Senator Cruz pandering at a matzoh factory. I thought he might break into a medley from "Fiddler on the Roof," but switched to another channel before that could happen. We all know that these photo ops are an unavoidable part of campaigning, thus Secretary Clinton finds herself at a museum even though I've never heard her express interest in a Pierce Arrow. But now comes Senator Sanders, who could be our first Jewish president, scoring a political coup with an invitation to the Vatican.
Ultimately, this is a big time saver for me. I've been a fan of political satire since the 8th grade when I first read Art Buchwald's "Son of the Great Society." These days I just follow the routine coverage of the campaigns and get my daily dose of improbable, but slightly plausible news.
Maybe Art is watching over us and knows we need a laugh.
Ultimately, this is a big time saver for me. I've been a fan of political satire since the 8th grade when I first read Art Buchwald's "Son of the Great Society." These days I just follow the routine coverage of the campaigns and get my daily dose of improbable, but slightly plausible news.
Maybe Art is watching over us and knows we need a laugh.
14
Ted Cruz inside a matzo factory is as dissonant as it gets. Remember that Cruz, a Dominionist, believes that all the world's Jews must congregate in Israel and then die en masse to trigger Christ's return to Earth. And he's the GOP's "sane" candidate?
2
Gail Collins, I have always loved to read your columns and found them informative. But then, before this presidential primary, I also used to rely on the NYTimes to live up to its moniker of "all the news that's fit to print" and trusted that your coverage was fair and in depth. No more. You and the Times have lost 30 years of my respect. This fluff piece is beneath you. You are not commenting on either Bernie Sanders or Hillary Clinton in a way that addresses legitimate positions or issues. Shame on you for being snarky. How about do a little research and acknowledge that Bernie has laid out some serious detail regarding banking, trade, and had the foresight to predict the Panama scandal. Or would that be too much to ask, since the NYTimes has sunk into tabloid reporting, rather than the esteemed thoughtful entity that I used to know.
31
@Candace: Gail Collins is a satirist, and her forte is sharp, incisive and witty observations on the foibles of politics. She can't be expected to be a reporter per se, delving into the minutiae of his policies.
The NYT is one of the most respected media giants in the world. Their reporting is renowned and wins Pulitzers. I'm getting tired of the Bernie people constantly complaining about their coverage of Sanders. It's symbolic of their intolerance to any critique of their man.
Moreover, the Times already endorsed Clinton so what do you expect? Ranting about decisions of the Editorial Board will do no good--if you don't like the paper, don't read it.
The NYT is one of the most respected media giants in the world. Their reporting is renowned and wins Pulitzers. I'm getting tired of the Bernie people constantly complaining about their coverage of Sanders. It's symbolic of their intolerance to any critique of their man.
Moreover, the Times already endorsed Clinton so what do you expect? Ranting about decisions of the Editorial Board will do no good--if you don't like the paper, don't read it.
48
Don't be so hard on Gail. She is just following orders from above, i.e. the Sulzbergers, et al!
2
And Gail fell flat with this column. It isn't witty, and it isn't accurate, precisely because she is advocating for a specific candidate.
3
One need only read the NYDNews editors sit-down with Sanders to understand that he really is a hollow shell with an empty promise: free stuff. It took New Yorkers to pull the covers off this pseudo-Democrat. If he can't take the heat he should stay out of Hell's Kitchen.
55
That was exactly how Hillary ran for the senate, one county, person by person, learning New Yorkers needs and wants. She is brilliant and effective and is a role model for being knocked down and getting back up. She will fight to achieve the best for the majority of our citizens if she wins the Presidency.
81
Hillary is certainly well-informed about practically everything, but if she becomes president, at best we'll get 4 or 8 more years of incremental change. A tweak to the ACA here, a minor adjustment to drone policy there.
If Sanders is elected, we'll get a president who will try to make the big changes America needs to reverse the decline of the past 35 years.
It all starts with getting money out of politics. America is an oligarchy run by a few very wealthy people. Nothing much will change until we become a functioning democracy again.
If Sanders is elected, we'll get a president who will try to make the big changes America needs to reverse the decline of the past 35 years.
It all starts with getting money out of politics. America is an oligarchy run by a few very wealthy people. Nothing much will change until we become a functioning democracy again.
93
"If Sanders is elected, we'll get a president who will try to make the big changes America needs to reverse the decline of the past 35 years."
The Democrats have been trying to make these changes. The Republicans have been blocking them. Sanders needs to help raise money to elect Democrats up and down the ticket, not rant against them, if he wants to achieve his stated goals.
The Democrats have been trying to make these changes. The Republicans have been blocking them. Sanders needs to help raise money to elect Democrats up and down the ticket, not rant against them, if he wants to achieve his stated goals.
8
And Bernie Sanders is going to do this how, exactly? By inspiring the Republican-controlled House of Representatives to pass democratic-socialist bills? This is the part where adults stand up and realize that Clinton's incremental improvements are much more likely to lead to good outcomes than 4 years of a paralyzed, ineffective Bernie Sanders.
17
America is an oligarchy that runs the newspapers, especially the New York Times and its supposed opposite, the Wall Street Journal...what a joke! They know, we know, and they just laugh at us! There are not enough pitch forks to take them down and they can always call out the US Army to protect their interests, if need be. The cops have always been in their bag!
I do not know if the New York primary will be a horse race for Clinton and Sanders. I am just hoping this time next year we will still have a Democrat occupying the White House. While Sanders talks about changing the way things are done, free college tuition, and single-payer health care, the reality is a Republican controlled Congress will assure that does not happen. Bernie Sanders is a decent, honest man who is sincere, and his ideas are certainly progressive. However, until we start electing more liberal Democrats from the grassroots on up, his kind of progressive ideas will not gain traction. Real change starts at the state level and works it way to the top. Further, if Bernie Sanders is the Democratic nominee, the conservative talk show hosts and Fox News will talk about nothing else but a "nanny state" and "takers" in every other sentence, because he honestly labeled himself a Socialist Democrat.
I believe Clinton to be more electable than Sanders. She is well qualified to be President, despite Sanders assertion. She will not bring sweeping changes, but if we are able to hold onto the years of hard won social progress we have made, I will be satisfied. However, if Bernie Sanders is the candidate, I will vote for him and hope I am surprised.
This election is frightening. If any one of the Republican candidates is elected, we will be on the road to a fascist/theocratic regime. Please vote for whoever the Democratic nominee is, please do not stay home in protest.
I believe Clinton to be more electable than Sanders. She is well qualified to be President, despite Sanders assertion. She will not bring sweeping changes, but if we are able to hold onto the years of hard won social progress we have made, I will be satisfied. However, if Bernie Sanders is the candidate, I will vote for him and hope I am surprised.
This election is frightening. If any one of the Republican candidates is elected, we will be on the road to a fascist/theocratic regime. Please vote for whoever the Democratic nominee is, please do not stay home in protest.
100
Well said, Diana. Agree wholeheartedly. Democrats need to unite. We have our individual favorite candidate - sure. But at the end of the day, please unite and just vote for the eventual Democratic candidate. Let's not shoot ourselves in the foot.... cut off our noses to spite our face....throw the water out with the baby... (not sure about that last one, but you get my drift).
4
I voted for Bernie in the primary and I'll vote for whichever Democrat gets the nomination. I just hope it actually reflects what the majority wants. When the election was stolen from Al Gore, I became a little pessimistic about "and to the Republic for which it stands." Have yet to see one column attempting, or succeeding, to give unbiased analysis of Mr. Sanders.
The Republican "contestants" all seem to be Batman's worst nemeses, and have received press coverage ad nauseam. I see Trump yard signs here in the South and can still hardly believe it.
Thanks for keeping it light, you're a good example, I'm just finding it hard to do so...
The Republican "contestants" all seem to be Batman's worst nemeses, and have received press coverage ad nauseam. I see Trump yard signs here in the South and can still hardly believe it.
Thanks for keeping it light, you're a good example, I'm just finding it hard to do so...
16
There are many great lines in this column but my favorite is "While we like to pretend New York politics is exciting, it’s mainly just one indictment after another." It also includes the best warts and all portrait of Hillary the campaigner that I've read anywhere.
8
As a former Republican, I see this as the bottom line. If Hillary loses, her supporters MUST vote for Bernie--and vice versa.
We MUST avoid the probable disaster of President Trump and the definite disaster of President Cruz.
We MUST avoid the probable disaster of President Trump and the definite disaster of President Cruz.
73
I am seeking a presidential candidate who seeks office to realize a vision, not to capstone a political résumé, or to fulfill personal spiritual voids that chronically fails to feed their monumental egos and utter disdain for humanity. There's only one such candidate, flawed for sure, but then who isn't?
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
18
Why is it always about Hillary? Improvement, what improvement? How to give speeches to Goldman for $600K+? Better informed about the concerns of everyday Americans? She who takes a Hampton summer house at a rental of $150K per week? Am I missing something. Her message is me, Bernie's message is we. Is America smart enough to embrace "we?"
94
Actually, you are missing something. You have to listen more carefully. Bernie's message may sound like "we", but this is a personal pilgrimage that he has been on for 30+ years. I agree that Bernie has a great message, but he has had many, many years to form a coalition, get other like-minded people elected, and slowly build upon all his principles. He hasn't done that. He has enjoyed being the "Independent". Having thousands of people at rallies is much more about "me" than traveling around the states asking small groups what they need from government.
8
Gail, this reads like the antidote to Paul Krugman's take-down of Bernie Sanders in Friday's editions. You don't handcuff him in a whitewater canoe and send him downriver like Dr. Krugman did. Worse, you serve up Hillary Clinton. Again.
I have a confession. I fully recognize the ticking clock that Donald Trump and Ted "Canadian Club" Cruz represent but I just can't get excited about Hillary. If you look closely, there's a lot there that doesn't add up. Al Gore at least got a sloppy one from Tipper.
It seems to me that as Bernie takes HRC's body punches and doesn't go down, she's the one who takes the clinches to breathe. It isn't pretty, this sweaty boxing analogy, but then-Cassius Clay outlasted Sonny Liston while being half-blinded by the substance Liston's corner men daubed on his gloves. Upset of the century. There could be another, as faraway as it seems now; Sanders isn't taking standing eights and he won't be floored. Hillary may take the marathon in 15 rounds but what will she have left for the snarling, growling Rottweilers in the general?
If she's the nominee I'll vote for her, but I'm tired of her already and the convention is four months off, the election seven months from tonight.
Near the end of The Lord of the Rings, a weary Frodo asks Gandalf "where will I find rest? Gandalf gave no answer." Politics is a weary business, so much so that there should be some fun and excitement about it. If Bernie loses it'll feel like a jail sentence. New York. New York.
I have a confession. I fully recognize the ticking clock that Donald Trump and Ted "Canadian Club" Cruz represent but I just can't get excited about Hillary. If you look closely, there's a lot there that doesn't add up. Al Gore at least got a sloppy one from Tipper.
It seems to me that as Bernie takes HRC's body punches and doesn't go down, she's the one who takes the clinches to breathe. It isn't pretty, this sweaty boxing analogy, but then-Cassius Clay outlasted Sonny Liston while being half-blinded by the substance Liston's corner men daubed on his gloves. Upset of the century. There could be another, as faraway as it seems now; Sanders isn't taking standing eights and he won't be floored. Hillary may take the marathon in 15 rounds but what will she have left for the snarling, growling Rottweilers in the general?
If she's the nominee I'll vote for her, but I'm tired of her already and the convention is four months off, the election seven months from tonight.
Near the end of The Lord of the Rings, a weary Frodo asks Gandalf "where will I find rest? Gandalf gave no answer." Politics is a weary business, so much so that there should be some fun and excitement about it. If Bernie loses it'll feel like a jail sentence. New York. New York.
25
The biggest? Close competitors include the tidal basin bombshell (Wilbur Mills and Fannie Fox, something about politics and those Arkansas men!), no secrets Gary Hart (with my state's own Donna Rice); NJ's outted governor, SC's hiking governor, JFK's frolickings, and lest we forget the selfies of Anthony Weiner? Scandals with pages include Dan Crane and Gary Studds, NY has seen Eric Massa's groping and tickling ("I tickled him until he couldn't breathe.").
John Edwards had a campaign child; John Ensign had a campaign meltdown with the wife of a close friend who his daddy paid off; Gary Condit's involvement in a sex and murder mystery was a low. It's all enough to make you tap your toes.
Strom Thurmond definitely showed his radical trouncing of views on racial intimacy, so did Thomas Jefferson. VA's Charles Robb was indiscreet with a Miss Virginia. Out west, WA's Brock Adams and OR's Robert Packwood between them were accused of harassment, abuse, and in one case, rape. I am sure NY's Alexander Hamilton spoke for many who were married in his offered apology: "I can never cease to condemn myself for the pang which it may inflict in a bosom eminently entitled to all my gratitude, fidelity, and love."
If history teaches us anything, we know the worst in sexual scandals is yet to come!
John Edwards had a campaign child; John Ensign had a campaign meltdown with the wife of a close friend who his daddy paid off; Gary Condit's involvement in a sex and murder mystery was a low. It's all enough to make you tap your toes.
Strom Thurmond definitely showed his radical trouncing of views on racial intimacy, so did Thomas Jefferson. VA's Charles Robb was indiscreet with a Miss Virginia. Out west, WA's Brock Adams and OR's Robert Packwood between them were accused of harassment, abuse, and in one case, rape. I am sure NY's Alexander Hamilton spoke for many who were married in his offered apology: "I can never cease to condemn myself for the pang which it may inflict in a bosom eminently entitled to all my gratitude, fidelity, and love."
If history teaches us anything, we know the worst in sexual scandals is yet to come!
14
Maybe Cruz will announce he wants to be a nun.
2
Let's not forget that the Clinton impeachment was spearheaded by three Republican legislators who were having illicit affairs of their own at the time: Newt Gingrich, Bob Livingston and Dennis Hastert.
13
New Yorkers in 1992 made a big mistake in not supporting Jerry Brown. Let's hope they are smarter this time.
Upstate New York farmers are hurting. The dairy farmers fortunes fluctuate with milk prices. I remember, a few years ago, a New York dairy farmer with a small herd, maybe 50 cows, got depressed, went out and shot every cow, then shot himself. These kinds of conditions should not be allowed to happen.
Upstate New York farmers are hurting. The dairy farmers fortunes fluctuate with milk prices. I remember, a few years ago, a New York dairy farmer with a small herd, maybe 50 cows, got depressed, went out and shot every cow, then shot himself. These kinds of conditions should not be allowed to happen.
28
"the strange series of claims that Clinton is not qualified to be president, the most improbable description"
Yes, Hillary has done all those things.
But she mostly got them wrong.
It was one mistake after another.
-- Go into Iraq, then stay there with the largest troop numbers anyone had suggested, then go back in after having finally left.
-- Stay in Afghanistan, and with much larger troop numbers.
-- Attack Libya. After all that had happened in Iraq, still make no provision for the day after.
-- Sponsor an insurgency in Syria, doing the same thing that kicked off the Afghan mess so many years ago. Surprise! It has turned out the same way.
-- Empower a hard core neocon Asst Sec of State and Ambassador who specialize in regime change to do regime change a second time in Ukraine, based on a "deal" with the EU instead of Russia, but a deal that the EU has just reneged on, while declaiming "F the EU" doing it. A disaster.
-- Claiming credit for Kosovo, even false claims to have been shot at there, in what has turned into Europe's organized crime central, Europe's only failed state.
-- Reset button, with the wrong word, and it did not happen anyway.
-- Having Putin and Lavrov and the Chinese run over her face at every encounter.
-- A Senator who promised upstate NY "200,000 jobs" and delivered nothing, passed three tiny bills in her whole time there, got nothing for NY.
What she did is not qualification, it is disqualification.
Yes, Hillary has done all those things.
But she mostly got them wrong.
It was one mistake after another.
-- Go into Iraq, then stay there with the largest troop numbers anyone had suggested, then go back in after having finally left.
-- Stay in Afghanistan, and with much larger troop numbers.
-- Attack Libya. After all that had happened in Iraq, still make no provision for the day after.
-- Sponsor an insurgency in Syria, doing the same thing that kicked off the Afghan mess so many years ago. Surprise! It has turned out the same way.
-- Empower a hard core neocon Asst Sec of State and Ambassador who specialize in regime change to do regime change a second time in Ukraine, based on a "deal" with the EU instead of Russia, but a deal that the EU has just reneged on, while declaiming "F the EU" doing it. A disaster.
-- Claiming credit for Kosovo, even false claims to have been shot at there, in what has turned into Europe's organized crime central, Europe's only failed state.
-- Reset button, with the wrong word, and it did not happen anyway.
-- Having Putin and Lavrov and the Chinese run over her face at every encounter.
-- A Senator who promised upstate NY "200,000 jobs" and delivered nothing, passed three tiny bills in her whole time there, got nothing for NY.
What she did is not qualification, it is disqualification.
246
Talking about lack of judgement, while preparing to run for President, going out and collecting a bunch of $225,000 per hour paydays for "speeches", adding up to well over $10 million, then saying those payments have no influence. And not even acknowledging any appearance of impropriety.
Exactly what did those speech buyers think they were getting for their money? An hour's enlightenment?
Exactly what did those speech buyers think they were getting for their money? An hour's enlightenment?
157
RM -- Yes. I ran out of characters.
We could go on with the Clinton Foundation money too, and money for it and her family while she was in office.
Going back there is her slut-shaming of women against Bill. That showed her real character. It reappears when she gives her little smile after one of her particularly nasty twisting of facts, like Bernie "against the auto bailout."
We could go on with the Clinton Foundation money too, and money for it and her family while she was in office.
Going back there is her slut-shaming of women against Bill. That showed her real character. It reappears when she gives her little smile after one of her particularly nasty twisting of facts, like Bernie "against the auto bailout."
15
Thinking of the women and children that have died from these foreign policy decisions makes me wonder if it's not selfish of all the middle-aged women supporting Hillary that, above all, want to see a woman in the White house in their lifetime. Sure that would be great, but at what cost? (No worries, I'm also middle-aged.... well, if 102 is mean life expectancy.)
8
The Ides of March we often hail
When Brutus did Caesar impale,
Noble motives, of course,
Marked by later remorse,
Now replayed with an "et tu, Gail"?
On Bernie they're whittling away
And putting Ms Hillary in play,
With centrist lackluster
She is no blockbuster,
But Bernie's impolite they say.
Young voters have answered his call,
They don't like Ms Hillary at all,
Bernie they are backing
With no passion lacking
Which augurs a Clintoniian fall!
When Brutus did Caesar impale,
Noble motives, of course,
Marked by later remorse,
Now replayed with an "et tu, Gail"?
On Bernie they're whittling away
And putting Ms Hillary in play,
With centrist lackluster
She is no blockbuster,
But Bernie's impolite they say.
Young voters have answered his call,
They don't like Ms Hillary at all,
Bernie they are backing
With no passion lacking
Which augurs a Clintoniian fall!
218
.
Hillary Clinton has raised money for organizations that can dole it out to candidates for state offices and for Congress; or to consultants and experts who will be vital to Democratic wins now and in the future. Remember 2012 when Obama's computers worked like a charm and Romney's worked so poorly they were abandoned? Computer expertise usually costs a little money. Has Bernie Sanders raised any money for the DNC?
Governing a country is not like putting up the tallest, most appealing building. It is more like installing infrastructure -- sewers, aqueducts, subway and train tunnels, cable -- and then building all kinds of buildings, of all sizes and for all purposes.
Will young people be drawn to scale models of the glistening tower? Sure. But which description fits the most livable, workable construction?
Anyway, nothing at all augurs a Clintonian fall in the New York primary. And there are only 2 caucus states left after that. Besides, the highly democratic Democratic delegate apportionment rules mean the 2nd-place finisher usually gets delegates in every state. Mathematically, Sanders thus has very little chance to close the pledged-delegate gap he created by not properly campaigning in the South. His Minnesota, Nevada, and Missouri delegates won't do him much good against her Texas delegates.
And in the general election, she will suffer for her "negatives" (increased by personal attacks in verse or prose). But my passion is the Electoral College. She'll win that!
Hillary Clinton has raised money for organizations that can dole it out to candidates for state offices and for Congress; or to consultants and experts who will be vital to Democratic wins now and in the future. Remember 2012 when Obama's computers worked like a charm and Romney's worked so poorly they were abandoned? Computer expertise usually costs a little money. Has Bernie Sanders raised any money for the DNC?
Governing a country is not like putting up the tallest, most appealing building. It is more like installing infrastructure -- sewers, aqueducts, subway and train tunnels, cable -- and then building all kinds of buildings, of all sizes and for all purposes.
Will young people be drawn to scale models of the glistening tower? Sure. But which description fits the most livable, workable construction?
Anyway, nothing at all augurs a Clintonian fall in the New York primary. And there are only 2 caucus states left after that. Besides, the highly democratic Democratic delegate apportionment rules mean the 2nd-place finisher usually gets delegates in every state. Mathematically, Sanders thus has very little chance to close the pledged-delegate gap he created by not properly campaigning in the South. His Minnesota, Nevada, and Missouri delegates won't do him much good against her Texas delegates.
And in the general election, she will suffer for her "negatives" (increased by personal attacks in verse or prose). But my passion is the Electoral College. She'll win that!
5
"Et tu, (fill in name of pro-Clinton NYT columnist)?" - today's winner in the comment's overused ironic catchphrase category. But thanks for the poem, anyway.
Augury - the root of the word inaugurate - the act of using birds as omens. Remember the bird on Bernie's podium? He used it as an augur of world peace. Go Bernie!
1
Hillary voted for war in Iraq. For many Sanders supporters, this is the sin that cannot be forgiven.
While I absolutely disagree with the decision to invade Iraq, it is important to consider the context of the Senate vote at the time. The Bush Administration had employed the CIA to concoct false intelligence reports that "proved" Saddam had WMD. Those reports were then shared in a dramatic presentation by Secretary of State Colin Powell at the United Nations. The target for said WMD was unquestionably Israel. The State of NY is keenly interested in the security of Israel.
HRC could have done a Joe Wilson "You Lie!" on the Senate floor, but lacking her own contravening intelligence operation, had to vote based on the information provided by the Executive to the Senators.
This was not an easy vote in the wake of the devastating impact of 9/11 on New York. Hilary says she regrets the vote. But she did enjoy an approval rating in the range of 75% through her two terms as NY Senator.
For those who like me who believe the Iraq War was the biggest foreign policy blunder since Vietnam, it is important to bear in mind that the criminal act was committed by the CIA and the President, rather than the Senate.
While I absolutely disagree with the decision to invade Iraq, it is important to consider the context of the Senate vote at the time. The Bush Administration had employed the CIA to concoct false intelligence reports that "proved" Saddam had WMD. Those reports were then shared in a dramatic presentation by Secretary of State Colin Powell at the United Nations. The target for said WMD was unquestionably Israel. The State of NY is keenly interested in the security of Israel.
HRC could have done a Joe Wilson "You Lie!" on the Senate floor, but lacking her own contravening intelligence operation, had to vote based on the information provided by the Executive to the Senators.
This was not an easy vote in the wake of the devastating impact of 9/11 on New York. Hilary says she regrets the vote. But she did enjoy an approval rating in the range of 75% through her two terms as NY Senator.
For those who like me who believe the Iraq War was the biggest foreign policy blunder since Vietnam, it is important to bear in mind that the criminal act was committed by the CIA and the President, rather than the Senate.
302
It was more than just a bad call. There was absolutely no credible evidence to suggest that Saddam Hussein had WMDs or was in the process of developing them. There was, on the other hand, lots of evidence to show that Osama bin Laden hated Saddam at least as much as he did the U.S. Which is to say he would never have cooperated with the Iraqi despot in order to launch the attacks of 9/11 or on anything else. At the same time, Bush Jr. had reasons of his own for wanting to take out Saddam, especially inasmuch as he had allowed bin Laden to slip through our fingers in Afghanistan and needed a sitting duck to offer up to the American public in his stead. Like many other D.C. Democrats, Hillary couldn't figure out that she was being played. True, the fault lied mainly with Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and the neocons but HRC and too many others should be regarded as dupes and enablers of the worst foreign policy decision committed by a U.S. President since Viet-Nam. It isn't a fatal flaw in her candidacy but it was more than a mere kerfuffle.
232
Anybody who took Bush, Cheney, and that entire neocon crew at face value without overwhelming evidence showed poor judgement.
104
As I recall, Bush and Cheney, cowards that they are, sent Colin Powell in to lay the groundwork for the war with Congress and the United Nations.
If I were being asked to consider sending our troops into harms' way in the Middle East, it's a lead pipe cinch that I would pay very close attention to what Colin Powell had to say. He is, without a doubt, one of the most admirable Americans of our time. Bush and Cheney used his sterling reputation to put the veneer of respectability on their evil plans.
Personally, I cringe for General Powell. I think it's clear that he knows he was used, and imagine it's very, very hard to live with the knowledge that those two knuckleheads tarnished his image forever.
Be that as it may, at the time, Americans were more united in our grief and horror over 9/11, and gave Bush the benefit of the doubt. Colin Powell's recommendation made it almost ironclad.
We were all lied to, including Hillary Clinton. We were all deceived.
If I were being asked to consider sending our troops into harms' way in the Middle East, it's a lead pipe cinch that I would pay very close attention to what Colin Powell had to say. He is, without a doubt, one of the most admirable Americans of our time. Bush and Cheney used his sterling reputation to put the veneer of respectability on their evil plans.
Personally, I cringe for General Powell. I think it's clear that he knows he was used, and imagine it's very, very hard to live with the knowledge that those two knuckleheads tarnished his image forever.
Be that as it may, at the time, Americans were more united in our grief and horror over 9/11, and gave Bush the benefit of the doubt. Colin Powell's recommendation made it almost ironclad.
We were all lied to, including Hillary Clinton. We were all deceived.
21
"Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders announced he is going to the Vatican, where he hopes to meet with the pope."
Hopes to meet with the pope? He was invited by the Vatican to speak there! "Hoping to meet with the pope" sounds like a teen who goes to a concert in the hope of meeting their idol. That just isn't the case. Why write like that? What purpose does it serve. Does such an opportunity really need to be minimized? I know, this column is usually written in a lighthearted tone, but really... It is precisely the sentiment behind this kind of writing is what prompted Reuters to ask a Vatican official if Sanders had invited himself to the event. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-election-vatican-idUSKCN0X5257
As for Sanders acting "a little off..." There is a good reason for it. The Clinton campaign signaled, through cable news, at first, that is was going negative, right on the night of the Wisconsin primary. Sanders dished out what he was served. I hope the Clinton campaign will think better of things in the future http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-2ao
The person who really acted off this week was Bill Clinton. He has a history of of getting awkward while campaigning for his wife. http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-2aG
As for who is more of a New Yorker, one only need to hear Sanders speak to know how much New York is a part of him.
This election cycle is about the issues, no matter how hard some try to make it personal. It's about neoliberalism vs. progressivism.
Hopes to meet with the pope? He was invited by the Vatican to speak there! "Hoping to meet with the pope" sounds like a teen who goes to a concert in the hope of meeting their idol. That just isn't the case. Why write like that? What purpose does it serve. Does such an opportunity really need to be minimized? I know, this column is usually written in a lighthearted tone, but really... It is precisely the sentiment behind this kind of writing is what prompted Reuters to ask a Vatican official if Sanders had invited himself to the event. http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-election-vatican-idUSKCN0X5257
As for Sanders acting "a little off..." There is a good reason for it. The Clinton campaign signaled, through cable news, at first, that is was going negative, right on the night of the Wisconsin primary. Sanders dished out what he was served. I hope the Clinton campaign will think better of things in the future http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-2ao
The person who really acted off this week was Bill Clinton. He has a history of of getting awkward while campaigning for his wife. http://wp.me/p2KJ3H-2aG
As for who is more of a New Yorker, one only need to hear Sanders speak to know how much New York is a part of him.
This election cycle is about the issues, no matter how hard some try to make it personal. It's about neoliberalism vs. progressivism.
418
Please pay attention. He was invited by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences which is located in Vatican City. He was not invited by the Pope. He has not been invited to meet the Pope. He was not even invited by the Director of the Academy who sounds quite furious about the whole situation. The whole thing is terribly embarrassing for Sanders as he is dining out on it and doesn't seem to understand the nuance of any of it.
Maybe he plans to speak with the "Vatican" about the Vatican Bank? Pope? Nope.
Maybe he plans to speak with the "Vatican" about the Vatican Bank? Pope? Nope.
15
Bernie Sanders has been invited to attend a small conclave in Vatican City. There is no confirmation that he has been asked to address the gathering or that he will have an audience with Pope Francis, who will not be in attendance. These are the facts.
18
@Rima-Uh, Bernie did invite himself to the Vatican. And there are no plans for him to meet with the pope.
http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/04/08/bernie-sanders-an...
http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/04/08/bernie-sanders-an...
13
While everyone is here in the Big Apple trying to reassure absolutely every potential voter that he/she is the best possible candidate imaginable wouldn't it be nice to see even one of these folks schedule a speech or some other campaign event at a mosque or at a Catholic church with a Mexican congregation? I mean just for the heck of it?
88
I guess you did not see the cartoon where the pope said he would have invited Hillary but he could not afford her speaking fee.
5
The south Bronx isn't filled with enough Catholic Latinos for you, Stu?
Wow! I heard about it but watching it is frightening, the Clintons are dismissive bullies.
"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they F I G H T you." Ghandi
The Clinton campaign is running out of patience?
With what Democracy?
Oh, the oligarchs are sick, I am SO SICK of DEMOCRACY!
"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they F I G H T you." Ghandi
The Clinton campaign is running out of patience?
With what Democracy?
Oh, the oligarchs are sick, I am SO SICK of DEMOCRACY!
1
Somehow Bernie supporters cannot abide even mild criticism of their hero. They immediately feel the need to defend him and continue pounding on Hillary. Between the lines one can conclude that Gail is not quite as enamored and finds Hillary a better, if rather boring, choice. Bernie is playing an important role by keeping in front some fundamental issues and forcing Hillary to confront them. However, he does not have the breath of support that Bernie enthusiasts believe is his due. He has had a good winning streak, the next month will show whether his appeal has increased to the point that he can really overcome Hillary's lead. His chances are not zero but they are not high and I wish Bernie supporters will stop repeating GOP mantras about Hillary. They are going t have to support her at the end unless they are willing to betray everything Sanders stands for.
368
Good and thoughtful comment. The Democrats are really in a bind right now, because the more the nastiness continues – you know it will continue – the harder it will be to unite the party. Should Hillary be the nominee, which is not at all certain, the GOP will find it very easy to write campaign ads simply from Sanders clips at rallies. I believe he has taken an unnecessarily shrill and sarcastic tone to maligning Clinton's entire character, which thrills his supporters-but leaves others of us cold.
I also think there are too many damn polls. I think by now everybody in the country must have Participated in one. For Sanders to say he is the only choice the Democrats have because of his polls against the Republican candidates is ludicrous at this point in the campaign. Sanders has not been battle tested against the Republicans. They have left him alone because they presume Clinton will get the nomination. But you can better believe they, should he win the nomination,will launch an all out attack that will make any previous Presidentialcampaign seem like child's play.
We who support Clinton are realists who understand the complexity of Washington politics and how difficult it will be to initiate change. Sanders Wants to cleanse and burn down corrupt practices and while this infuses great enthusiasm among his supporters, it has now become an ugly moral crusade where any Clinton supporter is automatically attacked as evil and corrupt.
I also think there are too many damn polls. I think by now everybody in the country must have Participated in one. For Sanders to say he is the only choice the Democrats have because of his polls against the Republican candidates is ludicrous at this point in the campaign. Sanders has not been battle tested against the Republicans. They have left him alone because they presume Clinton will get the nomination. But you can better believe they, should he win the nomination,will launch an all out attack that will make any previous Presidentialcampaign seem like child's play.
We who support Clinton are realists who understand the complexity of Washington politics and how difficult it will be to initiate change. Sanders Wants to cleanse and burn down corrupt practices and while this infuses great enthusiasm among his supporters, it has now become an ugly moral crusade where any Clinton supporter is automatically attacked as evil and corrupt.
71
I wonder if Bernie were to shoot someone on 5th Avenue if his supporters would care. Don't get me wrong, Bernie is dedicated to fixing (or trying real hard to fix) all the problems of inequality, and take the dark money out of politics. Trump is a pathological liar and carnival barker. But both seem to have cast a spell on their followers who follow them unquestioningly. It doesn't seem all that healthy.
18
. . . and they are going to have to walk back a lot of really obnoxious behavior if Sanders wins the nomination. Maybe if he pulls that off, they will suddenly realize that he will need Hillary's supporters AND the support of the DNC in order to win in November.
We may even hear and read things like "it's time to come together", "let's kiss and make up", "let's all think about the greater good." Somehow I think that's exactly what we would start to hear if Sanders is the Democratic nominee, and his legions are salivating at the thought of him actually that close to being President. Methinks their tune will change so fast it will make our heads spin.
Clinton supporters may be so turned off by then that they will sit in the background and watch the spectacle of Sanders being torn apart by the GOP. I don't think that will happen, as most Clinton supporters understand that elections and democracy are about compromise, and are adult enough to see the catastrophe of a GOP presidency. The childish thing to do would be to refuse to vote for Bernie because Clinton was passed over.
Oh, I forgot; that's what the Berniebots are saying right now!
We may even hear and read things like "it's time to come together", "let's kiss and make up", "let's all think about the greater good." Somehow I think that's exactly what we would start to hear if Sanders is the Democratic nominee, and his legions are salivating at the thought of him actually that close to being President. Methinks their tune will change so fast it will make our heads spin.
Clinton supporters may be so turned off by then that they will sit in the background and watch the spectacle of Sanders being torn apart by the GOP. I don't think that will happen, as most Clinton supporters understand that elections and democracy are about compromise, and are adult enough to see the catastrophe of a GOP presidency. The childish thing to do would be to refuse to vote for Bernie because Clinton was passed over.
Oh, I forgot; that's what the Berniebots are saying right now!
9
I’m disappointed that Gail has no words about a 79-year-old Roman Catholic pope giving advice to couples about sexual relationships. While wearing a dress.
Perhaps another time.
So, a former NY senator with a pronounced Chicago twang meets a VT senator with a Brooklyn accent that would put Mr. Kotter’s to shame. It don’t get better than this, Mabel.
While Bernie’s meeting with the pope, perhaps he can give his holiness advice on what Michael Corleone SHOULD have done to the bankster in charge of the Vatican Bank in the financial scandal of 1982. Heaven knows, a 74-year-old Vermonter-cum-Brooklynite has no business giving a 79-year-old Roman-pope-cum-Argentine-cardinal advice on sexual relationships. “I remember, in 1976 …”
Hillary isn’t just one of the major players in the nation’s greatest sex scandal ever. She’s also the greatest American carpetbagger ever – in AR AND in NY. Imagine what she might have accomplished if she’d stuck just with Illinois – perhaps hastened the imminent date at which they’re forced to finally admit that they’re bankrupt, except that there’s no way for a STATE to declare bankruptcy. Rahmbo is in good shape in Chi-town, though: municipalities can take advantage of federal bankruptcy laws.
How many counties are there in America that Hillary can visit? (3,144 counties and county equivalents. Come to the Times to be informed.) And don’t forget: we’ll be giving a test afterward.
Hillary will win. Bernie will ask for another audience with the pope.
Perhaps another time.
So, a former NY senator with a pronounced Chicago twang meets a VT senator with a Brooklyn accent that would put Mr. Kotter’s to shame. It don’t get better than this, Mabel.
While Bernie’s meeting with the pope, perhaps he can give his holiness advice on what Michael Corleone SHOULD have done to the bankster in charge of the Vatican Bank in the financial scandal of 1982. Heaven knows, a 74-year-old Vermonter-cum-Brooklynite has no business giving a 79-year-old Roman-pope-cum-Argentine-cardinal advice on sexual relationships. “I remember, in 1976 …”
Hillary isn’t just one of the major players in the nation’s greatest sex scandal ever. She’s also the greatest American carpetbagger ever – in AR AND in NY. Imagine what she might have accomplished if she’d stuck just with Illinois – perhaps hastened the imminent date at which they’re forced to finally admit that they’re bankrupt, except that there’s no way for a STATE to declare bankruptcy. Rahmbo is in good shape in Chi-town, though: municipalities can take advantage of federal bankruptcy laws.
How many counties are there in America that Hillary can visit? (3,144 counties and county equivalents. Come to the Times to be informed.) And don’t forget: we’ll be giving a test afterward.
Hillary will win. Bernie will ask for another audience with the pope.
20
"Hillary isn’t just one of the major players in the nation’s greatest sex scandal ever. She’s also the greatest American carpetbagger ever ..."
She is way behind the Bush family coming to Texas.
She is way behind the Bush family coming to Texas.
9
And Cruz will open up an evangelical-run matzoh factory in Corpus Christie.
4
Sanders' policy range and depth? Please, what do you want, a laundry list?
Bernie may confine himself to a few themes, bur they are powerful themes because they are radical in the true meaning of the word, which is "root". Rein in the corrupting and corrosive influence of staggering amounts of money on our political life, and other things suddenly become possible.
Bernie may confine himself to a few themes, bur they are powerful themes because they are radical in the true meaning of the word, which is "root". Rein in the corrupting and corrosive influence of staggering amounts of money on our political life, and other things suddenly become possible.
352
Sanders, as proven by the New York Daily News editorial board interview, is incapable of defining his themes - they really are just slogans, no actual plans, just slogans. The kind of stuff one expects from someone running for class president or the Republican nomination.
41
There is no substance behind Sanders' big ideas, no practical vision for putting them into practice. His speil is consciousness raising, but not much more than that.
If Sanders somehow wins the nomination, the republicans will viciously and gleefully eat him alive. He couldn't take a little heat from the Daily News and Hillary without acting surly and childish, and neither could his supporters. What is he going to do when they really start punching hard?
And even more disturbing, when nothing changes in the first two years--governing with a determined do-nothing, "no" nothing opposition party is very difficult--are all the young supporters going to be as horribly disillusioned as they were with Obama (now that "sellout" to them) and allow the republicans to achieve an even greater stranglehold on government at nearly all levels?
If the senate can get away with stonewalling Obama's SC nominee, imagine what they will do with even more left leaning judges that Bernie would put forth. And you cannot get campaign finance reform without the Supremes or a congressional majority.
Not being wealthy, I fear for the future.
If Sanders somehow wins the nomination, the republicans will viciously and gleefully eat him alive. He couldn't take a little heat from the Daily News and Hillary without acting surly and childish, and neither could his supporters. What is he going to do when they really start punching hard?
And even more disturbing, when nothing changes in the first two years--governing with a determined do-nothing, "no" nothing opposition party is very difficult--are all the young supporters going to be as horribly disillusioned as they were with Obama (now that "sellout" to them) and allow the republicans to achieve an even greater stranglehold on government at nearly all levels?
If the senate can get away with stonewalling Obama's SC nominee, imagine what they will do with even more left leaning judges that Bernie would put forth. And you cannot get campaign finance reform without the Supremes or a congressional majority.
Not being wealthy, I fear for the future.
22
I am old enough to remember being a radical against the Vietnam war. I LOVE Bernie's issues, but I have hesitated to go for him because I AM old, and weary of passionate calls for things that will be really hard to get to happen. I have watched Bernie again and again for indications that he will acknowledge the headwinds he would face and some indication that he has a grasp of the levers of power and how to play the game better than what will be a vast array of opponents. I remember Bill Clinton being better at it than Newt Gingrich, and being glad for that.
Truly, I wish for everything Bernie calls for but for the most part all I hear is that he will bring about a political revolution, and I have heard nothing about what that actually means on the ground as the game get going. I dont need a play by play laundry list of his tactical approaches, just a sense that he has not just a good heart but savvy in the underworld of political fights
Hillary is not everything I wish for, but I will vote for the option I feel is best if the Democratic candidate wins. God forbid any Republican this time wins.
Some of my friends say we should vote for what we BELIEVE in, that that is the only righteous thing to do when faced with choices like this, but I want my vote to WORK once the voting is over and I just hesitate to vote my heart this time.
It's not an easy choice
Truly, I wish for everything Bernie calls for but for the most part all I hear is that he will bring about a political revolution, and I have heard nothing about what that actually means on the ground as the game get going. I dont need a play by play laundry list of his tactical approaches, just a sense that he has not just a good heart but savvy in the underworld of political fights
Hillary is not everything I wish for, but I will vote for the option I feel is best if the Democratic candidate wins. God forbid any Republican this time wins.
Some of my friends say we should vote for what we BELIEVE in, that that is the only righteous thing to do when faced with choices like this, but I want my vote to WORK once the voting is over and I just hesitate to vote my heart this time.
It's not an easy choice
7
Bernie, how do they diss thee? Let me count the ways. Sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s blatant. Conservative pundits think he’s the socialist antichrist, and liberal ones damn him with faint praise, like when they refer to his unbroken string of primary victories as some sort of fluke.
The qualification pseudo-controversy is a case in point. With careful editing of news clips, it sounds as though Bernie went off the deep end. In reality, it was a tit-for-tat reaction to a newspaper headline. It wouldn’t move the needle on the Richter scale of Republican vulgarity and incomprehensible ignorance, but normally sensible pundits are acting as though Sanders crossed some sort of line that confirms his unsuitability for the presidency.
Bernie is the disconnected dreamer, and Hillary is the solid, boring, well-informed functionary who isn’t promising hope and change as much as incremental improvement that amounts to lowering the temperature of hell by ten degrees. Frankly, this doesn’t seem to be quite enough to undo the damage that eight years of Republican recalcitrance has done. But as long as the Oval Office entrance doesn’t have a card-swipe turnstile, she’s all but guaranteed to glide on in.
I want Bernie to win, not because he’s got a ten-point plan to blah blah blah, but because he’s the antidote to the poisonous political atmosphere that Republicans have excreted on everything I hold dear about this country. That alone makes him more than qualified.
The qualification pseudo-controversy is a case in point. With careful editing of news clips, it sounds as though Bernie went off the deep end. In reality, it was a tit-for-tat reaction to a newspaper headline. It wouldn’t move the needle on the Richter scale of Republican vulgarity and incomprehensible ignorance, but normally sensible pundits are acting as though Sanders crossed some sort of line that confirms his unsuitability for the presidency.
Bernie is the disconnected dreamer, and Hillary is the solid, boring, well-informed functionary who isn’t promising hope and change as much as incremental improvement that amounts to lowering the temperature of hell by ten degrees. Frankly, this doesn’t seem to be quite enough to undo the damage that eight years of Republican recalcitrance has done. But as long as the Oval Office entrance doesn’t have a card-swipe turnstile, she’s all but guaranteed to glide on in.
I want Bernie to win, not because he’s got a ten-point plan to blah blah blah, but because he’s the antidote to the poisonous political atmosphere that Republicans have excreted on everything I hold dear about this country. That alone makes him more than qualified.
824
"With careful editing of news clips, it sounds as though Bernie went off the deep end. In reality, it was a tit-for-tat reaction to a newspaper headline. It wouldn’t move the needle on the Richter scale of Republican vulgarity and incomprehensible ignorance. . "
If only you gave Clinton the same benefit of the doubt, gemli.
If only.
If only you gave Clinton the same benefit of the doubt, gemli.
If only.
31
As an almost-lifelong-liberal, I get thrice daily requests for money from the Sander's campaign and daily emails from the Clinton one. Sander's funding requests have been implying that Hillary Clinton is the enemy for quite a long time, while the Clinton campaign typically discusses her plans for the country and the problems with the Republican Party. Bernie has been consistently running a negative campaign against Clinton which has only gotten more strident with recent developments (I.e. Interviews in which he can't describe how he is going to implement his vision). I am quite disillusioned with him and his campaign staff.
77
I've noticed this too. My candidates are always being unfairly characterized and caricatured by the idiots, losers, and should-be-felons running against them. And it's been going since I started voting back in the 70's. What are the odds?
2
We want a candidate that puts the fear of God into the Tea Party and their allies (because said candidate reduces them to political irrelevance).
60
Bernie's main message is about social justice and equalizing opportunity. He may have only that single message, but I don't know a more important one and he is very sincere about it. Hilary has so many messages, that all say me, me, me. That's her single message, or at least the only one you can be sure she is sincere about. On all others, everything is negotiable, and if repeatedly poor judgement, a sense of entitlement and slipperiness are desirable qualities in a politician, I think she is eminently qualified.
503
Sure, nuance can be tough to follow. But the country faces more than one problem and the POTUS has to deal with all of them, every day.
26
.
@ Jack Chicago,
"Bernie's main message is about social justice and equalizing opportunity. He may have only that single message, but I don't know a more important one ..."
I think I understand where you're coming from and why you worded it that way. To me, discussions about social justice and equalizing opportunity are the most important ones we can have if we want to improve our society.
But speaking personally, the most important issue today and in five years and ten years ago? Climate change, and human contribution to it.
We must encourage and fund the science, then implement any apparent fixes. The War on Polio and the Two World Wars and the Battle of Runnymede, all put together, may not equal the significance of the task ahead of us in preserving a livable physical environment. The U.S. has not done its part. I'll go for the candidate I think can get the most leaders on board to advance solutions, soon.
I realize they may be part of the "establishment", but no US President, Vice President, or Governor (current or past) has endorsed Bernie Sanders for President. One former Cabinet Secretary endorses him, but no current Cabinet members. One current Senator (named Sanders) and one former Senator endorse him. I just don't think Sanders and Paul Kirk and Robert Reich are going to band together to get other leaders to do what must be done, soon.
Hillary Clinton has a tremendous coalition of leaders and former leaders endorsing her. I think she will accomplish more.
@ Jack Chicago,
"Bernie's main message is about social justice and equalizing opportunity. He may have only that single message, but I don't know a more important one ..."
I think I understand where you're coming from and why you worded it that way. To me, discussions about social justice and equalizing opportunity are the most important ones we can have if we want to improve our society.
But speaking personally, the most important issue today and in five years and ten years ago? Climate change, and human contribution to it.
We must encourage and fund the science, then implement any apparent fixes. The War on Polio and the Two World Wars and the Battle of Runnymede, all put together, may not equal the significance of the task ahead of us in preserving a livable physical environment. The U.S. has not done its part. I'll go for the candidate I think can get the most leaders on board to advance solutions, soon.
I realize they may be part of the "establishment", but no US President, Vice President, or Governor (current or past) has endorsed Bernie Sanders for President. One former Cabinet Secretary endorses him, but no current Cabinet members. One current Senator (named Sanders) and one former Senator endorse him. I just don't think Sanders and Paul Kirk and Robert Reich are going to band together to get other leaders to do what must be done, soon.
Hillary Clinton has a tremendous coalition of leaders and former leaders endorsing her. I think she will accomplish more.
29
Hillary has the most important qualification for a presidential candidate: the ability to raise millions of dollars in contributions from wealthy, powerful interest groups.
4
Ms. Collins, for some reason after reading your column, I felt like flinging myself on the kitchen floor and throw in the towel. Why should I care about the outcome of these presidential elections when all is said and done?
The only bright side this voter could light on is we won't have to worry whether the next President has a wardrobe because there will be no one fit for the highest position in our Country.
Years ago, a quiet man on first meeting at a small party, asked 'Would you like to see my team play tomorrow in Buffalo?' I think it had something to do with football and playing footsies, but in any event I politely declined this kind invitation. Perhaps this was not right, and I should have shuffled off to Buffalo.
Maybe we should give up on finding a President, and let the buffaloes roam free again in the Land of the Brave, and start praying.
The only bright side this voter could light on is we won't have to worry whether the next President has a wardrobe because there will be no one fit for the highest position in our Country.
Years ago, a quiet man on first meeting at a small party, asked 'Would you like to see my team play tomorrow in Buffalo?' I think it had something to do with football and playing footsies, but in any event I politely declined this kind invitation. Perhaps this was not right, and I should have shuffled off to Buffalo.
Maybe we should give up on finding a President, and let the buffaloes roam free again in the Land of the Brave, and start praying.
13
Okay, these are the dems. I can see being conflicted. I hope that is restricted to the primaries. Have you looked at the republicans??? It is a choice between a fascist and a theocrat. Be conf;licted in the primary. You need to vote in November.
23
Michele, right you are, and while a staunch Republican friend is casting his vote for Cruz, the latter reminiscent of a character out of 'There Will Be Blood', this American is supporting Clinton, while both of us rest uneasy.
5
Clinton may not be "causing hearts to flutter" but that's not what most voters are looking for. We're looking for a serious candidate who understands how government works and where it doesn't work and needs to be fixed; who can devise pragmatic, workable solutions to the nation's problems; who will select a cabinet and future Supreme Court justices who are forward-thinking, professional men and women; and who can intelligently and diplomatically represent the USA on the world stage. We're not looking for a date, we want a president who can get things done.
1283
Yeah, Jay, the date was misoverestimated and led us into the Bushes.
21
Oh, she'll get things done alright. For those who can pay the price of admission, and that ain't you.
30
I agree with you but apparently the Berners do not. They want a revolution. Let's hope boredom wears down revolution.
21
On the plus side this NY campaigning week, Cruz got the NY welcome he deserved, being told to ride that, um, specially abbreviated line. Just desserts for Mr. "New York values" who referred to Trump as a big-mouthed New Yorker. Now he pretends he only dislikes the liberal faction. Ted, fuhgedaboudit!
189
To be fair, Trump IS a big-mouthed New Yorker.
But I get your point - it's Cruz's "New York values" comment that really sticks in the craw.
But I get your point - it's Cruz's "New York values" comment that really sticks in the craw.
6
Oh goodie. Now Republicans get to pick through their sewage for left-overs. What a smorgasbord. Enough to make you Kasich.
3
One more point.
Did anyone watch Mr Obama at the Chicago Law School? I mean his answers to student's questions.
He was fabulous. I can envision Hillary answering in a similar, thoughtful, nuanced way.
Bernie? never.
Did anyone watch Mr Obama at the Chicago Law School? I mean his answers to student's questions.
He was fabulous. I can envision Hillary answering in a similar, thoughtful, nuanced way.
Bernie? never.
541
Try listening.
Bernie is consistent, thoughtful, and honest. Check out his speech at Liberty University -- not a progressive audience at that.
Clinton -- both of them -- are typical political hacks who will say whatever they think will advance their personal ambitions.
Bernie is consistent, thoughtful, and honest. Check out his speech at Liberty University -- not a progressive audience at that.
Clinton -- both of them -- are typical political hacks who will say whatever they think will advance their personal ambitions.
19
It was interesting that The Times story mentioned that when Obama was teaching his students never knew where he stood on what he was teaching.
If Clinton didn't have Sanders running against her, we'd probably never have gotten her positions on any issues (remember her telling us she'd inform us of her position on the Keystone pipeline after the election was over). A nuanced answer is one thing, a feckless answer to avoid taking a position is quite something else.
Love or hate Sanders at least you know where he stands.
If Clinton didn't have Sanders running against her, we'd probably never have gotten her positions on any issues (remember her telling us she'd inform us of her position on the Keystone pipeline after the election was over). A nuanced answer is one thing, a feckless answer to avoid taking a position is quite something else.
Love or hate Sanders at least you know where he stands.
4
I'd advise you to look at the video from Bernie's visit to Liberty University facing 13,000 students who were taught to be against just about every thought he had. He also answered questions, some steeped in religious beliefs, by not stomping on those beliefs, but by giving cogent and inclusive answers. Bernie has been a progressive politician for over thirty years, and in that role won 71% of the vote in his last election. He wins independents and the young multifold over his opponent. You have put blinders on if you think he can engage in inspiring oratory. He is clear and to the point. Again take a look at his visit to Jerry Falwell's Liberty University showing he wants to be President of all people whether they agree on every issue or not.
10
My sense is that Gail is a Hillary supporter and that's all well and good but why not come out and just say it? It's funny how Gail never brought up Clinton's own assertions back in 2008 against Obama's presidential qualifications. People seem to have collective amnesia over those comments. My gut says Clinton will win the nomination and subsequently the White House, but Sanders' vision (which 80 percent of people my age support) is the future of this country. Older voters would be foolish to ignore this. The Democratic Party's survival depends on recognizing this.
416
"but Sanders' vision (which 80 percent of people my age support) is the future of this country."....Things would look a lot different today if people your age could have been bothered to show up for the midterm elections in 2010 and 2014. Political revolutions are not about one candidate or a single election.
765
How's "Sanders' vision" working for the future of Europe?
16
Adam, support for Mr. Sanders is high among older people as well. They are not foolishly ignoring him.
I suggest you read Roger Cohen's recent piece on the 'politics of me'.
Please do not be offended on a superficial reading. It applies to all different groups of people.
I believer his point, and mine in writing this, is that the fewer artificial divisions we create between ourselves, the better chances for survival for all of us.
I suggest you read Roger Cohen's recent piece on the 'politics of me'.
Please do not be offended on a superficial reading. It applies to all different groups of people.
I believer his point, and mine in writing this, is that the fewer artificial divisions we create between ourselves, the better chances for survival for all of us.
31
Please don't begrudge New York this attention, because come November, we will be far off anyone's radar! Every state gets their 15 minutes of fame.
21
Hah! Not Maryland!
3
Excellent as usual...just one small note: there is quite the kerfluffle going on about Sen. Sanders and the visit to the Vatican. Looks like someone's staffers did not do their homework.
96
Apparently the Pope doesn't care to be used in a photo op for US domestic political purposes and already stated that he won't meet with Sanders. More egg on Sanders face?
17
What "kerfuffle"? He was invited to speak and so he is going.
10
Let's see. (1) Mr. Sanders is sent an invitation by the Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. (2) Mr. Sanders accepts said invitation. (3) Margaret Archer, current president of PASS, gets her nose out of joint claiming ~ falsely ~ that the rude Mr. Sanders invited himself.
(4) To set the record straight, her boss issues a statement refuting all of her claims.
Apparently, the only person whose staffers failed in the homework department is the same person who started the kerflulle in the first place.
(4) To set the record straight, her boss issues a statement refuting all of her claims.
Apparently, the only person whose staffers failed in the homework department is the same person who started the kerflulle in the first place.
14
After all the theatrics and turbulence of the Republican primary, a dry approach to governance is quite refreshing.
127
Yes, hard work and study beat "theatrics and turbulence" any day.
At least in the minds of the sensible.
At least in the minds of the sensible.
10
When will Bernie and Hillary break into a chorus of New York, New York or tap dance on Broadway? I suspect they will both avoid Wall Street. Indeed Bernie, the Brooklyn Jew, is so afraid of Wall Street that he is running off to the Vatican to be with the Pope. If anything New York may teach us who has the most stamina and who knows the subways best.
37
This is while Hillary is taking one of her regular breaks to go to California to do another 5000 a head fundraiser.
2
Yes just today Hillary discovered "how convenient" subways are, at age 68!
2
just Robert, this is really funny. You may live in Colorado, but you have a true sense of humor about what matters to New Yorkers. Bernie might have a Brooklyn accent, but he hasn't lived here for years. Hillary might have a Chicago accent but she has lived here for years. I just want to vote for the one who is better qualified to be president, but I loved your comment.
7
Nailed it Gail!
Sanders is a one-issue candidate, exactly the kind who is NOT qualified to be the leader of the free world.
For him to say Hil is not qualified ... he must be losing his marbles.
I'm sure he's a wonderful human being, and he's passionate about his ONE issue. Great, thanks Bernie.
Now please, could you please read Gail's column and focus on the 'serious presidential candidate' part? Unqualified, she's not (Hillary). And you are taking cues from the republican smear-book rule. Unbecoming.
Sanders is a one-issue candidate, exactly the kind who is NOT qualified to be the leader of the free world.
For him to say Hil is not qualified ... he must be losing his marbles.
I'm sure he's a wonderful human being, and he's passionate about his ONE issue. Great, thanks Bernie.
Now please, could you please read Gail's column and focus on the 'serious presidential candidate' part? Unqualified, she's not (Hillary). And you are taking cues from the republican smear-book rule. Unbecoming.
353
You mean his positions on climate change, wealth inequality, breaking up the banks, affordable college educative, health care, paid leave, gender pay equity? One issue right?
520
I haven't heard a word about how he intends to address climate change.
163
Please write back after your bubble bursts.
7
Hillary AND Bernie meet in NY t the article is 95% bout Hillary,,,,,
229
and?
maybe that's the point?
The one multifaceted, all around qualified, in spite all the flaws, is .... Hillary?
wow, who'd have thought???????????????????
maybe that's the point?
The one multifaceted, all around qualified, in spite all the flaws, is .... Hillary?
wow, who'd have thought???????????????????
14
Everybody at the NYT is basically FOX news for HRC...
13
Sounds like some whining to me...
7
I want to write a witty comment on this delightful column. But I can't. Gail has said it all, and better. So all I can say is, Thank you!
219