In my humble opinion, Gail Collins is one of the finest columnists on the scene to day, and her gifts are wasted in these so-called "conversations". Her current counterpart is simply not in her league.
4
1. Who in the world is, Paul Ryan???
2. I think by now Americans have learned that conservatives don't really mean reduce entitlements. They still want ZERO % interest rates, which translates into free money for the "Banksters" and they want the entitlement of domiciling their corporation or whatever in Panama or Ireland which frees them from taxes.
3. Bob Dylan predicted the current status of the Republican party in his 1960's tune, Desolation Row! Beyond all this, now that robots have taken over Wall street, randomness should dominate our political processes in the not too. distant future. I'm also, glad those bots still can't write opinion editorials.
2. I think by now Americans have learned that conservatives don't really mean reduce entitlements. They still want ZERO % interest rates, which translates into free money for the "Banksters" and they want the entitlement of domiciling their corporation or whatever in Panama or Ireland which frees them from taxes.
3. Bob Dylan predicted the current status of the Republican party in his 1960's tune, Desolation Row! Beyond all this, now that robots have taken over Wall street, randomness should dominate our political processes in the not too. distant future. I'm also, glad those bots still can't write opinion editorials.
3
If only Republicans governed the way Arthur schmoozes.
Social Security? Why, we're reasonable and not looking to hijack the program and make it chum for our shark friends on Wall Street!
Immigration? Why, we're reasonable and understand that the issue is quite complex. Why, in Europe what we call immigration they call migration. Well, we're in favor of human rights and children escaping from anarchy peppered with gunfire, but when they come here from Honduras, did you notice that they're brown and don't speak English?
What's up with that, Gail?
Gail, next week might you ask Arthur for his take on the Trump message that we need to examine how big a military machine we can afford? In a way, the existence of this question parallels Nixon's recognition of and trips to China: In 2016 America, it's a question only a Republican can ask. Clearly, when our tax dollars support a military that's the size of the next ten combined, we have an insecurity problem.
Trump has also criticized our willingness to provide military protection for our European allies, who you might notice aren't threatened any more by the USSR. (Can you believe it's been 25 years? We should do something to celebrate.) Can the two of you have a conversation that's about something substantive like how we can't afford schools and healthcare because we're blowing our national paycheck on F-35s and surplus Abrams tanks?
Arthur is as genuine as Paul Ryan. He can take that as a compliment if he's really that naive.
Social Security? Why, we're reasonable and not looking to hijack the program and make it chum for our shark friends on Wall Street!
Immigration? Why, we're reasonable and understand that the issue is quite complex. Why, in Europe what we call immigration they call migration. Well, we're in favor of human rights and children escaping from anarchy peppered with gunfire, but when they come here from Honduras, did you notice that they're brown and don't speak English?
What's up with that, Gail?
Gail, next week might you ask Arthur for his take on the Trump message that we need to examine how big a military machine we can afford? In a way, the existence of this question parallels Nixon's recognition of and trips to China: In 2016 America, it's a question only a Republican can ask. Clearly, when our tax dollars support a military that's the size of the next ten combined, we have an insecurity problem.
Trump has also criticized our willingness to provide military protection for our European allies, who you might notice aren't threatened any more by the USSR. (Can you believe it's been 25 years? We should do something to celebrate.) Can the two of you have a conversation that's about something substantive like how we can't afford schools and healthcare because we're blowing our national paycheck on F-35s and surplus Abrams tanks?
Arthur is as genuine as Paul Ryan. He can take that as a compliment if he's really that naive.
Ryan seems like a very reasonable man and certainly qualified to be President. The constant quest for power by the Shady Lady is very scary and definitely off putting !
Oh dear, every week Gail triers to have a conversation with Arthur, and Arthur comes prepared with his talking-point infomercials from AEI.
This week his infomercial keeps alive the possibility of Paul Ryan as the GOP presidential candidate. Why--especially when Ryan coyly declares if nominated, he will not run (wink-wink)? He said the same thing, of course, when he would not accept the position of Speaker of the House, but Voila! there he is Speaker of the House. Creating scarcity does make the hearts grow fonder.
Why is "Ryan for President" Arthur's AEI message of the week? AEI is heavily funded by those adorable Koch brothers, and those lovable Koch brothers do not want Donald Trump as the GOP candidate. Why not? Trump seems the perfect libertarian right-winger, with his red meat populist politics, bigotry, and xenophobia.
However, The Donald does not take orders well and cannot necessarily be relied upon with his brash ego to kowtow to the Kochs and do exactly what they tell him. Ryan--now there is a guy who looks like a choirboy, spouts Ayn Randian economics, and could sign legislation from a Republican Congress that would lower taxes on the rich, slash social programs, privatize Social Security, fuse church and state, and make the rich richer and gut the middle class. Se Ryan ontheissues.org http://www.ontheissues.org/House/Paul_Ryan.htm.
Ryan is a slippery dude and a very scary guy.
What informercial does Arthur have planned for us next week?
This week his infomercial keeps alive the possibility of Paul Ryan as the GOP presidential candidate. Why--especially when Ryan coyly declares if nominated, he will not run (wink-wink)? He said the same thing, of course, when he would not accept the position of Speaker of the House, but Voila! there he is Speaker of the House. Creating scarcity does make the hearts grow fonder.
Why is "Ryan for President" Arthur's AEI message of the week? AEI is heavily funded by those adorable Koch brothers, and those lovable Koch brothers do not want Donald Trump as the GOP candidate. Why not? Trump seems the perfect libertarian right-winger, with his red meat populist politics, bigotry, and xenophobia.
However, The Donald does not take orders well and cannot necessarily be relied upon with his brash ego to kowtow to the Kochs and do exactly what they tell him. Ryan--now there is a guy who looks like a choirboy, spouts Ayn Randian economics, and could sign legislation from a Republican Congress that would lower taxes on the rich, slash social programs, privatize Social Security, fuse church and state, and make the rich richer and gut the middle class. Se Ryan ontheissues.org http://www.ontheissues.org/House/Paul_Ryan.htm.
Ryan is a slippery dude and a very scary guy.
What informercial does Arthur have planned for us next week?
6
Gail
Keep an eye on Seth Moulton, 1st term rep from MA.
Not ready yet, but he could be.
Keep an eye on Seth Moulton, 1st term rep from MA.
Not ready yet, but he could be.
I know that most of the readers of the NYTimes are liberals, but I cannot believe the number of unfair attacks on Arthur Brooks. You may not like his ideas, but he is intellectually honest and extremely smart. Please be more open to the other side ideas.
And the other comment about Elizabeth Warren being a young promising Democrat comparable the Paul Ryan, that's a joke right?
And the other comment about Elizabeth Warren being a young promising Democrat comparable the Paul Ryan, that's a joke right?
Did Arthur Brooks just make a comment that he's concerned about Global Poverty? Is it possible that behind his intense, articulate, intellectual defense of his Party....which now includes the Tea Party, that he's really rooting for a more humane global agenda? And his fawning over Paul Ryan, who looks good because of his fortuitous position that the Tea Party lifted him into...is really the golden hope of the Republicans? For someone so good at debate, I'm amazed that Arthur Brooks actually believes what he's saying. And somehow I can't help but heari n his writing his 1980's Risky Business roots: The slide-across=the-floor-with-a-popped-collar, truly marks when he first became interested in Politics. Sharp mind, no doubt. Tone Deaf, absolutely.
3
Why worry about 4.5 billionaire Donald Trump, past independent billionaire Ross Perrot, and America’s elite and super rich? Isn’t that what most Americans are about? Let me start a business, go to college...work hard and later become a millionaire??
So many people have said, “but Trump doesn’t have political experience.” Well, just how much political experience did actor Ronald Reagan have?
Californians liked movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger so they made him Governor of California. They did not care that he was born in Thal, Austria and spoke in broken English. They didn't care that he served in the Austrian Army...not the U.S. Army. They didn't care that he earned his BA by correspondence. And they did not care about his pappy: Gustav Schwarzenegger, (Arnold's father) Military service: Served in WWII with the German Nazi Army. He served with the Sturmabteilung (storm troopers) which functioned as a paramilitary organization of the Nazi Party which played a role in Adolf Hitler's rise to power in the 1920's and 1930's.
How much political experience did Jesse Ventura have as a professional TV wrestler in order to become the governor of Minnesota?
Winning the presidential office is about whether the public likes you or not....and not about your political experience.
Americans dropped God and religion like an egg on the floor. Democrat hillary will win because she is gender confused and will destroy the American Christian church and protect homosexuals.
So many people have said, “but Trump doesn’t have political experience.” Well, just how much political experience did actor Ronald Reagan have?
Californians liked movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger so they made him Governor of California. They did not care that he was born in Thal, Austria and spoke in broken English. They didn't care that he served in the Austrian Army...not the U.S. Army. They didn't care that he earned his BA by correspondence. And they did not care about his pappy: Gustav Schwarzenegger, (Arnold's father) Military service: Served in WWII with the German Nazi Army. He served with the Sturmabteilung (storm troopers) which functioned as a paramilitary organization of the Nazi Party which played a role in Adolf Hitler's rise to power in the 1920's and 1930's.
How much political experience did Jesse Ventura have as a professional TV wrestler in order to become the governor of Minnesota?
Winning the presidential office is about whether the public likes you or not....and not about your political experience.
Americans dropped God and religion like an egg on the floor. Democrat hillary will win because she is gender confused and will destroy the American Christian church and protect homosexuals.
1
What? People voted for Ryan as VP? Where was that column in 2012?
4
I'm sorry but I can't stand these conversations. I would walk a mile to read a Gail Collins column, but I refuse to wade through piles of Brooksian off-hand claims and myths that he uses to justify pure fantasy. For example, that Paul Ryan is amply qualified to be President--a guy who has never had a non-government job, used Social Security money to purchase his Ayn Rand library (apparently cutting out the atheist parts, like Jefferson did with non-Jesus bible sections), and seems to be trying in earnest to age enough to look Presidential. He only doesn't want to run this year so he won't be part of the train wreck in Cleveland. I am swearing off this interchange unless someone cleverly edits out Brooks's portions.
12
Boy, do I ever agree.
2
And the NY Times writes "A New York Primary That Actually Matters" and only mentioning the name "Clinton " once....
Well Trump may be worth billions but for an Op-ed concerning tis election and barely reading Clinton's name is "Priceless"
Well Trump may be worth billions but for an Op-ed concerning tis election and barely reading Clinton's name is "Priceless"
1
Hello? The Gavinator?! If you don't think Newsom's going places, at least respect the handsome!
2
Gail Collins is always so bright and witty that Brooks just melts like a crayon under her bright sun. Please, NYT, please, anyone but Neocons, after all they gave us Iraq, thousands of deaths, and trillions of debt for one big fat zero, such that they think they can still comment on politics? Really?
11
I read these conversations and I always think Gail should do an Al Pacino. The poor lady is basking in the sun and somebody keeps dragging her back into the darkness. I, personally, have nothing to learn from Arthur Brooks, the guy who heads the club that boasts members Cheney, D'Souza, Perle, Kristol, Scalia. Bring back the other Brooks, the thoughtful one.
5
The conversation has become very boring, with little life. I'd rather hear Gail Collins talk to herself than read what Arthur Brooks has to say. She deserves a worthy partner and we deserve, as readers, to feel some sparks and intellectual stimulation. Brooks is wrong for this job. Please bring back David Brooks or someone who knows how to play with Collins rather than just cite the party line. The two of them together just doesn't work. She deserves a better partner.
4
"Arthur: Do you see someone like Paul Ryan in the Democrats? That is: young, smart, really liberal, but keen to work with others?" How about Elizabeth Warren?
5
So 66--Elizabeth Warren's age now--is the new "young"? What does that make Hillary, who is only two years older?
2
Not young.
How old is Elizabeth Warren?
"The Democratic Party’s upper reaches are practically youth-free, and that’s a real problem." One wonders how such a thing could happen.
2
Yes, absolutely. You really have to wonder why there are no young "stars" among the Democrats. I have mixed feelings about both Hillary and Bernie, but one thing that disappoints me about both of them is that they are, like it or not, senior citizens. And, no, being "young at heart" or having a "young vision" is not the same thing as being part of a younger generation.
Arthur C. Brooks is a very funny man. Subtle humour from what I suspect is a subtle conservative. Someone for a liberal to learn something from, perhaps?
1
Thanks to both, for the enlightening and amusing conversation. But nothing much has changed in my mind:
Still don't trust Paul Ryan & the G.O.P.
Still wonder if folks understand what 'Separation of Church and State' really means.
Still not completely sold on Sanders being such a "humble guy" (read some of his angry followers' comments, and you'll get the gist...).
Still think Trump is a sexist bigot, and hope his plane remains grounded.
Still think Ted Cruz is MUCH SCARIER!!!!
Still wonder what's in those dog-gone transcripts that Hillary refuses to release...(also wonder if good ol' Bill will stay on the leash--sorry, Bill).
But since I went to college in Vermont, I agree with your comments about those folks in Syracuse being happy just to be out of the snow!
It really does snow a lot up there.
Still don't trust Paul Ryan & the G.O.P.
Still wonder if folks understand what 'Separation of Church and State' really means.
Still not completely sold on Sanders being such a "humble guy" (read some of his angry followers' comments, and you'll get the gist...).
Still think Trump is a sexist bigot, and hope his plane remains grounded.
Still think Ted Cruz is MUCH SCARIER!!!!
Still wonder what's in those dog-gone transcripts that Hillary refuses to release...(also wonder if good ol' Bill will stay on the leash--sorry, Bill).
But since I went to college in Vermont, I agree with your comments about those folks in Syracuse being happy just to be out of the snow!
It really does snow a lot up there.
13
I used to get the idea that Ms. Collins and Mr. David Brooks enjoyed one another's badinage. It's hard to get that from Mr. Arthur Brooks, who seems, generally, to be devoid of humor and comity.
In brief, this column's no fun any longer.
In brief, this column's no fun any longer.
31
Indeed, Brooks loves the country, its people, and its culture. Those things have all been declared UnCool by our entertainment media=dominated culture barons. He is the actual conservative you are asked to fear and loathe.
2
Pretty lame stuff from persons capable of better, sorry to say.
15
Agreed - neither funny nor insightful. Where did the other Mr. Brooks, David, go?
2
I agree, very lame, neither informative nor entertaining.
2
This ridiculous fabrication that "it's both sides" is totally fatuous and not based in reality. This reactionary--and embarrassingly outmatched in these conversations with the masterful Gail Collins--buffoon Arthur Brooks puts forth the thoroughly false notion that "hard leftists" are the mirror image of the extremist right wing. I'm sorry, but who is responsible for Congress being an obstructionist quagmire? I know it's standard practice for the right wingers to just constantly repeat a concept over and over (e.g., "liberal media") until people believe it's true, but their notion that the Democrats are as responsible as the Republicans for political paralysis is utter fiction.
54
I agree that this "dialog" show false equivalency; what is now considered the left was moderate before Reagan. I also agree that Democrats have real answers; Republicans only offer real obstacles. And finally (for now), I find that Paul Ryan - and for that matter, John Kasich - are simply repackages of the same failed conservative ideas but in younger bodies wearing better suits. But credit where due: as distasteful as they are, the Republicans have developed a back bench of players ready to jump in. As noted, the Democrats' on-deck circle is way too small. Perhaps one of them can run for VP, especially if the primary winner isn't Bernie, to help keep "the youth" attached to the party.
5
As soon as somebody says "it's both sides' fault," I stop reading. I have yet to finish one of these conversations. Gail - get back to work.
2
Gail, an immigration policy, by definition, says, "we want more of these kind of people" and "we want less of these kind of people". The only candidate who is saying anything like this is Donald Trump. That people like you call him a maniac is why we can't have a civil conversation on U.S. immigration policy and why nobody else has an immigration policy. Trump says, "we don't want any more Mexicans and we don't want any more Muslims". After you are done calling him a maniac, well, how many Muslims and Mexicans do you want? It seems no one but Trump wants to have this conversation.
4
And to go along with her bumper sticker that read, "Vegans for Romney," Arthur's wife tied a carrot on the roof of the family car . . .
16
Comparing the "fragmentation" of the Democratic Party to the self destruction of the "Republican" Party is just more false equivalency; although, it is time that the type of "democrat" which gave rise to the DLC, and who Bill and Hillary were, and are a part of - friends of Wall Street, et al.; destructors of the welfare system that took from the very people they go down south to visit, and who love them and vote for them (another "What's the Matter with Kansas" scenario if ever I saw one - but I know that those voters know not what they do) were either purged, or, perhaps better, slowly moved out of the party in favor of FDR/New Deal type democrats.
At least, that's the way *I* see it.
At least, that's the way *I* see it.
4
Paul Ryan - the Bernie Madoff of Budgeting?
19
A true observation, and far more humorous than anything in this article.
3
Dear Gail,
If these conversations continue, please consult with Dr. Krugman and be prepared to be unrelenting in examining the realities of these irresponsible Republican budget and tax plans. Every time Prof. Brooks tries to change the subject, please return to these issues. It's the least you can do.
If these conversations continue, please consult with Dr. Krugman and be prepared to be unrelenting in examining the realities of these irresponsible Republican budget and tax plans. Every time Prof. Brooks tries to change the subject, please return to these issues. It's the least you can do.
13
What I found most alarming in this conversation was that the Democratic Party is lacking young, national figures while the Republicans have filled their ranks with angry young blood. Of course, it does sorta fill out the syllogism: You have to be insane to go into politics these days; Republicans are insane; ....
17
It may be worse than you think. See "Kingdom Coming: The Rise of Christian Nationalism" by Michelle Goldberg.
1
Mr. Brooks is kidding himself if he thinks the center right would garner 30-35% in a parliamentary system. There are not that many people on the right who would be able the see the center from where there positioned now. I agree there are 15-20% for the right wing nationalists (Make America Hate Again) but the rest are still to Religious or cultist to have centrist associated with their cause (The Religious Right Are Neither). Maybe 10% of Republicans are centrist-right but they were voted out in the last two midterm elections.
10
The defining characteristic of every president since Roosevelt has been a regional accent, south or southwest way out in front. We believe in cowboys, not politicians. Cruz tucks his pants in his boots. I'm at a loss this year.
4
My homemade sticker says: "60 y/o female, Over the Hill and Ready to Bern...."
Democrats have the most qualified person in decades and someone with passion and strong ethics. It would feel a lot better if it was the same person, but still, it's all good choices.
Democrats have the most qualified person in decades and someone with passion and strong ethics. It would feel a lot better if it was the same person, but still, it's all good choices.
13
The Canadian historian, philosopher, and writer John Ralston Saul is fond of telling us we have lost our collective historical memory and we now all worship at the same church. Neocons are not conservatives, neoliberals are not liberals and the priesthood has no plans to bring us into the 21st century.
Western civilization began in Greece and Rome faced similar problems facing the United States today and although there are voices who understand what is going on the Church of NeoCon NeoLiberal will prevail and the chances of making the necessary changes are slim indeed.
A singular point in time that Saul alludes to is America's bank bailout.
It was the first time in history when a democratic government voted to save the banks instead of the people. The insanity of the vote was the banks would have been saved if the people had been bailed out and it would have been done at lower cost.
We have created a demon of debt and deficit so we cannot invest in the future. The DNC and the RNC are the greatest threats the United States has faced in all my 68 years. We need a new priesthood.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXUJEWNHweE
Western civilization began in Greece and Rome faced similar problems facing the United States today and although there are voices who understand what is going on the Church of NeoCon NeoLiberal will prevail and the chances of making the necessary changes are slim indeed.
A singular point in time that Saul alludes to is America's bank bailout.
It was the first time in history when a democratic government voted to save the banks instead of the people. The insanity of the vote was the banks would have been saved if the people had been bailed out and it would have been done at lower cost.
We have created a demon of debt and deficit so we cannot invest in the future. The DNC and the RNC are the greatest threats the United States has faced in all my 68 years. We need a new priesthood.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXUJEWNHweE
11
When all is said and done this New York primary matters little. Next January the United States of America will have the worst possible government possible to lead the country through the 21st century or Bernie Sanders will lead a revolution and wrest control from the high priests of finance, economics and political science and start with a new twentieth century blueprint that might actually save our planet.
1
I'm surprised Gail didn't mention the Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, Tulsi Gabbard.
8
Young Democrats? Keep your eye on Joe Kennedy III. Smart, politically adept, seems like he's willing to work with others...and he roomed with Jason Collins at Stanford! Who knows?
7
"Arthur: Do you see someone like Paul Ryan in the Democrats? That is: young, smart, really liberal, but keen to work with others?"
There used to be one. His running motto was "Yes, we can!" But GOP intransigence, obstructionism and hyper partisanship have rendered him gray, and isolated. Just give Ryan another year or two and he'll turned into a braised wilted tasteless kale.
There used to be one. His running motto was "Yes, we can!" But GOP intransigence, obstructionism and hyper partisanship have rendered him gray, and isolated. Just give Ryan another year or two and he'll turned into a braised wilted tasteless kale.
36
I truly believe Republican obstructionism has neutered what would have been a great Obama presidency. Had they only let him do what he was going to do and then seen the results, they could have strengthened their hand by either saying, "Hey, remember that we helped, too," or "Hey, it didn't work - our way would have been better." But they did neither, nand so Washington dithered while the country crashed.
There's still time to do the right thing with the Supreme Court nomination, but I'm afraid that once again intransigence has ruled the day.
President Obama isn't perfect, but I promise that he's been and still will be a darn-sight better than whoever we'll get next on either side, especially the petulant Republicans. Sad, isn't it?
There's still time to do the right thing with the Supreme Court nomination, but I'm afraid that once again intransigence has ruled the day.
President Obama isn't perfect, but I promise that he's been and still will be a darn-sight better than whoever we'll get next on either side, especially the petulant Republicans. Sad, isn't it?
3
This marriage of convenience between Ms Collins and Mr Brooks is a flop. Time for a divorce. Gail should sue as the aggrieved party.
16
I had to look up Arthur C. Brooks' photo. Okay, he looks kinda like David Brooks, whom I like a lot despite his politics. He's charming and oh-so-prolific. I'm ready to hear more from Arthur; I'd bet that he's charming and prolific as well.
2
If through some weird act of evil, D J Trump got elected President who would he work with? Perhaps it would be four years of Presidential threats and a cowering congress.
1
Trump is a bit of a deal-maker. We could be surprised.
For all the arrogant pomposity America exudes about our democracy, it seems to be getting more undemocratic and nothing is done to change the system...one where voters are deregistered, registered for the wrong party, names forged for different parties...since the GW-Gore fiasco, nothing has been done to correct the system...the main problem is that primaries and polls are handled by each state...some are kosher and others aren't...this is the first election I can recall where two grassroots candidates, no anointed by their parties, are serious contenders...that's good for democracy, but hated by the DNC and RNC.
3
"A friend of mine remarked that Ryan has exactly the two characteristics we most need in a president today — he is amply qualified and has no desire to run."
Apparently Brooks has no ability to make up his own judgment even though he peddles that on the pages of NYT. He needs a friend to tell him about Paul Ryan's virtues, not one but two, ample qualifications but no desire.
All you need to be qualified to run for the office of the POTUS is that you have a pulse. Exhibit A is The Donald. He has a pulse and a lot of hot air spewing out of his mouth. The Donald also began his campaign with little desire to win but soon found himself in a bear hug with power. Just like Ryan did when he declined to be the Speaker but reneged and did accept the position after it got sweetened a bit. I can easily envision Ryan changing his heart and agreeing to run --- "only to save America." But I do not see any chance of his improving his qualifications, which stand at about zero.
Apparently Brooks has no ability to make up his own judgment even though he peddles that on the pages of NYT. He needs a friend to tell him about Paul Ryan's virtues, not one but two, ample qualifications but no desire.
All you need to be qualified to run for the office of the POTUS is that you have a pulse. Exhibit A is The Donald. He has a pulse and a lot of hot air spewing out of his mouth. The Donald also began his campaign with little desire to win but soon found himself in a bear hug with power. Just like Ryan did when he declined to be the Speaker but reneged and did accept the position after it got sweetened a bit. I can easily envision Ryan changing his heart and agreeing to run --- "only to save America." But I do not see any chance of his improving his qualifications, which stand at about zero.
4
Does everyone remember the clip of Ryan washing clean pots and pans at a homeless shelter? For me, that incident at the end of the failed Romney run, says all we need to know about him!!
2
I not only remember it, but you'll also recall that the event was reported to have been staged. Ie, he was only pretending to be washing pots and pans - just long enough to have some pictures taken. He was running for VP and couldn't be bothered to do it for real. I don't want a pretend president.
I've been hard on our new Brooks in the past, and want to give credit where due.
This conversation felt generally intellectually honest to me, kind of like what happens after two partners engage in a drunken screaming match. Your ears are still ringing, and you're too tired to keep fighting, and life's too short, so detached reasonableness becomes the fallback. I don't care who's wrong or right, I don't really want to fight no more.
Is there ever a hope that the entire national political dialogue could arrive at such a place, and sustain it?
This conversation felt generally intellectually honest to me, kind of like what happens after two partners engage in a drunken screaming match. Your ears are still ringing, and you're too tired to keep fighting, and life's too short, so detached reasonableness becomes the fallback. I don't care who's wrong or right, I don't really want to fight no more.
Is there ever a hope that the entire national political dialogue could arrive at such a place, and sustain it?
11
Obama’s problem, especially on the world stage, has been that’s he liked but not respected, although that’s a step up from George W. Bush, who came to be neither liked nor respected. Kasich, too, is the ever-youthful “nice kid” from the 1990s, or he tries to be, but it is not a good future to look forward to.
@ed
I can't really say that I agree with you, or have come to the same conclusion as you have about the "world stage" disrespecting President Obama.
But then again, I have the advantage of being able to read the International Press in several foreign languages.....All that to say, Sorry. You're wrong.
I can't really say that I agree with you, or have come to the same conclusion as you have about the "world stage" disrespecting President Obama.
But then again, I have the advantage of being able to read the International Press in several foreign languages.....All that to say, Sorry. You're wrong.
10
My friends in European countries like and respect President Obama. They fear any of the Republican candidates for different reasons, really like Bernie and wish him well, and think that Hillary will be a decent if sometimes untrustworthy steward of the country. Maybe I'm a closet European; I feel that same.
I don't care who won. It's a smart, sane, clever column and my favorite. Keep the conversation going!
2
Am I the only person who is troubled by Bernie's pilgrimage to meet the Pope? Put on your cosmology glasses. Politics is played out on a divine landscape--Israel and the Holy Lands, the Isis calaphate, the US constitution divinely inspired, etc. then you have Bernie speaking in truly Messianic terms, painting others as dark, evil, and untrustworthy and he is the one to lead us to truth, righteousness, and into lightness. I am very troubled by his embrace of the Pope and the Pope's insertion in American politics. If all of corporate America and Wall Street is evil and everyone in the house and senate is evil and corrupt, where do you start the conversation?
6
For all his trouble (and a $300,000 plane rental), Bernie got a handshake on a public sidewalk as the Pope passed by. Is 'Piacere di vederti' (Nice to see you) an endorsement?
Over 11,000 Americans donated $27 each to help Bernie grandstand, and that not successfully.
Over 11,000 Americans donated $27 each to help Bernie grandstand, and that not successfully.
5
Very woo-woo Bill; you have to stand on your head to get this connection. I'll worry when Bernie starts "embracing" Netanyahu; Netanyahu is the one who got himself invited - enthusiastically so - to speak to the U.S. Congress. Now we can talk about insinuating oneself into American politics!
1
Tell Ryan to sell it down the street.
5
Brooks was less offensive than usual. What gives?
1
isn't it at least worthy of comment that bernie has been outraising hillary via small contributions to her vast pac tranches? that says something, i think, about his commitment to political "revolution" and to the popularity of same.
3
It might be interesting to know what Bernie (as an Independent) is doing with all those contributions, and how much is actually being donated to the Democratic Party.
4
All the candidates have an (R) next to their name, except Donald Trump. Subtle.
3
"Readers come for political insight....."
Mr Brooks, you must be joking!
Please NY Times put an end to this silly fake conversation series.
Mr Brooks, you must be joking!
Please NY Times put an end to this silly fake conversation series.
14
This is torture. Could someone please provide the link to the "Free Gail" petition? I feel the urgent need to sign it. Voting in the primaries can wait.
16
. "These days the Democratic Party can be split up in a similar way, with old-school centrists on one side and a utopian progressive wing on the other."
I seem to recall what happened to the author of the work "Utopia." He was a thoughtful man who had 11 people burned to death because he found them disagreeable. At the end he got the axe. Or was it a sword? Either way, he was made shorter by a head. Seems to happen a lot of utopian progressives.
I seem to recall what happened to the author of the work "Utopia." He was a thoughtful man who had 11 people burned to death because he found them disagreeable. At the end he got the axe. Or was it a sword? Either way, he was made shorter by a head. Seems to happen a lot of utopian progressives.
4
Mr. Brooks says, "...but the pope met him anyway — a big political win for Sanders."
How is elbowing your way in for a few minutes of face time with the pope a political win, big or otherwise? Sanders would have gained more from a polite refusal of the invitation (was there actually a formal invitation?) on the grounds that he was busy saving The Free World from its confused self.
How is elbowing your way in for a few minutes of face time with the pope a political win, big or otherwise? Sanders would have gained more from a polite refusal of the invitation (was there actually a formal invitation?) on the grounds that he was busy saving The Free World from its confused self.
12
Gail, I'd love it if you would start a trend and stop referring to Social Security and Medicare as "entitlements." How about "earned benefits?"
47
As usual, this election is, as it has always been, about who can give you your free stuff. So, please Gail and Arthur, take the next six months off and stop boring us with your petty analysis. Believe me, nothing important will happen that will affect us poor souls that have any real impact on our lives. It signifies nothing but proof we a corrupt and dishonest political system that most of the people have not a clue to what is really going on, especially thinking their vote matters.
3
How challenging can the Speaker's job be now? There's no negotiating, no horse-trading, no trying to understand the issues or what the other side wants, no compromise. So it's tough naming firehouses?
And for the record, Bernie did not visit with the Pope, he shook his hand and that's about it. Pretty big carbon footprint with nothing to show for it.
And for the record, Bernie did not visit with the Pope, he shook his hand and that's about it. Pretty big carbon footprint with nothing to show for it.
17
Hillary was in East Harlem when Bernie was at the Vatican, but where was Bernie when Hillary was attending out-of-state fundraisers?
Hmm... I wonder who Gail is voting for....
Hmm... I wonder who Gail is voting for....
5
Sorry. I don't know the answer to this...but he sure wasn't here in New York City until only recently.
3
I'm wondering how Collins and Brooks write this column, is the process really conversational, or perhaps created through an exchange of emails?
4
It's almost certainly by email, ms.
There's no way Gail Collins would consent to being held hostage in a room with the Presidential Robot for the American Enterprise Institute For Advanced Greed.
There's no way Gail Collins would consent to being held hostage in a room with the Presidential Robot for the American Enterprise Institute For Advanced Greed.
7
VEGANS For Ryan? A good bumper sticker! On what basis does Paul Ryan become someone who is "amply qualified" to run for President? His public history on taking a stand involves caving on becoming the Speaker of the House (with Sundays off). Given the crushing limitations of the GOP contenders, that looks rational. But not qualifying as a presidential hopeful. Ryan looks to me like he's stuck between his rage about his late father's severe alcoholism and the domestic violence in the family, and his own punitive political beliefs. Ryan's equating hunger for love and calling Scott Walker his buddy is concrete proof that his reasoning and judgement are flawed. Anyone who is proud to have Scott Walker, who's declared war on the middle class, as a friend keeps bad company. Birds of a feather... I'll grant that Ryan's presentation is dignified and articulate; but his social conservatism is extreme. The middle class could count on a President Ryan to increase the war on the middle class and the giveaways to the 1%. Does the US really need more of the same failed ideology that has been stuffed own our throats since 1980? I say, No! So that leaves the GOP with a choice between Trump and Cruz. I do not envy their plight of having to choose between to terrible, horrible, no good, very bad candidates. That the GOP has brought this state of ruin and implosion on itself is gainsaid. I think that the Democrats will find that young voters will support Hillary.
17
Well said!!! His articulate bearing and speaking style belie the beast within. Yet another dangerous ideologue, minus the openly religious bent like Ted Cruz, who I believe would like to turn the U.S. into a modern-day version of the Inquisition, if given free reign.
4
1) Young Sanders supporters do not oppose trade deals. We oppose trade deals that allow corporations to exploit weak labor and environmental laws abroad. If these trade deals did something to boost labor and environmental laws in other countries, they would have broader support. Not many people deny that the US benefits from free trade deals through cheaper products...
2) I think a lot of older people discount how much of a burden student loans are on the working class. I've been paying my loans for more than 2 years now--thousands of dollars--and the high interest rates have only driven them up.
2) I think a lot of older people discount how much of a burden student loans are on the working class. I've been paying my loans for more than 2 years now--thousands of dollars--and the high interest rates have only driven them up.
16
I certainly don't discount the burden of student loans. I have been there, done that, got the t-shirt. My family was just barely middle class and quite poor after my father retired from the military and tried two times to start his own business. My family did make an effort to live in a good public school district, but money was tight and eventually even living in a good public school district was not sustainable. I graduated from the University of Florida in 1968 and borrowed money to to pay for my four years at UF. I also worked while I was in college to pay my expenses. By 1978, living very frugally, I had paid off my student loans.
If you think, however, that "free college tuition" will allow students to go to whatever college or university they want to attend, you are dreaming. "Free college tuition" will most likely require attending a junior college or a community college for the first two years followed by a public college or university in the student's state. "Free college tuition" will not include Ivy League colleges and universities or private colleges and universities like Stanford or out-of-state public universities. It will not include a semester abroad. It probably won't include textbooks. It might not include room and board. In fact, it may not even offer much of a choice of in-state public universities. You will go where you are told to go.
When you hear "free college tuition" think "The Golden Rule": S/he who has the gold makes the rules.
If you think, however, that "free college tuition" will allow students to go to whatever college or university they want to attend, you are dreaming. "Free college tuition" will most likely require attending a junior college or a community college for the first two years followed by a public college or university in the student's state. "Free college tuition" will not include Ivy League colleges and universities or private colleges and universities like Stanford or out-of-state public universities. It will not include a semester abroad. It probably won't include textbooks. It might not include room and board. In fact, it may not even offer much of a choice of in-state public universities. You will go where you are told to go.
When you hear "free college tuition" think "The Golden Rule": S/he who has the gold makes the rules.
9
When you hear "free college tuition" don't believe it. Tuition was actually about 150 dollars a year to go to Berkeley while it was about 3500 dollars a year (plus room and board of course) to go to an Ivy in '72. Reasonably priced higher education at public universities was quite possible then; why does it sound so fantastic to people now? Because Ronald Reagan said so?
So Sanders should know that his proposals will totally fall flat in the republican-dominated congress. He keeps talking about a "political revolution" which should involve taking the House and the senate. But guess who is working to accomplish that goal: Hillary, not Bernie. And let's not forget that even if that goal is accomplished it does not mean that the Democrats will vote as a solid block backing the president. Other than is passing Obamacare I cannot remember any major piece of legislation proposed by Obama in his first two years as president want found that kind of support from congress. And many paid the price for supporting Obamacare in the midterm elections. So let's be realistic, do you think that a dogmatic irascible, populist and topic candidate should really ne president of the US? What would he achieve? Would he be able to shed principles to find common ground? Would he survive the vicious campaign against a "communist/socialist that is not one of us, does not defend our values, wants to turn America into a bad copy of a decrepit European state (or even worse, a Canada clone)" etc etc?
21
Sanders would probably be one of the best Presidents you have ever had. But you won't find out because the powers that be will do anything to make sure he never becomes the President.
3
Oh, how I long for LBJ. Except for Vietnam.
4
Just to clarify: The "powers that be" being the U.S. electorate, and a Republican-led U.S. Congress, that would trip over itself trying to trip him up.
If I'm not mistaken, Betfair's book can be "dutched." They have Trump at 1.62:1 (Bet $38) and Cruz at 3.8:1 (Bet $21). Total bet = $59 and if either wins the return is $100. Throw $1 on Ryan (80:1) or Romney or anyone else you like.
"A friend of mine remarked that Ryan has exactly the two characteristics we most need in a president today — he is amply qualified and has no desire to run."
What a crock!
Ryan is clearly one of the most accomplished politicians in America, and he is also quite adept at using his power as Speaker of the House. But those qualities in themselves in no way qualify him to be president. He is qualified to be just what he is right now...a member of the House.
Ryan is not and never will be qualified to be president, and he knows it, and he is therefore very astute in taking himself out of the running. Why? He simply has no vision on how to keep America great, and his only fealty is to those those who already hold the reins of power...the oligarchy.
What a crock!
Ryan is clearly one of the most accomplished politicians in America, and he is also quite adept at using his power as Speaker of the House. But those qualities in themselves in no way qualify him to be president. He is qualified to be just what he is right now...a member of the House.
Ryan is not and never will be qualified to be president, and he knows it, and he is therefore very astute in taking himself out of the running. Why? He simply has no vision on how to keep America great, and his only fealty is to those those who already hold the reins of power...the oligarchy.
6
Gail: Please find someone other than Arthur to chat with. He is as nauseating as the party he represents. I can't even read your remarks because Arthur is too disgusting. He is a total waste of my time.
10
"So far, it’s worked out, and he’s positioning himself not only as the leader of the House Republicans but effectively of the whole Republican Party."....I am glad that he is effective at positioning himself, but when is he going to accomplish something?
9
Gee, Gail, we can just hardly wait to see Ryan presidentially presiding over the GOP'er confab this summer, providing lots of memorable photo ops of the fiasco, don-cha-know ?
Should look real good in the Ryan political photo album right next to the budget that GOP'ers were supposed to pass this week under Ryan's ' wise man ' leadership; oh, wait -
Should look real good in the Ryan political photo album right next to the budget that GOP'ers were supposed to pass this week under Ryan's ' wise man ' leadership; oh, wait -
16
It is shameful that states like New York and California have primary dates that make their roles in picking national candidates so marginal. Congregations from New York and California, in both parties, should be demanding primary dates in national primaries that let their residents make contributions to the selection process that reflect the amount of resources paid by their states in taxes to the federal government.
2
Here you paint an arch conservative, or "reactionary" as I would classify him as a moderate Republican (in today's world). One of his more desirable traits is his ability and willingness to work with others. You betcha-he'll gladly cooperate with anyone who wants to outlaw a women's right to chose and gay rights given the opportunity. He'll turn back the affordable health act, because after all, in the true conservative view, if you can't afford it, you don't need it. He'll privatise social security, perhaps, re-creating from the ashes, Lehman Brothers to run the privatized program. And he'll build up our armed services to the point where he can then threaten to use nukes against ISIS if they don't give up.
2
Horow001 Minneapolis, MN Pending Approval
Here you paint Paul Ryan,an arch conservative, or "reactionary" as I would classify him as a moderate Republican (in today's world). One of his more desirable traits is his ability and willingness to work with others. You betcha-he'll gladly cooperate with anyone who wants to outlaw a women's right to chose and gay rights given the opportunity. He'll turn back the affordable health act, because after all, in the true conservative view, if you can't afford it, you don't need it. He'll privatise social security, perhaps, re-creating from the ashes, Lehman Brothers to run the privatized program. And he'll build up our armed services to the point where he can then threaten to use nukes against ISIS if they don't give up.
Here you paint Paul Ryan,an arch conservative, or "reactionary" as I would classify him as a moderate Republican (in today's world). One of his more desirable traits is his ability and willingness to work with others. You betcha-he'll gladly cooperate with anyone who wants to outlaw a women's right to chose and gay rights given the opportunity. He'll turn back the affordable health act, because after all, in the true conservative view, if you can't afford it, you don't need it. He'll privatise social security, perhaps, re-creating from the ashes, Lehman Brothers to run the privatized program. And he'll build up our armed services to the point where he can then threaten to use nukes against ISIS if they don't give up.
4
You're absolutely right. Some right wing ideologue like Brooks makes a pronouncement that a powerful right wing hack is reasonable and then Gail accepts that premise and voila Paul Ryan becomes something other than what he is.
2
So, Gail votes in MD as an Independent while 3 million Independents in NY shut out? How is this Constitutional?
4
Actually, she said she votes as an independent which means that she's not voting next week - or now in early voting as the case may be.
It's Constitutional because the Constitution only guarantees that you get to vote in the election that determines who will hold the office, not necessarily in the one that determines who appears on the ballot.
It would be interesting to change that in some fashion. Maybe have the primaries become a vote for your top three candidates regardless of party and then you have to choose your favorite in the actual election.
It's Constitutional because the Constitution only guarantees that you get to vote in the election that determines who will hold the office, not necessarily in the one that determines who appears on the ballot.
It would be interesting to change that in some fashion. Maybe have the primaries become a vote for your top three candidates regardless of party and then you have to choose your favorite in the actual election.
3
Political parties and party primaries are definitely not part of the Constitution. Political parties are in fact private associations and thus are free to make up any rules they choose.
10
Gail said she is voting in NY. Arthur is the one NOT voting in MD as he is an independent.
2
I've yet to read an article explaining why people with a brain vote Trump. If you believes the biggest media outlets Trump voters are just dimwits and angry white losers. Trump elected in NY will show that it's not true at all. So it would be nice if the media, and especially the NYT, produce some writers who actually want to understand what's going on rather than casually explaining Trump voters' choice with missing chromosomes.
3
There seem to be two types of 'educated' people. Those who use there education and experience to think and those who became educated by remembering. Phyllis Schlafly once publicly berated a teacher for challenging his students to list various ways to total a column of numbers. In her opinion there is only one way to add. Me? I can probably list half-a-dozen. I accused her of being a 'rememberer' - not a 'thinker'. Rememberers tend to 'know' - they don't need to think. Thinkers can reason. both groups are 'educated'.
5
Perhaps the House and Senate are no longer the best places to look for nominees for President given the dysfunction of the past few years. The "youth" of the Democratic party may have looked elsewhere for experience. However, I regret Ms. Collins failure to name Amy Klobuchar and Tammy Duckworth as examples of younger Democrats working to make a difference.
The real problem with "Personality Cult" politics is the failure to create an environment which develops the next generation of leaders committed to a party platform which has the support of voters. As, Ms. Collins points out the young Congressional Republicans have very old, very discredited policy proposals to offer thus the current "outsider" candidates with extreme positions. The historic Democratic candidacies of the first woman and the first Jew to be nominated by a major party are overshadowed by a young voter led swing to more progressive policies vs time-tested policies that might actually be implemented primary drama.
The real problem with "Personality Cult" politics is the failure to create an environment which develops the next generation of leaders committed to a party platform which has the support of voters. As, Ms. Collins points out the young Congressional Republicans have very old, very discredited policy proposals to offer thus the current "outsider" candidates with extreme positions. The historic Democratic candidacies of the first woman and the first Jew to be nominated by a major party are overshadowed by a young voter led swing to more progressive policies vs time-tested policies that might actually be implemented primary drama.
2
Here's a slightly out-of-place comment, though it is inspired by one reader's criticism of Gail -- that her thumbs-down to Sanders is a matter of her "old" vision. I don't want the President to have a "vision." I don't want the country to be a hitchhiker on one person's plot or plan or odyssey for this country. I think that election cycle "new" visions, always "new" ever four or eight years, are children's daydreams transplanted into adults' heads. The country is just a bunch of people who should live in basic harmony, not a Collective Conscious carried to the end of someone's rainbow. If any individual wants a crusade, it should be his/her own, not a mass transport with one self-serving captain.
23
Two things noticeably absent from the conversation:
1. On the Right - is Paul Ryan in the Koch brothers' pocket? If so this insistence that he will work with the other side is a log of hogwash. Can't believe Gail didn't bring this up.
2. On the Left - is the absence of young(er) representation a result of Super-delegates, who seem to value experience over legitimate representation? Can't believe Arthur didn't bring this up.
1. On the Right - is Paul Ryan in the Koch brothers' pocket? If so this insistence that he will work with the other side is a log of hogwash. Can't believe Gail didn't bring this up.
2. On the Left - is the absence of young(er) representation a result of Super-delegates, who seem to value experience over legitimate representation? Can't believe Arthur didn't bring this up.
4
It's hard to see how the absence of younger representation could be tied to super-delegates, since those are only at all relevant in Presidential elections, and you don't build a party bench by starting with the presidency. I think it comes down to the 2010 Republican sweep - It opened up a lot of new seats for young Republicans (and cleared out a number of long-term incumbent Republicans), while narrowing the surviving democratic seats down to incumbent Democrats who were strong enough or popular enough to dominate their districts.
2
Or is Arthur Brooks in the Koch Brothers pocket?
"...you don't build a party bench by starting with the presidency."
Words of wisdom. One wonders if the Green Party will ever, ever, ever get a clue about this and then possibly eventually become relevant in a presidential election. So far, they seem totally dim-witted about it, along with all their "I'll-teach-the-Democrats-a-lesson-by-voting-for-whoever-the-Green-Party-is-running-for-president" "supporters". Apologies for the non sequitur.
Words of wisdom. One wonders if the Green Party will ever, ever, ever get a clue about this and then possibly eventually become relevant in a presidential election. So far, they seem totally dim-witted about it, along with all their "I'll-teach-the-Democrats-a-lesson-by-voting-for-whoever-the-Green-Party-is-running-for-president" "supporters". Apologies for the non sequitur.
Mr. Brooks, how can you claim that Paul Ryan "hates the ideological holy war?" He is with the "President Obama can't name a Supreme Court Justice" obstructionists. Ryan specified that this was from a "principle," not a critique of any nominee. And what principle is that? That President Obama somehow does not merit the same integrity as his predecessors. Even as the House Speaker, if Ryan truly was apart from the "ideological holy war," he could stand away from it.
34
Gail, I'm 37 years old and did not ignore point one. I just can't convince myself that Clinton is constituted for the presidency, and between the two of them, policy-wise, I'll take Sanders.
15
Both New York Senators are out campaigning for Clinton in New York. Only one of Sanders' Senate colleagues has supported him. Do the members of the Senate who have worked with both of them for several years know something?
15
Yes, they do. They know that Bernie will dismantle the system that has funneled them money from special interests. They also know about Hillary's hit list. So yes, they know something. But so do we now. At least they've down their true colors.
3
Sure they do, Spitz. They know where the money is.
Get Real, NYT ! A New York Primary that actually matters??? Gimme a break! If that were the case, Ted Cruz would matter. As well as Grump. And Kasich. And any other you can think of in NY. Now, Colorado matters.....they have come to their senses about pot, and will likely empty their prisons of people who should not be there..............
3
A New York Primary "actually matters" to New Yorkers--so, the New York Times got it absolutely right.
Arthur's quips are so skewed and heavy handed that they can't quite make it to funny. It's not so much a conversation with him as a debate.
13
thought the "Vegans for Romney" bumper sticker was amusing. But we did have to make it ALL the way to the end, for that one.
3
Ryan's strategy: "Please, please, don't throw me into that briar patch. Anything, anything but that!"
51
Umm. I don't think we have a trade agreement with China. Not one.
1
Nothing magic here. Self servers serve self. There is no place for them in government. We elect them to office at our peril.
3
On the Democratic side, my only two conclusions are 1) Bernie Sanders is not really constituted to be a president and 2) I can totally understand why anybody under 30 would ignore point one.
You just impaled yourself on your own spear or whatever. Why do you suppose millions of us way over 3O think he is eminently "constituted" to be a President... maybe not a bean counter or wonk as they are called these days, but a Enterprise
If you could really understand you would get that point one is not ignored, it simply does not register as an intelligent assertion that can be considered.
The reason you do not understand this is that you are "old". Not in body, but, old vision, no hope, no future that you can't get incrementally to with our a walker or wheel chair, old mind/brain, all the rooms are full of old furniture, old ideas musty stuff.
Clean your house Gail. you still have a lot to offer if you can get back to where you can see it.
You just impaled yourself on your own spear or whatever. Why do you suppose millions of us way over 3O think he is eminently "constituted" to be a President... maybe not a bean counter or wonk as they are called these days, but a Enterprise
If you could really understand you would get that point one is not ignored, it simply does not register as an intelligent assertion that can be considered.
The reason you do not understand this is that you are "old". Not in body, but, old vision, no hope, no future that you can't get incrementally to with our a walker or wheel chair, old mind/brain, all the rooms are full of old furniture, old ideas musty stuff.
Clean your house Gail. you still have a lot to offer if you can get back to where you can see it.
12
'If you could really understand...'
What a marvellous put-down! Feel the fervour! Ignore the incoherence, the bad grammar, the complete lack of substance - gosh! just like Sanders.
What a marvellous put-down! Feel the fervour! Ignore the incoherence, the bad grammar, the complete lack of substance - gosh! just like Sanders.
3
Just for the record. The millions who think that Sanders is not eminently "constituted" to be President have reasons as valid as yours. And it serves no real purpose of grouping them together as "old" and with "old vision", because it bespeaks an ageism that has no place in any kind of "People's revolution".
1
Good conversation and the pity is the closed primaries in both New York and Maryland. It leaves too much power in the hands of the parties and takes it away from whom it should really belong: the people. Changing to open primaries, albeit too late for this electoral season, would certainly do us well in the future.
3
The parties after this election year fiasco are really going to tighten the process. No party will ever have an open primary again or allow independents run under their party's banner.
2
The Democratic Party is nowhere near as divided as the Republicans. A lot of the support for Bernie Sanders comes from independents and from young people who have not been previously involved in politics. Let's not forget that Bernie Sanders himself is an independent. The Democratic Party is a big tent that includes a wide range of political viewpoints, various religions, various races and ethnicities. When Hillary Clinton becomes the nominee, she will need to work hard to win the support of independents and Sanders' young people, but she will be able to unify the Democratic Party without any difficulty.
39
Baloney. The Democratic Party abandoned its longtime principles of being for working people, the poor and disadvantaged when it sold its soul to the Democratic Leadership Council and Bill Clinton as president. I am an over 60 woman who will never vote for Hillary Clinton and all she represents as a "New Democrat". New Democrat is a lot like what Old Republican used to be before it went around the bend with the right wing lunatics. We need a real Democratic Party, and it is Independent Democratic Socialist Bernie Sanders as president to begin to make progress.
5
All Hillary Clinton will need to do is posit a President Trump or God forbid a President Cruz to bring all sane independents and most Bernie supporters under her Democrat umbrella. Election will be vote blue for sanity or red for insane hate. I pray Americans are in the former camp and not the latter.
5
The interests of the "poor and disadvantaged" were sold out long before Bill Clinton.
And with all due respect, Bernie Sanders is NOT a Democrat. He is a Democrat-in-name-only....there's a difference.
And with all due respect, Bernie Sanders is NOT a Democrat. He is a Democrat-in-name-only....there's a difference.
1
“You’ll never be sorry to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting.”
You will be if you see these statistics. The mid-career median salary for Philosophy majors is higher than that of accounting majors, and philosophy is a lot more fun and enlightening.
http://www.payscale.com/2008-best-colleges/degrees.asp
You will be if you see these statistics. The mid-career median salary for Philosophy majors is higher than that of accounting majors, and philosophy is a lot more fun and enlightening.
http://www.payscale.com/2008-best-colleges/degrees.asp
21
Gail- Why even try to have a conversation with him? Ryan is qualified? For what? "Magic Asterisks" in budget proposals? Eliminating the "entitlements" that supported his family and put him through school?
And Democrats are as crazy and divided as Republicans?
Please Gail. Don't let them force you to do this anymore!
And Democrats are as crazy and divided as Republicans?
Please Gail. Don't let them force you to do this anymore!
96
Gail was really priceless today. She was able to hammer Mr. Brooks on the issues, while being very humorous. Even Mr. Brooks has managed to find some humor. Nice conversation today, guys.
18
Arthur Brooks seems to be fascinated beyond any bounds of rationality by Paul Ryan, the so-called "intellectual leader" of the Republican Party, whom Paul Krugman has rightly dubbed a con-artist. No matter how carefully Gail tries to avoid the subject, Brooks returns time and time again to drool over his beloved Speaker of the House -- a man who seems to have never grown out of his adolescent fascination with Ayn Rand. I find Arthur Brooks extremely shallow and boring; he always tries to sneak in a nasty comment about people (such as Bernie Sanders) who disagree with his narrow-minded views of life, in general, and politics, in particular. Gail, I feel your pain. Do you really have to talk to this man?
83
They should get a room. For the rest of us, Ryan is just a granule of the lethal, ideological, poison that's been dumped into the well of human souls.
23
How can anyone chosen to be a political columnist in the NYT adulate Mr. Ryan as a "budget specialist," who has proven over and over again, that he can't add or subtract?
3
If you recall the film "The Specialist", Sylvester Stallone was just that, a guy who blew things up for a living. Thus characterizing Ryan as a budgetary specialist is, ironically, apt.
3
The word Entitlement has been used as usual with a sense of disgust at the little people that collect them. The entitlements to which everyone refers include Social Security Benefits which are an involuntary retirement plan that workers are enrolled in and required to pay 7.5% of their salary into during their entire working lives. Their employer also pays 7.5% of the employee salary as a tax into this ENTITLEMENT program. Thats a total of 15% of salaries earned across the entire USA that are funded into the FICA fund. WHERE these days does anyone have an automatic 15% gain in contributions to a retirement account. The USA government SSA fund WAS solvent until every other program started borrowing from it for their own programs to be funded. There are already plan enhancements in place that reduce the length and amount of benefits recipients will get. What should be proposed is to REDUCE the age at which you can collect your SSA and have unlimited earnings to age 65. Ronald Regan reduced that age from 72 to 70 to encourage people to keep working at usually higher salaries since you are older and to automatically keep contributing the 15% by doing so. IF you reduce the age at which you can work and collect, people collect a lower benefit, keep working and contribute the FICA tax at the higher salary and problably drop dead on the job from continuing to work when they should retire.
32
Democratic government is there to protect humans against human nature in order to forward the interests of the species.
Most other forms of government get hijacked to serve one group of "Sun God's" or another.
We should stick with democracy, in spite of its troublesome support of imperfect humans. You never know where the next great idea, act of heroism, or simple, anonymous catalytic shove is coming from.
Most other forms of government get hijacked to serve one group of "Sun God's" or another.
We should stick with democracy, in spite of its troublesome support of imperfect humans. You never know where the next great idea, act of heroism, or simple, anonymous catalytic shove is coming from.
6
Um, I'm a Missouri teacher, and as of the last few years, I have contributed 14.5% of my monthly salary to our state teacher's retirement! And I'm very glad about that -- Missouri Teacher's Retirement is excellent; teachers put in an appreciable percentage of their income and the money is very well managed by the retirement program. Of course, we don't have any other entities dipping into the funds, although I think the State of Missouri would really love to get their hands on it...
3
According to Brooks, when it comes to healthcare and campaign finance most of Europe as well as Canada, Japan and Australia would be considered "utopian." Somehow, I suspect that will come as something of a surprise to those folks.
54
"Arthur: We’re seeing that both parties are deeply fragmented. These days the Democratic Party can be split up in a similar way, with old-school centrists on one side and a utopian progressive wing on the other. Populists are making up about the same percentage on each side at this moment."
More false equivalence from Arthur Brooks. No doubt it's the media's and Barack Obama's fault too. While Democrats disagree on the details and some small minority of Sanders supporters think Mrs. Clinton will damage the country, the majority of Republicans think that the GOP frontrunner will destroy the country and the Party.
And Mr. Ryan as President? He can't even get his own party in the House to pass a budget.
The Republican denial of the desperate state of their party reminds me of the Black Knight in "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." His limbs laying around him on the ground and he insists "It's just a flesh wound."
More false equivalence from Arthur Brooks. No doubt it's the media's and Barack Obama's fault too. While Democrats disagree on the details and some small minority of Sanders supporters think Mrs. Clinton will damage the country, the majority of Republicans think that the GOP frontrunner will destroy the country and the Party.
And Mr. Ryan as President? He can't even get his own party in the House to pass a budget.
The Republican denial of the desperate state of their party reminds me of the Black Knight in "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." His limbs laying around him on the ground and he insists "It's just a flesh wound."
66
The Democratic dialog is all about how quickly and broadly government can serve humans.
The Republican dialog is all about how we can eliminate designated defective humans.
The Republican dialog is all about how we can eliminate designated defective humans.
43
Mr. Ryan has not demonstrated that he is either "amply qualified" or "intellectual." Indeed, he has demonstrated just the opposite qualities. To his credit, though, I think he's aware of the Peter Principle and is in this instance being honest.
70
Mike, Ryan must be an intellectual because he read Atlas Shrugged. Word has it, he particularly enjoyed the part where the teenagers in the book are going at it in Daddy's basement. Oops. Guess he forgot that part. Maybe he isn't so qualified after all.
12
I question the quote from Arthur: "We’re seeing that both parties are deeply fragmented."
The Republican Party has somehow disintegrated into an organization that offers American voters two radical nutcases (Trump, Cruz) as their options for presidential candidates.
The Democratic Party has put forward two potential candidates whose voting records on issues aren't that different, though political contests tend to exaggerate those differences. Both are progressives. Both experienced. Neither one proposes that we go back to the Gold Standard, break up the IRS, or riot and punch one another in the face during the convention.
I look forward to the Republican convention. Expect it will be quite a show.
There's a difference today between the GOP and the Democrats.
The Republican Party is profoundly, awfully cracked.
Paul Ryan has received no votes in these primaries. Try to elect him as the GOP candidate ... and let's see what happens.
I'll get binoculars.
The Republican Party has somehow disintegrated into an organization that offers American voters two radical nutcases (Trump, Cruz) as their options for presidential candidates.
The Democratic Party has put forward two potential candidates whose voting records on issues aren't that different, though political contests tend to exaggerate those differences. Both are progressives. Both experienced. Neither one proposes that we go back to the Gold Standard, break up the IRS, or riot and punch one another in the face during the convention.
I look forward to the Republican convention. Expect it will be quite a show.
There's a difference today between the GOP and the Democrats.
The Republican Party is profoundly, awfully cracked.
Paul Ryan has received no votes in these primaries. Try to elect him as the GOP candidate ... and let's see what happens.
I'll get binoculars.
99
I imagine that HBO might have "Pay per View"at $99/night for the RNC convention ESPECIALLY if the RNC doesn't get a candidate on the first ballot.
(It would be a bigger draw than "The Fight of the Century" between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao that cost a record $99.99 on pay-per-view.--I think that 78 y/o Trump supporters can hit harder than those two..)
Trump supporters on the floor and outside the Quicken Loans Center will be chomping on the bit to make sure Trump becomes the GOP candidate.
Now Ohio has an open carry gun law. You can carry that AR-15 over your shoulder with OR without a conceal carry permit. But no permit? You have to keep that weapon in plain view.
I know that 50,000 anti-gun lib'rals signed a petition to allow guns in the arena but the beleaguered Secret Service put the kibosh on that.
Trump is a reality TV celebrity. Believe it that he will do EVERYTHING possible to amp up ratings at that convention and Trump supporters will do ANYTHING Trump tells them to do.
I wouldn't be surprised if Trump hasn't already signed a contract with HBO for a lucrative fight night at Quicken Loans. It will be a YUGE and BEAUTIFUL thing to see! Ohio Governor John Kasich may have the National Guard ready for any action.
(I am now thinking of Kent State...)
(It would be a bigger draw than "The Fight of the Century" between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao that cost a record $99.99 on pay-per-view.--I think that 78 y/o Trump supporters can hit harder than those two..)
Trump supporters on the floor and outside the Quicken Loans Center will be chomping on the bit to make sure Trump becomes the GOP candidate.
Now Ohio has an open carry gun law. You can carry that AR-15 over your shoulder with OR without a conceal carry permit. But no permit? You have to keep that weapon in plain view.
I know that 50,000 anti-gun lib'rals signed a petition to allow guns in the arena but the beleaguered Secret Service put the kibosh on that.
Trump is a reality TV celebrity. Believe it that he will do EVERYTHING possible to amp up ratings at that convention and Trump supporters will do ANYTHING Trump tells them to do.
I wouldn't be surprised if Trump hasn't already signed a contract with HBO for a lucrative fight night at Quicken Loans. It will be a YUGE and BEAUTIFUL thing to see! Ohio Governor John Kasich may have the National Guard ready for any action.
(I am now thinking of Kent State...)
1
And popcorn.
Mr Brooks, the 61 million voters who voted for Paul Ryan as Vice-President did not include a majority of people from Wisconsin or his home town.
He says he doesn't want to the nomination , but then he said he ran a marathon time in less time than he actually did , and he pretended to be working in a soup kitchen . So who knows ?
He says he doesn't want to the nomination , but then he said he ran a marathon time in less time than he actually did , and he pretended to be working in a soup kitchen . So who knows ?
108
What's wrong with you, GW? Don't you realize that lying about his marathon time (or anything else) is the method by which a true republican politician generates his bona fides?
1
Gail & Arthur,
You missed one other story that happened this week.
It turns out that Trump's family will not be able to vote for him today.
They are not "Republicans" and this is a closed primary.
Their chance to "switch" ended last October. LAST OCTOBER!
Evidently, either no one knew that fact or never thought to tell them.
And ditto for anyone who wished to vote Democrat.
If a person is registered as anything else, they cannot vote.
It had to be done by last October.
I suspect that will impact the "Bernie Voters" more than the "Hilly Voters".
The "Hilly Voters" are older voters, likely long time registered Democrats.
The "Bernie Voters" are perceived to be Independents.
How many of them will be shut out from voting because, like the Trump Family, they didn't realize there was a window... that shut long ago.
And, one last question: Will Bernie be able to vote for himself?
The moral of this, is: Voters of America! Check your status now to see if you are on the rolls and check the deadlines on when you may switch and/or switch back!
Voter suppression is down to an art form.
Don't get caught in it!!!!
You missed one other story that happened this week.
It turns out that Trump's family will not be able to vote for him today.
They are not "Republicans" and this is a closed primary.
Their chance to "switch" ended last October. LAST OCTOBER!
Evidently, either no one knew that fact or never thought to tell them.
And ditto for anyone who wished to vote Democrat.
If a person is registered as anything else, they cannot vote.
It had to be done by last October.
I suspect that will impact the "Bernie Voters" more than the "Hilly Voters".
The "Hilly Voters" are older voters, likely long time registered Democrats.
The "Bernie Voters" are perceived to be Independents.
How many of them will be shut out from voting because, like the Trump Family, they didn't realize there was a window... that shut long ago.
And, one last question: Will Bernie be able to vote for himself?
The moral of this, is: Voters of America! Check your status now to see if you are on the rolls and check the deadlines on when you may switch and/or switch back!
Voter suppression is down to an art form.
Don't get caught in it!!!!
41
Bernie isn't a NY State resident, so no, he won't be able to vote in. this primary.
22
YES! What a dimwit I am today! Thank you! You are correct!
1
Rosa, I object to your characterization of the rules for voting in the Democratic primary as "voter suppression." You may disagree with a party having its own rules for who can vote to nominate that party's candidate, but those rules have been in place for quite some time. Anyone who wanted to vote in the Democratic primary just needed to pay attention to the deadlines for switching teams. By the way, that is why this liberal and former Independent decided to change my affiliation ... so I can participate in the process and vote for Hillary. I'm personally more troubled by the undemocratic nature of caucuses, but whatever.
As for whether Bernie can vote for himself, surely not in New York since he's been a resident of Vermont for decades.
As for whether Bernie can vote for himself, surely not in New York since he's been a resident of Vermont for decades.
7
It seems clear, as Arthur states, that "both parties are deeply fragmented." This is a very dangerous situation for our country. It is probably the root cause for most, if not all, of the growing dysfunction in Congress and in all phases of our government, including now, our Supreme Court, which has become infected by the same disease due to Senate inaction and conflict with the president.
When there is not even general agreement within the party, no matter what action is taken, there are going to be a lot of very unhappy people both in the party taking the action and certainly in the other party. Conceivably, this could be a group that is larger than a majority of the electorate. A government that regularly displeases more than a majority of the people it governs cannot hope to survive.
We need to get back to a more sensible approach to getting things done. Otherwise, we are going to find the major parties splitting into smaller factions and wind up with the need to make deals the way they are done in parliamentary systems to achieve a consensus to govern. This would be a disaster under our constitutional system of government with its concept of checks and balances among three equal branches.
What is good for the party is not necessarily good for the country, and conversely, what is good for the country is not always good for the party. We need people in both parties who are willing to put party politics behind the good of the country, not ahead of it.
When there is not even general agreement within the party, no matter what action is taken, there are going to be a lot of very unhappy people both in the party taking the action and certainly in the other party. Conceivably, this could be a group that is larger than a majority of the electorate. A government that regularly displeases more than a majority of the people it governs cannot hope to survive.
We need to get back to a more sensible approach to getting things done. Otherwise, we are going to find the major parties splitting into smaller factions and wind up with the need to make deals the way they are done in parliamentary systems to achieve a consensus to govern. This would be a disaster under our constitutional system of government with its concept of checks and balances among three equal branches.
What is good for the party is not necessarily good for the country, and conversely, what is good for the country is not always good for the party. We need people in both parties who are willing to put party politics behind the good of the country, not ahead of it.
7
Where do you live? I'd like to move there.
"We’re seeing that both parties are deeply fragmented. These days the Democratic Party can be split up in a similar way, with old-school centrists on one side and a utopian progressive wing on the other."
False framing 101. What we actually have is a split between "old-school" New Deal Democrats and the neoliberal, privatize everything technocrats.
False framing 101. What we actually have is a split between "old-school" New Deal Democrats and the neoliberal, privatize everything technocrats.
25
In many ways, the democratic parties fragmentation, especially going in to the future is even more concern. Regardless of Trump, the Republicans have remained true to their their usual right wing idiocy that, recently has moved even further to the right, yet, ideology has remained much the same. Since the Bill Clinton years where his policies were obvious choices to move the party further right which have been, regardless of the rhetoric, continued under Obama, Sanders is regarded by some democrats now, being as too left-wing yet, he is an original democrat.
Ironically, it is mostly the young who have gravitated to Sanders and as you describe it, are actually in their ideology, old school FDR democrats who feel the party in its present form is no longer representing ALL of its constituents. If the democrats want any success moving forward and unless they want to lose a generation, they better seriously review what they are doing.
Ironically, it is mostly the young who have gravitated to Sanders and as you describe it, are actually in their ideology, old school FDR democrats who feel the party in its present form is no longer representing ALL of its constituents. If the democrats want any success moving forward and unless they want to lose a generation, they better seriously review what they are doing.
2
The title of this column is "A New York Primary That Actually Matters". How's this for a scoop? Pretty soon, you can actually have a column that's entitled "A California Primary That Actually Matters". Can you believe it? California can be the kingmaker or destroyer of Donald Trump. I can hardly wait to change my voter registration.
14
Once again, Gail, I beg you to stop these "conversations" with this right-wing jerk. It's really beneath you.
I do thank you for mentioning Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, one of the few politicians these days who is not only smart and dedicated, but truly likable. She's one more reason I'm proud to be a New Yorker. My district is also fortunate to have an excellent representative in the House, Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. Like Gillibrand he even knows how to play well with others.
I do thank you for mentioning Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, one of the few politicians these days who is not only smart and dedicated, but truly likable. She's one more reason I'm proud to be a New Yorker. My district is also fortunate to have an excellent representative in the House, Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. Like Gillibrand he even knows how to play well with others.
86
ugh, another of these conversations. why do we have to listen to arthur c brooks? the other arthur brooks would be a lot better. seriously, celebrating paul ryan? it's become this bad that he seems reasonable?
57
Be grateful. These days, this is about as good as it gets.
5
What "other" Arthur Brooks?
There's David Brooks who used to have actual urbane, witty discussions with Gail.
There's Albert Brooks who is an immensely talented movie script writer, actor, and producer.
But unfortunately the ONLY well known Arthur Brooks is this empty suit from the AEI!
There's David Brooks who used to have actual urbane, witty discussions with Gail.
There's Albert Brooks who is an immensely talented movie script writer, actor, and producer.
But unfortunately the ONLY well known Arthur Brooks is this empty suit from the AEI!
2
Poor Gail Collins...her first stop back from vacation is a fake conversation with a fake independent extolling the virtues of Paul 'Ayn Rand' Ryan who loved Ayn Rand just before he fakely rejected her.
FROM http://articles.latimes.com/2012/aug/12/news/la-pn-vp-paul-ryan-ayn-rand...
Paul Ryan told the Weekly Standard in 2003 that he gave his staffers copies of “Atlas Shrugged” as Christmas presents.
Speaking to a group of Rand acolytes in 2005, Ryan said “the reason I got involved in public service, by and large, if I had to credit one thinker, one person, it would be Ayn Rand. And the fight we are in here, make no mistake about it, is a fight of individualism versus collectivism.”
In 2009, Tim Mak of Politico quoted Paul Ryan channeling Ayn Rand:
“What’s unique about what’s happening today in government, in the world, in America, is that it’s as if we’re living in an Ayn Rand novel right now. I think Ayn Rand did the best job of anybody to build a moral case of capitalism, and that morality of capitalism is under assault.”
And then in 2012, when running for his first national office and receiving a little scrutiny, he flip-flopped and rejected the intellectual building blocks of his stunted intellect:
“I reject her philosophy” Ryan said. “It’s an atheist philosophy. It reduces human interactions down to mere contracts and it is antithetical to my worldview.”
There's nothing like a complete fake, phony and a fraud to invigorate the right-wing's fake intellect.
FROM http://articles.latimes.com/2012/aug/12/news/la-pn-vp-paul-ryan-ayn-rand...
Paul Ryan told the Weekly Standard in 2003 that he gave his staffers copies of “Atlas Shrugged” as Christmas presents.
Speaking to a group of Rand acolytes in 2005, Ryan said “the reason I got involved in public service, by and large, if I had to credit one thinker, one person, it would be Ayn Rand. And the fight we are in here, make no mistake about it, is a fight of individualism versus collectivism.”
In 2009, Tim Mak of Politico quoted Paul Ryan channeling Ayn Rand:
“What’s unique about what’s happening today in government, in the world, in America, is that it’s as if we’re living in an Ayn Rand novel right now. I think Ayn Rand did the best job of anybody to build a moral case of capitalism, and that morality of capitalism is under assault.”
And then in 2012, when running for his first national office and receiving a little scrutiny, he flip-flopped and rejected the intellectual building blocks of his stunted intellect:
“I reject her philosophy” Ryan said. “It’s an atheist philosophy. It reduces human interactions down to mere contracts and it is antithetical to my worldview.”
There's nothing like a complete fake, phony and a fraud to invigorate the right-wing's fake intellect.
164
"A friend of mine remarked that Ryan has exactly the two characteristics we most need in a president today — he is amply qualified and has no desire to run."
Ryan is the Republican leader of tax cuts for every excuse, and a magic asterisk to explain how they can get away with that. That isn't "qualified." That is our biggest problem today.
Ryan is the Republican leader of tax cuts for every excuse, and a magic asterisk to explain how they can get away with that. That isn't "qualified." That is our biggest problem today.
140
Gail seems unaware of the many people like me who are over 50 and want Sanders for
his integrity and judgement, not to mention consistency and courage.
his integrity and judgement, not to mention consistency and courage.
47
I mean I really tried but by time got to Cuba it all just lost me.