The following has never been truer. Marshall Mcluhen said the medium is the message. Despite everything else, Trump speaks TO people. Obama, Hillary, etc. speak AT people, telling them what they should be. Trump is sitting in your living room or at the bar with you having a conversation though you may think 90% of what he is saying is off the wall. Obama, Hillary, etc. are the head of the classroom giving you a lecture and you want to be someplace else. The medium is the message. The medium is more important than the content of the message. Add Trumps expertise with social media and he is the nuclear submarine gliding under the surface while Hillary is the battleship on the surface ripe for sinking.
60
No doubt an eloquent commentary by Brooks, but one that is flawed by an overly optimistic appraisal of the historical character of this nation--and particularly of the "conservatives" that Brooks appears to pine for. Brooks is correct that those of us of a certain age--particularly those of us who grew up with advantages -- had what he calls the "modesty" code beat into our heads. But, the same parents, police and (some) teachers who preached this code were also zenophobic and race baiters, if not racists. Archie Bunker was no joke. The fact that TV moved to reality shows does not mean he went away. As we see there are millions as our neighbors. They have always been there, waiting, as Trump says, for a voice. As others have noted, that "voice" did not start with Trump but rather with the acquiescence of the type of Republicans that Brooks admires--and Brooks himself--to the race baiting condemnation of our President from his first days in office. Brooks is not a Catholic but if he wants dive into tradition he should acquaint himself with the confessional.
32
Humility and gentleness? Surrender?
I heard dig in! ... Do the work!... Play smart, Care and dont give up in the face of diversity.
I heard that cynicism and bombast and flame throwers are not the way— rather the way is as it has always been— you get up in the AM and you do the work and you keep doing it until its better.
Politics has changed and the problems have changed, but the solutions are still found in the same ways. As Hilary pointed out this takes courage and dedication— vision and creative effort— thoughtful participation and attention. This is the tax that every American really pays— this is the contract of our society.
I heard dig in! ... Do the work!... Play smart, Care and dont give up in the face of diversity.
I heard that cynicism and bombast and flame throwers are not the way— rather the way is as it has always been— you get up in the AM and you do the work and you keep doing it until its better.
Politics has changed and the problems have changed, but the solutions are still found in the same ways. As Hilary pointed out this takes courage and dedication— vision and creative effort— thoughtful participation and attention. This is the tax that every American really pays— this is the contract of our society.
38
lol david brooks is def a dem now
13
They don't win the summer with the GDP numbers trending as they currently are.
1st Quarter: .08%
2nd Quarter: 1.2%
1st Quarter: .08%
2nd Quarter: 1.2%
7
Judeo-Christian values represent America's highest ideals? Does Brooks really think that love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness did not exist before the founding of Christianity? How historically ignorant can one be? This is just another dog-whistle to those who think civilization began in the suburbs of Jerusalem. Can't we please, please leave the bible-thumping in the churches where it belongs? Must we insult every other civilization and mode of faith every time we discuss politics or policy? I'm so very tired...
81
But, Mr. Brooks, why are you stopping short of endorsing Hillary? You've come this far in denouncing Trump, but party is still more important than country, huh?
96
Excuse me, Mr. Brooks, but I think you need a well earned vacation. Spend some time thinking about the fact that there was never 'a party of Lincoln'. Lincoln was a Republican but 'the party' did everything they could to crucify him at the time, as I recall the history. Why didn't anyone pick up on Kareem Abdul Jabbar's invocation of Jefferson and Jefferson's view of government. [Sure he was a slave owner, but we blacks have worked with honest determination to push ourselves forward and have learned the grace to forgive]. Why isn't anyone in the media focusing on the current actors pushing for electoral reform so that come 2020 the common people will be more than ready to monitor and direct the course of redistricting. When you come back from vacation, tell us how efforts are going to make sure that the voter participation rate is the highest it's ever been in every single zip code in America.
See you Friday, as usual, on PBS.
See you Friday, as usual, on PBS.
39
David is lamenting the Republicans' missed opportunities. He being a shill for republicans, it is hard to understand why he did not say much about last night of the democratic convention. His first reaction after hearing Hillary was " why did she have to waste time giving all those details, etc." at the PBS News hour coverage. He would have liked Hillary to imitate his friend and say "trust me, I am the only one who can do it!"
David, wake up!
David, wake up!
66
Far too little too late Mr. Brooks. Where were you all those years ago when Reagan was claiming "government is the problem," while doubling the size of it? Where were you when it became obvious to anyone with a brain and conscience that "trickle-down" economics was no more than a get-richer-quicker scheme for the already wealthy? Where were you when President Obama repeatedly called for funds to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure but was blocked at every turn by Republicans determined to see him fail, not for love of country, but love of power and control. There comes a point when every person must make a momentous choice between right and wrong. Republicans have been wrong for America for decades. You chose not to say anything about it until now; which means you made the wrong choice for America a long time ago.
207
This is the best David Brooks piece I have ever read.
33
"A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger."
That's a lot of willfully misplaced blame for an administration that did a pretty great job cleaning up George Bush's mess in both the Middle East and here at home. And let's not forget the obstructionist Republicans in both houses of Congress who did their best to deny President Obama any success. They prefer to deny him over any benefit it may provide to our citizens.
That's a lot of willfully misplaced blame for an administration that did a pretty great job cleaning up George Bush's mess in both the Middle East and here at home. And let's not forget the obstructionist Republicans in both houses of Congress who did their best to deny President Obama any success. They prefer to deny him over any benefit it may provide to our citizens.
235
Brooks writes, "...the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness."
Unfortunately, he leaves out what may well be America's current -- if not traditional -- "highest moral ideal", which is at the center of the Judaism part of his "Judeo-Christian aspirations" : justice. It is precisely feelings of injustice that is at the center of much of America's current dissatisfaction across the political spectrum.
Unfortunately, he leaves out what may well be America's current -- if not traditional -- "highest moral ideal", which is at the center of the Judaism part of his "Judeo-Christian aspirations" : justice. It is precisely feelings of injustice that is at the center of much of America's current dissatisfaction across the political spectrum.
34
I wish I could trust that we Americans will do the right thing in November. Mr. Brooks's refusal to take the obvious next step, despite his claimed recognition of the relative merits of the two candidates, provides an example of the pressure many suffer to effectively give in to the "untethered, spiritually vacuous" candidate.
I know a Trumpest. He acknowledges that Trump lies far more than anyone, including Clinton. Yet he'll vote for this master of the "lunatic fringe" because he doesn't trust Clinton.
This is not a problem with the "essential contract of society". This is a problem with an irrational populace.
...Andrew
I know a Trumpest. He acknowledges that Trump lies far more than anyone, including Clinton. Yet he'll vote for this master of the "lunatic fringe" because he doesn't trust Clinton.
This is not a problem with the "essential contract of society". This is a problem with an irrational populace.
...Andrew
125
So, is white the inclusive color? The third rail of the American flag? Or is that an appeal to the old guarded guys? I'd really like to know what the madmen at glad are thinking, because I simply find myself asking what saint is getting married.
Maybe this is because women can wear any color? Why stick to the old blue and red schemes? But a white guy with a black tie might remind us of Colonel Sanders?
Come in, social science, I believe in you! Isn't that Orange Man a trumpet for Telephony? He's alarms me like a traffic cone.
Maybe this is because women can wear any color? Why stick to the old blue and red schemes? But a white guy with a black tie might remind us of Colonel Sanders?
Come in, social science, I believe in you! Isn't that Orange Man a trumpet for Telephony? He's alarms me like a traffic cone.
14
David: I found the analysis of Hillary Clinton's speech last night by you and the PBS panel to be well off the mark. You folks had already made your minds up about what you wanted from her before she began. You wanted a warm cuddly speech and you didn't get it. Instead you got a carefully crafted talk by an educated woman who knows what she's talking about. The simple fact is that she brought the house down, and the audience and viewers loved it. However, you were closer to being with it in today's NYT column, but not
once.....did you mention Hillary Clinton's name in the column. What is with you, anyway? Stop expecting Hillary to be Michelle Obama. She's not. She's
her own person with her own personality, and she'll be a great President, I predict. Stop expecting her to be something she's not.
once.....did you mention Hillary Clinton's name in the column. What is with you, anyway? Stop expecting Hillary to be Michelle Obama. She's not. She's
her own person with her own personality, and she'll be a great President, I predict. Stop expecting her to be something she's not.
285
I beg to differ. It was Nixon's Southern strategy and the consequent racist undercurrent that was embraced by all Republican nominees from Reagan to Romney and the obstructionist ways of the Republican led Congress (with no regard for the working and middle classes) that have led to the understandably disgruntled populace that is angry enough to be blinded by Trump's idiocy and allow for his ascendency.
131
First of all Does anybody believes Trump is a Republican?
Trump at best is a petulant opportunist, hijacked confused GOP?
No body like s Trump in GOP, because he has never been a true Republican, he was seen sometimes around republicans most likely trying bribe and progress his business.
Trump at best is a petulant opportunist, hijacked confused GOP?
No body like s Trump in GOP, because he has never been a true Republican, he was seen sometimes around republicans most likely trying bribe and progress his business.
29
The Democrats remain the party of hope and change and optimism. Republican represent the complete opposite, gloom and doom, pessimism, insults, anger, fear, all wrapped up in their odious choice of a most obnoxious bully, Donald Trump, the proverbial bully in the china shop.
Democrats know that Reagan's "Morning in America" wins out over Trump's "Midnight in America". It so it will be done in November.
DD
Manhattan
Democrats know that Reagan's "Morning in America" wins out over Trump's "Midnight in America". It so it will be done in November.
DD
Manhattan
25
It was interesting to see the Democrats as flag waving, pro-American, pro-military neoconservative free-marketeers.
9
It would be far more accurate for Mr. Brooks to concede that "for decades the Republican Party has embraced" the hatred and anger promoted by Fox News and conservative talk radio. The nomination of Donald Trump was merely the culmination, not the precipitating event, of the Republican Party's loss of its "sacred inheritance."
99
As someone whose first vote at age eighteen was for Reagan, I've watched the Republican party since 1984 become meaner and more delusional. While Reagan was a sunny optimist, Trump is a raging dystope. "Morning in America" from Reagan has morphed into "midnight on Halloween in Hell" from Trump. Paranoia, megalomania, authoritarianism and egomania are what drives the narcissistic-personality that is Donald Trump.
While some may question Trump's business bona fides and demand that his tax returns be released as proof, I question his sanity and would prefer that he release his mental health records from his team of psychiatrists instead.
While some may question Trump's business bona fides and demand that his tax returns be released as proof, I question his sanity and would prefer that he release his mental health records from his team of psychiatrists instead.
97
Finally! David Brooks accepts that he was the part of the problem. However, as he himself admits, it may be too late, and no one or nothing can save the country except the voters.
if we ever needed "God Bless America" to be literally true, it is this November.
if we ever needed "God Bless America" to be literally true, it is this November.
24
This is a beautiful article - journalism worth every penny.
16
I think the best thing you said was recognizing that Democrats can be patriotic too. For so long, the right has talked the story that being a Democrat was to be unpatriotic, not loving ones country, loving some other ideal. Clearly we Dems are patriotic, inclusive, open and willing to accommodate all. This country is for all, not for a few!
36
Like millions of others who supported Bernie Sanders, I will vote for Hillary Clinton. As Bernie himself has said many times, his campaign was never about him. Bernie lost, but his ideas were the real winners. The two campaigns came together to adopt the most progressive platform in party history, that includes most of the ideas we fought for. Bernie has strongly endorsed Hillary Clinton. He knows that in politics, we can't let the perfect stand in the way of the good. We need to join the fight to elect her, doing the hard work of getting out the vote that will be crucial to win this election. This election is too important to sit out, or throw away votes on third party candidates. We must make sure that it is our ideas that prevail, in order to bend that moral arc further toward justice.
62
Yes, Mr Brooks. It happened in Germany and it can happen here.
17
Trump has peeled off the radical fringe of the Republican Party, and created an appeal to what were once considered "Reagan Democrats"--white, blue-collar workers who've seen their future shipped overseas by American corporate greed. They are angry, and should be.
Unfortunately, they're following the wrong model. Trump is an active participant in shipping manufacturing overseas, of busting unions, and of cheating small businesses and contractors out of what he rightfully owes them. Trump is not merely a cheat, but a fraud and bully.
When Trump talks of "Crooked Hillary" it's a perfect example of the psychological phenomenon of projection--projecting your own symptoms onto another. He's the one who's crooked. Just ask any of his forgotten business partners.
Unfortunately, they're following the wrong model. Trump is an active participant in shipping manufacturing overseas, of busting unions, and of cheating small businesses and contractors out of what he rightfully owes them. Trump is not merely a cheat, but a fraud and bully.
When Trump talks of "Crooked Hillary" it's a perfect example of the psychological phenomenon of projection--projecting your own symptoms onto another. He's the one who's crooked. Just ask any of his forgotten business partners.
59
Brooks, you missed the opportunity to endorse Hillary eatly in the primaries. You left a door open, of sorts. Perhaps if you had made that leap away from your broken party, you might've had some influence on others. Instead, you sat on the fence and equivocated platitudes. This colomn is essentially an endorsement of Clinton. What took you so long? Now Can we expect an onslaught of witty Trump takedowns from now till November? Or do you have to get back on the fence to keep your Brooks brand clear? Don't leave your own door open now.
15
You can't have it both ways. The Republican convention was vulgar. The Republicans will lose the election because as the campaign begins with vigor, all of the outrageous messages from Trump and Co. will be the same as those delivered in Cleveland.
22
Robert Kagan, Brent Skrowcroft, Hank Paulson, Richard Armitage, Ken Adleman, etc. are but the start of landslide that is shifting all but the most loyal Trump tribalist supporters.
The only question is, how far down the ballot will the impact be felt?
The only question is, how far down the ballot will the impact be felt?
13
Brooks, when you wrote that for decades the republicans have embraced an "open, future-oriented nationalism", did you mean a "closed, backwards-looking nationalism"?
You might want to fix that.
You might want to fix that.
32
Our challenges will only worsen as neoliberalism and late-stage capitalism & oligarchy continue to heighten wealth inequality, war, despair and desperation. Unless there is a fundamental rethinking of what it means to be American, what it means to be human, to tend to all, to acknowledge that everyone has a RIGHT to healthcare, has a RIGHT to a decent living wage, that poverty and homelessness are blights upon the moral consciousness of our society, that we as a society have an OBLIGATION to protect and honor our children and our elderly; unless we can do all this, we are setting the stage for someone much worse than Donald Trump to emerge from the chaos. And I fear that Hillary Rodham Clinton is not the right candidate at this pivotal moment in American history to take up that challenge.
20
"...decent people don’t enjoy firing other human beings."
So, given Hillary's experience with the White House Travel Office (she leveled false accusations of embezzlement against the 30-yr head of the WHTO, in order to replace him with one of her crony capitalist friends), does Joe Biden think that falsely indicting someone and forcing them to get vindication in a court of law is better than firing someone? Because that's what he's saying. His view of reality is almost as deranged as Hillary's.
So, given Hillary's experience with the White House Travel Office (she leveled false accusations of embezzlement against the 30-yr head of the WHTO, in order to replace him with one of her crony capitalist friends), does Joe Biden think that falsely indicting someone and forcing them to get vindication in a court of law is better than firing someone? Because that's what he's saying. His view of reality is almost as deranged as Hillary's.
3
"A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger."
All inherited from a Republican administration, actually. Funny it didn't seem necessary to you to point that out.
All inherited from a Republican administration, actually. Funny it didn't seem necessary to you to point that out.
51
Yes, a Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, but they are not unilaterally responsible for the chaos; nor should the chaos be a surprise to sane and reasonable people. The insanity is global, and suddenly "secular" is a dirty word. There are great forces at work in this moment of human history. Whatever portion of "blame" can be laid at Hillary's feet, I actually thought her speech last night was good. It certainly made me feel slightly better about voting for Hillary. David -- you and Mark were so mean and dispirited afterwards up there in your skybooth. What's the matter.....? Do you really dislike her that much? Why so depressed? Maybe she'll rise to the occasion.
21
Actually David you got it all wrong.
Trump does represent that part of the republican party to a T that you describe as ideas that Trump abandoned. The republican party "that is Donald Trump constituency" he represent them and what they want. But then isn't that the republican parties fault for not standing up to those people years ago. And actually cultivating them and their hatred toward Obama.
Trump does represent that part of the republican party to a T that you describe as ideas that Trump abandoned. The republican party "that is Donald Trump constituency" he represent them and what they want. But then isn't that the republican parties fault for not standing up to those people years ago. And actually cultivating them and their hatred toward Obama.
16
To Paul Ryan, Mitch McConnell and all the Republican ideologues..are you really prepared to have Donald Trump briefed on our security issues? Is this the man to entrust with our most secret issues? If you let this happen, it's like seeing an arsonist at work after giving him the matches.
30
Mr. Brooks, between this piece and your one titled "I Miss Barack Obama", I believe there is hope for you to join the political party that seems to align most with your American and moral ideals. Donald Trump has not exposed the real GOP, the GOP exposed itself since the 2000 Presidential election, but conservatives were loathe to admit it. The only thing Trump has done this year is to hold up a mirror so large, that even you are able to see how hideous is the republican image.
20
Probably, your best column to date. I applaud you for trying to reach across the aisle and see from both sides. Hopefully, it's not too late.
8
Yup, the Democrats ate the Republican's lunch.
25
I'm amazed at the conservatives who are only now noticing that the Democrats have spent the last eight years attempting to rebuild and improve the country in the face of determined and intentional opposition. The GOP has been on this path since Reagan declared the rich matter more than other Americans, but the current state of GOP depravity can be traced directly to the decision to oppose President Obama every step of the way because a black man would surely be vulnerable electorally to a scorched earth strategy. The GOP did not see what a decent and formidable man they were taking on.
48
For my part, Donald Trump has touched that sour spot that lurks in all hearts - the thing that many (most?) of us don't like to talk about - the racial bias, mean-spirited and bigoted opinions thought but not articulated - the things Catholic folks like me dump in the confessional. For some, Trump has made it okay to 'let it all hang out,' and almost in a purging way, to scream to the world, those heretofore hidden thoughts and feelings. We are letting him feed the beast in us and not a few like what he is serving up. He is allowing us to vent those opinions and thoughts that our better selves would restrain us from expressing.
17
The great speches have always been there. It's just that Brooks couldn't hear them until the full-blown consequences of the GOP modus operandum arrived. Learn to think ahead, Mr. Brooks
17
I so respect your opinion and analysis regarding our commonwealth of America. I watched the whole of the DNC and heard a consistent message that I think we all need to embrace at this moment. We have become so balkanized in our dealing with one and other, so callous in our approach to those around us who suffer that we must change our habits. While it is not wise to ignore the Realpolitik of our moment in time, we could offer each other more kindness, more compassion. Yes in a Lockean universe each individual has the right to defend themselves, the right to security of person and property but we are blinded by our own Greed, Anger and Ignorance, I am a high school history teacher and everyday I am privileged to work with some of the most interesting human beings on the planet. They want a life where they can create something new, help to defend our values, and bring a sense of unity and purpose to their lives. The Buddha seems to have handle on this early on in our history: We are interdependent on one another and we must strive to be the best version of our humanity and that means leaving negativity behind.
19
The Democrats' speeches reflect real people and actual facts, and they don't need Trump to "open the door" for them or "give away" the moral high ground. Tim Kaine didn't suddenly go to the same church he got married at, for example, and Obama's rhetoric is just as positive now as it was in 2008 campaign of hope and change. Hillary has always championed the idea that it takes a village and Biden has always been for the middle class. Republicans never had a monopoly on patriotism, Christianity, service or humility. Fox News just told you they did.
53
Your anger at "reasonable" Republicans is astonishing. There has been little that is reasonable about Republican policy or action for some time.
You, Mr Brooks, with your words spoken and written in very public forums, have contributed to the moral and intellectual decline of the Republican Party and the debasement of the term "conservative." You you did not speak out when your party ran from its' principles.
This election is not between Republicans & Democrats. It is between two very different ways of being in the world. Hope, optimism, pragmatism on
hand. Fear, loathing and anger on the other hand. Which road do you want to follow?
You, Mr Brooks, with your words spoken and written in very public forums, have contributed to the moral and intellectual decline of the Republican Party and the debasement of the term "conservative." You you did not speak out when your party ran from its' principles.
This election is not between Republicans & Democrats. It is between two very different ways of being in the world. Hope, optimism, pragmatism on
hand. Fear, loathing and anger on the other hand. Which road do you want to follow?
31
Great column that ended badly.
On PBS you kept hoping Hillary would reveal who she really is, or, why everybody who has ever worked with her think well of her as a human being of enormous strength and capacity for work for the benefit of others, particularly children.
She is someone who just out-works the rest of us.
Her whole life is one of real service. As Bill said, giving speeches is the easy part. Putting together coalitions is the hard part. Doing the work of getting things actually done is the hard part.
Hillary relies on other people to list her accomplishments. She has them, the people and the accomplishments. We need more people like you to help her, to speak unreservedly on her behalf. We need you to help. If you aren't part of the solution ....
Chelsea, Barack, Bill, Michelle, all of them did for Hillary what you demand and insist she should do for herself. Don't ask her to change.
Just accept who she is, all she has done, all she will do, and say thanks, what can I do to help.
On PBS you kept hoping Hillary would reveal who she really is, or, why everybody who has ever worked with her think well of her as a human being of enormous strength and capacity for work for the benefit of others, particularly children.
She is someone who just out-works the rest of us.
Her whole life is one of real service. As Bill said, giving speeches is the easy part. Putting together coalitions is the hard part. Doing the work of getting things actually done is the hard part.
Hillary relies on other people to list her accomplishments. She has them, the people and the accomplishments. We need more people like you to help her, to speak unreservedly on her behalf. We need you to help. If you aren't part of the solution ....
Chelsea, Barack, Bill, Michelle, all of them did for Hillary what you demand and insist she should do for herself. Don't ask her to change.
Just accept who she is, all she has done, all she will do, and say thanks, what can I do to help.
61
I am going to do what I deplore in political commentators: take one sentence that is almost an aside out of a larger argument about something else. If Mr. Brooks considers Mike Pence "sane and reasonable" let me remind him that he shut down Planned Parenthood the only place that provided HIV testing in meth threatened rural Indiana, and it led to an AIDS epidemic in that district, all in the name of Judeo-Christian morality.
66
All the speeches, balloons and fireworks in the world can't hide the essential truth about Hillary Clinton. God only knows what she promised Bill, Bernie, Barack and Michelle to speak of her as they did.
2
It took the Koch brothers, Rush Limbaugh, Faux News, and Newt Gingrich thirty six years to build their machine of mistrust and paranoia exploitation wrapped in the American flag. It took Trump one year to exploit its core mechanism and break it apart. Bravo, Donald. You did what the Democrats couldn't: expose the Republican Party of the late 20th/early 21st century for what it was. Going forward, however, let's hope for two things: the Republican Party finds a truly honest and compassionate conservative soul and the voters in America don't allow Trump to do to America what he just did to the Republican Party.
18
Read the story. Like it says, it's just presenting the fact a child-rape case has been filed against Trump and the alleged facts in the case. Then google "Trump Ivanka parrot" and look at the family photo from the same time frame.
4
It was the right wing that chanted to anti=war demonstrators in the sixties "Love it or Leave it." The Democrats have found an answer that rings so true: love it and improve it.
President Hillary Clinton with the Bernie Brigade behind her will work to improve the country at home.
Now we have to build a brigade of peace activists to insure that she improves our policies abroad.
President Hillary Clinton with the Bernie Brigade behind her will work to improve the country at home.
Now we have to build a brigade of peace activists to insure that she improves our policies abroad.
13
The Democrats haven't moved, Mr. Brooks, they've always represented our country's highest moral ideals - love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance, and gentleness. Have you never listened to an Obama speech, for example, or for that matter a speech by Secretary Clinton. Trump didn't abandon the ground to Democrats; they have always been standing for and on those very things you think your party represented. The radicals that have been slowly isolating your party, Mr. Brooks, are totally responsible for any "dysfunction" in Washington in responding to the chaos, violence, and anger you see here and around the world. Let us hope that Clinton and Kaine get a Congress, House and Senate, that will support them and their party's ideals. The grownups are ready to take charge again. Let's hope we vote that way.
20
If trump wins "... it’s not just politics that has changed, but the country."
I that is true then we are no long "a shining city upon a hill." The State of Liberty will hang her head in shame.
I that is true then we are no long "a shining city upon a hill." The State of Liberty will hang her head in shame.
5
David -- when is it that you are going to admit that Donald Trump must not be President, and that members of the GOP have an affirmative moral obligation to help stop him?
I can understand a Republican having a hard time bringing themselves to vote for HRC; but in almost all cases that is not necessary. A Republican can vote for Gary Johnson, or write in anyone they like, or simply leave the presidential line empty.
Republicans may find advice from a Democrat on issues of their own party gratuitous, but the reality is that every citizen has an interest in a healthy political system ... so here goes:
The Ailes/Nixon formulation of the GOP is over. You ramped up the hate and did too little for the middle-class whites who were the base of "the southern strategy," and so at the moment when the party needed to become something other than the Dog-Whistle-Whites-Party, your base has doubled down on white resentment, white revanchism ... and gone bonkers over a loony neo-fascist.
There is no quick fix. It will get worse before it gets better. The party is fracturing now, and it must sunder. The question is whether conservatives can "do a Buckley" and throw out the Trumpers, or whether the Trumpers are the GOP now, and those opposed to them must leave. I suspect the latter ... but up to Republicans.
The intrinsic problem for American conservatives is that the GOP "big tent" cannot hold together; yet splitting up dooms the pieces to out-of-power until they can realign.
I can understand a Republican having a hard time bringing themselves to vote for HRC; but in almost all cases that is not necessary. A Republican can vote for Gary Johnson, or write in anyone they like, or simply leave the presidential line empty.
Republicans may find advice from a Democrat on issues of their own party gratuitous, but the reality is that every citizen has an interest in a healthy political system ... so here goes:
The Ailes/Nixon formulation of the GOP is over. You ramped up the hate and did too little for the middle-class whites who were the base of "the southern strategy," and so at the moment when the party needed to become something other than the Dog-Whistle-Whites-Party, your base has doubled down on white resentment, white revanchism ... and gone bonkers over a loony neo-fascist.
There is no quick fix. It will get worse before it gets better. The party is fracturing now, and it must sunder. The question is whether conservatives can "do a Buckley" and throw out the Trumpers, or whether the Trumpers are the GOP now, and those opposed to them must leave. I suspect the latter ... but up to Republicans.
The intrinsic problem for American conservatives is that the GOP "big tent" cannot hold together; yet splitting up dooms the pieces to out-of-power until they can realign.
8
The new face of the Republican Party is not the face of Donald Trump. It is the face of Chris Christie standing behind the "great man" looking whipped and emasculated. The great contrast between the Democratic convention and that of the Republicans was not that the Democrats had appropriated the banner of patriotism, it is that they showed themselves to be the party of sanity, integrity and hope. On the Republican side we had Malania with her phony university degree and plagiarized speech. On the Democratic side there was Michelle Obama. On the Republican side there was Giuliani's hysterical rant on the dangers that surround America and on the Democratic side there was Barrack Obama. On the Republican side Ted Cruz on the Democratic side Bernie Sanders. The differences were stark and telling. The Democrats have become the party of sanity and intelligence. The Republicans have become the party of hysterical fear, of emotion over fact and of money over people.
Americans like to speak of their "two party system". The fact that this is a fiction and a 20th century phenomenon seems to escape most pols and pundits; however America does need a Republican Party that is not bought by the Koch brothers, that is not obstructionist, that does not rely on race-baiting to win elections, that does not win by gerrymander, that does not pass laws to limit the rights of minorities and suppress voter registration. One would hope that such a party will rise from the ashes left by Trump.
Americans like to speak of their "two party system". The fact that this is a fiction and a 20th century phenomenon seems to escape most pols and pundits; however America does need a Republican Party that is not bought by the Koch brothers, that is not obstructionist, that does not rely on race-baiting to win elections, that does not win by gerrymander, that does not pass laws to limit the rights of minorities and suppress voter registration. One would hope that such a party will rise from the ashes left by Trump.
24
What Mr. Brooks fails to see, perhaps, is the global anger at the two I words. Immigration and ISIS. Britain exited the EU partially as a result of the fear of immigrants from war torn countries flooding their borders with people who drain their economy. Ditto Austria, France, Hungary, some Scandinavian states etc. Germany, the country that absorbed a million refugees has a right wing movement percolating to now displace their own woman president, Ms. Merkel.
In America, despite what The Dems say about the economic benefit of having a large immigrant population contributing to the economy, they never talk about the enormous drain the illegal segment of this population is to our economy. Health care, food stamps, free education etc. for those who arrived illegally is creating an anger and resentment that fans the flame under Trump.
ISIS is the other bellows that inflames the rhetoric. The hardest thing to reconcile is how to find them since they are not a traditional based country with whom we could wage war, but rather a scattered group of thugs using a world religion to give them credibility resulting in a fear of all Muslims.
The two I words creating angry right wing movements growing like poisonous mushrooms around the world. Trump has tapped into this. Finding better angels in a world of devils is the democratic mantra, which, unfortunately, a lot of angry and scared and ignorant people cannot adopt as their own.
In America, despite what The Dems say about the economic benefit of having a large immigrant population contributing to the economy, they never talk about the enormous drain the illegal segment of this population is to our economy. Health care, food stamps, free education etc. for those who arrived illegally is creating an anger and resentment that fans the flame under Trump.
ISIS is the other bellows that inflames the rhetoric. The hardest thing to reconcile is how to find them since they are not a traditional based country with whom we could wage war, but rather a scattered group of thugs using a world religion to give them credibility resulting in a fear of all Muslims.
The two I words creating angry right wing movements growing like poisonous mushrooms around the world. Trump has tapped into this. Finding better angels in a world of devils is the democratic mantra, which, unfortunately, a lot of angry and scared and ignorant people cannot adopt as their own.
2
But will they win in the fall?
There is a lot of hate in flyover land
There is a lot of hate in flyover land
1
Last evening, as I sat in the bar of my country club waiting for my take out salad, another member came in, tired from driving a truck of his furniture down from Boston. He complained to the bartender that the worst part of the drive was coming through Washington, DC where "all those people are living too well off of the taxpayer." He said he was tired of living in "Taxachusetts." and couldn't wait until Trump was elected and fired all those people working for the government. I lived in Massachusetts for nearly five years while in college and first married and I remember it as a state with excellent schools, good roads, parks and public transportation. I have visited the state a number of times since and fish it still a very attractive place, plus they have Romneycare. Wait until this fellow finds out that here in SC we have a constantly rising sales tax, state income tax, mediocre schools and disintegrating roads, not to mention the increasing crime rates due to lack of job opportunities that pay anything above minimum wage. And the traffic grows worse and worse as the local business people work hard to turn this island into another Myrtle Beach!
15
This morning lots of Republicans are waking up from their drunken fling with Donald Trump. Having watched the Democratic Convention they're saying to themselves, "Oh yeah, this is what we used to say and still believe; what the heck have we done?" Their problem is that Trump is still lying in bed with them, and won't leave.
13
"He is a morally untethered, spiritually vacuous man who appears haunted by multiple personality disorders."
***
Very good, Mr. Brooks. I will be quoting you.
***
Very good, Mr. Brooks. I will be quoting you.
13
So this is the balance that the NYT offers in the opinion makers...nuff said.
1
Mr. Brooks abandoned any pretense of being a Republican or a conservative when he wrote that Obama would be a great present because of the crease in his pants!
He is the least interesting oped writer and this newspaper because he presents a mishmash of ideas that have no logical theme.
He is the least interesting oped writer and this newspaper because he presents a mishmash of ideas that have no logical theme.
1
"Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness."
Don't you think he abandoned those a long time ago?
Long time ago, David, long time ago.
Don't you think he abandoned those a long time ago?
Long time ago, David, long time ago.
10
Oh give me a break already. Democrats need to review all the promises that were made by our current leader. He said what he needed to isay in order to get elected. Yet, he did not follow through on any of those things. I recall him saying that the first thing he would do was end the war and being our troups back. Yet, it's been 8 years and they're still there. He has tripled our countries debt. All the people that vote democrat just want handouts and free stuff. You call that the American way? The American way is to work hard for what you want, not beg for it. I work hard for my lifestyle and because of all the lazy people who don't, I give almost half of what I make away in taxes. If people want my lifestyle, they can go work as hard as I do, save, and make better choices. Period. If Hilary really represented all these people with there handout she wouldn't have spent 15,000 dollars on one of her convention outfits, she would have donated that money to a good cause. Why isn't our media reporting that? Wake up people...
4
Well, I don't know how much of a sacred inheritance Bush V. Gore or Citizens United, voter suppression, science denial, xenophobia, a new Guilded Age, or a religious fanaticism last seen in the Salem Witch trials is, but your party made the bed it's lying in. Fox News and talk radio helped, but you people have been working on this Dickensian chain ever since Saint Ronald rode into town on his limousine mount. Why do you seem so surprised, like you just woke up from a nightmare still staring you in the face? The rest of your column is pretty much on target.
15
What the public and media don't realize is Hillary wasn't claiming the conservative American tradition for the Democrats because Trump abandoned those values but because those values have always been her values.She is still that young girl who supported Goldwater in her core beliefs.She became a conservative Democrat because the Republicans abandoned that tradition when Nixon formed his coalition.She was perceptive enough to realize that and it's time the media and you Mr.Brooks realize that fact about her.
5
Mr. Brooks: thank you for your exceptional column. You've hit upon many of the points that separate today's Republican party from the Democrats. One comment that appeared regarding your column intimated that the Republicans have allowed their party to become hijacked this year. Not so, it's been sliding down a dangerous slope for many years. There's more than enough data to prove that "Trickle Down Economics" is a reversal of what it claims. The reality is Trickle Down is actually Trickle Up economics. The wealthy have become substantially wealthier while more citizens and families are struggling to get by. The reality is that true laissez-faire capitalism doesn't function at it's optimum when challenged by globalization. The rise of the political voice of the blue collar worker has grown and provided support for Mr. Trump. We must ask ourselves why? The coal industry has been decimated through the development of fracking and the green movement. The Chinese proclivity to dump cheap steel exports anywhere they can get away with it has done severe damage to our steel industry. Much of the population understands the forces behind the decline of coal. Not so with steel. They wonder why we allow this to happen? We, as a country, can't forsake these workers. Where can they find employment. Men and women who manufactured the steel that built our high-rises, ships, automobiles. These people have provided the fodder for Trump's rise to power.
5
If you're a Republican...if you want to save the GOP...you MUST vote for Hillary Clinton. Trump must lose!
11
How can any responsible Republican leader blindly endorse Trump. That is symbolic of what is the greatest threat to this country. It is not ISIS, it is partisan party politics, where party is put ahead of country. It is why Congress is paralyzed.
Is there no one in that party with courage?
Is there no one in that party with courage?
5
Donald Trump's ascendancy as the Republican nominee is not Donald Trump's fault; it is the Republican Party's fault. Their tacit acceptance of this volatile, ignorant and hateful little man is an insult to the party's great history, and the legacy of their noble leaders of the past. We desperately need a thoughtful, well-informed center-right party to make democracy work. Sadly, the Republican party can no longer fill this role. Bankrupt of ideas and out of touch with their constituency, they have settled into simply being the party in opposition to both democrats and the democratic system of governance.
8
This is not a new America rearing its ugly head. The dark demons have always been here -- the Father Coughlin followers, the Lindbergh followers, the slaveholders, Jim Crow, the lynchers, Joe McCarthy, the Know-Nothings, Nixon and the Southern Strategy, the systematic destruction of the Native Americans. It's just that sometimes this dark tide ebbs and sometimes it flows. Those who think America has only one story -- the arc toward goodness -- are blinkered. Please, Americans, be aware of your dark side, for only the truth can set you free.
16
Trump and the Republicans have not "abandoned" love, charity, humility, goodness and temperance.
One can't lose what one never had.
One can't lose what one never had.
16
Let us remember that most presidential candidates do NOT write their own speeches. Hillary-think and Hillary-thought are internal to her, and they have not proven to be good for individuals associated with her and/or for America in general. She will always be duplicitous and obfuscating. Her truth and America's truth are not one and the same. For Hillary it has not even ever been a matter of "tell them what they want to hear." It has been a matter of "I'll them what I want them to hear and think." Hillary comes from the same entitled class that has made excellent liars and con men and con women out of her generation.
3
Neocons love Hillary.
1
I must say my feelings about Jeff Flake improved when he showed me he will not support a man who doesn't support the people, screw the party. His kin and mine fought back rustlers in the wilds of Arizona, even if his were Dems and we were Republicans. Now we've both flipped sides, but we still can detect a rustling thief.
I hate to admit it, but we hung three from a tree without benefit of a trial, and that's how we got rid of rustlers for good. Yup, Dems and Republicans united in the fight against terror. They burned my Gpa out of his cabin, and paid the high lonesome price. Thanks for the back up, Flakes.
We call those necktie parties, and I think it's 'bout time Trump's line got hung up to dry.
I hate to admit it, but we hung three from a tree without benefit of a trial, and that's how we got rid of rustlers for good. Yup, Dems and Republicans united in the fight against terror. They burned my Gpa out of his cabin, and paid the high lonesome price. Thanks for the back up, Flakes.
We call those necktie parties, and I think it's 'bout time Trump's line got hung up to dry.
2
War and a financial disaster have changed the game. Winning in Washington does not necessarily mean winning this election. The rise of three significant movements (Black Lives Matter, Mr. Sanders, and--yes-- Mr. Trump) are all reflections of a deep change in the country. Both parties will inevitably sink into chaos if relief does not come to those forced out of the workforce, young and old, black and white. We have hope and we have strength, but the game has changed and is no game.
3
I'm often critical of you, but this time you knocked it out of the park with your thoughtful truths here.
8
Mr. Brooks, if you want to be a priest of morality, if you want us to continue playing the so-called game by which a moral result is obtained, then you must act. Publicly urge high-ranking Republicans such as Paul Ryan to endorse Hillary Clinton. Anything less abandons the American ideal that you are so rightfully fearful of losing -- you can do it.
10
I was struck that Brooks says his is indignant at Mike Pence-- who is a bit player in this drama. What about Paul Ryan, a sane party leader who enjoys (or did enjoy before Cleveland) wide respect among Republicans? Ryan claimed he endorsed Trump because Hillary was worse. Worse for whom? I can only imagine he means The Republican Party, since clearly Trump is completely unfit to be president, and Clinton is a perfectly respectable option. But he was wrong. If Trump wins, he will own the Republican Party. And you know what happens to properties owned by Trump? They file for bankruptcy--in this case, moral. Can anyone trust Ryan after he put his Party ahead of the country, and was wrong about the impact on his Party? Brooks should save his indignation for a figure worthy of it.
18
Mr. Brooks, I have read your work for years now (and used to watch you on the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer), and I believe this is one of the best essays you have written. "The lunatic fringe that has already taken over the Republican [party]." I could not have said it any better myself. Thank you!
However, I expect that your dire warnings in conclusion will prove false, as I expect you hope so, too. American is so much greater than people like Trump, and I believe that most Americans understand that. He has already ceded the political center to the Democrats and, barring any unforeseen calamity, will almost certainly lose the popular vote in November. Hopefully, we can then get back to governing responsibly again, which is long overdue.
However, I expect that your dire warnings in conclusion will prove false, as I expect you hope so, too. American is so much greater than people like Trump, and I believe that most Americans understand that. He has already ceded the political center to the Democrats and, barring any unforeseen calamity, will almost certainly lose the popular vote in November. Hopefully, we can then get back to governing responsibly again, which is long overdue.
4
David,
Your commentary on PBS this week was refreshing.
Your embarrassment at your Party obvious.
Keep up the candor.
I'm certain you find it cathartic.
Hopefully your colleagues on the right will find it contagious.
I can happen here.
You have the power to help to prevent that from happening.
Respectfully.
Your commentary on PBS this week was refreshing.
Your embarrassment at your Party obvious.
Keep up the candor.
I'm certain you find it cathartic.
Hopefully your colleagues on the right will find it contagious.
I can happen here.
You have the power to help to prevent that from happening.
Respectfully.
3
I couldn't agree more that the real shame lies at the feet of the GOP. Instead of putting country first, as true patriots, they actually put themselves first. A huge, bright shining difference from Capt Khan who sacrificed his life to save his fellow soldiers as opposed to the GOP who only seem willing to sacrifice their principles and dignity to retain their personal careers and power.
And I'll add two more to the list. The media who was more than happy to give this lunatic as much air time as he wants for a buck. And lastly, the people voting for him. They are so wrapped up in anger, an inability to adapt to a changing world and country that they can't look at simple facts. Trump is a dangerous pathological liar. He's a con artist and I'd argue mentally ill. At the very least thin skinned. He knows nothing about domestic or foreign policy. It would be like one of his supporters letting their auto mechanic perform major surgery on their grand child instead of a board certified m.d.
There will be no wall paid for by Mexico. It's just ludicrous. The GOP probably knows every freckle on Hillary's body, her undergarment sizes. After 2 decades of trying, the GOP can't come up with anything concrete, not for lack of trying and millions of wasted tax $. Yet, we have proof of Trump's shady dealings, bankruptcies, stiffing the little guy and throwing it on taxpayers, recorded and video of his flat out lies.
Dems and independents better get off their butts now.
And I'll add two more to the list. The media who was more than happy to give this lunatic as much air time as he wants for a buck. And lastly, the people voting for him. They are so wrapped up in anger, an inability to adapt to a changing world and country that they can't look at simple facts. Trump is a dangerous pathological liar. He's a con artist and I'd argue mentally ill. At the very least thin skinned. He knows nothing about domestic or foreign policy. It would be like one of his supporters letting their auto mechanic perform major surgery on their grand child instead of a board certified m.d.
There will be no wall paid for by Mexico. It's just ludicrous. The GOP probably knows every freckle on Hillary's body, her undergarment sizes. After 2 decades of trying, the GOP can't come up with anything concrete, not for lack of trying and millions of wasted tax $. Yet, we have proof of Trump's shady dealings, bankruptcies, stiffing the little guy and throwing it on taxpayers, recorded and video of his flat out lies.
Dems and independents better get off their butts now.
13
Yeah! Tump is the worst person ever! He wants to end the Cold War, which our responsible leader Barack Obama has reignited, and he wants to get along with Russia, as we compete for the riches of the Central Asian Stans, just like businessmen, who were not quick on the uptake, used to do before we became the Imperial Police Force.
Even worse, he thinks that our series of responsible leaders, who have been waging a war for thirty years on the dodgy principle of spreading democracy to Arabs, and more perfect Democracy to Ukrainians, has been a stupid waste of trillions of dollars!
Even worse than the worst, he is endangering a grand tradition of graft and corruption by ridiculing the manner in which The Donald, can purchase the best lobbyists, who can then in turn buy useful politicians for the exclusive use of: The Donald himself!
He is so irresponsible that he doesn't even know that he's only supposed to listen to Bibi Netanyahu! All of which makes him an obvious choice to be Hitler now that Saddam is gone. Donald Trump: the worst person who has ever lived in America. I mean he likes a freakin Ruskie for God's sake! We don't do that here in Murika!
Even worse, he thinks that our series of responsible leaders, who have been waging a war for thirty years on the dodgy principle of spreading democracy to Arabs, and more perfect Democracy to Ukrainians, has been a stupid waste of trillions of dollars!
Even worse than the worst, he is endangering a grand tradition of graft and corruption by ridiculing the manner in which The Donald, can purchase the best lobbyists, who can then in turn buy useful politicians for the exclusive use of: The Donald himself!
He is so irresponsible that he doesn't even know that he's only supposed to listen to Bibi Netanyahu! All of which makes him an obvious choice to be Hitler now that Saddam is gone. Donald Trump: the worst person who has ever lived in America. I mean he likes a freakin Ruskie for God's sake! We don't do that here in Murika!
3
BACK TO THE FUTURE If the Trumpenstein Monster is the man of the future then we must all despair. David Brooks's fine piece omitted mention of one fact that is so bizarre and dangerous that it must never be overlooked. Trump has said repeatedly on video that he is OK with being compared to Adolf Hitler, one of the most destructive people in human history. What you see is what you get! Buyer beware! Buyer's remorse for giving Hitler power was paid for by unending death, turmoil and suffering. Make no mistake: If Trump is elected, we will have anointed a Hitler to lead us. Hillary's flaws and imperfections are piddling by comparison. OK, so she's shy and prefers to build her case on facts rather than bragging. I want a president who has mastery of the facts. I couldn't care less about hiring someone for the job with whom I'd like to have a glass of beer. Yes, I feel equally human as the president, but I'd rather have a hard working, brilliant, highly accomplished Hillary lead than a bombastic, psychopathic person who embraces Nazism. Just ask him. Trump will tell you outright. The Democrats did, indeed, seize the mantle of honoring traditional, conservative values, fairness and optimism. Hillary took the high ground. Trump has a history of using the bankruptcy laws and tax breaks to line his pockets at taxpayer expense, cheating and lying to business partners. His evil, psychopathic character are a great danger to the US. Hillary will lead with integrity!
9
David, I agree with your conclusion that, if we really are Ina time whenTrump's message can prevail, something fundamental has changed about the country, but please, let's not pretend this came out of right field: the GOP took every deliberate, cynical, bilious step down the road that led to Trump.
He is simply the GOP's id laid bare. He is not new; he is unvarnished.
He is simply the GOP's id laid bare. He is not new; he is unvarnished.
8
"Trump has allowed the Democrats to mask their deep problems. A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger."
Do you think a Republican administration might have had a hand in creating the chaos? To wit, the destabilization of the Middle East is a direct consequence of the Cheney (R - Greedytown) and Bush (R - Entitlementville) war in Iraq. Other people's messes are pretty hard to clean up.
Do you think the Republican intransigence in congress might have anything to do with Barack Obama being as successful as he hoped? The world is watching us slip down and no one, but no one outside the Republican leadership and a few misguided columnists are saying, "Look what those Democrats have done to us." This morning I am grateful to them for their uplift this week. Maybe there's a chance for us after all.
Do you think a Republican administration might have had a hand in creating the chaos? To wit, the destabilization of the Middle East is a direct consequence of the Cheney (R - Greedytown) and Bush (R - Entitlementville) war in Iraq. Other people's messes are pretty hard to clean up.
Do you think the Republican intransigence in congress might have anything to do with Barack Obama being as successful as he hoped? The world is watching us slip down and no one, but no one outside the Republican leadership and a few misguided columnists are saying, "Look what those Democrats have done to us." This morning I am grateful to them for their uplift this week. Maybe there's a chance for us after all.
10
Mr. Brooks, you have been a Republican voice for a long time. And even as your party deteriorated from Newtonian Contracts with America to Tea Party fanatics, you have defended it. But no more, it seems. You keep wanting to have a moral center in a world of internet scorn. Our civility has been peeled away by borish behavior in a keystroke. And yet, as the Democrats demonstrated, there is a view of the future that is optimistic. It's not Pollyanna, as it is tinged with a reality of the present, but it is inclusive and open to ideas to be discussed and churned about to reach an outcome that is not hate and intolerance. For more reasons than Donald Trump, the Republican party is sinking in a quicksand of it's own making. Now might be the time to look at what you have written and see yourself in a better world. I don't think it's a Republican one.
4
Thank you for that well written piece Mr. Brooks. Now that Donald Trump has been appointed as the representative statesman of the Republicans, it's time to officially change your party affiliation, no?
4
Dear David, thanks for including zero facts or examples in your article. Those couple pages of extreme bias were really hard to get through. If Trump is a self proclaimed savior, it looks like you're following in his footsteps with your heading, "The Democrats Win the Sunmer", which appearantly was purely decided and proclaimed by you.
America’s challenge is much more fundamental than the emergence of a demigod. Trump filled a vacuum. American democracy is built on freethinking and the flow of logic. This beautiful, creative process spans the space from energetic entrepreneur to the rural healthcare cooperative, from the Yankee Town Hall meeting to the National Weather Service. The real base of creative American energy defies partisanship and ideology. Trump’s GOP rivals had only partisan clichés to offer. Sanders offered “revolutions” based on simplistic giveaways but we need a return of America as the land of opportunity. Hillary’s history and posture precludes a full embrace of “balanced thinking” but she is much closer to the “center of the bright galaxy” while Trump is beckoning us to fall into a black hole.
4
This editorial sounds like a rationalization to concede to the creation of a World War. Another World War will mean the destruction of the planet. We ALL must FACE our FEARS and destroy the evil, dark forces created by humanity. Violence is NOT the answer. Giving up is not the answer. Optimism is an act that requires experience, wisdom and undying courage. This political election is not a game and the stakes are very high. Life and Freedom in 2016 is achievable and it is going to require conservatives, moderates and liberals to work together and honor each other as human beings.
1
Mr. Brooks, how long will it be before you follow George Will's honorable example and resign from the Republican party?
12
As a registered Republican, I read Mr. Brooks column regularly.
I cannot vote for a person who thinks the world is flat and the sun revolves around him. I am with Mr. Bloomberg and will vote for the sane person in this election. I hope he will also endorse sanity.
I cannot vote for a person who thinks the world is flat and the sun revolves around him. I am with Mr. Bloomberg and will vote for the sane person in this election. I hope he will also endorse sanity.
17
Best headline, from the Time's NY competitor: (paraphrasing, heard it only on radio) HILLARY SPEAKS TO DEMOCRAT CONVENTION, WAIVES $200K FEE
OMG. How silly can you get? The idea that the way the Republicans win this year is by doing what they've done the last two election cycle is preposterous!!
3
To use your own words David, "It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism,...' you David, are being too hard on our party and our leader Donald Trump.
Consider the fact that the RNC featured our elite Republican speakers and celebrity speakers. Jeb!'s speech was electrifying. He made it clear that Donald is a leader who will command the respect of all other world leaders. President W. Bush, drawing comparisons to his own presidential record, highlighted how Donald can/will restore the country to the height of the W. presidency. Then there was Scott Baio, a 5-time Oscar winner and number one box office draw. Scott spoke passionately to Donald's keen intellect, curiosity, pursuit of knowledge, and respect for the scientific method. Many other A-level speakers offered personal glimpses and anecdotes of Donald's passion to serve people...something Donald is to humble to speak of himself!
Mr. Brooks, where were you during the RNC? How did you miss the positive, uplifting message of the RNC? Admit it, you fell asleep during most of the RNC; you are jealous of Donald, nastily attacking him, demeaning him, unjustly accusing him of lies...all because you have no original ideas of your own and you hide that fact with your childish insults.
Well Mr. Brooks, we Republicans know better than some educated elitist. Donald is amazing. Donald has bigly ideas and bigly words that speak to us. Rush likes Donald. Donald knows and Donald glows!
Consider the fact that the RNC featured our elite Republican speakers and celebrity speakers. Jeb!'s speech was electrifying. He made it clear that Donald is a leader who will command the respect of all other world leaders. President W. Bush, drawing comparisons to his own presidential record, highlighted how Donald can/will restore the country to the height of the W. presidency. Then there was Scott Baio, a 5-time Oscar winner and number one box office draw. Scott spoke passionately to Donald's keen intellect, curiosity, pursuit of knowledge, and respect for the scientific method. Many other A-level speakers offered personal glimpses and anecdotes of Donald's passion to serve people...something Donald is to humble to speak of himself!
Mr. Brooks, where were you during the RNC? How did you miss the positive, uplifting message of the RNC? Admit it, you fell asleep during most of the RNC; you are jealous of Donald, nastily attacking him, demeaning him, unjustly accusing him of lies...all because you have no original ideas of your own and you hide that fact with your childish insults.
Well Mr. Brooks, we Republicans know better than some educated elitist. Donald is amazing. Donald has bigly ideas and bigly words that speak to us. Rush likes Donald. Donald knows and Donald glows!
3
I agree with and join so many others who've already called for you and everyone else in the GOP who is appalled by the thought of a Trump presidency to endorse Hillary Clinton The differences between Clinton and Trump couldn't be more clear and this isn't just a matter of politics. I personally have no clue what it means to be a Republican these days, but it doesn't matter. It's time to put your country before your party and the time to do that is now- when so many people are looking for help and some kind of sign (aka leadership) from whatever is left of the GOP they thought they knew. Waiting till October will be too little too late.
6
Wow.
First, Mr. Brooks seems shocked that the Democrats "appear" to be more patriotic. It's as if he's completely bought into the meme that wearing flag lapel pins makes you the patriotic party! Remember when "conservatives" told us "My country, right or wrong" and told anyone who wanted a better America to "love it or leave it." We never stopped loving our country David, we just wanted to see it reflect our highest ideals. We want America to be all it can be.
And then Brooks suggests that these are "culturally conservative" values: "love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." David, do you really see Democrats as lacking in those values? Really? The party that brought our country Social Security, Medicare, civil rights, Obamacare (because we really do care), gay marriage (because it shouldn't matter who you love), workers rights, school lunches, the Peace Corp...the list goes on.
There's plenty of love, goodness and faith on this side of the aisle David. Come on in, the waters fine!
First, Mr. Brooks seems shocked that the Democrats "appear" to be more patriotic. It's as if he's completely bought into the meme that wearing flag lapel pins makes you the patriotic party! Remember when "conservatives" told us "My country, right or wrong" and told anyone who wanted a better America to "love it or leave it." We never stopped loving our country David, we just wanted to see it reflect our highest ideals. We want America to be all it can be.
And then Brooks suggests that these are "culturally conservative" values: "love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." David, do you really see Democrats as lacking in those values? Really? The party that brought our country Social Security, Medicare, civil rights, Obamacare (because we really do care), gay marriage (because it shouldn't matter who you love), workers rights, school lunches, the Peace Corp...the list goes on.
There's plenty of love, goodness and faith on this side of the aisle David. Come on in, the waters fine!
12
In Hillary's speech, she quoted FDR: "We have nothing to fear, but fear itself". He said that right before he rounded up Japanese Americans and put them in internment camps, ordered US forces to carpet bomb Germany, and launched the Manhattan Project which ultimately led to atomic bombs which we used on Japan. My point is, words are nice but actions are more important. Today we hear all the nice words from politicians but the actions are half measures at best. Drone attacks kill a small percentage of terrorists. Federal gun laws are weak and are only halfheartedly enforced. The fact that there are 11 million illegal immigrants in this country shows how weak our immigration laws are. This economic recovery is one of the weakest on record. The list goes on and on. If Hillary gets elected president, the Democrats need to come up with some real and significant actions, otherwise, some other neo-nazi like Trump will be there again at the next election, and I don't think the Republican leadership is too eager for that to happen again either. I'm hoping but I'm not too optimistic.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism."
Future-oriented? not the republican party I've been subjected to for the past several decades. They are the party of "put women back in the kitchen, preferably barefoot and pregnant."
"Separated Trump from Conservatism"??
You wish! No! The Donald IS conservatism, but you've only just realized it. Your party has demonized brown-skinned people, women, LGBT+ people, atheists and non-Judeo Christians for so long in policy and dog-whistle speeches. Now it's no longer a dog whistle and you're all like: Oh, what, us? That's not us.
Oh yes it is.
Future-oriented? not the republican party I've been subjected to for the past several decades. They are the party of "put women back in the kitchen, preferably barefoot and pregnant."
"Separated Trump from Conservatism"??
You wish! No! The Donald IS conservatism, but you've only just realized it. Your party has demonized brown-skinned people, women, LGBT+ people, atheists and non-Judeo Christians for so long in policy and dog-whistle speeches. Now it's no longer a dog whistle and you're all like: Oh, what, us? That's not us.
Oh yes it is.
11
Thank you Mr. Brooks. Now, what is a poor boy from South Carolina to do. Many of my colleagues and friends are Republicans. Some of them cannot abide with the notion of voting for any Democrat; even less so for one who got confused about cabinets and thought of that as a member thereof rather than a place to stack crockery and pots. Here's the thing; I'll encourage my misguided Republicans to do a write-in for some Republican they admire rather than just frowning while voting for the official candidate. I'll canvass for Secretary Clinton, but when I hit a die-hard Republican rather than walking away, I'll recommend they write in David Brooks.
20
Nice job. The Democrats ARE winning a one-sided game that most Americans aren't watching, or don't care about.
What they failed to do this week is acknowledge the state of anxiety we live in. The fear is irrational, illogical. But that doesn't matter. Too many of us now believe the traditional governing parties have abandoned what Nixon called the Silent Majority.
And it is a majority. And anger, fear, and anxiety will drive people to the polls in November. A populist will be elected.
I only wish that populist had been Bernie Sanders rather than Donald Trump. Because if you and I are right, Trump will be the next President.
What they failed to do this week is acknowledge the state of anxiety we live in. The fear is irrational, illogical. But that doesn't matter. Too many of us now believe the traditional governing parties have abandoned what Nixon called the Silent Majority.
And it is a majority. And anger, fear, and anxiety will drive people to the polls in November. A populist will be elected.
I only wish that populist had been Bernie Sanders rather than Donald Trump. Because if you and I are right, Trump will be the next President.
1
david- i'm going to do exactly what i criticize the faux news outlet for everyday and pull a phrase you used out of context - 'lunatic fringe that has already taken over'.
yes they have indeed taken over the GOP and that's why they need to loose in a landslide at every level of government - so they are forced to re-design their entire party.
yes they have indeed taken over the GOP and that's why they need to loose in a landslide at every level of government - so they are forced to re-design their entire party.
4
Mr. Brooks, Check in with your colleague, Mr Krugman. Your tribal obsessions continue to cloud your better writing. Will there ever be a spot in your Untied States for the two hundred thousand plus Muslim Americans I call my neighbors? Take a walk around Philadelphia while you are here.
5
The country has not changed, Mr. Brooks. It still has the same ignorant, backwoods thinkers that it always has had and many brilliant, intelligent people as well. But your GOP went off the rails with their lies and deceit OF YOUR OWN PEOPLE.
So your own people are burning your party down.
It is probably too late to save the GOP (who cares and what's worth saving at this point?) but you have gone a long way toward saving your soul with this tortured admission of a column.
So your own people are burning your party down.
It is probably too late to save the GOP (who cares and what's worth saving at this point?) but you have gone a long way toward saving your soul with this tortured admission of a column.
5
The Democrats have always been more patriotic and more loving of family values than the Republicans!
You don't show love or charity by cutting the social safety net at every opportunity. You don't show humility or a belief in individual liberty by fighting against a woman's right to control her body or a gay/lesbian person's right to marry. It is not patriotic to put party above country and boo someone who says people should vote their conscience. Nor is it patriotic to put up roadblock and discourage citizens from voting as Republicans have in recent years.
Yes, the world (and life in our own country) sometimes feels chaotic these days. Many people are angry and many say that the country is on the wrong track. But pundits fail to consider how much of that is due not to the Democrat in the White House but to the Republican congress that opposes him at every turn (is it patriotic to oppose policies you once championed because you don't want a Democratic president to get credit for them???) and to Republican statehouses that spend their days legislating bathrooms instead of helping to grow economies.
Yes, the Democrats also have problems - that is part of being human. But, I am SO GRATEFUL that Hillary Clinton is our nominee and I plan to do everything I can to help her get elected. I know we will not get a political revolution, but I also know that she will continue to work hard to make this country better as she has for most of her life.
You don't show love or charity by cutting the social safety net at every opportunity. You don't show humility or a belief in individual liberty by fighting against a woman's right to control her body or a gay/lesbian person's right to marry. It is not patriotic to put party above country and boo someone who says people should vote their conscience. Nor is it patriotic to put up roadblock and discourage citizens from voting as Republicans have in recent years.
Yes, the world (and life in our own country) sometimes feels chaotic these days. Many people are angry and many say that the country is on the wrong track. But pundits fail to consider how much of that is due not to the Democrat in the White House but to the Republican congress that opposes him at every turn (is it patriotic to oppose policies you once championed because you don't want a Democratic president to get credit for them???) and to Republican statehouses that spend their days legislating bathrooms instead of helping to grow economies.
Yes, the Democrats also have problems - that is part of being human. But, I am SO GRATEFUL that Hillary Clinton is our nominee and I plan to do everything I can to help her get elected. I know we will not get a political revolution, but I also know that she will continue to work hard to make this country better as she has for most of her life.
10
Very fine column, Mr. Brooks.
Hillary is certainly capable of carrying on the Obama method of great speeches and no action.
2
Glad I don't have to listen to Mr. Brooks mumble and struggle, with his own serious prejudices, on PBS coverage of the convention. Next time, leave him in the car, please. Congrats to Gwen and Judy. Stellar, as usual.
3
Mr. Brooks:
Please write a column relating conservative values to Republican legislation and programs over the past 90 years. How has the middle class benefited from these Republican initiatives?
Please write a column relating conservative values to Republican legislation and programs over the past 90 years. How has the middle class benefited from these Republican initiatives?
10
The only sociopath I'm frightened of is Donald Trump.
8
Mr. Brooks, I think one of the critically important stories of this past year is the complete capitulation of Republican leadership to a man who represents a mortal threat to everything this nation stands for. I am continually flabbergasted by the moral cowardice of the Pences, the Ryans, the McConnells, the Christies, the Rubios, all caving to this man for the most cynical of reasons. I've heard reports that many Republicans figure that since Trump has no interest in the nuts and bolts of governing, the Republican leadership, in the persons of Pence, Ryan, and McConnell, "fill in the blanks"--set the agenda and ask Trump to simply be the ceremonial head of state. There is no word for such a plan but evil. To endorse this man who is a walking betrayal of values of human decency and honor and who is cynically selling his supporters a bill of goods makes the Republican leadership complicit in what could be an unraveling of the social contract that has made America the great nation that she is. Indeed, I feel their behavior comes close to treason.
9
Not to nitpick, but there seems to be an undertone in David's comments that the Democrats put on a better show, but that doesn't necessarily mean they "felt" it. In other words, those clever Democrats finally figured out to do what it is the Republicans have been doing for so long, and Trump gave them the perfect opening. David, I really hope you're not that cynical, because while I often disagree with you I admire your thoughtfulness. The father who called out Trump on his bigotry last night should put to rest any argument that what the Democrats were able to to do wasn't "true" patriotism, that it was merely acting the part. Not to sound like a speechwriter, but that was America at its best.
7
For years I've looked to you with admiration as a fair and forceful advocate of positions with which I have largely disagreed. It's a distinctly bittersweet pleasure to find us completely in agreement; having watched with something very like pity as events have inexorably driven you to this place, I look forward to the day when you can rejoin the loyal opposition to the Clinton administration for which I so deeply hope.
Meanwhile, in my corner as a reluctant guest, you've nailed it all as usual. Thank you, and God save the Republic.
Meanwhile, in my corner as a reluctant guest, you've nailed it all as usual. Thank you, and God save the Republic.
3
I had to rub my eyes. I thought for a brief moment that you were finally 'fessing up about the rot within the GOP: "...a core that is corrupted by moral preening, an uncompromising absolutism and a paranoid unwillingness to play by the rules of civic life." But alas, no. You were writing about Sanders supporters. Really, Mr. Brooks? I keep reading about how you are the conscience of the GOP, the old-fashioned centrist who wants to bring the party back to its fundamental principles (what are those, again? It's been so long...).
But over and over again it just seems to me that you are an apologist for the rot. When will you take the blinders from your eyes and release yourself from the party that set the stage for Trump?
But over and over again it just seems to me that you are an apologist for the rot. When will you take the blinders from your eyes and release yourself from the party that set the stage for Trump?
6
David Brooks, your GOP has brought us to this cliff, this moment in time where people join tea parties and buy guns because your party leadership has drummed up fears and conspiracies, ranging from birth certificates to death panels. You have been complicit in the party's lies and operations for years!
Instead of continuing to remind us how awful your party is now and blaming it on Trump, take a good chunk of personal blame for fomenting discord way back to when Tricky Dick was conspiring to destroy the opposition political party.
What you, Fox News and Rush have done to give voice and credibility to GOP misfits is criminal.
Instead of continuing to remind us how awful your party is now and blaming it on Trump, take a good chunk of personal blame for fomenting discord way back to when Tricky Dick was conspiring to destroy the opposition political party.
What you, Fox News and Rush have done to give voice and credibility to GOP misfits is criminal.
11
David, three things: The Republican Congress has also "led" the USA during this time; given that their goal has been to have him fail, President Obama has achieved a remarkable record. Berlusconi? Maybe, but maybe Mussolini is the more apt Italian model for Trump. And when, finally, will you explicitly endorse Clinton and say you are voting for her?
8
You're with her.
23
This then, is Brooks' latest pathetic and (hopefully) last attempt at absolving himself and his fellow Republican '"leaders" of responsibility for where their party is now.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America's open future-oriented nationalism."
Right. Unless you were black. Or female. Or not "straight". Or poor.
We're in a moment of "fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism"? Yep. Fostered by whom, I wonder? Birthers? Nativists? Barely concealed racists and misogynists? All a major component of Mr. Brooks and his party's "open future-oriented nationalism".
Mr. Brooks, spare us. If you can't find even a scintilla of self-honesty, just go away. Please.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America's open future-oriented nationalism."
Right. Unless you were black. Or female. Or not "straight". Or poor.
We're in a moment of "fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism"? Yep. Fostered by whom, I wonder? Birthers? Nativists? Barely concealed racists and misogynists? All a major component of Mr. Brooks and his party's "open future-oriented nationalism".
Mr. Brooks, spare us. If you can't find even a scintilla of self-honesty, just go away. Please.
9
Mr. Brooks, you know the message I got from the Democratic Convention? We don't need Fox News, Donald Trump, or the rest of the negative, critical, do-nothing-but-say-no Republicans and their doom and gloom pox on America.There is hope, there is strength in embracing diversity, in reaching out and helping each other. I live in a community where I see this every day. The media needs to embrace this message. Stop selling us the Donald Trump version of America. Celebrate the uplifting message we heard this week.
15
I often admire David Brooks as a man of character and principle, but he has obviously been having a crisis of political faith of late. I wonder--if Mr. Brooks were not so heavily invested historically in being a Republican, and were not essentially being paid to be a Republican--would he even be a Republican? Come on, David--have the courage of your convictions and move away from the Dark Side--become the Democrat you were truly meant to be!
7
William Shakespeare understood the attraction of would-be demagogues and trash-talkers like Donald Trump long ago. Republicans and Independents would do well to ponder Shakespeare's insight today:
Now this ill-wresting world is grown so bad,
Mad slanderers by mad ears believed be.
--Sonnet 140
Now this ill-wresting world is grown so bad,
Mad slanderers by mad ears believed be.
--Sonnet 140
6
Yes, the silent "sane and reasonable" Republicans DO deserve shame. Too many have "stood silently by" as their party was taken over by a bloviating, bullying bigot. To those Republicans I say, silence isn't always golden...sometimes it's just plain YELLOW.
14
I have been around a while and watched the Watergate Hearings after completing my MA. It occurs to me that the GOP has been going straight downhill since then, it isn't a recent phenomenon. I vowed never to vote Republican again after Spiro T Agnew (whose Blue opponent for Governor of MD had the campaign slogan: your home is your castle, protect it). Most of you know what happened to Spiro! Trump is just the bottom of a very deep well ignorant, self absorbed, petty individuals who have achieved prominence in the GOP. Yes, you can name a few good men and women, like Mayor Bloomberg; the "little man" in Trump's latest diatribe. But look where they are now!
6
I understand your premise, and it is your job to analyze. But the nihilistic view you describe cannot win. Let's not give it credence by writing about it. The more your hear that Trump may become president, the truer and more believable it seems. From now on the message is clear: Hillary Clinton will be our next President. It's obvious. Let's say and hear that over and over again.
11
Sorry, David, Republicans don't have a monopoly on patriotism, they just acted like they did. Republicans had their chance and they chose Trump. They (and you) made their bed, now they have to sleep in it.
9
"The Democrats may have just dominated a game we are no longer playing"
Boy that line sends shivers down my spine.
Boy that line sends shivers down my spine.
4
I find it interesting how in this election cycle David Brooks has become a champion for the far left.
2
Pence. Ryan. Christie. Even Graham and McCain. All sell-outs, afraid to raise their voiices for America against the cancer that is Donald Trump. You're right, David. I almost don't blame Trump.... solipsists gotta solipsize. But the others.... there's a special place in ignominy reserved for them.
7
David Brooks wins the summer.
1
If the Democrats had the better convention, it was probably because it was a show by professional entertainers and media figures:
Al Franken
Carol King
Sarah Silverman
Paul Simon
Michael Bloomberg
Not sure people are looking for 4 nights at the Oscars.
Al Franken
Carol King
Sarah Silverman
Paul Simon
Michael Bloomberg
Not sure people are looking for 4 nights at the Oscars.
Democrats are the more patriotic of the two parties. We actually care about the country and all its people.
7
I sense that you're a fundamentally decent guy, David Brooks.
In this column, you enumerate all the reasons why a rational person should be appalled by Trump. You clearly know he's a disaster, but you can't seem bring yourself to admit that you won't vote for him.
Are you one of the many Republicans who can't face losing the Senate and/or Supreme Court and will risk the indecency of Trump's cartoon candidacy?
Since your paycheck with the Times and NPR depends on you speaking from the Republican side, will you dance on the edge of the knife until election day and finally admit that you, a moderate Republican, have a higher regard for your country than party ... and cannot vote for Trump?
In this column, you enumerate all the reasons why a rational person should be appalled by Trump. You clearly know he's a disaster, but you can't seem bring yourself to admit that you won't vote for him.
Are you one of the many Republicans who can't face losing the Senate and/or Supreme Court and will risk the indecency of Trump's cartoon candidacy?
Since your paycheck with the Times and NPR depends on you speaking from the Republican side, will you dance on the edge of the knife until election day and finally admit that you, a moderate Republican, have a higher regard for your country than party ... and cannot vote for Trump?
6
In 1932 in the depths of the Great Depression, Germans increasingly voted for the party of Adolf Hitler as cowardly democrats and republicans in Germany did little to stop him. And when he came to power neither democrats nor republicans outside Germany had the coward to stand up to the demagogue.
In 2016 a the height of a recovery from the depths of the Great Recession, Americans increasingly are voting for the demagogue. Democrats are finally standing up to him, but Republicans continue to tacitly or openly support the demagogue who threatens the entire country. And of course there is no on to stand up to America. In fact, we are on the verge of abandoning NATO and aligning our country with Russia.
In 2016 a the height of a recovery from the depths of the Great Recession, Americans increasingly are voting for the demagogue. Democrats are finally standing up to him, but Republicans continue to tacitly or openly support the demagogue who threatens the entire country. And of course there is no on to stand up to America. In fact, we are on the verge of abandoning NATO and aligning our country with Russia.
7
Berners would do well to examine their situation. They are in the driver's seat!
The duplicity of the party has been revealed, now take advantage of it! Do not surrender the arena, stay in it! Demand more progressive candidates in every race you can muster. Hand Hillary the 2018 Congress of Change, and remind all opponents you don't tolerate dirty politics!!
This is your century, do not fold your tent and stay home. Give us this half hope, and then push her to our destination! Otherwise you are giving Trump the rope with which to hang your hopes and dreams.
If you are so angry this is not finished in one election you will allow Trump to vanquish us, ask yourself if you really thought just one election would do the trick. Here's an even neater trick. Instead of delivering Bernie, who the GOP would cast as Trostsky, you get Hillary the Competent. We are gonna turn her into Attila, Huns, or she can get out of our way in 2020.
So stick with it. I've been crying over lost causes for too long. We are found! Let's demand recovery!!
The duplicity of the party has been revealed, now take advantage of it! Do not surrender the arena, stay in it! Demand more progressive candidates in every race you can muster. Hand Hillary the 2018 Congress of Change, and remind all opponents you don't tolerate dirty politics!!
This is your century, do not fold your tent and stay home. Give us this half hope, and then push her to our destination! Otherwise you are giving Trump the rope with which to hang your hopes and dreams.
If you are so angry this is not finished in one election you will allow Trump to vanquish us, ask yourself if you really thought just one election would do the trick. Here's an even neater trick. Instead of delivering Bernie, who the GOP would cast as Trostsky, you get Hillary the Competent. We are gonna turn her into Attila, Huns, or she can get out of our way in 2020.
So stick with it. I've been crying over lost causes for too long. We are found! Let's demand recovery!!
David speaks of Democrats being able to stave off the demagogue known as Donald Trump.
1. Why weren't the republicans able to do so?
2. Why is it that we are left the possibility of a fascist, childish sociopath possibly becoming the leader of the USA and the free world?
Maybe it's because they've been speaking in the racist voice of Lincoln, Johnson and every Republican nominee from Reagan to McCain to Romney and Donald simply ran amok, openly and loudly proclaiming what Lee Atwater told them to avoid?
Maybe the base has finally realized coded language and race baiting isn't bankable. That they've been bamboozled once again, believing in a false superiority due to their "status".
Just a thought.
1. Why weren't the republicans able to do so?
2. Why is it that we are left the possibility of a fascist, childish sociopath possibly becoming the leader of the USA and the free world?
Maybe it's because they've been speaking in the racist voice of Lincoln, Johnson and every Republican nominee from Reagan to McCain to Romney and Donald simply ran amok, openly and loudly proclaiming what Lee Atwater told them to avoid?
Maybe the base has finally realized coded language and race baiting isn't bankable. That they've been bamboozled once again, believing in a false superiority due to their "status".
Just a thought.
4
Mr. Brooks,
You need to focus more on the substance of things than on their form.
You need to focus more on the substance of things than on their form.
5
My main issue with Republicans this year is political incompetence. The party was not able to nominate a candidate it wanted. The Democrats had a similar breakdown in 2008 when the Obama queue jumped Hillary. Other precedents are Goldwater in 1964 and McGovern in 1972.
If a party can't nominate a viable candidate, it is no longer A viable party. The GOP can and hopefully will fix this after what I imagine will be an epic fail that may cost them all three branches of government.
I would dispute Mr Brook's conclusion that the Democrats have usurped the GOP positioning on mainstream patriotic values. Maybe it appears that way to a New Yorker, but from flyover country this week's festivities still conveyed a politically correct vision of the country that is dissonant from reality.
If a party can't nominate a viable candidate, it is no longer A viable party. The GOP can and hopefully will fix this after what I imagine will be an epic fail that may cost them all three branches of government.
I would dispute Mr Brook's conclusion that the Democrats have usurped the GOP positioning on mainstream patriotic values. Maybe it appears that way to a New Yorker, but from flyover country this week's festivities still conveyed a politically correct vision of the country that is dissonant from reality.
David, David, David. It is only the fussy beltway free-marketer thinktankers who think that Trump represents a departure from and not the avatar of whatever-the-fudge we are going to call the GOP's motivating impulse.
TL;DR: welcome to the party
TL;DR: welcome to the party
4
What a dramatic change in only eight years when we found ourselves with a truly wonderful president, one who is bright, compassionate, thoughtful, a person who will--and we all know this to be true--go down in history as one of our finest. How so many millions of us are wondering did Donald Trump emerge as a presidential nominee? And having done so, what possesses people to support this fascist. For that is what he is: a fascist. Those of us who care about this country absolutely must not only vote but become evangelical about it: we must convince those who are young and angry that staying home is an option that, should Trump win, they will long regret (if there is a country left, that is).
4
Thank you, David Brooks; my sentiments, exactly.
1
If the country has changed for the worse--and certainly the economy has--it's your party, Mr. Brooks that bears most of the blame. You should start addressing the Republican policies that have led to these problems--including exploiting racism to win elections, the belief in unfettered capitalism, the unwillingness to tax and regulate in a way that would keep 90% of our wealth from stagnating in the hands of a few and a constant drumbeat of fear.
6
These are the thoughts I share and the convention I witnessed on the PBS coverage of both conventions. A totally different convention was on the FOX "news" channel which pre-empted the Hillary intro video with an NRA piece and did everything it could to spin against the Democrats' orchestrated staging. For the 30% of Americans who get all of their news from FOX and conservative talk radio, none of it matters. They share the shame of the Republican leaders and Mike Pence.
10
Republican orthodoxy -- conservative but also responsible and bipartisan -- is gone, David. Look at how the GOP Senate has abandoned its duty to confirm or reject a SCOTUS nominee. Look at the lineup of Presidential nominees on the GOP side: by and large pathetic, bereft of ideas and united only by their intemperate hatred of Hillary Clinton. Look at Trump (enough said). Look at a party that failed to chastise a delegate to the GOP convention for publicly stating that Hillary should be executed for treason. Look at the GOP Establishment that has meekly lined up behind a man they loathe, thus putting party over natio .
Yes, the Republican Party is dead, walking dead, and if there is something new in politics this year, it isn't Trump. It is the demise of the party of Lincoln into an empty, thoughtless mob who want tax breaks for the rich, and literally nothing else, nothing else at all.
Yes, the Republican Party is dead, walking dead, and if there is something new in politics this year, it isn't Trump. It is the demise of the party of Lincoln into an empty, thoughtless mob who want tax breaks for the rich, and literally nothing else, nothing else at all.
9
I can't help but wonder if Jon Stewart's takedown of the Republicans at the end of his rant on Colbert's show didn't plant the thought that a patriotic theme would fit this convention. His "you don't own" theme was quite powerful and seemed to be reflected in many of the speeches.
5
\"Trump has allowed the Democrats to mask their deep problems. A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger."
According to Brooks, world chaos, growing violence and growing anger are "Democratic problems". As if the chaos in the middle east wasn't set off initially by the ill-considered invasion of Iraq, which was justified by lies. There is violence, huge streams of immigrants--and all the fault must be laid at the feet of the Democratic Party since we have a Democratic president (and a Republican Congress and a Republican Supreme Court). It's all THEIR fault.......it's all HIS fault.
This is the type of myopic half-truth "analysis" (actually closer to 10% truth), we can, and do get every day from our friends at Fox News.
Although Brooks finally seems to be acknowledging that his party of choice has gone off the deep edge, he just can't let go of his instinct to attack "those damned liberals". Reminds one of the Dr. Strangelove character, writhing tortuously in his wheelchair trying to repress his reflexive salute to Mein Fuhrer.
According to Brooks, world chaos, growing violence and growing anger are "Democratic problems". As if the chaos in the middle east wasn't set off initially by the ill-considered invasion of Iraq, which was justified by lies. There is violence, huge streams of immigrants--and all the fault must be laid at the feet of the Democratic Party since we have a Democratic president (and a Republican Congress and a Republican Supreme Court). It's all THEIR fault.......it's all HIS fault.
This is the type of myopic half-truth "analysis" (actually closer to 10% truth), we can, and do get every day from our friends at Fox News.
Although Brooks finally seems to be acknowledging that his party of choice has gone off the deep edge, he just can't let go of his instinct to attack "those damned liberals". Reminds one of the Dr. Strangelove character, writhing tortuously in his wheelchair trying to repress his reflexive salute to Mein Fuhrer.
6
A recent artful hit it right on the head. This is an election between global elitism and nation based sentiment. Hillary vs. Donald represents this battle. Not D vs. R.
Eduardo Porter's article the other day about trade agreements over the past few decades was instructive. In essence, I read that NAFTA presented no real economic benefit to this country but only to Mexico. Further, he agreed that TPP will provide minimal economic benefit to this country. But, it will give a significant benefit to the Asian trade partners.
If this is true, then an objective person must ask why we are doing these deals. Further, when one hears of jobs lost to outsourcing and relocation of businesses overseas, there is credence to the Trump and Sanders no matter how offensive and/or oddball the messengers are.
Eduardo Porter's article the other day about trade agreements over the past few decades was instructive. In essence, I read that NAFTA presented no real economic benefit to this country but only to Mexico. Further, he agreed that TPP will provide minimal economic benefit to this country. But, it will give a significant benefit to the Asian trade partners.
If this is true, then an objective person must ask why we are doing these deals. Further, when one hears of jobs lost to outsourcing and relocation of businesses overseas, there is credence to the Trump and Sanders no matter how offensive and/or oddball the messengers are.
David I was appalled to hear your last sounds bites of the evening after Hillary Clinton's speak that her speech was mediocre and comparing the quality of her speak to Donald Trump's speech as the two worst of the two conventions. And you even threw Tim Kane under the bus at the same time. You are an amazing analyst and writer - provocative, synthetic, objective, and truth telling, but sometimes you are deeply negative and cynical. You failed to understand the context, energy, and process of the democratic convention and Hillary Clinton's role in bringing it all together. Yes, she let other people help tell her life's story, which is full of values, commitment, and service to many communities and her nation. Her speech was right on the mark pulling the themes of her life and the values and the plans of the party at its convention at this time in our history. She was energetic, articulate, synthetic, and effective. She connected all the dots and brought the house down. Her style is her own and she won my support, which has wondered like many if she can be trusted and has the skills to be president and commander in chief. And I ended up believing that she is the most qualified person to run for president in a very long time. Your comments were shameful and demeaning in the context of the moment and the longer view.
12
As a woman, I have never had the time to reflect upon the daily difficulties women like me face in the workplace. It's a luxury I cannot afford. However, I found myself unexpectedly moved by Hillary Clinton's speech. If she had openly wept while hugging her daughter after the introduction, reporters would have been quick to dismiss her emotional outburst or worse, tie her emotions to inherent female weakness. Women can't win. If we behave competitively, we're labeled as being unfeminine. If we're emotional, we are viewed as weak. There is no middleground. I don't think the rules have changed. Sadly, I think what we are seeing is sexism, from both men and women. And as strange as this may sound, men do not have a monopoly on sexism either. I would guess that if Hillary were a man, this election would not even be close. The rules have not changed, but our attitudes must if we are to survive as a nation.
11
David, I think your characterization of Trump as "a morally untethered, spiritually vacuous man who appears haunted by multiple personality disorders" is succinct and to the point. And I agree with you that if Trump wins in November it is because America has changed in some fundamental way, and not in a good way. This is something I fear.
But if Hillary does win the presidency, then I have a different fear. I fear the Republican Party, in the aftermath of another loss, will only come to the conclusion they had the wrong candidate, when in fact they have the wrong approach. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind having Democrats as president. But the fundamental approach of the Republican Party has been one of spreading hate, fearmongering, and exploiting racial and regional divisions. The question is when will Republicans come to their senses and become the Party of Lincoln once again?
But if Hillary does win the presidency, then I have a different fear. I fear the Republican Party, in the aftermath of another loss, will only come to the conclusion they had the wrong candidate, when in fact they have the wrong approach. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind having Democrats as president. But the fundamental approach of the Republican Party has been one of spreading hate, fearmongering, and exploiting racial and regional divisions. The question is when will Republicans come to their senses and become the Party of Lincoln once again?
6
How Myopic. The GOP lost its way a long time ago. Trump is just a product of that. GOP = ignorant, myopic, mean, hateful
3
July 26, 2016. Unsolicited advice from David Brooks:
“First, you’re going to have to fight your party’s materialistic mind-set.”
“Second, you’re going to have to fight the Sanders tide, which on Day 1 of this convention was astoundingly strong.”
“Third, you’re going to have to answer hatred with love.”
I think she did pretty well, David. You?
“First, you’re going to have to fight your party’s materialistic mind-set.”
“Second, you’re going to have to fight the Sanders tide, which on Day 1 of this convention was astoundingly strong.”
“Third, you’re going to have to answer hatred with love.”
I think she did pretty well, David. You?
3
The Reverend Barber (NC-NAACP) speech reminded us all why we are Democrats and Mr. & Mrs. Kahn reminded us what America's principles we stand for as a nation.
5
I don’t know what the term “reasonable” Republican means in 2016. This is the party that regularly enacts the anti-Christian, anti-faith, anti-altruism dogma of Ayn Rand.
One of Mr. Brooks early paragraph says “Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance & gentleness.”
Ayn Rand would & often did mock every one of those ideals. Republican politicians say they believe in them loudly & often but where are the laws they passed that represent these ideals?
Republican ongoing efforts to reward the 1% at the expense of everyone else is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican ongoing efforts to remove rules & regulations that impede the 1% is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican refusal to compromise on any issue is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican cynicism toward the world & everyone in it is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican choice of a candidate that thinks only of himself & his own greed is pure Ayn Rand.
Republicans cater to the 1% for money & power & Ayn Rand's “collective instincts” of “inferior men” for votes.
The biggest difference I can see between “reasonable” Republican Ayn Rand devotees & Trump is the amount of time & effort each is willing to spend pretending to follow Christian values while in reality following ‘greed is good’ secularist, Ayn Rand.
As long as Republicans nurture greed & selfishness as core values, Trump is a natural outcome, not an aberration.
One of Mr. Brooks early paragraph says “Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance & gentleness.”
Ayn Rand would & often did mock every one of those ideals. Republican politicians say they believe in them loudly & often but where are the laws they passed that represent these ideals?
Republican ongoing efforts to reward the 1% at the expense of everyone else is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican ongoing efforts to remove rules & regulations that impede the 1% is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican refusal to compromise on any issue is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican cynicism toward the world & everyone in it is pure Ayn Rand.
Republican choice of a candidate that thinks only of himself & his own greed is pure Ayn Rand.
Republicans cater to the 1% for money & power & Ayn Rand's “collective instincts” of “inferior men” for votes.
The biggest difference I can see between “reasonable” Republican Ayn Rand devotees & Trump is the amount of time & effort each is willing to spend pretending to follow Christian values while in reality following ‘greed is good’ secularist, Ayn Rand.
As long as Republicans nurture greed & selfishness as core values, Trump is a natural outcome, not an aberration.
5
Thanks for this column. Some of your on-air TV comments last night indicated to me you hadn't seen and heard what these written remarks obviously reveal that you did.
2
David Brooks, so well stated!
In effect, Hillary is the only option. If the Donald becomes president -- or should the election once again becomes the decision of the Supreme Court, the country maybe headed toward a "coup d'etat."
When none of the pieces fit, it only takes one highly charged group to level a forceful blow to democracy. Very scary.
Republicans, given Hillary's age, and the potential rivals for the next election cycle, she may be a one term president, filling out a "third term" for Obama.
Nonetheless, the country can ill afford, a Trump presidency.
In effect, Hillary is the only option. If the Donald becomes president -- or should the election once again becomes the decision of the Supreme Court, the country maybe headed toward a "coup d'etat."
When none of the pieces fit, it only takes one highly charged group to level a forceful blow to democracy. Very scary.
Republicans, given Hillary's age, and the potential rivals for the next election cycle, she may be a one term president, filling out a "third term" for Obama.
Nonetheless, the country can ill afford, a Trump presidency.
1
Well, Mr. Brooks, you reap what you sow. From the hanging chads of Florida, to your candidate calling out for the Russians to hack the DNC email, your party has created this monster. Your party has been particularly in hyper-hate overdrive ever since Obama took office, and they attempted to thwart every effort by the president to govern. In spite of that he pulled us out of a recession and passed a healthcare law; a law which your party has misconstrued and demonized as socialism. If the orange bully wins this election, just know that you helped it happen. You and your party of guns, God and hate.
6
David Brooks, you have spent years aiding and abetting the very moral and spiritual cynicism of the Republican party that enabled the rise of a Trump. You've never called out the people in your party who turned politics into an entertainment spectacle and whose embrace of "patriotism" was always the embrace of the con and always excluded half the country. I'm glad to see you calling out Trump for what he is, but your extraordinary silence on your own culpability means that you haven't really ever been honest. You just want to get out of the hole you've been climbing into for years because there's no longer a profit in being a Republican apologist.
2
Donald Trump says pretty soon we will not have a country left. When Republicans or Democrats try to sell doom and gloom to the American People we have big problems if we buy into it. From 1776 to present America has come up against tough times and has always found a way to get through it and come out better. The Democrats were putting that forward at their convention while too many at the Republican Convention told us The end is near and we will perish.
1
Much of the blame for the multitude of problems which increased during the Obama administration rests with the GOP Congress. Government shut down, refusal to vote for any extension of war powers, refusal to negotiate a budget, sequestration, Zika funding etc. etc. refusal etc. The GOP's plan, taking down President Obama has been and still remains more important than anything. Great plan. The results are a struggling economy, crumbling infrastructure, a more chaotic world, and presidential nominee Donald Trump. This will continue as long as both GOP politicians and voters have stronger beliefs in conspiracy theories than the public good.
4
I can understand why Brooks sounds depressed given the GOP has crashed and burned. But I don't understand why he sounds so bleak about the entire nation. He sounds as dark as... well, as dark as Trump. Perhaps Trump is his candidate after all?
5
The country hasn't changed. The Republican Party began its decent into moral decay back when Lee Atwater showed it--through vociferous deceitful aggression--how to put party above country. How to put party above soul.
The phony moral superiority of those who enjoyed the support of Jerry Falwell and the Moral Majority while they were carrying on affairs and abusing little boys was tolerated by a Republican Party that, by the mid 90's, was wholeheartedly believing its own lies.
Then, in 2000, the majority of Americans voted for Al Gore, but a Republican nominated SCOTUS majority anointed W. Who, along with war criminals Cheney and Rumsfeld, made up a war that killed--is still killing--countless innocent lives.
It's 2016 and--low and behold--the personification of the past 35 years of Republican Party's true heart and soul is now its nominee for President of the United States. David, if you and others in your party had acknowledged the lies, greed and racism that were infiltrating your party and becoming your core constituents your party might not be where it is today.
Make no mistake, the country hasn't changed. It is your Republican Party that is now reaping what it has sown for the past 40 years.
The phony moral superiority of those who enjoyed the support of Jerry Falwell and the Moral Majority while they were carrying on affairs and abusing little boys was tolerated by a Republican Party that, by the mid 90's, was wholeheartedly believing its own lies.
Then, in 2000, the majority of Americans voted for Al Gore, but a Republican nominated SCOTUS majority anointed W. Who, along with war criminals Cheney and Rumsfeld, made up a war that killed--is still killing--countless innocent lives.
It's 2016 and--low and behold--the personification of the past 35 years of Republican Party's true heart and soul is now its nominee for President of the United States. David, if you and others in your party had acknowledged the lies, greed and racism that were infiltrating your party and becoming your core constituents your party might not be where it is today.
Make no mistake, the country hasn't changed. It is your Republican Party that is now reaping what it has sown for the past 40 years.
5
This is the logical endpoint of almost 50 years of "Law and Order" , "Cadillac Driving Welfare Queens", "Willie Horton", and all the other barely veiled racist and homophobic manifestations of the Southern Strategy. Good riddance. And may all the Atwaters and Roves and willing purveyors of this cynical appeal to our worst impulses be suitably disgraced for their contribution to the crippling polarization of our society.
4
I am not feeling as pessimistic as Brooks, and whatever doubts I did have about the Democrats being ready to win were dispelled by the convention, which I must say seemed to be the most positive, and well-focused, in my memory. I can only hope that some of the message got through to people who feel themselves hurting from recent economic troubles and therefore might be flirting with voting for Trump: no economic downturn justifies American turning against American. No dip in the Dow Jones, or spike in the unemployment statistics, warrants us seeking an authoritarian strongman to make it all better for us. We have been in worse straits before, and have come through a united nation, without appealing to a dictatorial Daddy figure. We should not fall for the spiel of a narcissistic opportunist, who will paint as grim a picture of America as he has to in order to get what he wants, truth and goodness be damned. I refuse to believe that all Trump supporters are unreachable.
3
Tricky Trump the Twitter Troll. Trump has claimed his candidacy is that of an "outsider" in the American political arena. "I ALONE" can rescue America. And yet he has actually shown us that he is the consummate politician. Trump and the GOP go hold of hacked emails and tried to derail the DNC convention. And he has used Twitter to his advantage to gain dollar free media coverage. Twitter is a new social media platform that since its inception has devolved into an online forum for trolls - people looking to hate and shame. Thus Trump's (yes) brilliant manipulation of this forum. This is the sad and destructive effect of social media. Our society has changed because of social media and not always in a good way. Politics has changed as a result of that too. That does not mean that the message can not be clear. The GOP has crumbled under the ultimate Twitter Troll of hate, racism and bigotry. Why don't we leave the tweets in Twitter land and stop 'reporting' on Tweets? Both the GOP and DNC are dealing with the new media world emails, twitter etc. and the hazards and advantages of that.
The conventions are much like the choice of Vice President: they really don't get you votes, but they sure can lose you votes. For a change, it was the Republican convention and Veep choice that will cost some votes, not, as is usually the case, the Democrats.
Trump will not peel away any people currently planning to vote for Clinton. Clinton may peel away a few people currently planning to vote for Trump. However, at a time when there is such broad disaffection with "the establishment", it is not likely that professional Republicans denouncing Trump and/or supporting Clinton will make much difference.
For those whose minds are truly still not made up, their attention was not to the conventions. For their critical votes, the battle will begin in all seriousness after Labor Day.
Trump will not peel away any people currently planning to vote for Clinton. Clinton may peel away a few people currently planning to vote for Trump. However, at a time when there is such broad disaffection with "the establishment", it is not likely that professional Republicans denouncing Trump and/or supporting Clinton will make much difference.
For those whose minds are truly still not made up, their attention was not to the conventions. For their critical votes, the battle will begin in all seriousness after Labor Day.
2
When will you and all other patriotic Republicans do the right thing?
You need to put Country before Party and endorse and then vote for Hillary Clinton.
You need to put Country before Party and endorse and then vote for Hillary Clinton.
4
"Trump has allowed the Democrats to mask their deep problems. A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger."
Are we to understand that somehow the Democrat's deep problems have something to do with having Obama as president during these unfortunate developments?
Of course, Bush originated most of them, and Ryan-McConnell and the Roberts court have succeeded in exacerbating them and making solutions impossible to implement.
So what exactly are the deep problems of the Democrats? They seem to be not the Democrat's problems, but problems foisted upon them by Republicans who stand in the way of dealing with them.
Are we to understand that somehow the Democrat's deep problems have something to do with having Obama as president during these unfortunate developments?
Of course, Bush originated most of them, and Ryan-McConnell and the Roberts court have succeeded in exacerbating them and making solutions impossible to implement.
So what exactly are the deep problems of the Democrats? They seem to be not the Democrat's problems, but problems foisted upon them by Republicans who stand in the way of dealing with them.
6
Wow. David Brooks pens a piece that should be framed and hung in the walls of every American home that houses Faith, Hope and Charity - the true love of Jesus Christ.
For this to work, Mr. BRooks, needs for YOU and also the likes of BILL O'REILLY, to man up, come out from under the crushing fear of Roger Ailes and Faux news, and DECLARE OUTRIGHT druing an on-air broadcast, that the ONLY SANE CHOICE IS HILLARY CLINTON.
3
The Democrats did not discover these themes this year, or steal them from a righteous Republican Party ! These have always been Dem themes. Brooks bitterness colors everything he writes.
4
'It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame'
I used to admire Paul Ryan. I didn't agree with all of his policies, but I thought he was standing up for what he thought was right.
After this whole Trump thing has passed, when The Donald is just a punchline, we will remember who stood where. And straddling the fence doesn't count as being on the right side of the fence, Mr. Ryan.
I used to admire Paul Ryan. I didn't agree with all of his policies, but I thought he was standing up for what he thought was right.
After this whole Trump thing has passed, when The Donald is just a punchline, we will remember who stood where. And straddling the fence doesn't count as being on the right side of the fence, Mr. Ryan.
2
Wonderful ,truthful opinion !
1
Winning in November is what counts.
Sadly, this analysis is flawed simply because it ignores the transformation of the Republican Party that began during the Clinton administration when Newt Gingrich decided a scorched earth policy was better than finding common cause with Democrats. Doubling down on social issues, seizing fanciful Second Amendment rights that trump even common sense measures to keep guns out of the hands of folks who shouldn't go near them AND pursuing war on fanciful grounds have all hardened American's attitudes and driven deep wedges into the body politic. Donald Trump is the product of Republican's growing embrace of Rush Limbaugh and his spawn who know ONLY rage. Unfortunately, the values Mr. Brooks speaks about, values I know well as the son of a Republican family, have long been lost by the party of Lincoln, replaced by a shrill voice that claims the mantle of patriotism and Christianity but really has abandoned both. Please tell me how ANY Christian can embrace Donald Trump? What is happening at this moment puts the lie to every family values Christian on the right. Trump mocks a disabled man at the podium during a rally and it is seemingly ignored by his supporters. Shame on them all.
I'm waiting for your article announcing your support for Hillary Clinton Mr. Brooks. Until you do I'll know full well you've abandoned the values of which you speak.
I'm waiting for your article announcing your support for Hillary Clinton Mr. Brooks. Until you do I'll know full well you've abandoned the values of which you speak.
3
The consequence of 15 years of war is that eventually everyone is impacted no matter what their party affiliation is. Today, we are all invested in military glory. I doubt that Biden and Kaine's sons would have joined the military had we not been in a cycle of ceaseless war. The Republicans no longer have an exclusive claim to this form of patriotism.
1
ISIS is being defeated on their Middle Eastern "home turf", which, the probably correct analysis says, is causing exponentially more "lone wolf/wolves" attacks in the West. The West is understandably becoming more terrified reading about seemingly daily, or at least weekly, attacks on people just out to have fun in France, Germany, Bangladesh, the US, and on and on. Is "ironic" the word to use to describe the fact that, if the Coalition hadn't become more successful, the Democrats might be in better shape to win this election? Thank you, David, for this Op-Ed. I enjoyed watching you as part of the panel covering the conventions on PBS.
David Brooks laments, “If you visited the two conventions this year you would have come away thinking that the Democrats are the more patriotic of the two parties — and the more culturally conservative.”
Mr. Brooks, I feel your pain, but you continue to make excuses for not doing the right thing. Especially, when you come up with this lame argument, “It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots…” I can’t even complete this argument because it is indefensible.
In the 1980 election, we had this crossover appeal of “Reagan Democrats,” who voted for the Gipper. Mr. Brooks, you witnessed a whole bunch of Republicans and military folk at the DNC last night come out in support of Hillary – putting country before party in typically conservative tradition. So here’s my suggestion to you, Mr. Brooks, enough with the excuses – why don’t you become among the first prominent “Clinton Republicans” from the media to endorse Hillary Clinton for president!
Mr. Brooks, I feel your pain, but you continue to make excuses for not doing the right thing. Especially, when you come up with this lame argument, “It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots…” I can’t even complete this argument because it is indefensible.
In the 1980 election, we had this crossover appeal of “Reagan Democrats,” who voted for the Gipper. Mr. Brooks, you witnessed a whole bunch of Republicans and military folk at the DNC last night come out in support of Hillary – putting country before party in typically conservative tradition. So here’s my suggestion to you, Mr. Brooks, enough with the excuses – why don’t you become among the first prominent “Clinton Republicans” from the media to endorse Hillary Clinton for president!
4
People that remember the Great War will tell you about politicians who understood the need to get their name out and it didn’t matter how, just as long as the name would be spelled correctly so people would recognize it on the ballot: Mr. Trump is not new, but one of those old-time politicians. And like P.T. Barnum, another old name, Mr. Trump knows shock sells and plays the press like a violin with shocking comments that keep him in the press more than any amount of money could purchase. The only “new” here is having a great marketer running for office in this “new” day and age.
Yes, the country has moved to the right over the past few decades and now Republicans (and Reagan Democrats) can begin to see that Party again in the Democratic Party with the Republican Party looking for a post-apocalyptic role. But shifting political landscapes is not new either, but how many today remember the days before World War I? History repeats itself, because we rarely learn from the past.
Yes, the country has moved to the right over the past few decades and now Republicans (and Reagan Democrats) can begin to see that Party again in the Democratic Party with the Republican Party looking for a post-apocalyptic role. But shifting political landscapes is not new either, but how many today remember the days before World War I? History repeats itself, because we rarely learn from the past.
"The extremist fringe that threatens to take over the Democratic Party seems less menacing than the lunatic fringe that has already taken over the Republican one."
Does the "lunatic fringe" of the Republican party include Ryan and McConnell who have incapacitated Congress and made it inoperative? Are they part of the Republican "lunatic fringe", or merely the instruments of the GOP elite oligarchy? And is tacit acceptance of DJ Trump "lunacy" or simply a callous "wait and see" without getting dirtied?
As for the "extremist fringe" of the Democratic Party, they have had a great deal of influence in the present campaign, mostly for the good. So its "menace" is not so menacing after all, with the exception of those with a tendency toward mob rule instead of democracy.
Does the "lunatic fringe" of the Republican party include Ryan and McConnell who have incapacitated Congress and made it inoperative? Are they part of the Republican "lunatic fringe", or merely the instruments of the GOP elite oligarchy? And is tacit acceptance of DJ Trump "lunacy" or simply a callous "wait and see" without getting dirtied?
As for the "extremist fringe" of the Democratic Party, they have had a great deal of influence in the present campaign, mostly for the good. So its "menace" is not so menacing after all, with the exception of those with a tendency toward mob rule instead of democracy.
4
Mmm. When have Republicans seized middle class values?
3
David Brooks, and The world at large. need to heed and act on, what Mr. Bloomberg had to say at the Democrats Convention.
Mr. Bloomberg, one of the best educated, astute, entrepreneurial, experienced in both business & government, philenthropical and independent patriotic citizen of sound judgement that we are blessed with, said all that need be said about Hillary and Trump as he endorsed Hillary as the "sane and competent" person to be President and de facto world leader.
We owe Mr. Bloomberg our thanks for having the courage to step forward. It is past time that Mssrs. Priebus, McConnell, Ryan also put our country first and they, and those they lead, show they are also patriots of courage and sound judgement.
These three are the most responsible for having produced the conditions in their party that left 14 million members convinced they had been betrayed for the 1% and donors, and turned to Trump.
They now must help undo what they have done.
Mr. Bloomberg, one of the best educated, astute, entrepreneurial, experienced in both business & government, philenthropical and independent patriotic citizen of sound judgement that we are blessed with, said all that need be said about Hillary and Trump as he endorsed Hillary as the "sane and competent" person to be President and de facto world leader.
We owe Mr. Bloomberg our thanks for having the courage to step forward. It is past time that Mssrs. Priebus, McConnell, Ryan also put our country first and they, and those they lead, show they are also patriots of courage and sound judgement.
These three are the most responsible for having produced the conditions in their party that left 14 million members convinced they had been betrayed for the 1% and donors, and turned to Trump.
They now must help undo what they have done.
2
Now is the time for all the republicans who have called for Muslims to take the lead in calling out radical jihadists, to take the lead in calling out the lunatic fringe of their party.
Not just Trump, but the shock talk radio jockeys, the Westboro Baptist "protesters", the klansmen, the science deniers, the "prolife" anti-abortion wingnuts who advocate voilence and murder of doctors and clinic workers, the word-salad "commentators" on Fox like Sarah Palin, the elected republican representatives and senators who obstruct legislation and judicial appointments, etc. Until patriotic moderate republicans raise their voice to insist on governing through compromise in the interests of the whole country, this country is doomed to struggle with the legacy of Trump's bigotry and divisive trajectory.
Not just Trump, but the shock talk radio jockeys, the Westboro Baptist "protesters", the klansmen, the science deniers, the "prolife" anti-abortion wingnuts who advocate voilence and murder of doctors and clinic workers, the word-salad "commentators" on Fox like Sarah Palin, the elected republican representatives and senators who obstruct legislation and judicial appointments, etc. Until patriotic moderate republicans raise their voice to insist on governing through compromise in the interests of the whole country, this country is doomed to struggle with the legacy of Trump's bigotry and divisive trajectory.
4
This is the column that wins me over, Mr Brooks. Well said, and something the rest of the GOP leadership—particularly those who have thrown their public support behind Mr Trump—should read and take to heart. If fear is the future, it belongs to a country unfamiliar to those of us who love American values.
11
Yes, the country has changed -- in at least two important ways. First, the country of dreams for a better life has changed into an unprecedented plutocracy. Second, both parties now grovel to serve the interests of the Plutocrats in hopes of benefitting from their bribes.
The latter was the question raised by Sanders about the New Democrats of the Clintons who have both shamelessly groveled before the princes of Goldman Sachs and been rewarded amply. In another era the phrase would have been "sold out." That is the fact, not a gauzy promise written for prime time.
Trump is almost assuredly a certifiable nut case. Clinton is a documented tool of GS. People who work for a living are without a representative in Washington with the exception of Sanders.
The latter was the question raised by Sanders about the New Democrats of the Clintons who have both shamelessly groveled before the princes of Goldman Sachs and been rewarded amply. In another era the phrase would have been "sold out." That is the fact, not a gauzy promise written for prime time.
Trump is almost assuredly a certifiable nut case. Clinton is a documented tool of GS. People who work for a living are without a representative in Washington with the exception of Sanders.
One matter I missed in your write-up is the unflinching faith in the ability of the Americans to judge the presidential candidates, as expressed by the President and the Presidential nominee, something not heard on the other side.
Sure, It escapes me, among other things, how such a sensible nation would decide to elect a person like Mr. Bush twice. But hats off that they got it right last two times.
It remains only for Mr. Obama to again place his full faith in the ability of the American people and not only democratic to get it right this time as well.
It is not a matter for the democrats only.
I can not vote, but only shudder at the possibility.
Sure, It escapes me, among other things, how such a sensible nation would decide to elect a person like Mr. Bush twice. But hats off that they got it right last two times.
It remains only for Mr. Obama to again place his full faith in the ability of the American people and not only democratic to get it right this time as well.
It is not a matter for the democrats only.
I can not vote, but only shudder at the possibility.
1
The "patriotism" Brooks finds stolen from the Republicans by the Democrats was never uniquely theirs, and after living through Bush and Obama's presidency, I couldn't be happier that Republican faux patriotism has been exposed for the hypocrisy it is.
Bush's 8 years: Challenging a president post 9/11 is unpatriotic. Questioning a foolish invasion of Iraq, a dismal response to Katrina, or tax breaks that skyrocketed our deficit is unpatriotic. We even named the bill that signed away our civil liberties The Patriot Act.
Obama's 8 years: "You lie!" was somehow patriotic. So was questioning our president's nationality and faith. Sarah Palin's know-nothingness was OK because she was a self-styled "patriot." Ted Cruz' government shutdown temper tantrum was his patriotic adherence to the constitution. Blocking a Supreme Court hearing was a patriotic means of "giving voters a say."
Republicans don't own patriotism. In fact, since 9/11, it's basically been a code word that suggested that we had to agree with them or else we hated our country.
The optimism and championing of American potential on stage at the Democratic convention? That was patriotism.
Bush's 8 years: Challenging a president post 9/11 is unpatriotic. Questioning a foolish invasion of Iraq, a dismal response to Katrina, or tax breaks that skyrocketed our deficit is unpatriotic. We even named the bill that signed away our civil liberties The Patriot Act.
Obama's 8 years: "You lie!" was somehow patriotic. So was questioning our president's nationality and faith. Sarah Palin's know-nothingness was OK because she was a self-styled "patriot." Ted Cruz' government shutdown temper tantrum was his patriotic adherence to the constitution. Blocking a Supreme Court hearing was a patriotic means of "giving voters a say."
Republicans don't own patriotism. In fact, since 9/11, it's basically been a code word that suggested that we had to agree with them or else we hated our country.
The optimism and championing of American potential on stage at the Democratic convention? That was patriotism.
5
Most ordinary Americans really don't care about which party is in power. What we want is to live in a country that has a fair and equitable system where everyone lives under the same rules. We want a country that welcomes everyone as long as they are willing to live by our laws, respect others of different races, nationalities and creeds, and who is willing to give back to their country by paying their fair share in local, state, and federal taxes. We want a country where we are fairly paid for our labors, where promotions are based upon merit, and where everyone has a chance to succeed. Unfortunately, that America is gone for far too many people. There is too much secret and shady money in politics, influence and favors being bought and sold, too many career politicians who live in a rarefied world far removed from the realities faced by working people. This needs to be stopped. Now.
1
Thank you Mr. Brooks for your usual eloquent insights and observations about the stark differences these candidates represent. But now the time for prevarications, detached moral observation from on high, and nitpicking speeches is over. It is time to make a choice, make it publicly, and do whatever you can from your gilded platform to make sure that Hillary Clinton is our next president. You and other republicans CAN DO THIS. You MUST do this, all while preserving your Op Ed integrity as conservative voices and thinkers. Quit dancing on the intellectual sidelines and get in the game. We are playing for keeps and now is the time for good men and women to come to the aid of our country.
2
I feel like a goose being turned into foie gras. Time for a new chapter --- I'm really tired of lies.
"Humility and gentleness" and behaving "responsibly" are not Clintonian.
1
As Mr. Brooks says, the Democratic speakers at their conventions hit doubles, triples,and home runs. But who was listening? I really doubt if the non-college-educated white men of America were paying much attention. They were tuned in to, if watching at all, the lies of Fox News and that ilk. Fox News is the real problem.
2
Well, David, Trump also revealed the utter cowardice -in the form of Ryan, McConnell, Pence, and the rest of your "open, future-oriented" conservatives- in the face of a demagogue, and an ignorant one at that, who they should have grabbed by the suit collar and seat of the pants and shown the door 12 months ago.
Trump also revealed that there are millions in this country with the power to vote who believe his every word. That right there should frighten the bejeezus out of the vast majority of this nation's citizens. But rather than toss this buffoon out on his posterior, the Republicans knuckled under and gave him the keys to their kingdom. He didn't steal them. You gave them.
The Democrats didn't "seize middle-class values" from the Republicans or "embrace" anything that was once the sole property of the GOP. Democrats have held these positions for decades, ever since the two parties switched places philosophically. The Eisenhower Republican is almost completely extinct and fossilized today.
You did your share of hemming and hawing about Trump, David. It's his party; he got you here; you dance with the one what brung ya.
Trump also revealed that there are millions in this country with the power to vote who believe his every word. That right there should frighten the bejeezus out of the vast majority of this nation's citizens. But rather than toss this buffoon out on his posterior, the Republicans knuckled under and gave him the keys to their kingdom. He didn't steal them. You gave them.
The Democrats didn't "seize middle-class values" from the Republicans or "embrace" anything that was once the sole property of the GOP. Democrats have held these positions for decades, ever since the two parties switched places philosophically. The Eisenhower Republican is almost completely extinct and fossilized today.
You did your share of hemming and hawing about Trump, David. It's his party; he got you here; you dance with the one what brung ya.
6
Nothing is more dangerous than the conditions of our highways and interstate roads except maybe lousy junk allowed to be called food, yet Americans, fed on an extreme diet of a violent bombardment concerning American safety have been misdirected from the dangers we face by abandoning the Clean Air Act. Homegrown terrorism ain't got nothing on homegrown Monsanto, Dow Chemical and 600 some ingredients used in fracking. Miles of underground pipes full of oil or gas. Antiquated sewers spilling out into bays, lakes and streams, soon we'll look like the photos from Rio, because like those people, we can't begin to even talk about who's doing it as the source is so vast.
So while we talk about ISIS coming here to kill grandma in the night, there we have a time bomb under our own threatening Americans, killing agents are thriving, made by us here in the U.S., that, you are correct Mr. Brooks, nobody is talking about at these conventions that no wall will protect us from.
So while we talk about ISIS coming here to kill grandma in the night, there we have a time bomb under our own threatening Americans, killing agents are thriving, made by us here in the U.S., that, you are correct Mr. Brooks, nobody is talking about at these conventions that no wall will protect us from.
3
Trump's is a "be afraid, be afraid, be afraid. Only I can save you ...", campaign. We've seen it before. He is the man who rides to our rescue on a white horse a horse that will take him into the White House if his circus pitch succeeds. It falls to us to trip it up.
As for "morally untethered, spiritually vacuous" Gov. Pence, obviously out of his depth with Trump as he was with the religious right-backed anti-gay legislation that he signed into Indiana law, then repudiated -- he might yet redeem himself by openly breaking with Trump; resigning during September with a flourish. I hope he can see his way to it, if only for his sake.
As for "morally untethered, spiritually vacuous" Gov. Pence, obviously out of his depth with Trump as he was with the religious right-backed anti-gay legislation that he signed into Indiana law, then repudiated -- he might yet redeem himself by openly breaking with Trump; resigning during September with a flourish. I hope he can see his way to it, if only for his sake.
2
By the way: where are Candidate Chaos tax returns? If Nixon - and every candidate the last 50 years. - could release them why can't Trump? He can't escape this one.
2
The country hasn't changed, the Republican Party has changed. It has been overtaken by a "Berlusconian" (as you pointed out) with multiple personality disorder... and "tourettic tendencies" I might add. If Republicans want their party back, they will have to wrestle it back from this new age, narcissistic tyrant. Much like a bed bug, once a "Berlusconian" gets into the system it is hard to get them out. Perhaps the only solution for disenfranchised Republicans will be to regroup under a new name and give this country a three party system.
1
Thank you for saying that Trump doesn't have just one personality disorder. He has multiple personality disorders: narcissist, sociopath, attention deficit disorder pathological liar, no boundaries (think of the image of Trump patting his daughter inappropriately - the one he said he'd like to date if only she wasn't his daughter).
Don't you think it's time to endorse Hillary? Donald Trump must never become president of the United States of America.
Don't you think it's time to endorse Hillary? Donald Trump must never become president of the United States of America.
4
Silvio Berlusconi? Try Nikta Khrushchev. I'm waiting for him to take his shoe off and start beating the table!
1
David: For whom are you voting? Simple question. What's the answer?
This article couldn't be further from the truth. It's very obviously written with an enormous bias.
I'm pretty sure most Americans don't think the DNC was very patriotic other then the fact that they HAD to pass out American flags at the end as a last stitch effort to make it "feel" patriotic hoping it would help pick up the slack from the whole week!
I'm pretty sure most Americans don't think the DNC was very patriotic other then the fact that they HAD to pass out American flags at the end as a last stitch effort to make it "feel" patriotic hoping it would help pick up the slack from the whole week!
Yea OK David, my dad, a POW during WW2, and a life long Democrat was not really patriotic. I get it. Just because he didn't wear his patriotism on his sleeve? Give me a break!
3
Agreed. All American citizens should coalesce for the next few months to defeat this homegrown American menace. This is a stress test for our American Democracy. The closer trump scores to zero the healthier we are. Time to pull on the rope together! 1,2,3............ HEAVE HO!!!!!!!!!!
3
NYT should publish two side by side photos of the audience from RNC and DNC. It speaks volumes. I have seen both conventions on TV. The first thing I noticed was the audience.
DNC was full to the capacity with a varied hue of faces. RNC was sparse and an uniform faces of whites.
DNC was full to the capacity with a varied hue of faces. RNC was sparse and an uniform faces of whites.
5
David Brooks, you have done it again. You wrote an excellent column, then turn negative at the end, and give Trump his next quote, "David Brooks says that Trump is a man from the future." Won't that make a nice endorsement?
Nationalism is an ugly, corrosive and ultimately destructive force in any society. I have no objection to the Democrats being patriotic -i.e., having a genuine love of their country. Patriotism allows for self-analysis and critical reflection. It allows for the recognition that the US is a state founded on genocide and slavery which has never come to terms with either of these great atrocities. Nationalism does not brook criticism or reflection. The Democrats need to be careful that, in their zeal to fight Trump, they don't ingest too much of the blatant delusional mindset that made the Republicans so susceptible to Trump in the first place.
1
The blame for all of this lays squarely on the shoulders of the republican party leadership, not on Trump. The actions over the last 7+ years of those in power of the grand ole party are at the very least, an embarrassment. More likely, they border on treasonous. What a pathetic lot they've become. Mr. Brooks, your opinion piece is nothing more than a sham. Even you, refuse to confront the truth.
2
HAHAHAHAHAHA. Democrats didn't win a thing, they're pitiful crooks. Just look at all the rioting outside. Have fun losing the election
1
Propaganda at it's best these days...
1
Before the liberals on this commentary submit their rants, do they read them??? I mean, really read the content, not just check for grammar and the opportunity to wax academic.
You all are criticizing conservatives for not opening their eyes and becoming aware of their party, candidate and core beliefs.
Hypocrites!
Look at your candidate! For that matter, look at YOUR president!
You spew inanities without first looking to your own house.
The answer does not lie in nitpick in the other side. It lies in looking inward and changing what's wrong within your own numbers.
Those of us in glass house...
We conservatives are just as terrified, if not more, with the prospect of such a narcissist and criminal element, who has absolutely no regard for decency, ending up in charge.
You all are criticizing conservatives for not opening their eyes and becoming aware of their party, candidate and core beliefs.
Hypocrites!
Look at your candidate! For that matter, look at YOUR president!
You spew inanities without first looking to your own house.
The answer does not lie in nitpick in the other side. It lies in looking inward and changing what's wrong within your own numbers.
Those of us in glass house...
We conservatives are just as terrified, if not more, with the prospect of such a narcissist and criminal element, who has absolutely no regard for decency, ending up in charge.
Very well framed Mr Brooks. What happens when the donald refuses to debate Hilary Clinton?
2
Civility? optimism? humility and gentleness? I like David Brooks but I have always wondered where he is getting his information from. Has he never seen Fox News? Has he never listened to right wing hate radio? I mean Rush Limbaugh has been on the air for about thirty years now. But most of all I wonder if Brooks has ever gotten out and met a real republican? All they have been talking about for years is Mexicans, Muslims and blacks on welfare. Civility, optimism, humility and gentleness left the republican party decades ago.
3
Winning the summer will prove pretty meaningless if they lose in November....
The Republicans have spent years trashing modernity, government under law and based upon a social contract, democracy, science, a free press, and even the simple material interests of people in their party who are not affluent without deliberately so, just by trying to serve the interests of achieving and maintaining political power. It struggled to keep government out of every area of social and economic life, encouraging businesses to focus upon doing what they want, carte blanche. It has recently struggled to weaken the franchise of voters who tend to vote for competitors. When the domestic economy was not growing enough to share the new wealth created, it did nothing to help it grow, it cut taxes and put the nation into debt waiting for the markets and free enterprise to save the day. It allowed businesses to turn the media into a giant entertainment enterprise providing the people with only the most sensational of stories and news. It made the people uninformed enough to not see through Trump from the start. It made Democrats reluctant to challenge it because it was so popular. Then came Bernie, and the Democratic Party stood up for what our country has always meant to us, not just prosperity and opportunity for some to become fabulously wealthy, but a home and a great modern integrated society that aspires to be the greatest place to live in human history. Be careful of what you wish to have, lest you get far more than you expected.
2
"The Democrats may have dominated a game we are no longer playing."
But who made the game and who makes the rules? We do. The voters. So we can change things, no? I believe we can. I believe we always can.
But who made the game and who makes the rules? We do. The voters. So we can change things, no? I believe we can. I believe we always can.
1
I can't remember the last time the Republican Party embraced the ideals "toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." in any type of policy.
3
Republicans have been trying to 'starve the Beast' for decades and, as they haven't succeeded, they're finally trying to just kill it outright. Of course, it really isn't a Beast - it was established by "We the People... " - and maybe, just maybe, free of the shackles of the Beltway GOP it will be able to live to its potential.
1
The chair had to resign, emails released referring to Mexicans as taco bowl, making fun of African American names, references to gays as homos, using religion as scare tactics, BLM, boos by Bernie supporters, signs supporting Bernie taken away, gigantic fence around perimeter of venue, lack of enthusiasm, Obama mentioning himself 100's of times, crude jokes by comedians, total disregard for facts on economy, crime, terrorism, Hilary's record! By democratic party standards that's a success. Laughable.
Mr. Brooks:
Candidate Chaos is a product of the long term distotion of reality by your party of choice. This distortion is evident in every column you write. The growing world chaos is a direct result of a Republican administrations rampant jingoism or have you forgotten G.W. Bush?
Traditionally, Democratic administrations have been saddled with economic chaos, always the result of conservative action in the previous administration. Trickledown economics anyone? After being handed the biggest economic meltdown since the great depression, the current state of the economy is certainly a credit to the present administration.
Now we are onto yet another false equivilency, your stock-in-trade. The lunatic Trump supporters are not a "fringe", They are the majority of Trump supporters. Bernie diehards included, there is no such misanthropy in the Democretic party.
Yes, David, the country has changed, right under your clueless nose. You should know that you helped create this mess with column after column of
distorted realities in defense of the indefensible. Now you are pointing the finger of blame towards your own. There is shame enough for everyone on the right, including you.
Candidate Chaos is a product of the long term distotion of reality by your party of choice. This distortion is evident in every column you write. The growing world chaos is a direct result of a Republican administrations rampant jingoism or have you forgotten G.W. Bush?
Traditionally, Democratic administrations have been saddled with economic chaos, always the result of conservative action in the previous administration. Trickledown economics anyone? After being handed the biggest economic meltdown since the great depression, the current state of the economy is certainly a credit to the present administration.
Now we are onto yet another false equivilency, your stock-in-trade. The lunatic Trump supporters are not a "fringe", They are the majority of Trump supporters. Bernie diehards included, there is no such misanthropy in the Democretic party.
Yes, David, the country has changed, right under your clueless nose. You should know that you helped create this mess with column after column of
distorted realities in defense of the indefensible. Now you are pointing the finger of blame towards your own. There is shame enough for everyone on the right, including you.
2
Great column. As close as Brooks has come to saying he'll vote Democratic. That, of course, is the next step for him.
3
David this is a thoughtful piece but I take issue with a few statements. Trump is not a man of the future, his type always crops up when fears of the "other" come front and center. Trump's focus is on white tribalism (thanks you Paul Krugman)--a tribalism that is as old as humanity. He fans the flames of fear and ugliness as did Joe McCarthy, Adolf Hitler and countless others over the centuries. The big question: can our democracy survive such a personality?
1
Democrats have always been patriotic David.
4
I only take issue with one statement. I am not a Bernie supporter even though I admire him greatly. I am very fired up and ready to go. I see TONS of others who are. We are going to get to work hard. I have faith and hope. I wish you did too.
1
Oh, please...the Republican party has brought this on itself by spending the last 25 years indulging, catering to and encouraging every crackpot idea, conspiracy theory and nutjob out there. Science? Bah, humbug! Discrimination? Doesn't exist! You name the issue and Republicans have been facts adverse. Spend 25 years doing that and Trump is what you get. The Republican party hasn't represented what you think for decades.
3
This column, like so many others, solidifies Brooks' reputation as a prissy but boring writer who applies yesterday's paradigms in a sort of ideological strip tease, in which he interjects just enough watered down conservatism to titillate his "progressive" masters at the Times (and reinforce their delusion that the Times' OpEd page is ideologically diverse) but not a truly robust conservative canon that would seriously challenge them. I'm sure he is a "nice" man, but many with whom I consort consider him the NYT's faux conservative lap dog. Sad.
Dems with NO American flags at the convention are MORE patriotic?
You long for the GOP of Romney & McCain who were easily beaten by Obama?
Not one of the 16 who tried for GOP nomination would be brave enough to take on the Obama/Clinton record.
Trump is doing what needs to be done to prevent a Progressive left wing takeover of our nation.
You long for the GOP of Romney & McCain who were easily beaten by Obama?
Not one of the 16 who tried for GOP nomination would be brave enough to take on the Obama/Clinton record.
Trump is doing what needs to be done to prevent a Progressive left wing takeover of our nation.
1
David Brooks, you write as if Trump opened the door to all things good and moral for Democrats to seize. The truth is, we already had that ground secured. Only those who live in the Conservative Echo Chamber don't realize that truth. It goes back to Gingrich, maybe even back to Reagan. The GOP has been sliding into the pit of fear for decades, and their loud constituent Fox News has provided the catalytic amplifier.
You define our current moment as one of "fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism..." That pretty much sums up the weather inside the conservative bubble, and it further underscores your twisted point of view that Democrats had to seize the high ground. No David. We've been here for a long time. We are now opening the door for you.
You define our current moment as one of "fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism..." That pretty much sums up the weather inside the conservative bubble, and it further underscores your twisted point of view that Democrats had to seize the high ground. No David. We've been here for a long time. We are now opening the door for you.
4
David, you saw a culmination of the Republican journey, not a sudden break. "Open, future-oriented nationalism?" "A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger." then you say "But the Democrats..." as though they are responsible. Give me a break. As I remember, the latter Bush started a lot of the chaos by breaking a country and not staying around for the fix. The Republican Party has not been an arc toward justice for a long time. It has not been inclusive for a long time. You cite Teddy Roosevelt, a progressive, as a good example, and I believe he was. He called on the big banks to end the depression of his time, and they did.
For me in recent years the Democratic leaders have been ineffective for many reasons, including that they want to do all the soft things at once and, let's mention that the Congress wouldn't work on issues that are important to the well-being of this country. I don't like all of the things the Democrats are for. I don't want a smorgasboard of free stuff, I want the things I need and can't do on my own to be taken care of. I don't want my car to fall through a bridge. I am fine with an "ardent nationalistic voice" that includes making a place for immigrants, continuing to be the honest broker for the world, and, yes, trade and other positive connections with the world.
Trump is in my mind the danger you describe. But his party has deep issues too.
For me in recent years the Democratic leaders have been ineffective for many reasons, including that they want to do all the soft things at once and, let's mention that the Congress wouldn't work on issues that are important to the well-being of this country. I don't like all of the things the Democrats are for. I don't want a smorgasboard of free stuff, I want the things I need and can't do on my own to be taken care of. I don't want my car to fall through a bridge. I am fine with an "ardent nationalistic voice" that includes making a place for immigrants, continuing to be the honest broker for the world, and, yes, trade and other positive connections with the world.
Trump is in my mind the danger you describe. But his party has deep issues too.
2
Great article, David. You summed this week up very well. What you said about Candidate Chaos being morally untethered and spiritually vacuous, haunted by multiple personality disorders is spot on. Republicans are going to start jumping ship, because the Democrats seemed smart, caring, well organized and positive about the future. Please keep this up right through November.
2
I believe Mr. Brooks is so disillusioned with his party that he feels that the very country he loves has been loosened from its moorings as well. Let me reassure Mr. Brooks that not all us have gone insane that God.
1
This is the best political column. The insights are profound, and the writing is elegant yet simple. Thank you, David Brooks!
1
Trump serves a purpose by playing the "devil's advocate." The truth is not one-sided. There are two sides to every story. Clinton has to relate to this to out trump Trump.
1) She can ASK people who are unhappy with her, what they want.
2) She can use in your face SYMBOLS like a zero (0) for Trump.
(Trump is a zero because he has no govt experience and its scary!
3) She can hold up CARDS with key words or images for impact
Trump is winning because he has the INSTANT messages, while Clinton rambles on and on. But there is still time for Hillary to change her style to reach more voters
1) She can ASK people who are unhappy with her, what they want.
2) She can use in your face SYMBOLS like a zero (0) for Trump.
(Trump is a zero because he has no govt experience and its scary!
3) She can hold up CARDS with key words or images for impact
Trump is winning because he has the INSTANT messages, while Clinton rambles on and on. But there is still time for Hillary to change her style to reach more voters
1
It used to gall the hell out of me listening to the GOP claim the greater love of country. Like when Dallas calls itself America's team, come on. Washington is the seat of our nation!! Gooooo, Red!
And what about the values of those who were here before us, David? Ephraim Walters was abducted at age 8 by "French Indians" back when Europe was harrying and dividing them against themselves. He was given a fallen member's name and expected to live up to it. He learned both cultures had the same core values. Family, honor, compassion. Ephraim lived in both worlds for the rest of his German Dunker life. His half Indian wife was a medicine woman to anyone who needed her help.
He fought with Cornstalk and Washington to rid this nation of those who divided us by race and faith. He fought again when the Brits came back in 1812 to test our resolve. But his greatest accomplishment was making a place for his family to flourish in faith in the wilds of Pennsylvania.
Let us not presume Judeo-Christian faith is the core value of this nation. Ephraim's lessons were passed down in my husband's family, and they still remain one of the best kept secret sources of strength in their lives. It's partly because we are Indians, David, that we don't sweat the glittering headbands. We possess the greatest land mass in the world. Let's not spoil it.
And what about the values of those who were here before us, David? Ephraim Walters was abducted at age 8 by "French Indians" back when Europe was harrying and dividing them against themselves. He was given a fallen member's name and expected to live up to it. He learned both cultures had the same core values. Family, honor, compassion. Ephraim lived in both worlds for the rest of his German Dunker life. His half Indian wife was a medicine woman to anyone who needed her help.
He fought with Cornstalk and Washington to rid this nation of those who divided us by race and faith. He fought again when the Brits came back in 1812 to test our resolve. But his greatest accomplishment was making a place for his family to flourish in faith in the wilds of Pennsylvania.
Let us not presume Judeo-Christian faith is the core value of this nation. Ephraim's lessons were passed down in my husband's family, and they still remain one of the best kept secret sources of strength in their lives. It's partly because we are Indians, David, that we don't sweat the glittering headbands. We possess the greatest land mass in the world. Let's not spoil it.
2
It does my heart and mind good to know and see the good people out there that really do give a damn and do something about it. No more bellyaching time to let Clinton crush this clown Trump and get to work.
5
Great insights, Mr. Brooks, beautifully written. Aside from taking back true patriotism, the Democrats also took back Christianity. It's about time.
TV showcased the
Republican Party's shame
for all to see
Republican Party's shame
for all to see
1
6 years Of complete obstruction coupled with 24/7 Fox News and Talk Radio hate has crippled growth and stifled investment. Congress doesn't vote for anything . They yell and investigate and Talk about things that get people mad but don't move us forward. The billionaires got what they paid for....lower taxes and austerity
We have to vote all of these smaller government, lower tax people out
I am with her
We have to vote all of these smaller government, lower tax people out
I am with her
8
Hillary, for all her faults, is for the people. Donald thinks his faults are assets, and uses the people for his own aggrandizement
3
I''ve read all of the NYT Picks comments so far. It boils down to this: David (and other decent Republicans), when are you going to unambiguously state that you are voting for the Democrats this time, or at the very least state and call upon all decent Republicans to stay home and not vote for anyone this time. To be sure that you have any real chance to resurrect the Republican Party starting in 2017, the honorable and best course is the first option, one that will help start to regain your credibility, i.e., to actually vote for the Democrats (as Ronald Reagan said, "it only hurts for a minute").
Man-up, Mr. Brooks. Endorse Ms. Clinton. Demonstrate for the world that you follow your conscience.
1
Your publicn party of the past i not the one I have seen. From goldwater, nixon, ronnie, gingrich, dely, sheub2, chney, palin, mccain and so on. A line of people who railed against government and minorities-sometime in code but still there. You, douthat, right wing tv and radio have supported these people and now you have trump who says what most publicans believe. You own him.
3
I was frightened by Mr. Brooks' observation that "Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance". How many times can they turn their heads and pretend that they just do not see? While the events of this election are NOT reminiscent of the Nazis' meteoric rise to absolute power in Germany in the 1930s, they do beckon us to get off the sideline, be informed and vote. On the collective level, the Democratic Party needs to just say plainly, we welcome and work ALSO for the white Americans, whose attributes might include: lower or middle class; heterosexual; males; church-goers; family-oriented; non-college educated; suburbanites.
1
Mr Brooks shows a strong pessimism in our ability to recognize and properly discard a dangerous demagogue. He is blithely unaware that it erupted from Republicans persistently looking the other way in the face of the right-wing’s toxic beliefs. Their willingness to proceed from those beliefs to an acceptance of Trump was perfectly predictable and natural. What else would one expect when those beliefs were patterned and polished by a malodorous plethora of infantile chatterboxes: Limbaugh, O’Reilly, Beck, Palin, Gingrich, and every complicit, conservative member of Congress.
Fortunately, as the Democrats aptly reminded us last night, America is great because America is good. And that good has never let us down. The right-wing poison raging in the moral soul of our country will be defeated by reason, kindness, compassion and the absolute resilience that defines us.
Yes we can, Mr Brooks. Yes we will.
Fortunately, as the Democrats aptly reminded us last night, America is great because America is good. And that good has never let us down. The right-wing poison raging in the moral soul of our country will be defeated by reason, kindness, compassion and the absolute resilience that defines us.
Yes we can, Mr Brooks. Yes we will.
7
As you all know, my mother is a woman who will stop at nothing to accomplish her goals and help children all over the U.S. She has been in power before, so you all know that she will be trustworthy in the White House. Trump doesn't have as much interest in helping fellow Americans as my mother does. In fact, Trump will crush the America as we know it today. My mother would never lie, as Trump constantly does. She is an honest and trustworthy woman. I, and the majority of Americans are voting for Hillary Clinton.
5
Bravo! You have summed up our choice this election masterfully.
2
Deep down the Republicans do not believe a word you said. They have never been for the things you have mentioned. They only exploited the concepts and their time has run out. Just look at the floors of the two conventions. One was diverse and represented the country with all its aspirations. The other represented a bunch of tired old men. It is pretty clear that the world has passed you by, too, and you appear to be floundering to find your way back. The Republican Party can be boiled down to one thing. They don't want to pay taxes. Beyond that the rest of what they have to say is without any grounding, but it affords them a hiding place.
1
Great piece -- except for David's contention that Bernie's Army have 90% of the passion & 95% of the ideas among Dems.
Really ?? I guess that means that if Bernie had never existed, then Hillary & Co. would've aimlessly stumbled into a lackluster, unfocused DNC against the challenge of Donald Trump ?? Really ?? LOL, as they say.
Really ?? I guess that means that if Bernie had never existed, then Hillary & Co. would've aimlessly stumbled into a lackluster, unfocused DNC against the challenge of Donald Trump ?? Really ?? LOL, as they say.
1
Mr. Brooks, your article suggests Democrats are new to these themes, which you know is an untruth. For just one example, please refer to Mario Cuomo's speech in 1984 or Obama's in 2004. Your insistence that Judeo-Christian values represent the highest moral ideals is very arguable. My secular moral aspirations represent a higher level, if for no other reason they are more inclusive to a variety of ethical positions that Judeo-Christian morals denounce. I find the slant of your applause to the DNC convention to be more polite golf clap than earnest affection for those aspirations you claim to admire.
Never thought the day would come; The GOP has become the party for people not fit for mixed company.
Trump IS the crazy uncle blurting out obscenities and slurs at Thanksgiving dinner.
Trump IS the crazy uncle blurting out obscenities and slurs at Thanksgiving dinner.
2
David,
Your last paragraph says it all. It's the anger of a rigged system. It's people believing that if they just act like good citizens they will be rewarded with a better life for themselves and their children. The middle class now knows that they have been had (it took them almost 40 years). They can see clearly how the rich and powerful have stolen the American dream. In your support of the Republican party, from your perch at the New York Times, you are among the guiltiest at how we arrived at this sorry state of our country. Conservatism is just another word for ripping people off.
Your last paragraph says it all. It's the anger of a rigged system. It's people believing that if they just act like good citizens they will be rewarded with a better life for themselves and their children. The middle class now knows that they have been had (it took them almost 40 years). They can see clearly how the rich and powerful have stolen the American dream. In your support of the Republican party, from your perch at the New York Times, you are among the guiltiest at how we arrived at this sorry state of our country. Conservatism is just another word for ripping people off.
5
This whole article is nothing but lies and deception. We the people won't allow to be lead by such a corrupt and sinister soul as Hillary Clinton. Those of you who decide to put your trust in Clinton are not quite understanding the situation. The only justification for someone voting for Clinton is if they are extremely wealthy already and will further benefit from the exploitation of the American people. Trump wins. Trump has to deliver. Trump is the only way to save this country and planet. America is not a global ruler although it has pretended to be a neocolonial power. The deluded want a soft spoken well mannered politically correct puppet which doesn't offend anyone and does a good job and smiling and making speeches. The strength of America lies within the ingenuity and tenacity of the people within. We need a strong person that is not afraid of challenging the status quo and actually looks after our best interests. Speeches and rhetoric being pleasant is an added bonus. Not a necessity to someone leading by example. So many great things are going to take place in the near future for the revival of the planet. We are going to clean up the oceans, get rid of harmful chemicals in our environment and food markets, have an unlimited supply of clean energy, have an abundance of clean water and organic food, expose the fraud committed by the elites, end the federal reserve and make life on earth an incredible experience for ALL PEOPLE, and many more things. ALL PEOPLE. -DIY
This is absurd, even for you, Mr. Brooks. The Democratic Party needs Trump to save them? The same Democratic Party that won the last 5 out of 6 Presidential elections??? Democrats don't need saving, obviously. Rather, it is the abject failure of the GOP to proffer ANY qualified candidate since maybe Dewey (and he lost too). Trump can't save anyone, because no one needs saving. Trump is a GIFT to the Democrats and America because he finally exposed what most sentient people knew about the GOP for a long time now. It is a "party" of vacuous, corrupt, incompetent, racist, bigoted and rich bullies who wrap themselves in the flag and proceed to deny our Constitutional rights to those they hate. And BOY do they HATE!!! I, and most of America REJECT this view of the USA.
2
Culturally conservative? Has there ever been a more diverse and inclusive convention? Brooks, admit it. You are becoming a modern Democrat
I'm usually among your critics, not because I ever think you are wrong, but because you always invite me want to think more honestly about my own limits of thought. If Hillary Clinton reads and listens to you and takes your insights about a more winning strategic discourse to heart, all of us will be in your debt. I have a feeling you'll be getting an invitation from her after she's settled in. Every idea you write about points in the direction of the freedom to go beyond the ideas you write about. I really liked having you in living room this week. Thanks.
1
Brilliant this time David. Brilliant.
But it was easy for the Democrats to win over Cleveland. This Democratic Convention will go down in history -- my 14th -- as the greatest ever of either party.
But it was easy for the Democrats to win over Cleveland. This Democratic Convention will go down in history -- my 14th -- as the greatest ever of either party.
William Butler Yeats would agree with you.
From Sailing to Byzantium:
"Turning and turning in the widening gyre
The falcon cannot hear the falconer
Things fall apart
The centre cannot hold
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world...
And what rough beast, its hour come round at last,
Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?"
From Sailing to Byzantium:
"Turning and turning in the widening gyre
The falcon cannot hear the falconer
Things fall apart
The centre cannot hold
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world...
And what rough beast, its hour come round at last,
Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?"
David, you had a front row seat at the democratic national convention; but I think you missed Hillary's speech. You started thinking about your summary before she spoke. You wanted to separate Hillary and Donald from the rest of the speakers. My impression of you is that you are a better journalist than this. I think the 24-7 news-hour cycle is challenging. Its doesn't give one much time to be an active listener and reflect on the moment. May be we need a constitutional amendment that requires EveryonE to stop and think at least once a day. Just a little humor here ;-) Good luck to you, Mark
1
David, you are an intelligent and eloquent man. I would like to add "honorable" to my encomium, but I am stopped short when I recall that "The only thing necessary for evil to prevail is that good men do nothing."
We are playing a different, amoral game only if we agree to play by Trump's rules -- chaos -- which to say, no rules at all.
Yes, you are a commentator, but it is not enough merely to say, "Tsk, tsk.!" I can't help believing that, in your heart of hearts, you know that the honorable thing to do is to endorse Clinton.
We are playing a different, amoral game only if we agree to play by Trump's rules -- chaos -- which to say, no rules at all.
Yes, you are a commentator, but it is not enough merely to say, "Tsk, tsk.!" I can't help believing that, in your heart of hearts, you know that the honorable thing to do is to endorse Clinton.
1
The Republicans sold their collective souls to the devil and now Satan is their nominee.
There is absolutely nothing that the Republicans espouse that make sense for America.
The Democrats, although imperfect, reflect the values of most Americans and can be entrusted to do what is possible. The world is in chaos and has been that way since history began. Our nation cannot be held responsible for all the ills that befall humanity but we have done more than our share to help stabilize and improve the world order so that people can live with some decency and respect.
There is absolutely nothing that the Republicans espouse that make sense for America.
The Democrats, although imperfect, reflect the values of most Americans and can be entrusted to do what is possible. The world is in chaos and has been that way since history began. Our nation cannot be held responsible for all the ills that befall humanity but we have done more than our share to help stabilize and improve the world order so that people can live with some decency and respect.
2
Not an easily moved person, I shed tears watching the DNC the last two nights. It made me feel proud to be an American for the first time in quite a while because it reminded us what America is all about, while at the same time re-framing my feeling about Trump from disgust to deep sadness that such an awful person is putting everything the country is founded on at risk. It was the first time Democrats have shown a spine and not been timid to argue forcefully that they know and are guided by what the UNITED States of America is all about, and yes, they used FACTS to drive that point home without apology.
The President made clear that "change" isn't accomplished by electing one person. Change comes when we work together to build movements that make things happen by collective will. Hillary made clear this doesn't happen if we sit on the sidelines and expect others to do the work, and that we are stronger when united together than when divided and apart. And if that wasn't enough, the arena and speaking LOOKED like America.
The DNC message made such a clear contrast between Democrats and Republicans that I felt a moral obligation to register as a Democrat after being an Independent for over a decade.
The President made clear that "change" isn't accomplished by electing one person. Change comes when we work together to build movements that make things happen by collective will. Hillary made clear this doesn't happen if we sit on the sidelines and expect others to do the work, and that we are stronger when united together than when divided and apart. And if that wasn't enough, the arena and speaking LOOKED like America.
The DNC message made such a clear contrast between Democrats and Republicans that I felt a moral obligation to register as a Democrat after being an Independent for over a decade.
4
So David how is the fascist YOUR party sponsored and nominated doing? You've been a shameless apologist for the GOP for years, so what's so different today now that the idiot voters you and your Fox Propaganda Network have dumbed down and ginned with nonsense and lies have nominated a narcissistic psycho who embodies everything Republican one percent crypto fascists have stood for since the advent of the philandering hypocrite Gingrich and before? Why are you so shocked and surprised? The Donald was fine with you and your pals when he was peddling that birther gibberish, and the GOP always had a monopoly on race baiting, militaristic nationalism, bigotry, sedition, homophobia, and misogyny, so what's the big deal now that it's out in the open for all to see? I also notice nothing about YOUR CANDIDATE being a TRAITOR, inviting our number one adversary to spy on us. He should be arrested and prosecuted under the Logan Act. What about that? No comment, David?
It is time for a reckoning not only for Donald Trump, a two bit would be dictator but the for the entire rotten edifice of the Republican Criminal Organization, from top to bottom. Here is hoping that this election finally sees this cabal of liars and thieves eliminated, entirely and for good, from American political life, and then prosecuted, tried and jailed for their numerous crimes - starting with the war criminals Bush and Cheney and then onto Ryan, that vile racist McConnell, and the rest of this vile criminal gang.
It is time for a reckoning not only for Donald Trump, a two bit would be dictator but the for the entire rotten edifice of the Republican Criminal Organization, from top to bottom. Here is hoping that this election finally sees this cabal of liars and thieves eliminated, entirely and for good, from American political life, and then prosecuted, tried and jailed for their numerous crimes - starting with the war criminals Bush and Cheney and then onto Ryan, that vile racist McConnell, and the rest of this vile criminal gang.
2
David, so when will YOU announce your support for the Democratic Party? Clearly, you remain equivocating despite knowing full well, that a Democratic President with a Republican controlled Congress is the recipe for continued gridlock. Too many GOP members appear to be following the admonition of your fellow conservative opinion writer George Will who wrote that Republicans should 'hold their nose and vote for Mrs Clinton' (unwritten, also vote for all other Republicans).
If you truly understand the stakes the USA and by extension the world faces, as Mike Bloomberg said, we need to elect rational persons and not ideologues (unspoken, the GOP is over whelmed by ideologues).
If you truly understand the stakes the USA and by extension the world faces, as Mike Bloomberg said, we need to elect rational persons and not ideologues (unspoken, the GOP is over whelmed by ideologues).
1
Yeah, that was some "sacred inheritance" Trump gave away. Really, really sacred.
1
"A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger." David, you insinuate that the Democrats are responsible? That one sentence undermines and otherwise insightful article.
1
Mr. Brooks,
You state, without a source, that recent years have been "a time of growing world chaos, growing violence ..." By what measures?
You state, without a source, that recent years have been "a time of growing world chaos, growing violence ..." By what measures?
Mr. Brooks -- I have admired your insights for many years and recall a column of yours in 2010, perhaps, as the right "fringe" began to appear and take over elections. You mentioned that this fringe would not support main stream candidates (Romney) and predicted then that Republicans would eventually run a fringe candidate to satisfy this part of the party before they could begin to return to any kind of sensible approach to governing. As a Democrat, working this year as a first-time Precinct committeeperson in a mostly Republican district, I listen to you, and appreciate your insights that help me take the discussion to my friends and colleagues of different opinions, engaging in reasonable debate, not demagoguery.
1
Both parties have rolled the dice here on weak candidates. The difference is the dem PARTY has it together. But if either of them had a half decent candidate they'd win in a walkover over the other. What an opportunity lost. Now we can only hope that the least worst wins, and that is Clinton. But then comes being President and working with a totally dysfunctional congress .... not looking forward to the next four years either way. If her ladyship wins we will have a serious and unending attempt to indict her; if Trump we can expect a circus. I think I'll find a cave .... Wake me up when it's over, in 2021.
1
I'd love to hear more about why you were "burning with indignation at Mike Pence."
Because of his extremist views on most policies?
Because he kowtowed for the VP position?
Because of his role as a Trump apologist?
Because of his extremist views on most policies?
Because he kowtowed for the VP position?
Because of his role as a Trump apologist?
3
David begins:
"(Trump) Basically, he’s abandoned the great patriotic themes that used to fire up the G.O.P. and he’s allowed the Democrats to seize that ground. If you visited the two conventions this year you would have come away thinking that the Democrats are the more patriotic of the two parties — and the more culturally conservative."
Advice to Mr. Brooks for an explanation to this:
1) Fold the paper
2) hold it in both hands
3) Gaze to your right
4) Read Mr. Krugman for the answer
Trump IS the face of modern Republicanism
Its who you folks are and have always been
As I have written on here before to you
The answer is not in the stars ( or Trump ) its in the mirror
"(Trump) Basically, he’s abandoned the great patriotic themes that used to fire up the G.O.P. and he’s allowed the Democrats to seize that ground. If you visited the two conventions this year you would have come away thinking that the Democrats are the more patriotic of the two parties — and the more culturally conservative."
Advice to Mr. Brooks for an explanation to this:
1) Fold the paper
2) hold it in both hands
3) Gaze to your right
4) Read Mr. Krugman for the answer
Trump IS the face of modern Republicanism
Its who you folks are and have always been
As I have written on here before to you
The answer is not in the stars ( or Trump ) its in the mirror
9
Dear Mr. Brooks,
I can sense the pain you feel from your party having abandoned you and your principles in this essay. I must say though that it is, uncharacteristically for you, overly pessimistic. Having watched much of this convention, I find it hard to be quite that pessimistic. As you say, "evil rises for a day but contains the seeds of its own destruction."
If people of good heart can come together, listen to each other's problems and solutions, can compromise on the issues that divide us, and unite in opposition to this demagogue, we can still avoid the catastrophe that threatens our democracy.
I can sense the pain you feel from your party having abandoned you and your principles in this essay. I must say though that it is, uncharacteristically for you, overly pessimistic. Having watched much of this convention, I find it hard to be quite that pessimistic. As you say, "evil rises for a day but contains the seeds of its own destruction."
If people of good heart can come together, listen to each other's problems and solutions, can compromise on the issues that divide us, and unite in opposition to this demagogue, we can still avoid the catastrophe that threatens our democracy.
11
Thank you, David Brooks, for this heart-felt and honest and well-written statement about the state of our country and its political system. My mother, who died in 1982, was a moderate Republican who rose to high
positions in her party. She saw what has happened to her party from a long
way off and issued warning after warning, usually at the breakfast table.
She would have agreed with every word you have written. Thank you, too,
for her.
positions in her party. She saw what has happened to her party from a long
way off and issued warning after warning, usually at the breakfast table.
She would have agreed with every word you have written. Thank you, too,
for her.
1
David - our country has NOT become the fearful and broken land so aptly described by your brethren in the GOP. Rather, Sir, your GOP political party has abandoned the country, it's vision and its role as the party of Lincoln. To become what? A party of whiners, racists and 1%'ers who look out only for themselves. Shame on you!
3
The title of your essay, Mr. Brooks, is "The Democrats Win the Summer."
Your insightful column suggests that winning the summer may not end up in winning the election. I share your fear, and that is why I expect in these frightful times that those voices on the GOP side that have a bully pulpit will lend their support to the democratic ticket.
George Will did so, and so did Michael Bloomberg (Independent), and so did Richard Armitage, Brent Scowcroft, and Robert Kagan.
What are you waiting for, Mr. Brooks? You voice counts, and you have a unique chance of being on the right side of history.
Your insightful column suggests that winning the summer may not end up in winning the election. I share your fear, and that is why I expect in these frightful times that those voices on the GOP side that have a bully pulpit will lend their support to the democratic ticket.
George Will did so, and so did Michael Bloomberg (Independent), and so did Richard Armitage, Brent Scowcroft, and Robert Kagan.
What are you waiting for, Mr. Brooks? You voice counts, and you have a unique chance of being on the right side of history.
5
Donald Trump is merely the messenger. What happens in the fall will determine whose message wins and defines America and Americans.
3
Hillary's four star general made the republicans look like five star losers.
3
Soften him up a bit before the debate(s), eh? Go surrogates!
1
Let's say it one more time. The GOP stood silent while an irrational demagogue sewed fear, hatred and bigotry. Why? Because the thought it just might work. A level of cynicism unparalleled in American history. To accept the rhetoric of Trump and vitriol of his surrogates is to deny reality. Not a likely step for the American people who are a lot smarter than those who try to manipulate them.
7
No, I refuse to give up, as David Brooks has. But I don't have to: I'm a Democrat.
C'mon over, David. You'll like it over here.
C'mon over, David. You'll like it over here.
1
In general this is a fine commentary and while I haven't read a majority of your columns this is certainly the best one I have had the pleasure to read.
Your analysis and considerations are both perceptive and insightful while your conclusion has a ring of frightening truth.
You have my respect and thanks for sharing these thoughts.
Your analysis and considerations are both perceptive and insightful while your conclusion has a ring of frightening truth.
You have my respect and thanks for sharing these thoughts.
2
"...there is a core [of Sanders' supporters] that is corrupted by moral preening, an uncompromising absolutism and a paranoid unwillingness to play by the rules of civic life."
Thanks David! You seem to understand us perfectly! Except, of course, I prefer "Rules of the Game."
Thanks David! You seem to understand us perfectly! Except, of course, I prefer "Rules of the Game."
1
"...save the Democratic Party"? Trump might be many things but he's no savior of the Democratic Party. Mr. Brooks gives credit where no credit is due. If we believe Mr. Brooks, the Democratic Party only comes to light with the shadow cast by the Donald - a conclusion by Mr. Brooks that is without foundation, merit, or excuse.
The Democratic Party is alive and well without any help from the Republicans, the Donald, or Mr. Brooks. This piece is typical of Mr. Brooks' style of "Praising Caesar", in this case the Democratic Party, while subtly slicing and dicing his victim.
The Democratic Party is alive and well without any help from the Republicans, the Donald, or Mr. Brooks. This piece is typical of Mr. Brooks' style of "Praising Caesar", in this case the Democratic Party, while subtly slicing and dicing his victim.
5
I sense subtle embarrassment about the republican candidate among the people I know but they hope he will be rescued by surrounding himself with highly qualified experts like Cheny, Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Greenspan, Bremmer, Bolton etc. God save us from that witches brew.
7
Some good things here, Mr. Brooks, but just two points.
While the Republican party may lay claim to the Judeo-Christian aspirations you enumerate, it usually - and purposefully - works to undermine those aspirations. And, really, when we call these aspirations Judeo-Christian, we seem to ignore that many non Jews and Christians hold most of those same aspirations.
Secondly: To argue, as you do, that the Democratic party has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence, and growing anger is to imply that its policies are at the root of these problems, quod est demonstrandum.
While the Republican party may lay claim to the Judeo-Christian aspirations you enumerate, it usually - and purposefully - works to undermine those aspirations. And, really, when we call these aspirations Judeo-Christian, we seem to ignore that many non Jews and Christians hold most of those same aspirations.
Secondly: To argue, as you do, that the Democratic party has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence, and growing anger is to imply that its policies are at the root of these problems, quod est demonstrandum.
5
The solution is to fire all R politicians that support Trump.
2
The Republican Party's "sacred inheritance"??? Give us a break! Their "openness to the future"??? Funny--that's not the Republican Party I've known for the last fifty years. David also thinks his Party has been "conservative" as it has worked in that time to divide the electorate against itself with cultural wedge issues. Sounds like an undergraduate Yalie's imaginings.
5
The Republican Party represents love, charity, humility, goodness, and gentleness? Even before Trump? Really?
No! The exact opposite! It targeted women and gays and undocumented workers with discrimination and moral scolding. It opposed Social Security, Medicare, and Obama-care with special parsimony. It favored the rich and the multinational corporations who hid their wealth and job overseas. The Tea Party humble and gentle? No, angry and entitled! I could go on.
The once Grand Old Party of Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Dwight Eisenhower had long since before Trump morphed into the party for Rich Pharisees. Jesus wept.
No! The exact opposite! It targeted women and gays and undocumented workers with discrimination and moral scolding. It opposed Social Security, Medicare, and Obama-care with special parsimony. It favored the rich and the multinational corporations who hid their wealth and job overseas. The Tea Party humble and gentle? No, angry and entitled! I could go on.
The once Grand Old Party of Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Dwight Eisenhower had long since before Trump morphed into the party for Rich Pharisees. Jesus wept.
13
Its amazing to me how many people seem to believe that the President somehow matters. The face of the leadership will change every 4 or 8 years but the people really in power, the ones truly in charge are always calling the shots. Despite the promises I didn't see the change we all hoped for with this last President. Even the state of race relations in America seems to have deteriorated. The economy will fluctuate no matter which party we elect. Even when people know going into it that the popular vote has nothing to do with electing the President, they are still getting so worked up. Put a different face on it to appease the simple ones. Give them a focal point for their rage or adoration, but is it really ever any different?
4
Mr. Brooks, a bit of introspection about the role of the press is in order - a press that primarily killings, riots, earthquakes, wildfires and outrageous statements of lunatics.
Why do you think your paragraph is true of many Americans' state of mind? "It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots and that humility and gentleness are simply surrendering to the butchers of ISIS. "
Yes, we have real problems - a system rigged against workers is one of the bigger ones. The press needs to help us understand which candidate has the better solutions. It's not even close, but the press continues to do false equivalent reporting and "look! a chicken" reporting.
Take the conventions, which are supposed to be about issues and policy proposals. The first wasn't and the second was. Trump's didn't come close to living up to his claim that it would be the biggest show on earth. Everything about him is fraudulent yet he easily hook winks the press. Sure, he is for the worker - except for the workers in his casino who he is firing because they want to join a union. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/30/us/trump-hotel-workers-campaign-for-a-...
Sure, he is for the worker - except he outsourced his platform to Ryan and McConnell, who are only for the 1%
Why do you think your paragraph is true of many Americans' state of mind? "It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots and that humility and gentleness are simply surrendering to the butchers of ISIS. "
Yes, we have real problems - a system rigged against workers is one of the bigger ones. The press needs to help us understand which candidate has the better solutions. It's not even close, but the press continues to do false equivalent reporting and "look! a chicken" reporting.
Take the conventions, which are supposed to be about issues and policy proposals. The first wasn't and the second was. Trump's didn't come close to living up to his claim that it would be the biggest show on earth. Everything about him is fraudulent yet he easily hook winks the press. Sure, he is for the worker - except for the workers in his casino who he is firing because they want to join a union. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/30/us/trump-hotel-workers-campaign-for-a-...
Sure, he is for the worker - except he outsourced his platform to Ryan and McConnell, who are only for the 1%
Mr. Brooks, has it finally dawned on you that Donald Trump is insane?
5
This excellent essay, accurately reflecting the disparate conventions and their underlying dynamics, makes it abundantly clear to me that Mr. McConnell and Mr. Ryan, among so many sanctimonious Republicans who to their lasting shame consistently place party before country, can no longer pretend to speak for "the American people."
Their intoned far-right catechism, adopted to further their own exclusive interests, has not, does not and will not reflect the principles of our nation and the majority of its people.
Though it may be seen as an accepted convention, media and others should challenge Mr. McConnell and his ilk whenever they use the phrase "the American people" to pretend they are representing a majority position. This convenient political fiction should no longer be tolerated.
Their intoned far-right catechism, adopted to further their own exclusive interests, has not, does not and will not reflect the principles of our nation and the majority of its people.
Though it may be seen as an accepted convention, media and others should challenge Mr. McConnell and his ilk whenever they use the phrase "the American people" to pretend they are representing a majority position. This convenient political fiction should no longer be tolerated.
1
Welcome to the Democratic Party, Mr. Brooks. If I weren't a vegan, I'd call for us to kill the fatted calf. I also accept your implicit mea culpa, for you yourself have been among those 'sane' and 'reasonable' Republicans who realised too late, 'OMG, this clown could actually get nominated!'
Your observations about the Bernie faction are a bit too generous: You left out that the kindness and open-heartedness stems from an emotional and intellectual immaturity that boils down to declaring anything you want to be a 'right', expecting others to pay for it, and calling anyone who disagrees or questions a fascist, bigot, or both; and than they not only refused to play by the rules but couldn't be bothered to learn them. (As in, 'if you want to vote in a party's primary, join the party'.) However, as you observe, they didn't succeed in hijacking the party. Sanders and Trump both stirred up the brainless extremists, but only the GOP nutcases actually got control.
Still, recall the alternatives to Trump. We got Clinton because the Democratic talent bench was shallow. The GOP bench was deep, but there wasn't any talent on it. Here is a link to the London Review of Books, reminding us who Trump's competition was, and it wasn't pretty.
http://www.lrb.co.uk/v38/n15/eliot-weinberger/they-could-have-picked?utm...
Your observations about the Bernie faction are a bit too generous: You left out that the kindness and open-heartedness stems from an emotional and intellectual immaturity that boils down to declaring anything you want to be a 'right', expecting others to pay for it, and calling anyone who disagrees or questions a fascist, bigot, or both; and than they not only refused to play by the rules but couldn't be bothered to learn them. (As in, 'if you want to vote in a party's primary, join the party'.) However, as you observe, they didn't succeed in hijacking the party. Sanders and Trump both stirred up the brainless extremists, but only the GOP nutcases actually got control.
Still, recall the alternatives to Trump. We got Clinton because the Democratic talent bench was shallow. The GOP bench was deep, but there wasn't any talent on it. Here is a link to the London Review of Books, reminding us who Trump's competition was, and it wasn't pretty.
http://www.lrb.co.uk/v38/n15/eliot-weinberger/they-could-have-picked?utm...
2
David Brooks criticized and dismissed Sen. Bernie Sanders's campaign for the past year. Now--not at the 11th hour, but at the 13th--he writes that, "The Sanders people have 90 percent of the Democratic Party’s passion and 95 percent of the ideas." Why didn't we hear anything from Brooks about this passion and these ideas last winter or spring, when the contest between Sanders and Clinton was in full swing?
2
i think mr. Brooks steps out of the political scenario if he thinks this election is about ideals. it is not, since the two candidates are both pragmatist to their bones.
Yet, he is right about the different feeling on the two convention. The RNC has practically absolved for the past the present and the future any misspoke and mislead Trump has ever done, with the addendum that he has to win.
After his probably defeat in November, we'll see what Republican electors would think after the wanted him and they have it, after the elitist party-friendly Mitt Romney four years ago, and the birth of the Tea Party movement eight years ago.
On the democratic side every single speaker's had the tough duty to speak of himself/herself to highlight some quality and to inscribe part of them to Hillary Rodham Clinton. It's never been successful. First Lady Michelle Obama laid out the script, which her husband expanded, but the candidate slogan "i'm with her" never sounded so hollow and shallow. And that's not because of their lack of genuine story, but because mrs. Clinton is hardly an idealist. Even mr. Obama had to implicitly admit that " i'm sure she has good economic policies", but he didn't specify and followed up. How could he?
The best missing occasion was perhaps mr. Biden's speech, the only one who can own a narrative effective to win some voters from Trump, but mrs. Clinton's chosen Kaine to secure Virginia. She's, in her core, about power, she's one who "never quits".
Yet, he is right about the different feeling on the two convention. The RNC has practically absolved for the past the present and the future any misspoke and mislead Trump has ever done, with the addendum that he has to win.
After his probably defeat in November, we'll see what Republican electors would think after the wanted him and they have it, after the elitist party-friendly Mitt Romney four years ago, and the birth of the Tea Party movement eight years ago.
On the democratic side every single speaker's had the tough duty to speak of himself/herself to highlight some quality and to inscribe part of them to Hillary Rodham Clinton. It's never been successful. First Lady Michelle Obama laid out the script, which her husband expanded, but the candidate slogan "i'm with her" never sounded so hollow and shallow. And that's not because of their lack of genuine story, but because mrs. Clinton is hardly an idealist. Even mr. Obama had to implicitly admit that " i'm sure she has good economic policies", but he didn't specify and followed up. How could he?
The best missing occasion was perhaps mr. Biden's speech, the only one who can own a narrative effective to win some voters from Trump, but mrs. Clinton's chosen Kaine to secure Virginia. She's, in her core, about power, she's one who "never quits".
1
No it is not optimism but pessimism and fear that is the opiate of idiots.
Our global past is filled with fear-stroking despots who profiteered from their plunder while oppressing their subjects. Thankfully every one eventually have met a deserved and premature demise. Sadly they have all left behind broad swaths of blood-laden paths.
Our optimism, our humility, our gentleness is not surrender - it is a proud and strong refusal to submit to the inhumanity of fear.
Our global past is filled with fear-stroking despots who profiteered from their plunder while oppressing their subjects. Thankfully every one eventually have met a deserved and premature demise. Sadly they have all left behind broad swaths of blood-laden paths.
Our optimism, our humility, our gentleness is not surrender - it is a proud and strong refusal to submit to the inhumanity of fear.
2
Mr. Brooks, Democrats don't just seem on the basis of our convention to be the more patriotic of the two parties: we are the more patriotic of the two parties. We seek to uphold the Constitution. A party that seeks to exclude—through bans, walls, voting restrictions, and other mechanisms—and to deny liberty to specific groups can't convincingly pretend to be patriotic. Liberty for me but not for them? Equal protection for me but not for them? Come on now.
3
The GOP should have closed the door the moment the Cheeto descended on the escalator ...the soul of the GOP was high-jacked and their craven quest for power has eclipsed the their moral compass. A pathetic spectacle to witness.
7
"But the final and shocking possibility is this: In immediate political terms it may not make a difference."
Mr. Brooks -- Excellent column. But, I hope the Convention (and the Democrats positive vision of the country) do make a BIG difference.
Mr. Brooks -- Excellent column. But, I hope the Convention (and the Democrats positive vision of the country) do make a BIG difference.
3
David. If only we could get you to change your registration, this would be such a great political year. But you need to be scolded, you republicans. He is the product of your distorted view of how things are supposed to work in this country. He is yours and , while it's wonderful to see you finally disown him, your revelation is a bit late. if he wins, will your be able to shoulder the blame for the disasters he will bring? I doubt it. You will, as you Republicans always do, flock to his side and defend his distortions as you have till now. You all made it possible for this man, with your unfulfilled promises of "trickle down" and your blind notion that you had to renounce anything that came from this president. I believe that Trump is a disaster of the first order and that there is no way this country will elect this lunatic. He will be sent back to reality t-v so he can do what he does best...con people. So, can we count on your vote for Hillary David?
3
Now only if Hillary wasn't the nominee due to manipulation of the Democrats by the DNC.
The look of Bernie, poor Bernie, loudly spoke to me--
she stole the spotlight and now is touted as a saviour. Saved again by the media.
Remember, the fortune she made from questionable investments, Vince Foster, the TravelGate fiasco, the healthcare debacle, the renting out of free Lincoln Bedroom, Monica, Bills impeachment, The Clinton Foundation funding from unknown foreign sources, her overpaid speeches, and backing by billionaires, Not to overlook the emails and Bengali. All the while calling for successful people to be overtaxed to support welfare recipients, and socialist-like programs, to promoting illegal behavior by saying amnesty for illegal immigrants, ...
Poor Bernie.
You David, overlooked these realities.
Yes, reality tv, the conventions were: unbelievable at best, America at its worst, it's all theater.
My life is not theater. Our lives are not theater.
A woman has been nominated to become candidate for president of United States. An ironic yay.
It's just too bad methods that were used to get her there were significantly less than honourable.
The record speaks for itself.
The look of Bernie, poor Bernie, loudly spoke to me--
she stole the spotlight and now is touted as a saviour. Saved again by the media.
Remember, the fortune she made from questionable investments, Vince Foster, the TravelGate fiasco, the healthcare debacle, the renting out of free Lincoln Bedroom, Monica, Bills impeachment, The Clinton Foundation funding from unknown foreign sources, her overpaid speeches, and backing by billionaires, Not to overlook the emails and Bengali. All the while calling for successful people to be overtaxed to support welfare recipients, and socialist-like programs, to promoting illegal behavior by saying amnesty for illegal immigrants, ...
Poor Bernie.
You David, overlooked these realities.
Yes, reality tv, the conventions were: unbelievable at best, America at its worst, it's all theater.
My life is not theater. Our lives are not theater.
A woman has been nominated to become candidate for president of United States. An ironic yay.
It's just too bad methods that were used to get her there were significantly less than honourable.
The record speaks for itself.
While Trump brags that he will make America great again, Obama did it: he made America greater and prouder and Hillary shows she is the right successor . The patriotism at the DNC was so strong, I am so proud of being a woman and an American democrat
13
You believe that Republicans had the virtues you admire because they talked about them out loud. In fact they shouted them from the rooftops and turned them into bombast. That’s why Democrats didn’t speak about them before. Republicans had turned them into business brands and slogans and in their mouths the words had become meaningless.
This year, after nearly 8 years of Obama’s calm leadership and quiet authority, and with Trump’s love of self having trumped Republican slogans, Democrats can claim out loud what they’ve always believed. In their mouths the virtues do not sound like bombast. They sound as if from the heart. And I believe in your heart that you know it, too.
I appreciate your acknowledgement that the Democrats are patriots. They always have been.
This year, after nearly 8 years of Obama’s calm leadership and quiet authority, and with Trump’s love of self having trumped Republican slogans, Democrats can claim out loud what they’ve always believed. In their mouths the virtues do not sound like bombast. They sound as if from the heart. And I believe in your heart that you know it, too.
I appreciate your acknowledgement that the Democrats are patriots. They always have been.
7
But alas David more and more of country decries the happenings at these events. How many more and how many of these actually vote will tell the tale in November. Me thinks you are suffering from some bubble-itis
1
Boo on David Brooks. He is just disappointed that Trump has pulled down the curtain and exposed the real Republican party.
Trump had no political experience and did not understand the fine Republican tradition of using dog whistles, coded language and symbols to push their agenda of racism, bigotry and greed.
It has taken decades, but the bigotry of Ronald Reagan with his "stories" of non existent welfare queens and pandering to the KKK by starting his post convention campaign in Philadelphia, Mississippi, or putting the US on the path where we are today to be exposed.
The current iteration of the Republican party, the racism, bigotry and focus on self enrichment while holding others down and denying them opportunity for advancement to shrivel up be blown away by history...
Trump had no political experience and did not understand the fine Republican tradition of using dog whistles, coded language and symbols to push their agenda of racism, bigotry and greed.
It has taken decades, but the bigotry of Ronald Reagan with his "stories" of non existent welfare queens and pandering to the KKK by starting his post convention campaign in Philadelphia, Mississippi, or putting the US on the path where we are today to be exposed.
The current iteration of the Republican party, the racism, bigotry and focus on self enrichment while holding others down and denying them opportunity for advancement to shrivel up be blown away by history...
7
I heard George Will cancelled his Republican membership. Strange isn't it? A political creature of his pedigree rejecting the very thing he has spend his whole career promoting. I always thought you two were cut from the same cloth, maybe not so much. What is conservatism in America in 2016? Is it anything other than a tepid foil of centrist-liberalism? I think the right has put so much effort into hating the left of this country for so long, they forgot who and what they are. The only thing you are is NOT THEM. And that's no longer enough of an ad campaign to sell that peculiar brand of snake oil the right is so famous for. It's also a pretty good reason why you have a complete stooge as the de facto leader of your party. I have to wonder, what's left of the Grand Old Party that is still worthy of your embrace Mr. Brooks? Expediency? Good seats at Camden Yards? Is your cosmos really governed by love or am I missing something here?
4
The Republicans brought a lot of this on themselves back in 2008 when they decided along with conservative media that everything Obama said or did would be stonewalled, blocked and cast as evil regardless of the actual reality. So now eight years later they live in a world of dark fantasy created by FOX and the rest of the right-wing media.
They should have listened and compromised. They should have legislated or put forth some sort of positive agenda. I hope the Republicans learn after this not to let talk show hosts and radio stars run their politics.
They should have listened and compromised. They should have legislated or put forth some sort of positive agenda. I hope the Republicans learn after this not to let talk show hosts and radio stars run their politics.
2
"Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness."
Really, Trump did that? Or the whole Republican Party did that in their hearts an minds, if not in open speeches? He has just brough out in the open what kind of Party they have evolved i . Oh, no, sorry, they do not evolve, evolution is a wacky theory.
Really, Trump did that? Or the whole Republican Party did that in their hearts an minds, if not in open speeches? He has just brough out in the open what kind of Party they have evolved i . Oh, no, sorry, they do not evolve, evolution is a wacky theory.
1
"This week I left the arena here each night burning with indignation at Mike Pence. I almost don’t blame Trump. He is a morally untethered, spiritually vacuous man who appears haunted by multiple personality disorders. It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
And Chris Christie and Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell and ... ... ....
You're absolutely right. The "sane" ones are to blame. What are they thinking, David?
And Chris Christie and Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell and ... ... ....
You're absolutely right. The "sane" ones are to blame. What are they thinking, David?
1
This was a very intelligent column. Thank you. Nice use of solipsistic.
1
Mr. Brooks writes, “The Democratic speakers hit doubles, triples and home runs. But the normal rules may no longer apply. The Democrats may have just dominated a game we are no longer playing.”
I would remind Mr. Brooks that the game is, “Which candidate will best serve the American People”. If we’re not playing that game any more then we are in deep trouble.
I would remind Mr. Brooks that the game is, “Which candidate will best serve the American People”. If we’re not playing that game any more then we are in deep trouble.
2
Worst case scenario: haters are right and she is an easy-lying self-centered sociopath driven toward power. She has nonetheless demonstrated over her entire life that she is driven to bend the arc of history toward Justice. I can live with that. (Waddayawant...egg in your beer?)
2
At election time, people are drawn to whoever offers a quick fix for their problems. We should all participate in our own government, but most people don't have the time or inclination, and this has always been true.
In this regard, Hillary and the Dems are asking too much from us - to participate in governing. Ironically, it's Trump and the "small-government" GOP that are telling us to relax. Trump has us covered. All by himself it seems. That's an alluring message for most. Sit back, relax, Trump will fix everything, and fast!
With Hillary, please go to page 17 of her 50-slide PowerPoint presentation...... describing what YOU have to do to make us great again. Please.......
In this regard, Hillary and the Dems are asking too much from us - to participate in governing. Ironically, it's Trump and the "small-government" GOP that are telling us to relax. Trump has us covered. All by himself it seems. That's an alluring message for most. Sit back, relax, Trump will fix everything, and fast!
With Hillary, please go to page 17 of her 50-slide PowerPoint presentation...... describing what YOU have to do to make us great again. Please.......
So, you're shocked, perhaps, nay even appalled by Pence? The seeds of the GOP's fragmented state were sown by those like you, Mr. Brooks. Where were you when your more reasonable, rationale and humane colleagues courted the Tea Party's extreme elements? Anything to win. Perhaps I'm being unfair, but I don't recall emphatic opposition to your Party's drift until the past year. Anything to win. The more virulent among Bernie's supporters should take a long, hard look.
3
I am so glad many of you republican commentators realize the horror which is Trump. Democrats have always been patriotic, we just dont need to tell everybody everyday. To say the Sanders people have 95% of the ideas is false... they have the highest goals, but goals without a reasonable chance of being fulfilled (republican congress) are just dreams. Watch how Hillary will take those dreams and make them a reality, maybe not everything and maybe not all at once, but she will do her best with concrete ideas on how to solve the problems, not just talk about them.
5
I personally believe this would be a good time for the NYTimes to run the headline, "God is Dead"! So is America, when one is allowed to steal an election and the people sit in the corner eating their Christmas pies!
Optimism is not the opiate of idiots, cynicism is. Golden Don has made hay for a year now with with recognition. Optimism is the hallmark of Democrats who do NOT allow themselves to be sucked into the social media- and Fox "News"-driven paranoia. Optimism is for rational thinkers who see the arc of history that Barack Obama has so eloquently described, and which Hillary Clinton now finds herself on the leading edge of.
It is fitting that the Fox News juggernaut has precipitously foundered just as its rough beast emerges from his lair.
Let us hope that the clogging of the biggest pipeline of deceit and misinformation pulls the rug out from under the beast as he slouches toward Washington.
It is fitting that the Fox News juggernaut has precipitously foundered just as its rough beast emerges from his lair.
Let us hope that the clogging of the biggest pipeline of deceit and misinformation pulls the rug out from under the beast as he slouches toward Washington.
2
This convention showed the depth of the true public servant - legion in the Democratic Party. Donald Trump fills the void that the Republicans created - they are the opposite of the public servant. They refused their basic duty to hold hearings on a Supreme Court nominee, to consider jobs bills, to pass a budget, and to engage Syria. The Tea Party first voiced the hate Trump has embraced. People think he is for them but the campaign is another source of revenue - the hats, the food a platform to sell the family clothing line - the carnival huckster. Trump University promised a better life - tuition was more expensive than a great public university but it was just an extortion scheme. Why are people so blind?
5
"He left the ground open for the Democrats to seize middle-class values with one quick passage in a Tim Kaine video ". When have the Republicans ever represented middle class values? As much as I dislike Trump, this is one thing that he can't be blamed for. The Democratic Party has always been the champion of the middle class.
9
"Trump has allowed the Democrats to mask their deep problems. A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger" The Democrats may have their own problems, but the ones that you list here are not unique to any party - they are OUR problems, as Americans and as global citizens
2
Dear Mr. Brooks:
You write in today's column that "There were an unusually high number of great speeches at the Democratic convention this year: the Obamas, Biden, Booker, Clinton, the Mothers of the Movement and so on. These speakers found their eloquence in staving off this demagogue," Trump.
Perhaps the truth of the matter is that, in watching the Beast slouch toward Bethlehem, you have finally LISTENED to what Democrats have been saying since FDR.
The murdered Kennedy Kennedy brothers and Dr. King, or LBJ when not tragically entangled in defending the Vietnam War, or the defeated Hubert Humphrey and Michael Dukakis, or the much-disparaged McGovern and Carter, not to mention President Obama himself--all of them have talked like this all along. The trouble is that, wrapped up in your sophistic efforts to put a moral lipstick on the piggishness that has defined Republican politics especially since the rise of the Moral Majority and Newt Gingrich, you've been unable to hear what they've said because you'd have had to acknowledge their brand of patriotism and look more deeply into your own mind and heart.
You write in today's column that "There were an unusually high number of great speeches at the Democratic convention this year: the Obamas, Biden, Booker, Clinton, the Mothers of the Movement and so on. These speakers found their eloquence in staving off this demagogue," Trump.
Perhaps the truth of the matter is that, in watching the Beast slouch toward Bethlehem, you have finally LISTENED to what Democrats have been saying since FDR.
The murdered Kennedy Kennedy brothers and Dr. King, or LBJ when not tragically entangled in defending the Vietnam War, or the defeated Hubert Humphrey and Michael Dukakis, or the much-disparaged McGovern and Carter, not to mention President Obama himself--all of them have talked like this all along. The trouble is that, wrapped up in your sophistic efforts to put a moral lipstick on the piggishness that has defined Republican politics especially since the rise of the Moral Majority and Newt Gingrich, you've been unable to hear what they've said because you'd have had to acknowledge their brand of patriotism and look more deeply into your own mind and heart.
6
Never mind the craven Republican Party leadership - they sold their souls to the dog-whistle devil long ago, when they allowed a fine, upstanding president like Barack Obama, and his wife Michelle, to be vilified and demonized by their constituents. I want to know - where are this nation's moral and spiritual leaders? The leaders of the mainline churches and the evangelicals? The people who claim to follow and spread the teachings of Jesus? How can they sit silently by? Some things truly transcend politics.
5
"A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger. "
Nice elision right over the unnecessary, ill-advised and off-budget war that brought on the chaos, violence, and anger.
I'm beyond sick of the idea that because Democrats want to improve American they don't love America. Patriotism is not what you shout from a bullhorn or bluster about in front of a bank of flags or congratulate yourself for from the deck of battleship. It is what you do everyday to make this country a better place. We Democrats have always been patriots. The fact that you write as if we somehow lifted that message from its rightful owner puts you in the same dank sewer as the more vulgar carriers of the same waste product: William Safire, Charles Krauthammer, Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch.
Nice elision right over the unnecessary, ill-advised and off-budget war that brought on the chaos, violence, and anger.
I'm beyond sick of the idea that because Democrats want to improve American they don't love America. Patriotism is not what you shout from a bullhorn or bluster about in front of a bank of flags or congratulate yourself for from the deck of battleship. It is what you do everyday to make this country a better place. We Democrats have always been patriots. The fact that you write as if we somehow lifted that message from its rightful owner puts you in the same dank sewer as the more vulgar carriers of the same waste product: William Safire, Charles Krauthammer, Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch.
7
Well, David has steadfastly ignored the entire point of the Democratic Convention, that diversity is a strength and to be supported. "WE can"; "Stronger TOGETHER"; "It takes a village". Is the point so hard to grasp?
Yes, there are two ways to feel about a "rigged system": break it to pieces and fight over the crumbs, or join hands to bring about change and revel in building a better system.
The GOP is a big obstacle. At its bidding, Ryan-McConnell steadfastly refuse to govern, blocking every attempt to implement improvement for the middle class. To get past this blockade, the Republicans have to be replaced.
Yes, there are two ways to feel about a "rigged system": break it to pieces and fight over the crumbs, or join hands to bring about change and revel in building a better system.
The GOP is a big obstacle. At its bidding, Ryan-McConnell steadfastly refuse to govern, blocking every attempt to implement improvement for the middle class. To get past this blockade, the Republicans have to be replaced.
3
Good piece. One quibble: You write:
"Trump has abandoned the basic modesty code that has always ennobled the American middle class: Don’t brag, don’t let your life be defined by gilded luxuries."
By all evidence, Trump NEVER adhered to this code, so he could not have abandoned it.
"Trump has abandoned the basic modesty code that has always ennobled the American middle class: Don’t brag, don’t let your life be defined by gilded luxuries."
By all evidence, Trump NEVER adhered to this code, so he could not have abandoned it.
6
A thoughtful Brooks column, but it takes some pretty big chutzpah to say this when it is his party who have not been honoring the terms of the governance contract required to make the social contract work:
"The essential contract of society — that if you behave responsibly things will work out — has been severed for many people."
One only needs to look at the Merrick Garland example.
"The essential contract of society — that if you behave responsibly things will work out — has been severed for many people."
One only needs to look at the Merrick Garland example.
27
I'm so grateful for Donald Trump. He has delivered the election to the Democrats and single-handedly destroyed the Republican Party.
1
Mr. Brooks, you too have fallen under the spell of the megalomaniac. Neither the world nor the country are in chaos. What we have is little more than the usual bumps and cracks that have always marked civilization's movement forward. What we have is twitter and a complete nut tweeting that you are getting sleepy, sleepy.
You've been a republican for too long, napping when the groundwork for this nonsense was being laid by your peers on the right.
When you read the period at the end of this sentence you will wake up.
You've been a republican for too long, napping when the groundwork for this nonsense was being laid by your peers on the right.
When you read the period at the end of this sentence you will wake up.
1
Somehow David you have forgotten the Newt G's and the faith in greed that dominated the GOP for the last 40 years and the do-nothing GOP congress of the last six years. I grant you that the Dems have not taken inequality on directly enough, but they are the only ones talking about that huge problem. Where is the GOP on that one?
1
How can David Brooks try and shame his party and its establishment without sticking his neck on the line and declare "I've heard enough and I am voting for Hillary Clinton"?
Donald Trump is not a joke -- he is the greatest danger that I have seen on the American political stage in my lifetime (not a short one). The greatest since Joseph McCarthy...no he is even more dangerous, because he now has the opportunity to become the President of our country.
This week alone he invited the Russians to conduct cyberwar against the United States to influence the election in his favor. This was not, as he later claimed, sarcasm. This was presumptuousness of the highest order.
There is nothing more that you need to know at this stage of the game, Mr. Brooks.
It is bad enough that the likes of Mike Pence, Paul Ryan and Marco Rubio, formerly viewed as the future of their party but now proven to be political hacks, have hitched their wagons to the black hole that is Donald Trump.
We know that you are not a Trump fan, Mr. Brooks. Maybe you will ultimately come around and endorse Hillary Clinton. But that is simply not enough. That may be too late.
You are a prominent political commentator - a man who is SUPPOSED to express opinions. You have many readers who respect your opinion (and many who don't). You owe it to those readers, and to your country, to get on this bus early and endorse and insist that they vote for Hillary Clinton.
Donald Trump is not a joke -- he is the greatest danger that I have seen on the American political stage in my lifetime (not a short one). The greatest since Joseph McCarthy...no he is even more dangerous, because he now has the opportunity to become the President of our country.
This week alone he invited the Russians to conduct cyberwar against the United States to influence the election in his favor. This was not, as he later claimed, sarcasm. This was presumptuousness of the highest order.
There is nothing more that you need to know at this stage of the game, Mr. Brooks.
It is bad enough that the likes of Mike Pence, Paul Ryan and Marco Rubio, formerly viewed as the future of their party but now proven to be political hacks, have hitched their wagons to the black hole that is Donald Trump.
We know that you are not a Trump fan, Mr. Brooks. Maybe you will ultimately come around and endorse Hillary Clinton. But that is simply not enough. That may be too late.
You are a prominent political commentator - a man who is SUPPOSED to express opinions. You have many readers who respect your opinion (and many who don't). You owe it to those readers, and to your country, to get on this bus early and endorse and insist that they vote for Hillary Clinton.
6
I want to believe we are the America we saw this week and not the dark vision of America beamed from Cleveland last week.
We need change but not THAT change...
We need change but not THAT change...
I wonder if the Democrats would be celebrating the historic nature of a Michelle Bachman or Sarah Palin at the top of a Republican ticket. Probably not so much. Context is everything, you see.
I have my own historic nominee: Jill Stein 2016! I haven't heard a peep about her from those great glass-ceiling-shattering feminists of the Democratic Party. I wonder why.
I have my own historic nominee: Jill Stein 2016! I haven't heard a peep about her from those great glass-ceiling-shattering feminists of the Democratic Party. I wonder why.
Let's hope these conventions still matter, for if Donald Trump wins the election then we will have lost the battle against ISIS.
"Sane" Republicans now weep for their lost party as if they were powerless to prevent the rot that has consumed it. Where have you all been for the past 20 years, while Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, et al. filled the airwaves with their mendacious, hateful toxins? For the past 20 years, we've watched the Republican Party look the other way when these hatemongers spewed their acid, all as part of the Faustian bargain the GOP made in order to win social conservatives. Well, now you've got 'em, Mr. Brooks. These people are YOURS. YOU did this. Do not excuse yourself from the blame, Mr. Brooks. You can't just sit on the sidelines typing chastisements like a foreign correspondent in your own country. All those Republicans who now weep over Mr. Trump's ascendency must ask themselves why they didn't do more to prevent it, why they willfully ignored the signs that the moral rot of their party had corroded its heart to the point of nothingness. Ask yourself what you could've done, Mr. Brooks, aside from wringing your hands over your keyboard...
5
Hold on there cowboy, i wasn't aware the Democratic Party needed saving!!! Terribly presumptuous of you Sir. There is no equivalentsy Sir. As well the Republican Party has no exclusive right to patriotism. I would also remind you that a good part of this supposed chaos is the direct result of George the Lesser and an obstructionist rump of a dead end party. That you now lay the fault at the Democratic Party! Really Mr. Brooks, Really! As they used to say, Pshaw!
Mr. Brooks, your (rather idealized) Republican Party no longer exists. You seem to forget that "Patriotism is the last refuge of scoundrels" The GOP for the last forty years or so has waved bigger flags and worn bigger lapel pins while their hearts and brains were shrinking away. The Party is now the Party of Trump, with all its xenophobia, racism and tendency toward fascism on display at the RNC. Democrats have always been patriotic, but most of us knew that wearing flag pins don't prove love of country-words and actions do.
Last night e we saw many patriots onstage, Khizr Khan to name one. Father of a soldier killed in combat, he radiated more love of country and courage than Hair Duce could manage even on a good Tweet day. That's the best of America.
Last night e we saw many patriots onstage, Khizr Khan to name one. Father of a soldier killed in combat, he radiated more love of country and courage than Hair Duce could manage even on a good Tweet day. That's the best of America.
2
This is a good column in many ways. But Mr Brooks lets his privilege show when he writes this:
The essential contract of society — that if you behave responsibly things will work out — has been severed for many people.
This contract has not been valid, through our history, for many. Pre-coffee, blacks and women come to mind.
That America is a dangerous semi-myth. Mr Brooks would do better not to perpetuate it.
The essential contract of society — that if you behave responsibly things will work out — has been severed for many people.
This contract has not been valid, through our history, for many. Pre-coffee, blacks and women come to mind.
That America is a dangerous semi-myth. Mr Brooks would do better not to perpetuate it.
You prove yourself here, Mr. Brooks.
We have all seen you drawing away, little by little, from the extreme folly of the positions that have been taken by the deluded Republicans of today.
And you almost admit that today's problems- the majority of which are nothing new- cannot be laid at the Democratic doorstep.
But Mr. Brooks, this is not a game. We have never been playing. Your image here, of American politics being like a baseball game leave me fearful, which was probably your intent.
Our world, this one here that we all inhabit, has arrived at this difficult, challenging point- a multiplicity of complications- as a natural result of our unnatural progress as a species. Better to not blame anyone but to overcome this fear and cynicism and together-little by little- to do what needs doing. What has always needed doing.
We have all seen you drawing away, little by little, from the extreme folly of the positions that have been taken by the deluded Republicans of today.
And you almost admit that today's problems- the majority of which are nothing new- cannot be laid at the Democratic doorstep.
But Mr. Brooks, this is not a game. We have never been playing. Your image here, of American politics being like a baseball game leave me fearful, which was probably your intent.
Our world, this one here that we all inhabit, has arrived at this difficult, challenging point- a multiplicity of complications- as a natural result of our unnatural progress as a species. Better to not blame anyone but to overcome this fear and cynicism and together-little by little- to do what needs doing. What has always needed doing.
If I hadn't spent most of President Obama's years in office living in NC, I'd be as depressed as you are Mr. Brooks. It prepared me for the probability of a Donald Trump.
It also compelled me to name my Lakeland Terrier after Senator Cory Booker. We held our heads high at the dog park! And then we moved.
Meg Conway, formerly of NC
It also compelled me to name my Lakeland Terrier after Senator Cory Booker. We held our heads high at the dog park! And then we moved.
Meg Conway, formerly of NC
12
Jesse Helms and Strom Thurmond, the KKK and Joseph McCarthy, Rush Limbaugh, Bill O’Reilly and Dick Cheney. Then, Sarah Palin.
These are the conservative leaders of the recent past and current Republican Party.
Their candidate simply follows in line to lead their party, a direct descendent.
These are the conservative leaders of the recent past and current Republican Party.
Their candidate simply follows in line to lead their party, a direct descendent.
6
Ok, you lost me at "the more culturally conservative". What can that phrase possibly mean to you if you thought the Democrats showed it more?
1
It's outright possible that 40% of Americans vote for a rotten pumpkin head if the Republican Party nominated one? Wait, David, you are telling me they did?
Dear readers, intellectually David Brooks has the facts right, he just did not come to the final conclusion: the Democratic Party is the de facto new GOP: and just slightly right of where European conservative parties have settled in the political spectrum.
Bernie Sanders would have been the actual Democratic candidate and Hillary Clinton would have clinched the presidency in a very tight election.
When it comes to democratic parties who follow the ideas of good government for the people by the people and from the people we have become a one party system. Any vote for the rotten pumpkin head is a vote against the principles this nation has stood for - in an evolutionary way - for more than two hundred years.
Dear readers, intellectually David Brooks has the facts right, he just did not come to the final conclusion: the Democratic Party is the de facto new GOP: and just slightly right of where European conservative parties have settled in the political spectrum.
Bernie Sanders would have been the actual Democratic candidate and Hillary Clinton would have clinched the presidency in a very tight election.
When it comes to democratic parties who follow the ideas of good government for the people by the people and from the people we have become a one party system. Any vote for the rotten pumpkin head is a vote against the principles this nation has stood for - in an evolutionary way - for more than two hundred years.
1
Dude! just admit you are a Democrat voting for Hillary already!
You hate your party and you've given up on them. That's OK. It's your right to change parties.
I've sat through a zillion conventions in my lifetime, and they are ALL blustery nonsense and those fancy speeches? Everyone forgets what they said ASAP. Obama spoke beautifully in 2008 about how he'd have "the most transparent Administration in HISTORY! He told us he believed in traditional marriage -- so did Biden -- and he said we could keep our health insurance, if we liked it.
I voted for him. I was stupid for believing him. I got what I deserved. (Funny, he never said anything about drone warfare! or that Gitmo would still be open after EIGHT years!)
Sure, the Democrats had the more slick, produced convention. That they have neatly castrated Bernie and his followers and shut them up, so there were no protests or dissents. That does not impress me. Why? because REAL democracy is dirty and human and not "produced by Hollywood".
Obviously you prefer slick, sanctimonious PC piety and a political "machine" ala Wasserman Schultz that tells you who and what to vote for.
It's all yours, RINO. Go for it.
You hate your party and you've given up on them. That's OK. It's your right to change parties.
I've sat through a zillion conventions in my lifetime, and they are ALL blustery nonsense and those fancy speeches? Everyone forgets what they said ASAP. Obama spoke beautifully in 2008 about how he'd have "the most transparent Administration in HISTORY! He told us he believed in traditional marriage -- so did Biden -- and he said we could keep our health insurance, if we liked it.
I voted for him. I was stupid for believing him. I got what I deserved. (Funny, he never said anything about drone warfare! or that Gitmo would still be open after EIGHT years!)
Sure, the Democrats had the more slick, produced convention. That they have neatly castrated Bernie and his followers and shut them up, so there were no protests or dissents. That does not impress me. Why? because REAL democracy is dirty and human and not "produced by Hollywood".
Obviously you prefer slick, sanctimonious PC piety and a political "machine" ala Wasserman Schultz that tells you who and what to vote for.
It's all yours, RINO. Go for it.
1
as if GOP is the epitome of democracy?
1
Are you sure we are talking about the same Republican party? What most of us see in them is a band of lying thugs, people that have fooled the American populace for decades with nonsense about morality and patriotism, while they were in fact looting the country...
11
"...America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness."
I've been following politics since the Eisenhower Adm. and never found these qualities in the Republican Party. Quite the contrary.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism."
What?!? Never in my lifetime and never since TR. The Grand Old Pirates have only stood for greed and selfishness.
Preposterous! Sanders and his people if anything have made it OK to be Democrats again. And we are certainly not going to play by Republican rules of civic life as they have none other than greed.
And yes the country has changed. We are moving left and will never go back. Read em and weep, Lord Brooks. You sided with the losers of the past.
I've been following politics since the Eisenhower Adm. and never found these qualities in the Republican Party. Quite the contrary.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism."
What?!? Never in my lifetime and never since TR. The Grand Old Pirates have only stood for greed and selfishness.
Preposterous! Sanders and his people if anything have made it OK to be Democrats again. And we are certainly not going to play by Republican rules of civic life as they have none other than greed.
And yes the country has changed. We are moving left and will never go back. Read em and weep, Lord Brooks. You sided with the losers of the past.
5
David Brooks has hit a dark tone that marks him clearly as a Republican.
3
George Will did it. Now you do it.
The republican party was once Eisenhower and Ford (even Nixon was almost human by contrast to Trump). No more.
Reagan dropped a match into the dumpster. We now have the raging dumpster fire that is the republican party.
It is beyond me how ANYBODY could be struggling with which party to back.
Do we really want to invest in the Great Wall of Mexico? Is coal going to make America the industrial powerhouse once gain? Do we really want boots on the ground in that religious no-man's land that is the Middle East? Adding a religious fanatic as a vice presidential pick does not in any way erase or mitigate the moral black hole that is Trump.
I don't know about you, but I'll be voting for Hillary.
The republican party was once Eisenhower and Ford (even Nixon was almost human by contrast to Trump). No more.
Reagan dropped a match into the dumpster. We now have the raging dumpster fire that is the republican party.
It is beyond me how ANYBODY could be struggling with which party to back.
Do we really want to invest in the Great Wall of Mexico? Is coal going to make America the industrial powerhouse once gain? Do we really want boots on the ground in that religious no-man's land that is the Middle East? Adding a religious fanatic as a vice presidential pick does not in any way erase or mitigate the moral black hole that is Trump.
I don't know about you, but I'll be voting for Hillary.
4
Yes, the conventions showed that the Democrats now represent the core values of that have inspired and united this nation and the Republicans represent fear and division which they say can only be handled with a narcissistic strongman. We all should be angry at the Republican leaders that have capitulated to this dark vision of America and robbed us of an effective 2-party system. Let's make sure that they lose badly at the polls.
5
Democratism is socialism. There is no difference in the end result of socialism and communism. Socialism enslaves by vote, communism by force. Democratism is the new communismm.
The truth is we have neither socialism nor communism in USA.
So what is the point of stating socialism or communism.
prove me I am wrong.
So what is the point of stating socialism or communism.
prove me I am wrong.
Look at those hands is trying to lead us through the rabitt hole to Hateland. He likes Putin, stiffs working people and allies, and says that only he can do it. Louis XIV said l'etat c'est mois, the hair piece says the same thing, different words. Everybody out there that sees, and don't act, is complicity of not loving this Country enough. Don't want to drink a beer with Hillary, I get it, but do it for the greather good and vote for her anyway. Take one for the team.
3
Please be wrong.
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism."
That may have been a more or less true characterization of the fiscally conservative and somewhat socially liberal Republican Party I knew when I was growing up in New England in the 1960s. But for quite awhile now, the "future-oriented" part of that sentence has gone by the wayside, as has any hint of liberalism on social issues.
The Republican Party has for a long time been the party of reaction. It is full of people who want to take their country "back." What they really mean is that they want to take it backward -- to a time when minorities and women knew their proper place, and white men did not have to worry about their position at the top of the hierarchy.
Mr Trump is their guy. That Mr Brooks rejects Trumpism is to his credit. But it seems he has been taken by surprise by it, which suggests to me that he has been closing his eyes and deluding himself about the nature of the Republican Party for a long time.
That may have been a more or less true characterization of the fiscally conservative and somewhat socially liberal Republican Party I knew when I was growing up in New England in the 1960s. But for quite awhile now, the "future-oriented" part of that sentence has gone by the wayside, as has any hint of liberalism on social issues.
The Republican Party has for a long time been the party of reaction. It is full of people who want to take their country "back." What they really mean is that they want to take it backward -- to a time when minorities and women knew their proper place, and white men did not have to worry about their position at the top of the hierarchy.
Mr Trump is their guy. That Mr Brooks rejects Trumpism is to his credit. But it seems he has been taken by surprise by it, which suggests to me that he has been closing his eyes and deluding himself about the nature of the Republican Party for a long time.
7
As a Canadian who has followed American politics for nearly 50 years and who grew up often visiting American relatives I think I have a fair understanding of politics and people in the States. While large scale discontent is obvious and has much justification, the vast majority of Americans are good natured, caring people with an optimistic outlook that enables them to persevere through challenging times.
A demagogue offering nothing more than anger directed at perceived enemies and simplistic solutions to problems, is not the kind of individual who will get elected President. He will get the votes of the folks who are deceived by his rhetoric and those of the "Republican right or wrong" supporters (though he isn't a Republican by any objective definition of the party). That won't be nearly enough for him to win over Hillary Clinton. A large majority of Americans will vote for Clinton regardless of their misgivings; of that I am certain.
A demagogue offering nothing more than anger directed at perceived enemies and simplistic solutions to problems, is not the kind of individual who will get elected President. He will get the votes of the folks who are deceived by his rhetoric and those of the "Republican right or wrong" supporters (though he isn't a Republican by any objective definition of the party). That won't be nearly enough for him to win over Hillary Clinton. A large majority of Americans will vote for Clinton regardless of their misgivings; of that I am certain.
5
Weird that Mr. Brooks would cite his "burning with indignation at Mike Pence", and then say not another word about that.
Personally, I'm more disgusted with Pence. Still, I appreciate Man-baby Trump getting him out of my state, and probably, out of politics.
Personally, I'm more disgusted with Pence. Still, I appreciate Man-baby Trump getting him out of my state, and probably, out of politics.
6
" It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
Who are they? Reagan purged them long ago, and there is little evidence that any 2016 GOP primary candidate essentially disagreed with Trump.
By the way, Mr. Brooks fails again to tell us who he is voting for.
Who are they? Reagan purged them long ago, and there is little evidence that any 2016 GOP primary candidate essentially disagreed with Trump.
By the way, Mr. Brooks fails again to tell us who he is voting for.
2
" It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
This is the part I do not get. How can these people line up behind a man like Trump. By doing so they are saying they agree with all the crazy, racist, nasty stuff he says. Then when I hear about veterans, gays, women, latinos for Trump I just shake my head.
This is the part I do not get. How can these people line up behind a man like Trump. By doing so they are saying they agree with all the crazy, racist, nasty stuff he says. Then when I hear about veterans, gays, women, latinos for Trump I just shake my head.
2
In this OP-ED, Brooks reflected on a crucial question: Has the USA changed, so that it will elect a deranged, dangerous and dishonest fear monger to the presidency? Only we can answer that question.
a skillful rendition of conservative fear mongering laid between the lines.
1
As a Hoosier, I too burn at Mike Pence. Not because he's a Republican and I'm a Democrat, but because Mike swims in a river of Christian principles, yet because of his longstanding and unbridled Presidential ambitions he is willing to look the other way or even deign to follow the definitely non-Christian ethos of one Donald Trump. On one hand, Pence tells us he is "a Christian, a conservative and a Republican..." On the other hand, he supports Trump's very foul language, distant relationship with the truth and seemingly distant relationship with love of country and bromances with dictators and despots.
If you could really scratch the surface of Mike Pence, Ido wonder what lies beneath. Even when Mike tells the world he is a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, he seems to be forgetting one other part of his identity... that he is an American.
If you could really scratch the surface of Mike Pence, Ido wonder what lies beneath. Even when Mike tells the world he is a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, he seems to be forgetting one other part of his identity... that he is an American.
Romney and Ryan announced Ryan's selection as VP at an event on a Navy ship. Neither of them, or anyone in their family, has served in the military. Their militant patriotism was just for a show.
Tim Kaine wore the blue star medal for his son, serving overseas. A GOP member in NC thought is was the flag of Honduras.
The GOP and it's base have long made a show of patriotism. All the while separating us into "real" Americans and others.
Yes, there are real problems and fears to overcome. Let's start by seeing ourselves as one nation.
Tim Kaine wore the blue star medal for his son, serving overseas. A GOP member in NC thought is was the flag of Honduras.
The GOP and it's base have long made a show of patriotism. All the while separating us into "real" Americans and others.
Yes, there are real problems and fears to overcome. Let's start by seeing ourselves as one nation.
They got a motherlode of impactful sound bites to use in ads through the season. Whatever intellectual power was behind this Convention deserves huge recognition. Bravo!
2
I sometimes think that I'm the only person in America who has not embraced "fear, cynicism and extreme pessimism." I happen to think life is pretty great, and I'm looking forward to the future. I don't dwell on problems--history has shown me that Americans can overcome all kinds of setbacks and inequities. In spite of our squabbles about how to move forward, we always do move forward. Trump has nothing to offer me, because his fear mongering doesn't resonate with me. When he tells me that this country isn't great, it has no meaning for me, because I think it is. And, when Trump tells me that only he can fix our problems, I just have to laugh at his ridiculous pomposity and conceit. I'm not mired in fear, and I don't think we need Trump for anything.
4
There are literally millions of Americans who see Trump for the loser he is. That's a given. The problem is the millions who support him. The Democrats have an enormous task ahead of them breaking through this wall of hate and distrust. Hillary and the DNC have only a few months to present their best arguments.
The solution will be in the ballot count.
The solution will be in the ballot count.
2
"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism."
True, if "openness" is branding your political opponents America-hating traitors and "future oriented nationalism" is seeking to return to the norms of the 19th century.
Trump is the sputum the Republican party coughed out of its own id. Let's hope the infection doesn't kill the entire nation.
True, if "openness" is branding your political opponents America-hating traitors and "future oriented nationalism" is seeking to return to the norms of the 19th century.
Trump is the sputum the Republican party coughed out of its own id. Let's hope the infection doesn't kill the entire nation.
6
The Convention may not matter? David may be right. The Dems are well known for snatching defeat out of the jaws of victory.
But the Convention provided a TON of unusually effective campaign material. If it were me, I would run ads of Michelle all summer. I would take all the testimonies from the ordinary people I saw and run those all summer.
And I would take Mr. Khan's speech and run that all summer.
But the Convention provided a TON of unusually effective campaign material. If it were me, I would run ads of Michelle all summer. I would take all the testimonies from the ordinary people I saw and run those all summer.
And I would take Mr. Khan's speech and run that all summer.
4
David Brooks writes that many voters "may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system." True. But I believe in many voters -- especially in Trump supporters -- anger is a far less guiding force than Ignorance. (Consider one of Trump's principal voter blocs: white males without college degrees.)
Meanwhile, among the many reasons "The Democrats [Have Won] the Summer" is that fair-minded decent folks always prevail against bullies -- in this case, Republican bullies. Like the Wicked Witch, Trump, Pence, and their mean cronies are already melting.
Meanwhile, among the many reasons "The Democrats [Have Won] the Summer" is that fair-minded decent folks always prevail against bullies -- in this case, Republican bullies. Like the Wicked Witch, Trump, Pence, and their mean cronies are already melting.
9
Such a cogent and insightful analysis and expression of the minds of our country as we launch into an election that is sure to determine the destiny of America for at least the next generation. Your perspective is always enlightening but this piece of yours stands as one of your finest gifts. Thank You!
2
What is this nonsense about Trump "leaving the ground open" for Democrats to speak their own powerful messages? What is this uncritical notion that Republicans are the more patriotic party? The messages conveyed by Michelle and Barack Obama, Joe Biden, the Mothers of the Movement and on and on were personal, authentically patriotic - and Democratic with both big and small 'd'. Mr. Brooks, when will you face the fact that Trump is a natural outgrowth of the fear and hatred Republicans have been stoking since the 1990s, and not some aberration on a party of otherwise unblemished optimism?
I'm with you on the last part. Let's hope a majority of American voters still recognize and respect American ideas.
I'm with you on the last part. Let's hope a majority of American voters still recognize and respect American ideas.
8
David gets super pessimistic and lashes out like this every 4 years or so. I don't blame him, but I also don't think it's constructive to conclude by giving purchase to Trump's message. Trump is a man from the (medieval) past, not the future. His fear-mongering rang hollow last week, and to an extent America saw the tiny man behind the curtain. I choose to believe that if the Democrats focus on consistency (hitting doubles) through November, that America will ignore this ginned-up doomsday and begin working to solve our problems.
6
From the beginning of Trump's inexplicable rise in American politics, I've compared Trump to Italy's former buffoon-in-chief, Silvio Berlusconi. They are cut from the same cloth. How is it possible that Berlusconi holds the record of Italy's longest-serving prime minister—nine miserable years of running (and embarrassing) the country into the ground while earning Italy the unenviable "I" slot in the acronym "PIGS" representing four languishing European countries: Portugal, Italy, Greece, Spain. Cautionary tales at every turn...but who's listening?
5
Our founding fathers wanted to create a country that would not repeat mistakes of history. But we foolishly repeat these mistakes, we foolishly fail to learn. How can any Jew whose family has any member lost to pogroms and holocaust, support Donald Trump, is totally beyond comprehension.
1
Well said. And it parallels some of what Pope Francis said in Jasna Gora Monastery yesterday.
The Democratic convention absolutely crushed the Trump Convention. In every way. And the good news is, David, the "normal rules" of American life and politics DO still apply to the majority of us - those who DON'T watch the Fox News Fear Machine Reality Distortion Field.
I'm confident there are enough sane people left to put Hillary and the terrific Tim Kaine in the White House.
The fearing of America and the end of normal rules is just more Foxpublican wishful thinking.
I'm confident there are enough sane people left to put Hillary and the terrific Tim Kaine in the White House.
The fearing of America and the end of normal rules is just more Foxpublican wishful thinking.
3
David,
For Democrats, the glass is half full, not half empty.
It is completely empty for the GOPers.
For Democrats, the glass is half full, not half empty.
It is completely empty for the GOPers.
5
The GOP and perhaps the country may have lost more than the patriotism and moral behavior of Lincoln and Roosevelt that David describes. Where has our intellectual rigor and regard for the truth gone? Is this the result of the Tea Party or the unending forces of marketing, including Fox News and the media? Why are we surprised that Trump, including his children, espouse materialism and capitalism above all else?
3
So Mr. Brooks, are you endorsing compassionate Clinton, "lunatic" Trump, or sit this election out?
Stop ruminating from the fence and take a stand.
Stop ruminating from the fence and take a stand.
7
Yes David. And what are you waiting for? When are you going to do the right thing and endorse Hillary
4
As we have seen throughout the Obama presidency, Republicans have become the party of "No You Can't." Other than unquestioned fealty to guns-for-all and unlimited military spending, they do not have a governing philosophy beyond obstruction, exclusion, and privatization. Perhaps voters are ready to elect representatives willing to help government work rather than undermine it, along with American's confidence in ourselves and the possibility that "Yes We Can."
2
Mostly true, Mr. Brooks, but the Dark can only envelope us if good men and women do nothing. Think FDR. Think Churchill - "We will never surrender!" Get off your high horse and get in the arena with the rest of us and fight for the country that so many of our fathers and mothers have paid for with their blood.
2
"The Democrats may have just dominated a game we are no longer playing."
This sums up the conventions beautifully.
2016 seems like a turning point in history, anything is possible now. For better but mostly for worse. People around the world are putting their fate in the hands of demagogues who tell them what they want to hear, as they can't keep up with the ever accelerating pace of change. Trump's nomination and Brexit vote are only the beginning, I'm afraid.
May you live in interesting times...
This sums up the conventions beautifully.
2016 seems like a turning point in history, anything is possible now. For better but mostly for worse. People around the world are putting their fate in the hands of demagogues who tell them what they want to hear, as they can't keep up with the ever accelerating pace of change. Trump's nomination and Brexit vote are only the beginning, I'm afraid.
May you live in interesting times...
"....America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." This has been the Republican party? Are you kidding me? Has this been in my lifetime, because I don't ever remember the Republican party having having any of these qualities and I've been around since Eisenhower!
85
A tale of two cities indeed. The Democrates have the big tent and, aside from a few Bernie supporters, and a happier crowd. The Republicians gathering looked more like third party convention of angry wrestling fans. We will look back and wonder how we ever doubted the wisdom of the American electorate and what in God's name became of the GOP?
7
Endorse Hillary Clinton at once and try to shape your country before giving up. Have the audacity of hope. You can do it.
7
There is great comfort in knowing that the disorganized and angry rarely make it to their polling place with out significant prodding. Absent tany commitment to a ground game the Trump turnout should be low. If Republican efforts to deny voting rights can be overcome the decent voices of the Democratic convention will be heard at the ballot box in November!
1
One of the things that I really like about Hillary Clinton is her heart. I believe I can trust her to do the right thing for the right reasons when it really matters. She is human with all the baggage that implies. But heart matters. I have seen the evidence of her actions in stressful situations where she keeps her head, hunkers down, and makes decisions that show what a decent human being can do to when put to the test. Compare this to Donald Trump. He has never done anything for others that hasn't directly been for his own best interest. A truly despicable person, at best. What really baffles me is that any intelligent human could possibly want him as our president.
8
If we had not been lied to about yellow cake, aluminum tubes, Saddam Hussein has centrifuges the size of washing machines, the war would be over in 5 months, the insurgence is in its last throws, we would not be in this mess.
Europe and the Middle East will be paying the price for these lies for two generations.
Bush, Cheney, Rice, Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Perle, Feith, Netanyahu pay no price.
So much for the conservative talk of accountability and responsibility.
Europe and the Middle East will be paying the price for these lies for two generations.
Bush, Cheney, Rice, Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Perle, Feith, Netanyahu pay no price.
So much for the conservative talk of accountability and responsibility.
7
Clearly we saw different conventions Mr. Brooks. I thought the Republican convention was more patriotic. You have bought the Democratic talking points hook line and sinker. Donald Trump fired people on a TV show, it's Hillary who fired a loyal Debbie Wasserman-Schultz in real life. The Obama coalition is not rooted in middle class values but in ethnic and gender identification. That is what she is seeking to re-create. I've watched President Obama for almost 8 years and whatever my policy differences with him (Iran treaty for one) I have never doubted his honesty, sincerity and integrity. I doubt Hillary on all those counts and your claims that she has the Judeo-Christian values and he does not is just another canard.
1
Trump may well turn out to be just what the country needed: A wake up call to who we really are and what we are in danger of becoming. Not liking Hillary Clinton or not fully trusting her is for simps. This election is about love of country and the promise of America. I have never before felt so completely how fragile our democracy is and how easy it would be to lose it. The Democrats will save the country this time around; hopefully the Republicans will rediscover their integrity and patriotism, returning in a form worthy of our history and values.
3
For years I have struggled to understand how highly educated, economically successfully Americans could be Republicans, given the ontridition between the legacy of Lincoln and the racism of the Southern Strategy, the contradiction between businesses wanting cheap, vulnerable labor and older, white Americans frightened by immigration, etc etc. Now comes David acknowledging the potential death of American exceptionalism embodied by Donald Trump, whose election would confirm, beyond a doubt, that the United States is just another country full of stupid humans. David, how did it take you so long to realize this?
Newt Gingrich, whose voice is heard daily on Fox News, has become Mr. Trump's de facto Minister of Propaganda. His is by no means the only such voice. There is an urgent world wide need for education in resisting indoctrination.
"The task of propaganda lies not in a scientific training of the individual, but rather in directing the masses towards certain facts, events, necessities, etc., the purpose being to move their importance into the masses' field of vision." - Mein Kampf, 1925: page 231.
http://video.foxnews.com/v/5060279543001/gingrich-dnc-speeches-dont-refl...
"The task of propaganda lies not in a scientific training of the individual, but rather in directing the masses towards certain facts, events, necessities, etc., the purpose being to move their importance into the masses' field of vision." - Mein Kampf, 1925: page 231.
http://video.foxnews.com/v/5060279543001/gingrich-dnc-speeches-dont-refl...
3
I still think Clinton will win, but the reason the election could be close is not because of Trump, but because of Clinton. She is a terribly flawed candidate, and the Bernie Sanders supports saw right through her. And all bets are off if e-mails are leaked regarding favors to big foreign corporations in return for donations to the Clinton Foundation.
1
It's painful as an American to acknowledge the anger and hate that drives support from his base. What's incomprehensible is that they believe promises that are contrary to the way he's lived his life and the words he's spoken before running for President.
Hillary has made some mistakes and her response to questions have often been lacking. But how can anyone that loves this country vote for someone who cannot even release his tax returns. It's not that he will not release them, he cannot.
A con man makes promises that they have no intention of keeping. In the end I can't believe our country will vote for a fraud.
Hillary has made some mistakes and her response to questions have often been lacking. But how can anyone that loves this country vote for someone who cannot even release his tax returns. It's not that he will not release them, he cannot.
A con man makes promises that they have no intention of keeping. In the end I can't believe our country will vote for a fraud.
6
Brooks ends his beautiful encomium to the Democratic Convention with these cowardly words: "The Democrats had by far the better of the conventions. But the final and shocking possibility is this: In immediate political terms it may not make a difference."
There is always a snake in David's columns and that was the snake in this one.
No matter how much better the Democrats show themselves to be than the Republicans, whether he's considering the flaws of Rumsfeld, of Iraq Invasion, of Bush economics, there is never any faith displayed in the Democrats.
That weakens us. It undercuts us. At this moment of crossroads, that we are there he well appreciates, he goes weak in the knees.
I always knew it. He displays faith in religion, not in people, he is ultimately a betrayal of what is good and strong in this country, as is the rest of the Republican leaders from Ryan and McConnell. Trump is just the tip of the iceberg of this cowardly and measly lot.
There is always a snake in David's columns and that was the snake in this one.
No matter how much better the Democrats show themselves to be than the Republicans, whether he's considering the flaws of Rumsfeld, of Iraq Invasion, of Bush economics, there is never any faith displayed in the Democrats.
That weakens us. It undercuts us. At this moment of crossroads, that we are there he well appreciates, he goes weak in the knees.
I always knew it. He displays faith in religion, not in people, he is ultimately a betrayal of what is good and strong in this country, as is the rest of the Republican leaders from Ryan and McConnell. Trump is just the tip of the iceberg of this cowardly and measly lot.
5
Donald Trump didn't "leave the ground open" for democrats to do anything except throw his own insanity back in his face. The Democratic party message this election is the same one it has always been. The eloquence, values and patriotism have always been there for those who care to see it. It must be very frustrating trying to figure out how to deal with the Frankenstein monster created by his beloved Republican party operatives. I feel for Republican voters who embrace their party's policies in good faith. I wonder how many of them feel that they have been hijacked and betrayed by "a core that is corrupted by moral preening, an uncompromising absolutism and a paranoid unwillingness to play by the rules of civic life." It must be hard for people like David Books to face the role they played in making Donald Trump possible.
4
I agree with most all David Brooks says here, but I am very disturbed by his comment last night following Hillary Clinton's speech. He said that the worst two speeches of the conventions were given by the candidates. It is unfair and inaccurate to summarily imply anything these two very different candidates do as being in any way equal. Journalists must find the words to critique Hillary Clinton without misleading voters in this way.
3
I do not always agree with David Brooks' cultivated tendency to equivocate under guise of non-partisan intellectual analysis. In this case, he has hit the nail on the head. American voters now have to decide whether they deserve a candidate who will take our collective train journey completely off the rails, or whether we continue to fix the rail car as we ride with a growing diversity of passengers.
4
I've read a of the comments and in the spirit of full disclosure I am a Trump supporter. But I think a lot of the readers who have weighed in below seem to be confused about the nature of this election. Trump might be the GOP candidate but he is not of the GOP. If anything he is a centrist Democrat. All of you I am sure will tell me where your Robot Queen falls out on the political spectrum but it would be a tough argument to say she was anything other than well left of her husband. So be it. But this election is not about Republican v Democrat. It is really about globalist vs nationalist. You can parse that many different ways but I think that is the essence. So the rules and expectations that have applied for so long to elections, voting, etc are essentially moot. I have taken the advice of Vito Corleone and read The Economist. Well written and thoughtful in ways the NYT could never be. They have articulated my point in this week's edition better than I possibly could. So if you are stuck on the narrative of Republicans vs Democrats it might be worth the read as I think tht is not what is driving the current electoral zeitgeist.
1
The contrasts between the two conventions and parties are startling. Perhaps startling enough for even the most close-minded conservative to see how dangerous and immoral their party has become. But I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for that to happen. Republicans have abandoned any ideals they once had to a cult of hatred and ignorance.
Truth, facts and ideas seem to have no place with a Trump supporter. While the establishment Republicans wring their hands and hope they can control those freaks their party is crumbling. Hopefully the worst of them are in their death throes.
What the Democrats did this week is bigger than Hillary and Bernie. They showed us the promise of America.
Truth, facts and ideas seem to have no place with a Trump supporter. While the establishment Republicans wring their hands and hope they can control those freaks their party is crumbling. Hopefully the worst of them are in their death throes.
What the Democrats did this week is bigger than Hillary and Bernie. They showed us the promise of America.
9
David, no contest. The so called GOP convention was not a business as usual congregation before a major presidential election.
The GOP convention was more like a bitter corporation meeting of powerful CEOs and investors attempting to block a hostile takeover by an outside raider. The raider won easily.
The GOP convention was more like a bitter corporation meeting of powerful CEOs and investors attempting to block a hostile takeover by an outside raider. The raider won easily.
6
The basic decency, tolerance and fairness of the American people are being thwarted by the document they always praise: the U.S. Constitution and the electoral voting system it creates. It's astonishing to read the analysis of multiple pundits that the outcome of the presidential election will depend almost entirely on the votes in a half dozen or fewer states. Is this democracy?
2
Apparently this is what democracy looks like. As a resident of Illinois, captive of a Stalinesque Blue stranglehold politburo, the one blessed upside is a reprieve from Presidential ads
If we did not have Trump, we probably would have put another Bush, or God forbid, Ted Cruz in the White House. Hillary’s rabid, tinfoil hat wearing, foaming at the mouth haters would have defeated her in a matchup with what passes for today’s normal GOP opposition. Trump is just in the race to feed his vanity. He has no interest in doing the hard work and facing the stress that the presidency requires. Trump is a dilettante candidate and will find a way to lose. I would like to thank Mr Trump in advance for letting Hillary win, and rescuing the GOP from the Oompa-Loompa people who have temporality seized control. It looks like we will get a better President and a much-needed restructured Republican Party out of Trump’s vainglorious bombastic theatrics.
5
Someone should tell Mr. Brooks that his GOP abandoned fundamental American values and principles years ago and replaced them with phony displays of patriotism and moral outrage, and mass deception of the gullible, all the while serving exclusively the interests of the very rich. Trump has just dropped the pretense of moral virtue. In that sense, he is a much more honest representative of the GOP.
10
Since few Americans are required to take more than one history course, few know that the founding fathers, soon after the revolution, came to strongly distrust and fear "the people." The Whiskey Rebellion of the 1780s seems to have been the defining event. Thus, the Articles of Confederation came to be replaced by the Constitution.
2
It's odd to hear such pessimism from David. Trump has trumped your optimism….
Sorry, David, but the GOP hasn't been the party of compassion and patriotism since the days of Nelson Rockefeller, Sure, they have said they are, but their actions have proven otherwise. Now the party, and possibly our entire country and world, are faced with the prospect of Hitler redux as our president. It is time for you and every compassionate and sane Republican to abandon Bush and the party who made him. Vote for Hillary this year either because you want her or because you know that we cannot suffer him and the inevitable destruction he will cause this country, world and planet. And then on November 5, start to build a new GOP that fits the description you believe the party once was and should be. That can only be done by those who abandon this nominee and this party.
An eloquent column. Over the years, I have frequently disagreed with Mr. Brooks, but I have always admired his elegant writing and apparent sincerity. He is truly correct at the end of this column, where he states that thugs and opportunists like Trump will always exist; it is their enablers that are truly to blame if these people prevail.
David, thank you for the deep insight of this article, maybe the most succinct and accurate interpretation that I have read of the forces at work in this crucial moment for our country. This moment is a struggle for the emergence of a new America, one that I hope follows the "arc toward justice" that has defined our path to this day, and not a scepter of division, violence, and hatred.
Seeing the two nominees speeches, one was made a child, the other was made by an adult. The difference in presidential demeanor and knowledge was striking. Which one would you want meeting other leaders of the world?
I began noticing the undercurrent early in the DNC. I hadn't yet noticed it's absence from the RNC amidst the general incoherence. Republicans, willfully or not, left many traditionally conservative themes on the table. Democrats stepped in to fill the vacuum left by their void. Simple and smart but it does make Democrats begin to sound uncomfortably Republican.
What appalled me In republican primary, Kasich which he is the most and fore most good guy in 16 candidates wasn't even acknowledged, This is the guy his resume was a success.
How come a person is successful public servant and public literally dismiss him.
This is worse than McCarthyism, McCarthy is just spewing to people so called communists (and non-communists) but a group of people.
Anti establishment idea is literally come to this conclusion, all public servants regardless of their records are the public enemy. Really. this is what we become, this what Lincoln party become.
By that measure Lincoln and Theodore were public enemies.
Anti establishment is todays McCarthyism.
How come a person is successful public servant and public literally dismiss him.
This is worse than McCarthyism, McCarthy is just spewing to people so called communists (and non-communists) but a group of people.
Anti establishment idea is literally come to this conclusion, all public servants regardless of their records are the public enemy. Really. this is what we become, this what Lincoln party become.
By that measure Lincoln and Theodore were public enemies.
Anti establishment is todays McCarthyism.
'A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger.'
1. Unless you want an empire, civil war and violence in other countries are not the responsibility of the US president. Westernized youth vs Islamic reactionaries has produced civil wars across the Mideast. We can play a role, but we don't rule these countries. This 'Obama set the world on fire' criticism is nonsense.
2. A good portion of the violence in the US comes from much larger societal issues (largely mental health related) as much as ISIS-inspired terrorism. Newtown, Aurora and Gabby Gifford's shooting. Another big factor is ease of obtaining high-powered weapons and huge stores of ammunition. When the R's control Congress and dedicate themselves first and foremost to making Obama, this simplistic observation is misleading.
3. You know, there's anger that's justified and then there are tantrums. Right wing anger is justified in terms of 'tyranny' and 'death panels' not to mention those FEMA camps. This is being angry because you want to be angry. No honest person would blame the administration for that.
1. Unless you want an empire, civil war and violence in other countries are not the responsibility of the US president. Westernized youth vs Islamic reactionaries has produced civil wars across the Mideast. We can play a role, but we don't rule these countries. This 'Obama set the world on fire' criticism is nonsense.
2. A good portion of the violence in the US comes from much larger societal issues (largely mental health related) as much as ISIS-inspired terrorism. Newtown, Aurora and Gabby Gifford's shooting. Another big factor is ease of obtaining high-powered weapons and huge stores of ammunition. When the R's control Congress and dedicate themselves first and foremost to making Obama, this simplistic observation is misleading.
3. You know, there's anger that's justified and then there are tantrums. Right wing anger is justified in terms of 'tyranny' and 'death panels' not to mention those FEMA camps. This is being angry because you want to be angry. No honest person would blame the administration for that.
I have voted Republican since Goldwater. Over the years, my views have mellowed and I would consider myself more of a Jack Kemp Republican but this election cycle has me concerned. I was thinking of not voting but I have decided that Mrs. Clinton offers me the only choice I can make. I believe that her first 'term' as First Lady has lead her to be a little 'paranoid' when it comes to being transparent. Both she and her husband are a bit 'swarmy' but they are all we got. Thank you Mr. Brooks for this op-ed piece and we can only hope the GOP will exist after this election cycle.
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Don't know if America has changed, but what a difference between the two conventions. The DNC uplifted me and gives me hope. The RNC made me feel like cowering under my bed while waiting for the apocalypse. The GOP has lost its way. Our leadership sets an example. If HRC wins, and pray to God she does, and the GOP continues to play its rancorous divisive games, we will be in serious trouble. On a side note, I blame Fox News and the rest of right wing media for contributing to this environment. Why? Because their viewers live in an alternate reality, a dark and scary place. Perhaps with Aieles leaving they'll make some much needed changes. We can only hope.
If you watched carefully, Mike Pence's son looked very uncomfortable at the Republican Convention. I suspect he advised his father not to ally himself with Donald Trump, advice his Dad obviously discounted. And seeing Mike Pence's uncomfortable laughter behind Trump at his subsequent speeches, I'll bet he wishes he'd followed his son's advice. I don't like or agree with Pence--I'm a life-long progressive--but if I dig deep for empathy I begin to see him as a tragic figure.
In any case, the Republican party has courted and championed "low-information" voters for years and Donald Trump is the result.
In any case, the Republican party has courted and championed "low-information" voters for years and Donald Trump is the result.
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Here is is what we learned from the democrats convention:
From the emails released we learned that the democrats are racist, bigots and homophobic
From the speeches we learned that the democrats will lie about who they are in order to get our vote.
From the emails released we learned that the democrats are racist, bigots and homophobic
From the speeches we learned that the democrats will lie about who they are in order to get our vote.
Now that Clinton has the nomination she should back away from the "four more years" mantra of the the Obama cerebral and passive presidency and convince voters that ISIS can be defeated, the economy can be improved and that all lives matter. Unfortunately she needs the Sanders voters and some of their ridiculous ideas (sorry, the rich do pay a hell of a lot of taxes) to not only vote but work for her election.
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Silly things in this article:
1) "Donald Trump has found an ingenious way to save the Democratic Party." Obama has been a vigorous and beneficial president hounded by snapping Chihuahuas all his days as president. His party ever in trouble? No.
2) "Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." At least since Herbert Hoover Republicans scorned scorned these ideals, promoting instead those of the Social Darwinists.
And so forth.
1) "Donald Trump has found an ingenious way to save the Democratic Party." Obama has been a vigorous and beneficial president hounded by snapping Chihuahuas all his days as president. His party ever in trouble? No.
2) "Trump has abandoned the Judeo-Christian aspirations that have always represented America’s highest moral ideals: toward love, charity, humility, goodness, faith, temperance and gentleness." At least since Herbert Hoover Republicans scorned scorned these ideals, promoting instead those of the Social Darwinists.
And so forth.
The GOP is like a family dominated by an alcoholic. No amount of bargaining and rule-making will help until the alcoholic admits s/he has a problem outside his/her control. Only then can the healing begin.
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" I almost don’t blame Trump. He is a morally untethered, spiritually vacuous man who appears haunted by multiple personality disorders. It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
This. And substitute "millions of my fellow American voters" for "sane and reasonable Republicans" and you've captured how I'm feeling about a significant portion of this country right now. I don't blame Trump...Trump is Trump. But that other sane Americans would seriously consider this man-child for the most powerful position in the world is shocking and terrifying.
This. And substitute "millions of my fellow American voters" for "sane and reasonable Republicans" and you've captured how I'm feeling about a significant portion of this country right now. I don't blame Trump...Trump is Trump. But that other sane Americans would seriously consider this man-child for the most powerful position in the world is shocking and terrifying.
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You overlooked a new key difference between the parties thanks to Trump on Wednesday. At the Democratic convention speakers condemned Trump for encouraging Russia to hack government U.S. government computers.Rep. Paul Ryan and Sen. Mitch McConnell haven't uttered a peep about Trump's treasonous words . I predict this and the different tone of the Democratic Convention will provide Hillary with an insurmountable bounce that make her our first woman President.
Here is is what we learned from the democrats convention:
From the emails released we learned that the democrats are racist, bigots and homophobic
From the speeches we learned that the democrats will lie about who they are in order to get our vote.
From the emails released we learned that the democrats are racist, bigots and homophobic
From the speeches we learned that the democrats will lie about who they are in order to get our vote.
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Democrats always had good values. It's always been the Republicans who were the party of the rich and materialistic, who used Evangelicals and anti-choice anti-woman to hide.
As always, Brooks makes the fatal error of believing his own malarkey.
As always, Brooks makes the fatal error of believing his own malarkey.
David, I find it deeply ironic that you describe a small cohort of Sanders supporters thus: "there is a core that is corrupted by moral preening, an uncompromising absolutism and a paranoid unwillingness to play by the rules of civic life." Has it not occurred to you that the hard right wing Christian extremists who dominate your party could be described in precisely the same terms? One major difference between the two, however, is that extremist GOTP Christians seek to codify their beliefs as the sole "law of the land," thereby nullifying our Constitution in favor of their version of the bible, and forcing the rest of the nation to abide by their personal religious views. The Democrats not only "won" this summer, we have an inclusive, engaging, and sustaining platform to improve the lives of every citizen in this nation, and to do everything possible to level the playing field, protect women's rights to self-determination, save our planet, upgrade our infrastructure, protect Social Security, and more. Ours was a convention with deeply-felt emotions, magnificent, inspiring speeches, and a gutsy, hard working, intelligent duo on our ticket. You have.........an ignorant, mendacious, racist, nativist demagogue apparently running for King, and a hard right wing religious extremist who was a lousy governor and is widely disliked in his own state. We would welcome you to the party of gravitas and inclusion, David - care to join us?
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I'm glad to see that Mr. Brooks basically agrees that Trump, that incompetent, un-American, fascist ignoramus, must be stopped if America is to stay American. I'd agree that the conventions showed how the Democratic party is the party of sanity and hope for the future, and the Republican party is now the party of fear, fascism, and negativity.
But it had danged well better matter that the DNC went well and the RNC was a terrifying, Hitleresque disaster. If Trump gets into power, our country will be destroyed, one way or another. Probably by nuclear war.
But it had danged well better matter that the DNC went well and the RNC was a terrifying, Hitleresque disaster. If Trump gets into power, our country will be destroyed, one way or another. Probably by nuclear war.
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Wow, David Brooks.
Having handed that baton to Obama in '08, your op/ed underscores another essential shift, too: Republicans also have given up on Hope
Having handed that baton to Obama in '08, your op/ed underscores another essential shift, too: Republicans also have given up on Hope
You're right, Republicanism and Fox News have spoiled the American broth possibly forever. GOP brainwashing of Pence is an example of how fascism starts and flourishes. However, you missed the cancer which was GOP racism occurring circumspect to the election of Predident Obama.
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The dnc is guilty of tipping the scales against bernie. The dnc is willfully deceitful, and colluded with media outlets to subvert the election. Wasserman Schultz is an utter disgrace.
I will never ever ever again vote democratic.
I hate trump so much, but he's right. The whole thing is rigged to keep wall Street elites in power.
I will never ever ever again vote democratic.
I hate trump so much, but he's right. The whole thing is rigged to keep wall Street elites in power.
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As loathsome and unfit for the presidency as Drumpf is, he follows two generations of Republican leaders who abandoned many of the core American values that Brooks lists. In aligning itself with the 1%, NRA, and climate-science deniers, the GOP turned its back on the concerns and struggles of most Americans, laying the ground for a sleazy salesman to push a bankrupt platform for making America great again. Drumpf may have abandoned the GOP, but the GOP abandoned the middle class long ago.
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Democrats aren’t borrowing patriotism, middle class values or hope from the Republican playbook. Nor are Democrats ambivalent about love of country. In fact, I saw a convention floor filled with people who have long loved their country and don't need the ground opened up by anyone to make space for that love. Trump did not “gift” love of country to Democrats, David.
The massive monolith, known as the GOP, has never allowed a piton to be tapped into the Republican stone tablet of truths. The Democratic convention was a big wrecking ball, aimed at David’s smug presumption that the Republican Party is the avatar of all things American and Apple Pie.
The massive monolith, known as the GOP, has never allowed a piton to be tapped into the Republican stone tablet of truths. The Democratic convention was a big wrecking ball, aimed at David’s smug presumption that the Republican Party is the avatar of all things American and Apple Pie.
Clinton will win if we do our part - Democrats, Republicans, Independents. The onus is on us. We need to spread our support for the Clinton/Kaine ticket. We need to engage our friends and neighbors. We need to do whatever we can to get people to the polls and that includes working on voter registration drives, knocking on doors, calling our friends and acquaintances, offering rides to folks who need them - whatever it takes. If we just sit and wait fo others to do the heavy lifting and things don't go as we hope, we have only ourselves to blame.
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Mr. Brooks, I have not always been in agreement with your writings or philosophy but you nailed this one except for the last two paragraphs. In my 61 years I’ve witnessed this country face far worse than the current problems and fears Trump is trying to capitalize on. I’ve participated in civil defense drills during the Cuban Missile Crisis and lived through the Vietnam war, Watergate and 911. Americans made the right choice then (with a few temporary missteps) and will do so again though it may take the GOP a bit longer to come around.
Those calling on Brooks to openly support and endorse Hillary are ignoring that to do so is to invite Trump's wrath. Did you see how another Republican Bloomberg, was savaged by this grotesque bully?
How many people had the guts to stand for decency when Jews were being bad mouthed in public before the war? Not many and they suffered consequences. But the world would have been so much better if more people had stood up to the Nazi ideology before World War II.
By claiming that Global Climate Change is a Chinese hoax and we should do nothing about stopping it, Trump has cast himself as the ultimate villain by threatening our planet with holocaust. Trumps needs to be denounced before it is too late. Endorsing Hillary has become a patriotic duty.
Does David have the guts to take the risk to enrage Trump the immoral bully?
How many people had the guts to stand for decency when Jews were being bad mouthed in public before the war? Not many and they suffered consequences. But the world would have been so much better if more people had stood up to the Nazi ideology before World War II.
By claiming that Global Climate Change is a Chinese hoax and we should do nothing about stopping it, Trump has cast himself as the ultimate villain by threatening our planet with holocaust. Trumps needs to be denounced before it is too late. Endorsing Hillary has become a patriotic duty.
Does David have the guts to take the risk to enrage Trump the immoral bully?
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In the same manner that the Bernie zealots went into the convention single-minded, the Trump zealots are going to hold fast.
The Dems had the benefit of the greatest show on earth for 4 days that can only be described as stunning in contrast to the 4-day rant of the GOP.
Debbie Wasseman Schultz is to be blamed for the fab success of Philadelphia and she knew the die was already cast when she graciously backed away. That's another story. She had the narrative in her head a year ago.
Axelrod said she gave a good speech. Relatively speaking it was a great speech for its introductory and theme and how it was knit together. Disagreement than cohesion over four days as the choices and vision were made visible and soaked into the consciousness. Not so in Cleveland.
The tragedy of the night was how FOX News edited out key speeches while Britt Hume and Megyn Kelly interposed what was meant to seem like sensible observations when they should have let their audience see what was going on in Philadelphia unedited and direct.
They could not because their worst nightmare and what Donald Trump has done to the GOP was on live in Philadelphia.
We don't know what will now happen now to FOX's writers and producers who put on the poorest show on earth each evening. Will the Murdoch brothers clean up the shop and come into line with the vision of Philadelphia -- now ongoing 240 years?
The Dems had the benefit of the greatest show on earth for 4 days that can only be described as stunning in contrast to the 4-day rant of the GOP.
Debbie Wasseman Schultz is to be blamed for the fab success of Philadelphia and she knew the die was already cast when she graciously backed away. That's another story. She had the narrative in her head a year ago.
Axelrod said she gave a good speech. Relatively speaking it was a great speech for its introductory and theme and how it was knit together. Disagreement than cohesion over four days as the choices and vision were made visible and soaked into the consciousness. Not so in Cleveland.
The tragedy of the night was how FOX News edited out key speeches while Britt Hume and Megyn Kelly interposed what was meant to seem like sensible observations when they should have let their audience see what was going on in Philadelphia unedited and direct.
They could not because their worst nightmare and what Donald Trump has done to the GOP was on live in Philadelphia.
We don't know what will now happen now to FOX's writers and producers who put on the poorest show on earth each evening. Will the Murdoch brothers clean up the shop and come into line with the vision of Philadelphia -- now ongoing 240 years?
Oh ye of little faith. I believe that the Democratic message of hope and unity will prevail come this election, and it will be the women and minorities that come out to vote that will turn the tide. I can understand that, after seeing a GOP convention dominated by older angry white males, you may think that they represent the entire country, but they do not. The country is changing. It is less white and and more matriarchal. The Democrat's patriotism embraces this new changing America and celebrates it. They have not usurped the GOP patriotism, which always reflected a white patriarchal America Their patriiotism has faded, now that they are not top doy.
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Excellent article and comparison of the two parties David Brooks. I too fear that those that will vote for Trump do not realize that he wants to be King and rule everyone. The scariest part of that is that not only does he have no knowledge of how democracy in the USA works, he doesn't care. I have never seen in my lifetime such an ignorant and stupid man that was put in place by the GOP.
Where is the backbone of the republicans? No one will stand up and say the emperor has no clothes.
Where is the backbone of the republicans? No one will stand up and say the emperor has no clothes.
A serious question about Donald Trump that should be addressed in the debates:
Mr. Trump is in the habit of naming all the businesses he has been involved in after himself.
Thus we have had Trump Tower, Trump University, Trump Water, Trump Airlines, Trump Steaks, Trump Neckties, etc.
So ….
If elected, will be asking his supporters to have our country renamed in his honor, as in for example, Trumplevania.
If he answers no, I suggest that someone immediately get his reply in writing.
Mr. Trump is in the habit of naming all the businesses he has been involved in after himself.
Thus we have had Trump Tower, Trump University, Trump Water, Trump Airlines, Trump Steaks, Trump Neckties, etc.
So ….
If elected, will be asking his supporters to have our country renamed in his honor, as in for example, Trumplevania.
If he answers no, I suggest that someone immediately get his reply in writing.
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You hit one out of the park with this one David. Great column. Your perspective as a conservative centrist gives you a unique take on things. By abandoning everything the United States has historically stood for, including the democratic ideals my father fought for in the Second World War, Trump has absolutely ceded the moral high ground to the Democrats. He has even invited a hostile foreign regime to hack into our government's servers in hopes it will help him win the election. In short there is no level to which Trump will not sink in his quest to promote his brand. He has no principles whatsoever. Nothing is off limits in his unprincipled grasp for power. And there is very little about him that can even be described as conservative. Trump is a slow motion disaster already in progress. All principled Americans, Republicans included, must do everything in their power to stop him from achieving the presidency. Our survival as a democratic nation hangs in the balance. Thank you again for this excellent piece!
The mere fact that Trump so handily won the GOP nomination is all the proof you need that it is not just politics, but the country that has changed.
That what there is of left-wing radio has adopted right-wing radio's strategy of turning the opponent into a somehow-less-than-human "other" is further proof.
That so many people in both Sanders and Clinton camps seem incapable of understanding how anybody can vote for the other candidate is yet more.
Imo: No matter who wins this election, there are hard times ahead.
That what there is of left-wing radio has adopted right-wing radio's strategy of turning the opponent into a somehow-less-than-human "other" is further proof.
That so many people in both Sanders and Clinton camps seem incapable of understanding how anybody can vote for the other candidate is yet more.
Imo: No matter who wins this election, there are hard times ahead.
Good piece, but it and many of the comments below forget one important fact. For the last 6 years the Republican Party has controlled Congress and the Supreme Court. While Obama's record will go down as one of the great Presidencies in history, just imagine where we would be if the Democrats had control of Congress. tRump is a small man with a small mind, but the Republican Party is the main source of discontent in America. If working Americans want change, vote to put Democrats in control of Congress. We will all prosper.
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"If that’s true it’s not just politics that has changed, but the country." And certainly not for the better.
I may be about as liberal as one can be, but if the Democrats ever nominate a candidate as lacking in basic human decency, as Trump appears to be or who spreads fear the way Trump does, I will sign up to be a Republican in a heartbeat.
I may be about as liberal as one can be, but if the Democrats ever nominate a candidate as lacking in basic human decency, as Trump appears to be or who spreads fear the way Trump does, I will sign up to be a Republican in a heartbeat.
Thank you for so succinctly and concisely distilling the differences between Trump's worldview and mine. If there is a silver lining here it's that a significant number of people with differing social and political leanings will, on election day, reaffirm how much more alike we are than different.
It's true, as the Moslem father said of Mr. Trump, "You have sacrificed nothing." Regrettably, however, it is also true of George W. Bush that he also sacrificed nothing, in willfully lying America into an invasion American had no business involving itself in -- an invasion supported by Hillary Clinton.
Well, I hope Mr. Brooks never pays *me* a compliment. Talk about back-handed! He is still selling that debunked vision of "compassionate conservatism," as if the modern Republican party once really did care about Americans, and that only by wrapping yourself in the flag can you be patriotic.
The paternalism of the republican mind-think is far from compassionate and the economic woes of average Americans (of which the GOP elite is not a part) can be traced to failed republican economic policies.
Yes, the Democrats did win the convention play-offs - because they are a legitimate political party and the GOP is not.
The paternalism of the republican mind-think is far from compassionate and the economic woes of average Americans (of which the GOP elite is not a part) can be traced to failed republican economic policies.
Yes, the Democrats did win the convention play-offs - because they are a legitimate political party and the GOP is not.
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Mr. Brooks writes thoughtfully about the fact that the social contract is broken, we do live with several fears. I just do not understand how we can we raising a political party that was exposed for unethical campaign practices. What does it mean if we excuse and then elevate politicians who skirt along the edges of legality? Neither major party has anything to be proud of at this moment.
It is often mentioned that it is not Trump who is scary, but the Americans to who he appeals. But these people are not just following; he brings out the worst in them. In them, the dark underbelly of humanity has surfaced. They are no longer thinking, but just reacting. They are afraid, and he gives them things to be afraid of. But these things are not real. They have become delusional.
This is how Trump is like Hitler--stirring up delusions in the people.
This is how Trump is like Hitler--stirring up delusions in the people.
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As a long-time liberal and Democratic voter, I have welcomed David Brooks's series of critical commentaries on Trump during the primaries, and disappointed with the predictable backlash from progressives each column inspires. To paraphrase Sara Silverman, "Times readers, stop being ridiculous."
Brooks lands squarely on a strong feeling I've shared throughout the campaign. I understand Trump. I don't understand anyone who would support him. "It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
Brooks lands squarely on a strong feeling I've shared throughout the campaign. I understand Trump. I don't understand anyone who would support him. "It is the “sane” and “reasonable” Republicans who deserve the shame — the ones who stood silently by, or worse, while Donald Trump gave away their party’s sacred inheritance."
Wake me up when this fraud ever gets it right. I guess David doesn't admire Trump's "crease in his pants".
You want a 3rd Obama term? Vote Hillary. You want a criminal as president? Vote Hillary.
Vote your conscience.
You want a 3rd Obama term? Vote Hillary. You want a criminal as president? Vote Hillary.
Vote your conscience.
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Actually, a third Obama term is sounding pretty good just about now. I see that some Trump supporters display almost as much class as their Supreme Leader. Whatever happened to "disagree without being disagreeable", not t mention America as a shining city on a hill?
2
The Democratic convention was more sophisticated and planned out more strategically than the Republican's. However the fantasy level was extraordinarily high compared to the reality of the Republican convention.
1
Mr. Brooks,
This "sacred inheritance" you speak of was but a veil that the leaders of the Republican Party have been wearing these past several decades to hide their true intentions: bolstering the 1%, clearing away environmental regulations, gutting heath care, privatizing education and prisons, sucking the life out of the middle class... I respect your intentions and believe you are a decent person, but you've also been making excuses for a party that clearly had an agenda designed to stay in power while destroying the environment and hurting the majority of the people they were sworn to protect. I'm very glad that you are finally seeing the light, but it took the very real danger of Trump and people like Pence for it to happen. The Republicans have been building this monster for a very long time now.
Your next step - Campaign for the Democrats or at the very least those who care about people, not profits and power. I really don't believe you are a Republican anymore. Maybe an Independent?
This "sacred inheritance" you speak of was but a veil that the leaders of the Republican Party have been wearing these past several decades to hide their true intentions: bolstering the 1%, clearing away environmental regulations, gutting heath care, privatizing education and prisons, sucking the life out of the middle class... I respect your intentions and believe you are a decent person, but you've also been making excuses for a party that clearly had an agenda designed to stay in power while destroying the environment and hurting the majority of the people they were sworn to protect. I'm very glad that you are finally seeing the light, but it took the very real danger of Trump and people like Pence for it to happen. The Republicans have been building this monster for a very long time now.
Your next step - Campaign for the Democrats or at the very least those who care about people, not profits and power. I really don't believe you are a Republican anymore. Maybe an Independent?
Mr. Brooks,
I hope your fellow republicans read your column today. Having watched both conventions, I can say that I came away from the Democratic Convention with more optimism and feeling of well being and a greater appreciation for our country. Although both conventions had similarities (such as grieving parents), the feeling from the republican convention was one of doom and a death spiral from which we Americans will be unable to extricate ourselves unless the "strongman Trump" is coronated.
Your conclusion to this column is false. People still what to have optimism and hope (take a cue from Ronald Reagan). The fear and cynicism you see is in the white working class that you and your republican elites have exploited. The middle class may have lost some faith in public institutions, but again this can be traced to the republican polices of the last 30 years and our present day republican congress of "No".
Trump is not the man from, of, or for the future of this country. He is an aberration created by failed conservative policies. The politics have not changed for the republican party, it is that the cold light of day has illuminated the true nature of the beast.
I hope your fellow republicans read your column today. Having watched both conventions, I can say that I came away from the Democratic Convention with more optimism and feeling of well being and a greater appreciation for our country. Although both conventions had similarities (such as grieving parents), the feeling from the republican convention was one of doom and a death spiral from which we Americans will be unable to extricate ourselves unless the "strongman Trump" is coronated.
Your conclusion to this column is false. People still what to have optimism and hope (take a cue from Ronald Reagan). The fear and cynicism you see is in the white working class that you and your republican elites have exploited. The middle class may have lost some faith in public institutions, but again this can be traced to the republican polices of the last 30 years and our present day republican congress of "No".
Trump is not the man from, of, or for the future of this country. He is an aberration created by failed conservative policies. The politics have not changed for the republican party, it is that the cold light of day has illuminated the true nature of the beast.
Unfortunely myself and my freinds found Hillarys speech very bland, boring and very rigid. It lacked personality and style , it seemed forced and ruined up to then a great convention. She needs to pull her finger out to get our votes- maybe starting with being actually brave and doing some press conferences.Otherwise she just accross as a polarising wooden figure.
1
Great article and all the speakers did hit home runs especially Mr. Bloomberg.
A demagogue, insane con man & text book example of multiple personality disorders is an accurate description of Trump. And yes, Mike Pence should hang his head in shame.
Comparing the Republican Convention & the Democrat Convention was literally like comparing night & day.
If children watched both conventions they would have come away from the Republican Convention scared and depressed.
The take away on the Democrat Convention was inspiration to make a difference, to do good for our country and to serve our country.
No comparison. The Republican Party may NEVER get over the take over of their party by the Trumps.
A demagogue, insane con man & text book example of multiple personality disorders is an accurate description of Trump. And yes, Mike Pence should hang his head in shame.
Comparing the Republican Convention & the Democrat Convention was literally like comparing night & day.
If children watched both conventions they would have come away from the Republican Convention scared and depressed.
The take away on the Democrat Convention was inspiration to make a difference, to do good for our country and to serve our country.
No comparison. The Republican Party may NEVER get over the take over of their party by the Trumps.
1
I suppose it’s okay to be angry with Mike Pence. But that’s not where the real blame lies. The real blame lies in decades of Republicans fanning the flames of racial hatred and mistrust.
Open race-baiting predates the Reagan campaign, but perhaps Reagan made it acceptable. He didn’t just talk about Welfare fraud, but described those committing it as “Cadillac Queens” and “Young Bucks”…leaving the rest to the imagination.
The Republican Party as a whole took the ball and ran with it. Every agenda since the Civil Rights Movement has become more “Conservative.” It’s no stretch to believe the themes commonly fought for by Republicans – states’ rights, small government, school vouchers – are just extensions of segregation.
And then we got the Tea Party. Funny though, they felt compelled to rise up just as the first Black president was inaugurated. They said they cared about government spending, after the last president, who was a Republican, spent money in droves on a war that wasn’t justified. Nor did they balk at any of the seven debt ceiling increases during his administration. But suddenly when a Black man is running things, this is important.
So yeah, David Brooks, I can believe your party just nominated a guy who’s been quoted as saying, “Black guys counting my money! I hate it.” It’s sad, but I can believe it.
Open race-baiting predates the Reagan campaign, but perhaps Reagan made it acceptable. He didn’t just talk about Welfare fraud, but described those committing it as “Cadillac Queens” and “Young Bucks”…leaving the rest to the imagination.
The Republican Party as a whole took the ball and ran with it. Every agenda since the Civil Rights Movement has become more “Conservative.” It’s no stretch to believe the themes commonly fought for by Republicans – states’ rights, small government, school vouchers – are just extensions of segregation.
And then we got the Tea Party. Funny though, they felt compelled to rise up just as the first Black president was inaugurated. They said they cared about government spending, after the last president, who was a Republican, spent money in droves on a war that wasn’t justified. Nor did they balk at any of the seven debt ceiling increases during his administration. But suddenly when a Black man is running things, this is important.
So yeah, David Brooks, I can believe your party just nominated a guy who’s been quoted as saying, “Black guys counting my money! I hate it.” It’s sad, but I can believe it.
3
Please do not despair, Mr. Brooks. Both parties have ignored the lives of growing percentages of their faithful for over 30 years. Friedman's economics defined both parties' approaches to the detriment of our nation. Anyone who seems able to "stick it" to the establishment is the friend of those who are left out and know it. It's not about leadership style as much as distance from politics-as-usual. The answer is a renewal of Jeffersonian democracy. Sanders sounded closest on the left; a well-spoken, deeply critical candidate who takes on the system (which neither Trump nor Sanders is) can work great change next election - like Lincoln or FDR.
2
Thank you for acknowledging this election is about the morality and heart of this country. The one common thread I observed between the Bernie or bust people and the Trumpladites is the element of self destruction, if they don't get things their way, they want to blow the whole thing up,they don't seem to care how it will be but back together and they would prefer total destruction so everyone would suffer. These suicidal anarchists have a champion in Trump, he represents the end governance and many things this country has stood for for a long time. They are political terrorists, Trump is their suicide vest and their vote is the detonator.
3
I think it appropriate to mention in this context what can only be described as John McCain's moral collapse. The man is bearing down on eighty years of age and yet, apparently, has decided to decided to abandon the few shreds of his personal integrity which remain after his shameful association with Sarah Palin in craven desire for one more term in the US Senate. Donald Trump not only personally insulted him but along with him in so doing the entire US military. I make no fetish out of honoring "the troops" but one might have hoped that Sen. McCain, merely out of loyalty to his comrades in arms, would have openly and thoroughly repudiated the demagogue Trump. But no, he caved.
3
There is fear stalking abroad in the country, to be sure; and when you are as immersed and immediate to the political shrilling as David Brooks, the quiet center of America may seem absent. It is not; we are not. Trump will be gone after November. The country is suffering in multiple ways, but as de Tocqueville observed 180 years ago, there is a solidity and balance here that is historically unique. Courage.
2
David Brooks articulates a real problem. My fear is that another violent outrage (terrorism or merely a deranged individual - it won't matter) will send voters scurrying to the faux safety of a "strong" man. My hope is that we collectively are better, smarter and stronger than that. I'll go with hope.
3
The emergence of Trump as the GOP nominee is due primarily to the political gridlock in Washington DC over the last 8 years and the fact that the politicians in Congress are constantly fund raising in order to keep their jobs! The system is broken and some mistakenly believe that Trump can fix the system. I trust that the electorate will make the right choice in November.
2
Beautiful essay. I was moved by both conventions - to anger and hopelessness by the Republican convention and to patriotism, love and hope this week. We'll see which one the American electorate will chose.
Bravo Mr. Brooks. I think that the entire Republican Party establishment should be ashamed that they have tied themselves to that repugnant man. Rather than denying him the nomination, they twist themselves into knots trying to defend him, to support him without supporting him. All because they really don't care about this country, they just want to win. I have no patience for them anymore, and our country deserves better. Shame on them all. I am hopeful after the last few days but I fear that those who should have been listening were not.
Your conclusion picks up on a chilling theme that may have been important at the beginning of the week and that I heard you float it with numbers of Dems in your televised coverage. Watching them not seem to get the question but merely respond to the optimism that surely was in the room left me unsettled, as did the close to your piece today. However, having listened to and observed this incredible event, I wondered and have to hope that the overwhelmingly insightful directions and goodwill so eloquently delivered may have shaken us out of that nightmare scenario, broken the spell and restored a measure of genuine optimism.
The Democratic Party is now so far left of American values it's unrecognizable.
My favorite poll is the FB fan page, no phone calls, no loaded questions, completely at will.
As of this AM, Trump has 10.009 million fans, Clinton has 5.09 million.
What is even more interesting, Trump had 9.7 million on Monday, Clinton had 4.9.
So Mr. Brooks, all you have is speculation, and I have individuals, not only are you losing, but the more she talks, the more they like the other guy.
My favorite poll is the FB fan page, no phone calls, no loaded questions, completely at will.
As of this AM, Trump has 10.009 million fans, Clinton has 5.09 million.
What is even more interesting, Trump had 9.7 million on Monday, Clinton had 4.9.
So Mr. Brooks, all you have is speculation, and I have individuals, not only are you losing, but the more she talks, the more they like the other guy.
Mr. Brroks, you wrote:"For decades the Republican Party has embraced America’s open, future-oriented nationalism". What decades? Certainly not any since the 80's. Perhaps the 50's and 60's. Since Reagan, the Republican party has embraced policies that are anti women's rights, gay rights, minority rights, etc. Republican nominees since Reagan are not in the same league with Lincoln and T. Roosevelt. The brand of conservatism created by Republicans since the 80's is not the conservatism that began with Goldwater. They are not the "big tent" party. The Republican Party created the scenario for a Trump candidacy and they deserve what they have now.
Objectivity, informative journalism r not necessarily incompatible. A more enterprising,less complacent journalist would have pointed out the following re convention. First, that it was off limits to Sanders's supporters who were banned from the hall with their signs.Second, the conspiracy of DWS and Clintonites was more reaching than any one of us imagined, and that Bernie would have, should have been the candidate if his supporters had not been prevented from voting by the DNC.Third, v.p. self identification with the working man and woman is a false narrative. While a US Senator, he sponsored a bill which favored banking interests over those deeply in debt, and the result was that millions lost their homes. Fourth, Michelle Obama is one of history's great spenders. Have a hunch that her wardrobe, facial makeovers, fancy wigs and hairdos cost more than the salaries of a platoon of police officers combined. MB spends more on clothes than Ethel Kennedy. Speech by Muslim dad who attacked Trump conveniently omitted the fact that HRC and Dem. Party voted for Iraq war. Trump was not in office and opposed our intervention. Perhaps if HRC and Dem. Party colleagues had voted no, his son might still be alive.Finally,why has there been no follow up on Dallas Police Chief's offer to BLM leaders, mainly Mckesson, to join the Department and help his own people?Chief said,"We're hiring."
I like David Brooks. He's a nice young man of good moral fiber. He probably grew up in a good Republican family and could no more be a Democrat than someone from the upper West Side could be a Republican. But it has been painful for the past year to watch him apologize for his party. Lincoln has been dead for 150 years. For the last 50 of those years his party has been increasingly controlled by the sorry remnant of the Confederacy. They continue to represent the worst ideas, traditions, and impulses in an otherwise great nation. They are an endless source of embarrassment and disgrace, both at home and abroad. The sooner they join the Know Nothings in the history books, the better we'll all be.
1
Don't think conventions have been all that important in recent history to those running for the office. Aspiring politicians yes (recall Obama's coming out speech). The real game play's out in September and October and that on smaller stages far from the national one. It's all about who can carry a handful of swing states. Fla, Pa, Ohio, etc. Let's hope Hillary's war chest, her organizational advantage and video clips of Trump delivering his ridiculous and horrific sound bytes can increase Hillary's support with women and motivate turn out in our fellow Americans who are young and those of color.
The selection of George W Bush by the Supreme Court is the root of today's chaos. Our history would have been different if they had made a different ruling simply by continuing the count. Bush took the country to an uncalled for war, hence the country and the world are what they are now.
2
For me the defining moments of the Democratic Convention were: allowing the " Mothers of Deceased Thugs " to speak ; giving one whole minute of their valuable time to honor murdered police officers - interrupted by the shout-outs of Black Lives Matter ; the " non coverage " of the Bernie Sanders protesters outside the convention center by the mainstream media ; and the attempted cover-ups and cover-ups of the Sanders protesters in the convention center.
Democratic Democracy in action.
Democratic Democracy in action.
2
"If that’s true it’s not just politics that has changed, but the country".
Mr. Brooks has it right. I continue to argue that Trump is a litmus test at many levels -- personal, party, moral. But at the most basic level, how we react to his candidacy will measure what kind of a notion we are. This one specific election is a measure of us.
Mr. Brooks has it right. I continue to argue that Trump is a litmus test at many levels -- personal, party, moral. But at the most basic level, how we react to his candidacy will measure what kind of a notion we are. This one specific election is a measure of us.
David, I'm optimistic that the forces of good will triumph with the election of Hillary Clinton and Democrats down ticket. A point made well at the convention is that the GOP has successfully done absolutely nothing to address real problems. I hope the GOP will rebuild but those who have stood by, not stood up, need to retire from public life!
I am an European and do not always feel the right or wrong of the American animus.But the last sentence of this article is very very just.Perhaps democrats were talking long hours, full of melancholy about America as it was in the past. And Trump is the catalysator of the new actual America as it really is today. In this sense democrats are more conservative today than GOP.
1
A Democratic administration has presided over a time of growing world chaos, growing violence and growing anger.
A Democratic administration continually hampered by a recalcitrant Republican Congress that would vote against their own former proposals to spite this President.
A Democratic administration continually hampered by a recalcitrant Republican Congress that would vote against their own former proposals to spite this President.
1
Whereas under the previous Republican administration, we had..ok, never mind.
1
Actually Jimmy, violent crime is at a 40 year low.
It has dropped every year of President Obama's time in The White House
That is a fact.
Sorry if that fact doesn't fit your narrative but that's life in the big city.
It has dropped every year of President Obama's time in The White House
That is a fact.
Sorry if that fact doesn't fit your narrative but that's life in the big city.
2
Money feeds the corrosive AM bigots who have been the attack dogs for republican interests. Fox News presents fiction as fact. All to the advantage of the right wing. Trump is just the latest of these rightist expressions, His tool Twitter. I don't miss Reagan or W. Bush or the "center rail" demos who so quickly gave away our mfg to the lowest bidder, mostly off shore. I don't know what is best path on global trade and protecting our industries but the past 30+ years have left a large group of Americans who are tired of holding their breath.
In reading your articles, yesterday and today, you come off as a tired old moralist that no longer has a leg on which to stand. Criticizing Democratic goals as only involving materialistic solutions is incredibly cheap and it makes you come off as the wealthy moralist that you appear to be in reality, being out of place and out of time. In this article to even suggest that the American public in its entirety could elect a Trump because of some overt act beyond everyone's control is actually insulting. The Democrats did not just win the "Summer," they won the hearts of America, which is embodied in a value that all men and women are equal. Full participation in the economy by all is part of that aspiration, and the Republicans have stood in the way of that with their parsimoniousness and down right obstructionism, not to mention the financial and unpaid for and uncalled for wars. Please, Mr. Brooks, get a grip. There are no values other than the pursuit of wealth that belong to the Republicans.
4
If my son were heading into battle and I had to pick his commander-in-chief based on the conventions, the Dems would absolutely be my choice. A rock-solid meeting, optimism grounded in an abiding moral ethos, a deep bench of talent and the ability to recruit allies were all on display in Philadelphia and missing in Cleveland. A Clinton will have my vote for the first time.
2
It's not really Trump who is the problem. It's all the people who vote for him on the basis of nothing but negative sentiment and wrong thinking of every sort. It does not take a psychoanalytic genius to see that Trump is nothing more than an out of control naughty child who is secretly and silently begging to be stopped in his naughty ways. He is in fact trying hard to lose the election but his adoring fans (possibly like his adoring parents) are not getting it. Every bully bullies because nobody stops him to put him out of his and everybody else's misery. I am holding not Trump but the American electorate responsible for happens next and for where we go from here.
1
Reminded of the great political story," The Last Hurrah", Late 1950's machine politician with a heart of gold and a fair share of larceny. runs yet again for election in traditional machine ward by ward buckets of coal manner. The City Employees are turned out to march chanting n torch light parades extolling the great Skeffington. The youth opposed is a vacuous captive of the towns monied interests with the secret new weapon TV.
The eery , 21st Century prospect that Tweet and Screed replace complete sentences never mind true speechifying, disturbing since the lack of substance has transformed to a strength....ah to long for the days of the machine...
The eery , 21st Century prospect that Tweet and Screed replace complete sentences never mind true speechifying, disturbing since the lack of substance has transformed to a strength....ah to long for the days of the machine...
"Chaos"... no. We do not live in particularly chaotic times.
The current "chaos" is a Fox "News" creation aimed at electing Trump.
They used that is the key word in their main online headline about the first day of the Democratic convention and they will continue to use that word and pick stories that bolster the impression. All cop shootings -- regardless of who is doing the shooting -- will be trumpeted. Anything that can be blown out of proportion will be. Black Lives Matter -- a verbal protest movement -- will continue to be discussed in ominous tones -- essentially "BLM is on the move again.. theyre up to something!"
African Americans organizing for any reason, no matter how peaceful, are ominous to this bunch.
And remember the mid-terms? Literally half a dozen Ebola stories a day on the Fox website until the day after the election.
This is a solid, terrific column. Your use of that word though, is one aspect that is inaccurate. There is not chaos. There simply is not. We have a national dialogue going now on police shootings, and that dialogue will, given time and space, lead to improvements.
ISIS is serious, but not world threatening if we don't over-react. Over-reaction is what the Muslim extremists want, and over-reaction is a Trump speciality.
Watch and see, Fox will continue to try to paint a world in extreme turmoil.
Oddly, their viewers are backing the wrong candidate if there WAS chaos.
The current "chaos" is a Fox "News" creation aimed at electing Trump.
They used that is the key word in their main online headline about the first day of the Democratic convention and they will continue to use that word and pick stories that bolster the impression. All cop shootings -- regardless of who is doing the shooting -- will be trumpeted. Anything that can be blown out of proportion will be. Black Lives Matter -- a verbal protest movement -- will continue to be discussed in ominous tones -- essentially "BLM is on the move again.. theyre up to something!"
African Americans organizing for any reason, no matter how peaceful, are ominous to this bunch.
And remember the mid-terms? Literally half a dozen Ebola stories a day on the Fox website until the day after the election.
This is a solid, terrific column. Your use of that word though, is one aspect that is inaccurate. There is not chaos. There simply is not. We have a national dialogue going now on police shootings, and that dialogue will, given time and space, lead to improvements.
ISIS is serious, but not world threatening if we don't over-react. Over-reaction is what the Muslim extremists want, and over-reaction is a Trump speciality.
Watch and see, Fox will continue to try to paint a world in extreme turmoil.
Oddly, their viewers are backing the wrong candidate if there WAS chaos.
1
It seems that Brooks and the Democratic Party are living in an age of denial. There are no mass killings, no police shootings or people shooting the police , no grieving parents, no student debt, nothing wrong with Wall Street, no political corruption, no racists (expect Trump), no wars, nothing wrong in Venezuela or North Korea, no terrorists in Europe, no civil war in Syria, no poverty in America, in short... nothing to worry about. The Status Quo is the long hoped for liberal utopia. Let's all hold hands and sing Kumbaya, and crown our fairy Queen. Let's embrace our golden post modern age were facts reigns and numbers marginalize the suffering of individuals. Where there is no cultural appropriation or language without trigger warnings. Where God has been replaced with science and what is good and right is a consensus of opinion and self interests.
Don't worry little children, the buggy man is not under the bed.
Don't worry little children, the buggy man is not under the bed.
1
The question with beating Trump, of course, is one of just how many people there are in this country who are this disconnected from reality, and who are this armored up against ever, ever, looking at reality.
If this is what you took away from the DNC, then you're either in denial or so convinced that there is no hope for order in this world you'd rather give in to the chaos the RNC has offered us.
Mr. Brooks, the Democrats have increasingly become the more culturally conservative of the two parties, while simultaneously becoming the more forward-looking of the two. How Republicans can possibly oppose Social Security and Medicare and pretend to be conservative is a matter Americans should seriously ponder. How Republicans can embrace "Christians" who want to change their thoughts into law, thereby disenfranchising millions of their fellow countrymen, is another matter Americans should seriously ponder. Democrats embrace the past while Republicans reject it, Democrats welcome the downtrodden while Republicans insult and deny them. Which, at this moment, is the more American of the two?
David - The lament of your last paragraph is, by all evidence, justified. It is also very scary. So, it would have been nice to see some suggestions for how to effectively counter the trend that threatens to take the country and the world into dismal conditions.
I usually think you're incredibly astute and agree with your thinking, but I think you're not completely accurate here, probably because you're just so depressed over the state of the Republican party. I am too. I'm a Democrat, but definitely more of an Independent in terms of beliefs and thinking. For me, I'm conflicted on many core issues and what to do about them. Far from an expert, I suffer from not understanding what's "really going on," as Trump keeps saying. Obviously I don't mean it as he does.
You're wrong that people are obsessed with fear and loss. I do feel a sense of that, but it mostly the loss of community, an aspect you've articulated so well. That sense of loneliness doesn't morph into a belief that more guns, police and some kind of vague toughness will fix it or make me more secure. Bill Clinton was always right: it's about jobs, jobs, jobs. Economic security - essentially the Bernie message - is what mostly motivates. Because without that, how can you really forge community?
I also believe people are wired to want to feel better, not worse; we want to feel hopeful, and terrified. So, we respond to Chelsea and Bill's incredibly moving introductions to Hillary, and when she walked out in white, I was actually crying - and I do not move easily. I recoil from the wild cheering stadium Bernie/Obama type crowds. But I was moved by the shots of Bill watching Hillary, his arm around Mark, his son-in-law, the culmination of the convention.
You're wrong that people are obsessed with fear and loss. I do feel a sense of that, but it mostly the loss of community, an aspect you've articulated so well. That sense of loneliness doesn't morph into a belief that more guns, police and some kind of vague toughness will fix it or make me more secure. Bill Clinton was always right: it's about jobs, jobs, jobs. Economic security - essentially the Bernie message - is what mostly motivates. Because without that, how can you really forge community?
I also believe people are wired to want to feel better, not worse; we want to feel hopeful, and terrified. So, we respond to Chelsea and Bill's incredibly moving introductions to Hillary, and when she walked out in white, I was actually crying - and I do not move easily. I recoil from the wild cheering stadium Bernie/Obama type crowds. But I was moved by the shots of Bill watching Hillary, his arm around Mark, his son-in-law, the culmination of the convention.
2
I was surprised at the degree of snarkiness in David Brook's Democratic Convention commentary on NPR. Here I find him mourning the Democrat's embrace of American values. He accuses the core of the Sanders' people of having the fatal flaws of moral certainty and unwillingness to compromise, without any commentary on Republican social absolutism or recognition of the Democrat's own central nationalism and commitment to a hopeful future. Would he prefer when the Republican's abandon positive American values that the Democrats do so also? Maybe the future hope for American democracy is that we actually vote for values and policies rather than parties?
Government is the system of rules by which we live together. The historic arc of American government has indeed tended to bend towards justice. Mr. Brooks has that right, but he is wrong if he believes that Democrats have ever been “ambivalent” regarding American values.
It was FDR who saw freedom from want as essential to our values. It was JFK who asked us to consider what we can do to support each other through government, and it is Hillary Clinton who said that “it takes a village” to make a nation work.
This Republican convention has been an example of what de Tocqueville saw as America’s weakness, a tendency towards the “tyranny of the majority.” They have nominated a man whose wealth was built by using bankruptcy law to enrich himself at the expense of others. It is not Democrats who are ignoring American values, it is the conservative view that what is best for me is simply best – it is not nor has it ever been.
It was FDR who saw freedom from want as essential to our values. It was JFK who asked us to consider what we can do to support each other through government, and it is Hillary Clinton who said that “it takes a village” to make a nation work.
This Republican convention has been an example of what de Tocqueville saw as America’s weakness, a tendency towards the “tyranny of the majority.” They have nominated a man whose wealth was built by using bankruptcy law to enrich himself at the expense of others. It is not Democrats who are ignoring American values, it is the conservative view that what is best for me is simply best – it is not nor has it ever been.
I have read many of the comments, some praising David Brooks and others criticizing him.
In my opinion Brooks is the twenty-first century's Walter Lippmann (1889-1974).
Lippmann wrote eloquently on American presidents from Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921) to Lyndon Johnson (1963-1969).
But if readers are seeking consistency or ideological purity they will not find it in the opinions of Lippmann or Brooks. That is the beauty of their keen and wise sensibilities about the state of the American polity.
While on occasion I find myself diverging from the opinions expressed by David Brooks, I am always interested in reading what he writes.
Moreover over the years, at least as I read him, Brooks has demonstrated a capacity to alter his commentary.
And that is a virtue that makes his columns -- including today's -- so compelling,
In my opinion Brooks is the twenty-first century's Walter Lippmann (1889-1974).
Lippmann wrote eloquently on American presidents from Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921) to Lyndon Johnson (1963-1969).
But if readers are seeking consistency or ideological purity they will not find it in the opinions of Lippmann or Brooks. That is the beauty of their keen and wise sensibilities about the state of the American polity.
While on occasion I find myself diverging from the opinions expressed by David Brooks, I am always interested in reading what he writes.
Moreover over the years, at least as I read him, Brooks has demonstrated a capacity to alter his commentary.
And that is a virtue that makes his columns -- including today's -- so compelling,
2
The politics of ideological purity, built on a platform of hate, fear, greed, jealousy, and bigotry (aka self service) has led us to where we are at this very moment in history.
It is not a happenstantial fact of some populist consensus. It is a decades long organized movement designed to subvert governance by prying open flaws in our constitution in order to 'pull wool' over the eyes of the masses and forward the interests of some few.
It is, I think, part of the natural path of any absolutist, ideologically centered basis of governance. There are no absolutes, and ideological pride operates just like any other pride. It distorts thinking and aligns sentiment in favor of self interest. The collective mind succeeds best when it is open, or at least has a chance to become open.
It is not a happenstantial fact of some populist consensus. It is a decades long organized movement designed to subvert governance by prying open flaws in our constitution in order to 'pull wool' over the eyes of the masses and forward the interests of some few.
It is, I think, part of the natural path of any absolutist, ideologically centered basis of governance. There are no absolutes, and ideological pride operates just like any other pride. It distorts thinking and aligns sentiment in favor of self interest. The collective mind succeeds best when it is open, or at least has a chance to become open.
If Trump wins it will be because the Democrats have abandoned their own progressive legacy for one that represents the unprecedented transfer of wealth to the top 1%. Obama had the chance to reform Wall street after the financial crisis, but did not. On the contrary, he let them engineer the bail-out with no strings attached. Similarly with Obamacare, we had a huge giveaway to the insurers, with no cost controls. Couple that with the number of drone-strikes--some of them targeting American citizens abroad, the prosecution of whistle-blowers and we have another version of the Neo-cons. All the platitudes voiced at the convention won't make much of a difference, because the bitter truth is that Clinton represents more of the same.
1
We are faced with more (and perhaps more difficult) choices than just Clinton vs Trump.
In our government, there are three different branches: Administrative, Legislative and Judicial.
Presidents have vast but not unlimited powers. Proposals, no matter how great or sweeping, cannot be executed without passage by the Legislative Branch: Congress.
If Congress greets the next President with the same disruptive disdain as in 2009 it welcomed President Obama (our first priority is to see that you are a one term President), we will accomplish nothing.
Ted Cruz was at least honest with his intentions, he told Texas voters that, if elected, he would attempt exclusively to obstruct, to "shake up Washington". McConnell, Boehner (and now Ryan) promise progress, but instead block it.
Is there any reason that, given the Republican reaction to Nancy Pelosi as speaker, that they will show any more respect to Hillary Clinton than they accorded Pelosi?
It is important, even critical, to defeat Trump (I can say nothing more about him than has already been said) but, without a significant, even massive switch in both the House and Senate, Clinton may face the exact same extremist opposition as has Obama.
In our government, there are three different branches: Administrative, Legislative and Judicial.
Presidents have vast but not unlimited powers. Proposals, no matter how great or sweeping, cannot be executed without passage by the Legislative Branch: Congress.
If Congress greets the next President with the same disruptive disdain as in 2009 it welcomed President Obama (our first priority is to see that you are a one term President), we will accomplish nothing.
Ted Cruz was at least honest with his intentions, he told Texas voters that, if elected, he would attempt exclusively to obstruct, to "shake up Washington". McConnell, Boehner (and now Ryan) promise progress, but instead block it.
Is there any reason that, given the Republican reaction to Nancy Pelosi as speaker, that they will show any more respect to Hillary Clinton than they accorded Pelosi?
It is important, even critical, to defeat Trump (I can say nothing more about him than has already been said) but, without a significant, even massive switch in both the House and Senate, Clinton may face the exact same extremist opposition as has Obama.
Trump is definitely NOT the man "from the future" and he will never lead America nor represent the ideals or the people of this country. Do we as a country have problems? Of course. But demagoguery, isolationism, racism, bigotry, and bullying will never lead us to solutions. Rather, honest and unselfish commitment to cooperation and compromise among our elected leaders along pragmatic and, indeed, righteous courses of action with resulting legislation will keep us moving forward to a bright future for our children and grandchildren. Allowing 30,000 Americans to die each year from gun violence and taking no action to change that statistic is not patriotic nor is it a justifiable position as a Defender of the Constitution. It is reckless and uncaring and shameful. Those who should truly be ashamed are those Republicans who either remain silent or actively support Trump and thereby put Party and Position (remaining in office) or ideology ahead of doing what is right and moral and just.
The country has changed, and not changed. Mostly we are the same people, but difficult circumstances can bring out the worst in people.
When it comes to recognizing the impact of globalization and technology on most workers, our politicians have displayed a remarkable case of anal-cranial inversion. People see the factory they have worked in close, see their children's prospects narrow, and the politicians work hard to get everyone frenzied about same sex marriage.
We end up with the most selfish notions being the loudest speech, because no one has offered a reasonable alternative. What, really, has the government done to ease the burden of underemployment? To attract an economy to a wrecked region? They've denounced illegal immigrants while ignoring the egregious abuses of immigration law, like h1-B visas, or going after employers who exploit immigrant labor.
And the GOP outcry against senseless violence, and lone wolf terrorism? It rings hollow when stacked up against the death we accept from supporting our current gun laws.
Our citizens are much the same - one on one we are good people. But we have allowed ourselves to choose to believe some stupid ideas, and to choose stupid people to represent them. And that brings out our worst.
The Dems haven't taken over the patriotic space: they have always been patriots. The GOP has just allowed everyone to see it.
When it comes to recognizing the impact of globalization and technology on most workers, our politicians have displayed a remarkable case of anal-cranial inversion. People see the factory they have worked in close, see their children's prospects narrow, and the politicians work hard to get everyone frenzied about same sex marriage.
We end up with the most selfish notions being the loudest speech, because no one has offered a reasonable alternative. What, really, has the government done to ease the burden of underemployment? To attract an economy to a wrecked region? They've denounced illegal immigrants while ignoring the egregious abuses of immigration law, like h1-B visas, or going after employers who exploit immigrant labor.
And the GOP outcry against senseless violence, and lone wolf terrorism? It rings hollow when stacked up against the death we accept from supporting our current gun laws.
Our citizens are much the same - one on one we are good people. But we have allowed ourselves to choose to believe some stupid ideas, and to choose stupid people to represent them. And that brings out our worst.
The Dems haven't taken over the patriotic space: they have always been patriots. The GOP has just allowed everyone to see it.
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50 years ago The Republican Party created the Southern Strategy, the conscious effort to appeal to the segregationist Strom Thurmond and George Wallace Democratic voters.
In the 1980’s the Republican Party gave us the culture wars and Reagan and the dog whistle politics of welfare queens and States Rights and created the Reagan Democrats.
In the 1990’s we got the Newt Gingrich House of Representatives take no prisoners confrontation, the Clinton impeachment, Whitewater, and Vince Foster murder conspiracy.
With Obama, they created the Tea Party and gave us the birthers, death panels, and support of the Confederate flag.
And all these years, the Republican politicians have been using the Reaganomics talking points of small government and tax cuts for the job creators coming from the right-wing think tanks.
For thirty five years, the rising tide of Trickle Down Economics has mostly raised the yachts on Wall St.
And the Republican establishment is sick, just sick I tell you, to think of Trump representing the Republican Party.
They can’t understand how the Republican voters, who have been losing their manufacturing jobs all these years as Mitt Romney and his Wall St. colleagues sent those jobs to China, these same voters who have been listening to talk radio all these years, how they can blindly follow Trump and not listen to reason.
In the 1980’s the Republican Party gave us the culture wars and Reagan and the dog whistle politics of welfare queens and States Rights and created the Reagan Democrats.
In the 1990’s we got the Newt Gingrich House of Representatives take no prisoners confrontation, the Clinton impeachment, Whitewater, and Vince Foster murder conspiracy.
With Obama, they created the Tea Party and gave us the birthers, death panels, and support of the Confederate flag.
And all these years, the Republican politicians have been using the Reaganomics talking points of small government and tax cuts for the job creators coming from the right-wing think tanks.
For thirty five years, the rising tide of Trickle Down Economics has mostly raised the yachts on Wall St.
And the Republican establishment is sick, just sick I tell you, to think of Trump representing the Republican Party.
They can’t understand how the Republican voters, who have been losing their manufacturing jobs all these years as Mitt Romney and his Wall St. colleagues sent those jobs to China, these same voters who have been listening to talk radio all these years, how they can blindly follow Trump and not listen to reason.
It is wonderful to see the Democratic party wrap itself in the American flag. Core American values of liberty, justice, equality, along with a mix of hope and realism, were once cornerstones of both Democratic and Republican belief systems. The parties shared values, hope and realism then, looking at the world through different lenses, proposed different solutions to the problems we face. But at our core, we were all Americans and shared the same core beliefs.
Not any more. Embracing fear? Embracing hopelessness? Embracing racism? Embracing the strong over the weak? That is what the Republican Party has come too. It's no longer a home for patriots. Trump is un-American in every way and waving a flag in his name hypocrisy. That flag belongs to the Democratic party now.
Come November 8, let us pray (including those of us who believe solely in the impersonal laws of physics and yet to be known forces of the universe), that America will be blessed by patriots coming together to elect Hillary Clinton as our President.
Not any more. Embracing fear? Embracing hopelessness? Embracing racism? Embracing the strong over the weak? That is what the Republican Party has come too. It's no longer a home for patriots. Trump is un-American in every way and waving a flag in his name hypocrisy. That flag belongs to the Democratic party now.
Come November 8, let us pray (including those of us who believe solely in the impersonal laws of physics and yet to be known forces of the universe), that America will be blessed by patriots coming together to elect Hillary Clinton as our President.
Suitable kudos to the Democrats and regrets for the Republican disassembly into a morose and chaotic state of moral crisis at the behest of Donald Trump’s boundless dysfunction.
As to your dark finale, there is valid reason to look there too. The divide we nationally suffer is possibly the greatest threat we face. We have been so deeply challenged before and have prevailed.
Trump is anything but a man of the future, he could hardly be more anachronistic.
As for the final line in your piece, it is never just politics that change, politics after all is a seminal bell weather of our national life and attitude. When politics change it is certain that we are collectively the cause either by our passivity and inaction or our unflinching and committed engagement.
As to your dark finale, there is valid reason to look there too. The divide we nationally suffer is possibly the greatest threat we face. We have been so deeply challenged before and have prevailed.
Trump is anything but a man of the future, he could hardly be more anachronistic.
As for the final line in your piece, it is never just politics that change, politics after all is a seminal bell weather of our national life and attitude. When politics change it is certain that we are collectively the cause either by our passivity and inaction or our unflinching and committed engagement.
Trump is, if nothing else, a Constitutional antagonist. If elected the majority of our citizens would be choosing a big mouth bully over one of the most important constructs in human history.
What gives confidence is knowing that President Obama was elected twice in the past eight years. When my thoughts about Trump and his followers go dark and anxious, I think about what a remarkable precedent Obama's election set for the United States. Thinking about this restores my faith in my fellow citizens.
It's time to set another precedent, elect Hillary Clinton, and keep the United States moving forward.
What gives confidence is knowing that President Obama was elected twice in the past eight years. When my thoughts about Trump and his followers go dark and anxious, I think about what a remarkable precedent Obama's election set for the United States. Thinking about this restores my faith in my fellow citizens.
It's time to set another precedent, elect Hillary Clinton, and keep the United States moving forward.
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If the country has changed it is out of fear. It is a reaction, which is not the same as action. Action is positive, based on principles and strongly held convictions. Reaction is governed by some event, real or imagined, that creates thinking and behavior often foreign to our true selves. So if we elect a 'morally untethered' 'spiritually vacuous' man, it will not be representative of who we, as Americans, truly are. It will reflect a detour, not a real change, for the nation. As for Pence, it does seem he is just one more of a growing contingent of 'Vichy Republicans' who have chosen not to see the danger to themselves and the rest of us. When all is said and done, it is this group, more than Trump, who will be held accountable for the looming threat to our democratic way of life. Trump is hampered by a personal pathology; but what excuse does the elite GOP acolytes have to offer? They can't all be cowards.
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Excellent column David. What these campaigns illuminate in sharp contrast is Americanism vs unAmericanism, sanity vs lunacy, a hope for a change for the future for the betterment and security of the people vs a coup d’etat for the benefit of a wealthy ruling class; and as president Obama pointed out a future of self government vs being ruled by a permanent ruling class which has no use for democracy or the rule of law or the welfare of the great majority of people who must work for a living.
Yes many people are angry because they have been lied to but most of those are people who voted for the GOP against their own interests, falling victim to voting out of hate, fear and 24/7 right wing propaganda. The duped will be duped again because facts do not matter, lies don’t matter, even requesting a hostile foreign power to break American law to help elect an aspiring American Putin does not matter. Many if not most of the problems which exist would not exist except for the effective destruction of government by the GOP which places its own ideology which is now neo-fascism, above the public interest.
American democracy can be saved by electing genuine patriots to office and until the GOP is rebuilt or replaced that is with the Democrats who are competent and believe in public service. What America needs is not merely a Clinton victory and a Trump defeat but a Democratic landslide to remove the cancer which is killing us, not “Washington insiders” but the GOP.
Yes many people are angry because they have been lied to but most of those are people who voted for the GOP against their own interests, falling victim to voting out of hate, fear and 24/7 right wing propaganda. The duped will be duped again because facts do not matter, lies don’t matter, even requesting a hostile foreign power to break American law to help elect an aspiring American Putin does not matter. Many if not most of the problems which exist would not exist except for the effective destruction of government by the GOP which places its own ideology which is now neo-fascism, above the public interest.
American democracy can be saved by electing genuine patriots to office and until the GOP is rebuilt or replaced that is with the Democrats who are competent and believe in public service. What America needs is not merely a Clinton victory and a Trump defeat but a Democratic landslide to remove the cancer which is killing us, not “Washington insiders” but the GOP.
Sorry, David. It's not the country that changed it's the Republican Party. Donald Trump is just exploiting that change.
Gradually, after Barry Goldwater was soundly defeated, the Republican Party found new ways to win elections. It wasn't pretty and their methods had nothing to do with civility or morality. They also developed a more rigid ideology based on free markets, individual responsibility and demonizing government.
Donald Trump's supporters respond to the dog-whistles they've been hearing for more than a generation but they repudiate the ideology. They are not and never were conservative in the normal sense of the word.
We hear that Trump supporters have legitimate concerns. I think that's true. The irony is that Bernie Sanders is the candidate who provided legitimate, civil and moral solutions to the problems we face. Yes, some of his supporters are extreme, but his solutions are soundly in the tradition of American politics.
Because of that, they may not work as advertised. You keep saying you want to hear something new from Hillary Clinton. So do I and I think she's capable of looking at our problems and finding a way through the complexity to something that will work. It won't be a campaign slogan nor a soundbite, but I trust Clinton to do the job.
Gradually, after Barry Goldwater was soundly defeated, the Republican Party found new ways to win elections. It wasn't pretty and their methods had nothing to do with civility or morality. They also developed a more rigid ideology based on free markets, individual responsibility and demonizing government.
Donald Trump's supporters respond to the dog-whistles they've been hearing for more than a generation but they repudiate the ideology. They are not and never were conservative in the normal sense of the word.
We hear that Trump supporters have legitimate concerns. I think that's true. The irony is that Bernie Sanders is the candidate who provided legitimate, civil and moral solutions to the problems we face. Yes, some of his supporters are extreme, but his solutions are soundly in the tradition of American politics.
Because of that, they may not work as advertised. You keep saying you want to hear something new from Hillary Clinton. So do I and I think she's capable of looking at our problems and finding a way through the complexity to something that will work. It won't be a campaign slogan nor a soundbite, but I trust Clinton to do the job.
After watching both conventions one thing became very clear to me. We used to have two parties, one left of center and one right of center. One party that stood for social-libertarian causes, for workers' rights and one for conservative values, family values and pro-business.
And that was good.
Now we have one party that takes up more and more of the political center. And another party that is in disarray and appeals to a lunatic fringe. The American political landscape needs a strong conservative party to act as a counter weight to the Democrats. Well reasoned conservative view points have disappeared from our political discourse and that is a shame.
And that was good.
Now we have one party that takes up more and more of the political center. And another party that is in disarray and appeals to a lunatic fringe. The American political landscape needs a strong conservative party to act as a counter weight to the Democrats. Well reasoned conservative view points have disappeared from our political discourse and that is a shame.
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There are two lines in particular in Mr. Brooks' eloquent but ultimately frightening article today that struck me, not together in the piece itself but observing the same critical point:
"But the normal rules may no longer apply. The Democrats may have just dominated a game we are no longer playing."
"It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots and that humility and gentleness are simply surrendering to the butchers of ISIS. If that’s the case then the throes of a completely new birth are upon us and Trump is a man from the future."
The first point is that Mr. Trump has been playing, and winning, against the archetype of a Presidential candidate - he has blustered, lied, exaggerated and fumed his way past any manner of objective criticism, gotten universally-accepted political and economic concepts wrong and not had to account for it, and slandered his opponents. His proponents, and now the GOP, just don't care.
The second point, if true, sows the seeds of our ruination. If the American Dream, whatever that means, is now based on fear, greed, meanness, pessimism and harshness, then we have no claim to greatness any more; in fact, we are on the road to despotism.
Hillary Clinton is a deeply flawed candidate. But she must win this election. The alternative is a path toward 1933 Germany.
"But the normal rules may no longer apply. The Democrats may have just dominated a game we are no longer playing."
"It could be that in this moment of fear, cynicism, anxiety and extreme pessimism, many voters may have decided that civility is a surrender to a rigged system, that optimism is the opiate of the idiots and that humility and gentleness are simply surrendering to the butchers of ISIS. If that’s the case then the throes of a completely new birth are upon us and Trump is a man from the future."
The first point is that Mr. Trump has been playing, and winning, against the archetype of a Presidential candidate - he has blustered, lied, exaggerated and fumed his way past any manner of objective criticism, gotten universally-accepted political and economic concepts wrong and not had to account for it, and slandered his opponents. His proponents, and now the GOP, just don't care.
The second point, if true, sows the seeds of our ruination. If the American Dream, whatever that means, is now based on fear, greed, meanness, pessimism and harshness, then we have no claim to greatness any more; in fact, we are on the road to despotism.
Hillary Clinton is a deeply flawed candidate. But she must win this election. The alternative is a path toward 1933 Germany.
If this were a normal election I would be voting for Gary Johnson and the Libertarian Party. But this is not a normal election, and so I'm voting for Hilary Clinton because the Republican alternative is an unhinged narcissist who poses a real threat to our democracy.
There are many clear-thinking Republicans who have come out publicly with similar opinions. David Brooks has been consistently and eloquently outlining the myriad faults and repugnant qualities of this Republican nominee. Mr. Brooks is obviously distraught by what his party's nominee has done to his beloved GOP. But if Trump wins the election in November I wonder if Mr. Brooks will look back and think that he could have done more by actually coming out and endorsing Hilary Clinton for President?
We've all read exhaustively about why the Republican nominee is unfit to be President, but what good does it do to continue to think of new ways of telling us that same story? We get it, the Republicans nominated the wrong man.
The GOP has a storied history and many of America's greatest leaders have called the party home. But when is it time to shift perspective and start thinking like an American first as opposed to a party member first? For me, that time is now. Hilary Clinton is not my first choice for President, but she's the only choice given the two candidates who have a chance to win this election.
There are many clear-thinking Republicans who have come out publicly with similar opinions. David Brooks has been consistently and eloquently outlining the myriad faults and repugnant qualities of this Republican nominee. Mr. Brooks is obviously distraught by what his party's nominee has done to his beloved GOP. But if Trump wins the election in November I wonder if Mr. Brooks will look back and think that he could have done more by actually coming out and endorsing Hilary Clinton for President?
We've all read exhaustively about why the Republican nominee is unfit to be President, but what good does it do to continue to think of new ways of telling us that same story? We get it, the Republicans nominated the wrong man.
The GOP has a storied history and many of America's greatest leaders have called the party home. But when is it time to shift perspective and start thinking like an American first as opposed to a party member first? For me, that time is now. Hilary Clinton is not my first choice for President, but she's the only choice given the two candidates who have a chance to win this election.
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